Does God still speak to people through dreams?

Acts 2:17“In the last days,” God says, “I will pour out my Spirit upon all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy. Your young men will see visions, and your old men will dream dreams.”

In this verse, the phrase “last days” means the time leading up to the return of Jesus Christ. Some scholars believe the “last days” refers to the entire time between Christ’s first and second comings, which of course includes this current time. Others believe it refers to the few years just prior to Christ’s return to earth and his final judgment. Regardless of which interpretation is correct, this verse clearly indicates that God is not done communicating to his people through dreams.

Hebrews 1:1-2Long ago God spoke many times and in many ways to our ancestors through the prophets. And now in these final days, he has spoken to us through his Son.

In the Old Testament, God often spoke to his prophets in dreams or visions. These dreams often revealed something about the future to verify God’s trustworthiness—that he would do what he had promised to do. These dreams were confirmed when the real event happened. This verse, however, seems to be saying that since the earthly ministry of Jesus, dreams may not be as necessary, because God has revealed himself and his plans more clearly through his Son. Also, when Jesus ascended into heaven, he left behind his Holy Spirit to give us unique wisdom and discernment in spiritual matters. In addition, the Bible, God’s Word, is available to more people than ever. This does not mean that God no longer speaks through dreams or visions, but that he wants us to regularly read his Word, directly communicate with Jesus, and rely on the Holy Spirit to know his will.