A "New World Order" sets the stage for the Antichrist

"Global currency", "global government", "global new deal", "global grand bargain", "global television", and on and on it goes. These daily headlines are now common - headlines which openly discuss the need for a global solution to solve the global financial problems. We have all reached the obvious conclusion that the world's economy is now linked, and when one major "player" fails (most recently, the U.S.) the entire world's economy is affected. The obvious solution therefore must involve the "world" rather than a selective, country-specific solution.

We know from Revelatiion 13, that during the Tribulation, the Antichrist will gain power to ultimately gain control of, or "authority" over "every tribe, people, language and nation" (Revelation 13:7). This won't last indefinitely, as the scriptures tell us that his reign will be ended by Christ Jesus at the Second Coming (Daniel 2:44, 7:26-27, Revelation 19, etc).

We also know, from Revelation 13:16-17 that he, along with his "false prophet", will institute a world financial system that will include the mandatory "Mark of the Beast", which everyone will be forced to receive, in order to engage in any financial transaction.

Just this week we see how much the stage is being set for the arrival of the Antichrist. You could also say that his road to power is already being paved for him to step right in and assume power. The following stories are quite revealing:

"European Chiefs propose global rules"
"Global new deal 'possible' on banking sector in months"
"Brown calls on world to strike 'grand bargain' to solve economic crisis"
"Radio chip coming soon to your driver's license?"

These are just a few headlines circulating on a daily basis. The world is finding itself squarely in a world-wide economic crisis. The proposed solution, as called for by the so-called world's leaders is all about a "Global" cure. A global currency, a global financial system, and last but not least: a global governance. All of these items must take place in order for the Antichrist to gain his political power, and we're seeing it all fall in place as we watch.

I can recall discussing prophecy, just a few short years ago, and the mention of a world financial system, a world currency and a world-government seemed completely out of reach. My point back then - in response - was that such things would be easily accomplished following the Rapture of the Church, because the world would be in such turmoil. It seemed obvious that only something on the scale or the magnitude of the rapture could lead into such widespread calls for a world-system-government.

Yet, because of this world-wide financial crisis, we're already seeing it happen. Its both amazing (for a "prophecy watcher") and surreal at the same time. The Antichrist is very much alive and well at this very moment. He is waiting for his time - the perfect time to rise, gain power, and offer solutions to these world problems. He will also present a peace-plan for the Middle-East. He will appear to have solutions to every problem facing the world. He will usher in a period of temporary peace. It will indeed be temporary, as the scriptures tell us when he does create this apparent "peace", then "sudden destruction" will ensue. In other words, soon after his rise to power and soon after offering solutions to all problems, then the judgments of the Tribulation will begin as described in Revelation 6-18, bringing "sudden destruction" upon the world.

The road is being paved - indeed - for the rise of the Antichrist.

But we don't have to worry about this. We are specifically told to watch for the arrival of Christ Jesus and his "gathering up" of His bride, the Church:

"When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift your heads, because your redemption is drawing near" (Luke 21:28)

What is Jesus referring to here? He elaborated on this idea in the passage found in John 14:1-3:

"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me.
In my father's house there are many mansions...I am going there to prepare a place for you.
And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me, that you may be where I am."

Comforting words during an uncertian time on earth. While the world fixates on the economic crisis, and the numerous other concerns (terrorism, famine, food shortages, oil crisis, earthquakes, etc.) - we patiently await the arrival of Jesus - as He promised.

We can stand firm during these hard times - like being in the eye of a hurricane - we have Jesus on our side. He gives us comfort and hope, and He described our glorious fate in great detail. As bad as the world gets around us, we can rest assured in the word of God - our fate is sealed.

Jesus is coming, and He is coming soon. Be prepared, and as directed by Jesus - Look up - our redemption is drawing near.

Maranatha!