The 1964 James Bond film Goldfinger contains the iconic line “No, mister Bond, I expect you do die.” In the scene, James Bond has been captured by the villain Goldfinger, and is set up to be killed by a laser slicing him in half. Bond is trying to stall for time, but Goldfinger isn’t interested. The line has been voted the most iconic moment in the James Bond franchise. It has also parodied several times, including on The Simpsons, and xkcd.

Goldfinger’s expectation is foiled (unlink Hank Scopio’s), as Bond manages to escape the death trap set up for him. But if God pronounces someone’s death—and it doesn’t come to pass—then that is a far more concerning outcome. If it is the will of the Almighty, surely it must happen?

But “failed” predictions by God, and the person of Jesus, might point to something far more profound. Read more …