There are a lot of pertinent news stories today, mostly from the Middle East:
Category: Iran "baiting" Israel into an attack:
"Iran moves uranium above ground"
The following quotes from this article reveal Iran's intent to bait Israel into an "attack":
"Iran recently moved almost its entire stockpile of low-enriched uranium to an above-ground facility, The New York Times reported on Saturday."
"Official: Teheran's strange move is akin to painting bull's-eye on stockpile."
"Iran’s inexplicable action, which has confused Western officials, exposes the material to an airstrike or even ground-based sabotage. The Times quoted one official as saying the move was tantamount to painting a bull’s-eye on the stockpile."
"Several hypotheses were raised by the paper: Iran may be taunting Israel to attack, as this would rally Iranians in support of the regime and silence voices of dissent which have plagued the streets since last years disputed election."
This latest move by Iran seems like one more bit of evidence that they would prefer that Israel "attack" first, thus rallying Muslim support for Iran and allowing Iran to play the victim and, in turn, attack Israel in a defensive maneuver.
----------
"Israel could attack Iran today"
Quotes:
"Sources close to the Israeli government have warned Executive Intelligence Review that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s inner cabinet is close to making a decision to launch a preventive strike against Iran’s nuclear facilities. Such a decision, that would be a further step closer to a devastating regional confrontation, could come as early as Sunday, when the Israeli cabinet convenes."
"...the preferred option, being promoted by factions in the IDF, is to launch attacks from Israeli submarines, equipped with Cruise missiles. The source noted that the accuracy of the Cruise missiles, launched from Israeli submarines is unreliable, and most of the Iranian sites on the Israeli target list are in urban areas."
Predictably, Israel will receive NO support from the U.S.:
"The sources confirmed that the Obama Administration’s national security team has delivered a series of strongly worded messages, warning Israel against any unilateral attacks on Iran."
----------
Further rumors of war:
"IDF to distribute gas masks today"
"British newspaper: Iran testing 'key component' for nuclear bomb"
"No chance to talk Iran out of nuclear program"
In this article we see the following quote:
"All negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program have failed and the option now is for Israel to launch a preemptive strike against the Islamic Republic, former US Ambassador to the UN John Bolton told RT."
"IAF expands training for rapid refueling"
"Muslim World: The northern tinder box"
This article has a few quotes worth mentioning:
"The war of words is continuing. The latest salvos were fired last week by Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, and his Lebanese ally and client, Hizbullah leader Hassan Nasrallah. Ahmadinejad reportedly told Nasrallah that if Israel attacks his organization, Hizbullah’s response should be sufficient enough to lead to the closure, once and for all, of the Israeli “case.” In the same week, Nasrallah promised attendees at a ‘Resistance Martyrs Day’ celebration that his movement would target Israel’s infrastructure in the event of further hostilities – airports, factories and refineries were specifically mentioned."
"Some analysis has suggested that the heightened rhetoric may presage an attempt by Iran to heat up the northern front in response to the hardening international stance to Iran’s nuclear program."
"The results of such a conflict would not doubt be damaging to northern Israel, but to Lebanon and to Hizbullah, they are likely to be devastating. This means that from the Iranian point of view, the Hizbullah card is one of the most valuable that Teheran holds – but it can probably be played only once."
----------
Earthquake in Chile: Update:
"Rescuers struggle to save lives after Chile Quake"
"Authorities put the official death toll from Saturday's 8.8-magnitude quake at 214, but said they believed the number would grow. They said 1.5 million Chileans were affected and 500,000 homes severely damaged by the mammoth temblor."
"The full extent of damage remained unclear. Ninety aftershocks of magnitude 5 or greater shuddered across the disaster prone Andean nation within 24 hours of the initial quake. One was nearly as powerful as Haiti's devastating Jan. 12 earthquake."
"President Michelle Bachelet, who leaves office March 11, declared a "state of catastrophe" in central Chile. "It was a catastrophe of devastating consequences," she said.
----------
The signs are abundant. This post today, for instance, had to include a process of selecting the most pertinent articles - as there are so many more prophecy related news articles today that could have been linked. There are several articles that could have been posted relating to persistent calls for a single worldwide currency. There are articles relating to the potential collapse of the dollar and a new financial crisis. There are articles on the EU's top leaders positioning for more power, described as a "power grab" among these leaders - power that we know will be consumed by the antichrist when he arrives on the scene. And on and on it goes. Just in a single day of prophecy watching.
What is really interesting from the "prophecy watching" point of view is this:
What happens next?
Currently, there are two scenarios which seem to be in play - scenarios which could lead to the terminal events which lead into the Tribulation:
1. War between Israel and Syria/Hezbollah/Lebanon. If this conflict occurs first, then I believe Isaiah 17 (destruction of Damascus) occurs, which would precipitate the subsequent coalition of Gog-MaGog (Ezekiel 38-39) attacking Israel. This scenario could take place without Israel ever attacking Iran's nuclear facilities.
2. Israel takes direct action against Iran's nuclear facilities - followed by Iran's proxies invading Israel (Syria/Hezbollah/Lebanon), leading to the destruction of Damascus. These events would then precipitate the final consolidation of the nations who invade Israel as described in Ezekiel 38-39.
More viable scenarios could appear as this evolving situation crystallizes, but for now, one of the above seems likely, if not imminent.
In just one week of prophecy watching we have seen:
Potential scenarios for war in the Middle East.
More rumors of war.
Earthquakes in the daily headlines.
EU leaders engaged in power grabs.
EU becoming immersed in the Middle East peace process.
Famine and disease spreading in Haiti, from the last big earthquake.
As mentioned yesterday - God is seemingly doing everything possible to wake up a sleeping world.
Biblical prophecy has also received vast international attention. The "Left Behind" series has reached millions, as have the array of books, articles and presentations given on the topic. People cannot claim that they had no exposure to biblical prophecy. One can skim a bookstore and see numerous writings about "end times" prophecy. Evidence also comes in the form of scoffers - confirming the fact that prophecy is available - even to those who gleefully deny the possibility of prophetic fulfillment. A person can't scoff at something they haven't been exposed to. One can scan television channels and see one of many programs detailing prophetic developments or more sensational "end of the world" shows. Its everywhere.
The warning bells are ringing - louder and louder. God's plan will come to fulfillment, but God is also patient and His desire is that everyone comes to repentance, and there is STILL time:
"The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9)
We've been warned - over and over again, throughout an entire generation. The warnings are loud and clear. But that door is rapidly closing. When Jesus does come, it will be too late for the unsaved. In the words of Jesus:
"Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back...If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to everyone: 'WATCH!'" (emphasis mine - Mark 13:35).
"So you must also be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him." (Matthew 24:44).
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Saturday, February 27, 2010
EARTHQUAKES
As mentioned so many times in the past - Jesus stated that earthquakes would be one of the main signs that the world would witness during the last generation - along with "wars and rumors of war", famine, pestilences and "nation against nation, kingdom against kingdom".
We tend to spend far more time on the other signs, while the earthquake story receives less attention, until something like today happens. We have the earthquakes stories and then the Tsunami warnings which are being watched closely today, after a MASSIVE 8.8 earthquake hit Chile. This is one of the largest earthquakes in recorded history - ever. Recall that the recent earthquake in Haiti was a 7.0. Articles below:
Earthquakes:
"Massive earthquake strikes Chile"
Summary:
- There were 78 deaths reported originally (current death toll: > 120).
- Tsunami warnings have been issued from this immediate region and all the way to Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand and Central America, just to name a few. At the speed of a Tsunami, for instance, Hawaii wouldn't be hit for several more hours. The world is watching for potential tsunamis to hit during the course of Saturday, depending on the location.
- A "wave of large proportion" has already affected the Juan Fernandez island group, reaching halfway into the inhabited area. Two aid ships are on the way there. This news is just breaking.
- There have already been multiple large aftershocks, with a 6.9 already reported.
Also see:
"Magnitude 8.8 - Offshore Maule, Chile"
"8.8 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Chile; Earthquake Centered on Concepcion, Chile"
"Massive Magnitude 8.8 Quake Hits Chile"
LIVE STREAM FROM CHILE HERE
----------
MORE QUAKES IN THE WORLD:
There have been many significant earthquakes recently - but the earthquake story, for prophecy watchers (including myself) has been pushed to a back burner because of the rising tensions in the Middle East. The last several weeks have been very active for earthquakes. See recent quake activity:
"Largest Earthquakes M5.0+ in the World - Past 7 days"
Just a few of these:
Chile region aftershocks: 6.1, 6.9, 6.0, 6.2, 5.9, 5.6, 5.1, 5.0, 5.5, etc...
Japan: 7.0 (2/26)
Philippines: 5.7, 5.1 (2/26)
Taiwan: 5.5 (2/26), 5.5 (2/25)
Indonesia: 5.0 (2/26)
Nicaragua: 5.6 (2/25)
New Zealand: 5.3 (2/24)
Guatemala: 5.6, 5.3 (2/23)
Iran: 5.1 (2/23)
Kuril Islands: 5.3 (2/23)
---------
TSUNAMI WARNINGS
(from Chile Quake) which are under watch for 2/27:
"Pacific under tsunami threat after massive 8.8 quake"
NOAA Pacific Warning Center"
"Hawaii under tsunami warning; Calif. coast, Alaskan islands under advisory"
----------
This story will continue to evolve during the day today, as further information emerges from Chile and the Tsunami story becomes a reality (if indeed the predicted Tsunamis occur - there are several hours before we will know if this becomes a story or not - the Tsunami's have to travel through the oceans before hitting land)
If a Tsunami hits Hawaii, for instance, it won't be until ~ 4:00 EST that it would occur there.
There are 53 nations and territories subject to tsunami warnings. All are on high alert.
----------
The signs are abundant right now. The signs are obvious for anyone willing to read biblical prophecy and connect the dots, which are becoming easier and easier to connect as the news reaches every corner of the world.
These signs were intended to serve as a warning. A warning that its still not too late to accept Christ Jesus as personal savior and reach salvation. The warnings that God is bringing to the world - reveals that the Tribulation is approaching rapidly.
Our time here on the earth is growing short, as the warnings increase in magnitude and frequency. Everything that Jesus warned us about is happening right now - and they are becoming more and more dramatic. Soon, we will see full scale war in the Middle East - that too should ring alarm bells. At least for those who are watching.
What else can God do, to get our attention? All of the signs that were given for this generation are occurring - and in the exact manner described: Like birth pains. All one has to do is read the Bible and the news headlines. Its all right there - exactly as described. God is speaking to us - He is speaking to this generation and He is warning all of us - of what is to come.
Is anyone listening?
--------
UPDATES:
6.3: Argentina (2/27)
5.7: Afghanistan (2/27)
4.4: Oklahoma (2/27)
Updated Earthquake Data
Earthquake Map
Chile: 29 Aftershocks > 5.0 (updated @ 12:20 EST)
(now 41 according to the article)
We tend to spend far more time on the other signs, while the earthquake story receives less attention, until something like today happens. We have the earthquakes stories and then the Tsunami warnings which are being watched closely today, after a MASSIVE 8.8 earthquake hit Chile. This is one of the largest earthquakes in recorded history - ever. Recall that the recent earthquake in Haiti was a 7.0. Articles below:
Earthquakes:
"Massive earthquake strikes Chile"
Summary:
- There were 78 deaths reported originally (current death toll: > 120).
- Tsunami warnings have been issued from this immediate region and all the way to Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand and Central America, just to name a few. At the speed of a Tsunami, for instance, Hawaii wouldn't be hit for several more hours. The world is watching for potential tsunamis to hit during the course of Saturday, depending on the location.
- A "wave of large proportion" has already affected the Juan Fernandez island group, reaching halfway into the inhabited area. Two aid ships are on the way there. This news is just breaking.
- There have already been multiple large aftershocks, with a 6.9 already reported.
Also see:
"Magnitude 8.8 - Offshore Maule, Chile"
"8.8 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Chile; Earthquake Centered on Concepcion, Chile"
"Massive Magnitude 8.8 Quake Hits Chile"
LIVE STREAM FROM CHILE HERE
----------
MORE QUAKES IN THE WORLD:
There have been many significant earthquakes recently - but the earthquake story, for prophecy watchers (including myself) has been pushed to a back burner because of the rising tensions in the Middle East. The last several weeks have been very active for earthquakes. See recent quake activity:
"Largest Earthquakes M5.0+ in the World - Past 7 days"
Just a few of these:
Chile region aftershocks: 6.1, 6.9, 6.0, 6.2, 5.9, 5.6, 5.1, 5.0, 5.5, etc...
Japan: 7.0 (2/26)
Philippines: 5.7, 5.1 (2/26)
Taiwan: 5.5 (2/26), 5.5 (2/25)
Indonesia: 5.0 (2/26)
Nicaragua: 5.6 (2/25)
New Zealand: 5.3 (2/24)
Guatemala: 5.6, 5.3 (2/23)
Iran: 5.1 (2/23)
Kuril Islands: 5.3 (2/23)
---------
TSUNAMI WARNINGS
(from Chile Quake) which are under watch for 2/27:
"Pacific under tsunami threat after massive 8.8 quake"
NOAA Pacific Warning Center"
"Hawaii under tsunami warning; Calif. coast, Alaskan islands under advisory"
----------
This story will continue to evolve during the day today, as further information emerges from Chile and the Tsunami story becomes a reality (if indeed the predicted Tsunamis occur - there are several hours before we will know if this becomes a story or not - the Tsunami's have to travel through the oceans before hitting land)
If a Tsunami hits Hawaii, for instance, it won't be until ~ 4:00 EST that it would occur there.
There are 53 nations and territories subject to tsunami warnings. All are on high alert.
----------
The signs are abundant right now. The signs are obvious for anyone willing to read biblical prophecy and connect the dots, which are becoming easier and easier to connect as the news reaches every corner of the world.
These signs were intended to serve as a warning. A warning that its still not too late to accept Christ Jesus as personal savior and reach salvation. The warnings that God is bringing to the world - reveals that the Tribulation is approaching rapidly.
Our time here on the earth is growing short, as the warnings increase in magnitude and frequency. Everything that Jesus warned us about is happening right now - and they are becoming more and more dramatic. Soon, we will see full scale war in the Middle East - that too should ring alarm bells. At least for those who are watching.
What else can God do, to get our attention? All of the signs that were given for this generation are occurring - and in the exact manner described: Like birth pains. All one has to do is read the Bible and the news headlines. Its all right there - exactly as described. God is speaking to us - He is speaking to this generation and He is warning all of us - of what is to come.
Is anyone listening?
--------
UPDATES:
6.3: Argentina (2/27)
5.7: Afghanistan (2/27)
4.4: Oklahoma (2/27)
Updated Earthquake Data
Earthquake Map
Chile: 29 Aftershocks > 5.0 (updated @ 12:20 EST)
(now 41 according to the article)
Friday, February 26, 2010
The winds of Middle East war
That title isn't mine, but a recent commentary in the Jerusalem Post. It is interesting for several reasons, but two of which are:
- It was written a couple of days ago, before the recent meeting between Syria, Iran and Hezbollah took place (see below)
- The author, like many in the region see the increasing rhetoric (now more than ever, see below) as a lead in to war
"The winds of Middle East war"
Quotes:
"Something is stirring in the Middle East. The winds of war are blowing, picking up speed with each passing day, and the threat to Israel is growing steadily more alarming."
"All around us, trouble - major trouble - appears to be brewing, and it is time we open our eyes and confront the dangers that may lie ahead."
"From Beirut and Damascus in the north to Teheran in the east, and back to Gaza in the south, the "arc of hate" surrounding the Jewish state is speaking openly and brazenly of conflict and destruction."
"According to the paper, Ahmadinejad will soon visit Damascus to meet with Assad, Nasrallah and Hamas chief Khaled Mashaal."
"In light of the brazen threats being made against Israel by the participants, such a convocation starts to look more like a council of war, rather than just another routine gathering of terror chieftains."
----------
"Ahmadinejad, Assad escalate rhetoric"
"Trilateral meeting in Damascus"
Quotes from these articles:
"Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and Syria’s President Bashar Assad on Thursday together unleashed vicious rhetoric against Israel, with Ahmadinejad declaring that the “criminal” state of Israel is doomed."
"He added that 'if the Zionist regime wants to repeat its past mistakes, this will constitute its demise and annihilation.'”
"Assad, for his part, said Syria was 'facing an entity that is capable of aggression at any point, and we are preparing ourselves for any Israeli aggression, be it on a large or small scale.'”
“The problem in the Middle East is not the Palestinian problem, which will be solved in a peace process with Israel. The central problem in the Middle East is Iran’s attempt to take control of the Arab Middle East, which is why it is building an atomic bomb, and why it is supporting and developing terror organizations like Hizbullah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza,” Peres said.
In a separate article, we see an "interesting" quote by Ahmadinejad: "Ahmadinejad Envisions Middle East 'Free of Zionists'".
"Ahmadinajad, for his part, told the reporters, “The new Middle East [a phrase originally made popular by President Shimon Peres who envisaged a peaceful, prosperous region – ed.] will be a Middle East without Zionists and without imperialists. With Allah’s help, this will happen."
"If the Zionists repeat their past mistakes, all the nations of the region will stand against them and rip them up from their roots.”
----------
As the first article stated, this actually looks like a council of war.
It strikes me that Isaiah 17 is looming; the destruction of Damascus (in my opinion) will occur early in the process of battles in the region, leading to the epic battle of Ezekiel 38-39. Although many of us do not believe the Church will be here to witness Ezekiel 38-39, it is possible that we will be here to see fulfillment of Isaiah 17.
More importantly, we need to pray for the people of Damascus - that the unsaved will find a way to Christ and the Christians will find a way out of the city before its destruction (for that matter, we pray that all people will find a way out of the city - perhaps they will find their path to salvation at a later date). Either way, we need to pray for the people of Damascus. They have a date with destiny. There aren't many prophetic scriptures as clear and concise as Isaiah 17. Some folks attempt to say that the destruction of Damascus has already happened - in the past - but they forget that the scriptures state that the city will cease to exist:
"See, Damascus will no longer be a city but will become a heap of ruins." (Isaiah 17:1)
"Oh, the raging of many nations -
they rage like the raging sea!
Oh, the uproar of the peoples -
they roar like the roaring of great waters!
Although the peoples roar like the roar of surging waters,
when he rebukes them they flee far away,
driven before the wind like chaff on the hills,
like tumbleweed before a gale.
In the evening, sudden terror!
Before the morning they are gone!"
(Isaiah 17:12-14)
This destruction of Damascus will happen suddenly - in the course of an evening. Before the next sunrise, the people of Damascus will be gone, and its destruction complete.
This will be the beginning of the process of God's revealing Himself to an unrepentant world. During the battle of "Gog-Magog" which many of us believe occurs soon after Isaiah 17, God will reveal Himself in a huge, dramatic way (Ezekiel 38:18-23 and Ezekiel 39:21-19) - a way that hasn't occurred during the Church Age - a way that God DID reveal Himself to the Nation of Israel - prior to the Church Age. Just one of the reasons that we don't believe the Church will be around to witness Ezekiel 38-39.
Maranatha!
His return is near!
- It was written a couple of days ago, before the recent meeting between Syria, Iran and Hezbollah took place (see below)
- The author, like many in the region see the increasing rhetoric (now more than ever, see below) as a lead in to war
"The winds of Middle East war"
Quotes:
"Something is stirring in the Middle East. The winds of war are blowing, picking up speed with each passing day, and the threat to Israel is growing steadily more alarming."
"All around us, trouble - major trouble - appears to be brewing, and it is time we open our eyes and confront the dangers that may lie ahead."
"From Beirut and Damascus in the north to Teheran in the east, and back to Gaza in the south, the "arc of hate" surrounding the Jewish state is speaking openly and brazenly of conflict and destruction."
"According to the paper, Ahmadinejad will soon visit Damascus to meet with Assad, Nasrallah and Hamas chief Khaled Mashaal."
"In light of the brazen threats being made against Israel by the participants, such a convocation starts to look more like a council of war, rather than just another routine gathering of terror chieftains."
----------
"Ahmadinejad, Assad escalate rhetoric"
"Trilateral meeting in Damascus"
Quotes from these articles:
"Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and Syria’s President Bashar Assad on Thursday together unleashed vicious rhetoric against Israel, with Ahmadinejad declaring that the “criminal” state of Israel is doomed."
"He added that 'if the Zionist regime wants to repeat its past mistakes, this will constitute its demise and annihilation.'”
"Assad, for his part, said Syria was 'facing an entity that is capable of aggression at any point, and we are preparing ourselves for any Israeli aggression, be it on a large or small scale.'”
“The problem in the Middle East is not the Palestinian problem, which will be solved in a peace process with Israel. The central problem in the Middle East is Iran’s attempt to take control of the Arab Middle East, which is why it is building an atomic bomb, and why it is supporting and developing terror organizations like Hizbullah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza,” Peres said.
In a separate article, we see an "interesting" quote by Ahmadinejad: "Ahmadinejad Envisions Middle East 'Free of Zionists'".
"Ahmadinajad, for his part, told the reporters, “The new Middle East [a phrase originally made popular by President Shimon Peres who envisaged a peaceful, prosperous region – ed.] will be a Middle East without Zionists and without imperialists. With Allah’s help, this will happen."
"If the Zionists repeat their past mistakes, all the nations of the region will stand against them and rip them up from their roots.”
----------
As the first article stated, this actually looks like a council of war.
It strikes me that Isaiah 17 is looming; the destruction of Damascus (in my opinion) will occur early in the process of battles in the region, leading to the epic battle of Ezekiel 38-39. Although many of us do not believe the Church will be here to witness Ezekiel 38-39, it is possible that we will be here to see fulfillment of Isaiah 17.
More importantly, we need to pray for the people of Damascus - that the unsaved will find a way to Christ and the Christians will find a way out of the city before its destruction (for that matter, we pray that all people will find a way out of the city - perhaps they will find their path to salvation at a later date). Either way, we need to pray for the people of Damascus. They have a date with destiny. There aren't many prophetic scriptures as clear and concise as Isaiah 17. Some folks attempt to say that the destruction of Damascus has already happened - in the past - but they forget that the scriptures state that the city will cease to exist:
"See, Damascus will no longer be a city but will become a heap of ruins." (Isaiah 17:1)
"Oh, the raging of many nations -
they rage like the raging sea!
Oh, the uproar of the peoples -
they roar like the roaring of great waters!
Although the peoples roar like the roar of surging waters,
when he rebukes them they flee far away,
driven before the wind like chaff on the hills,
like tumbleweed before a gale.
In the evening, sudden terror!
Before the morning they are gone!"
(Isaiah 17:12-14)
This destruction of Damascus will happen suddenly - in the course of an evening. Before the next sunrise, the people of Damascus will be gone, and its destruction complete.
This will be the beginning of the process of God's revealing Himself to an unrepentant world. During the battle of "Gog-Magog" which many of us believe occurs soon after Isaiah 17, God will reveal Himself in a huge, dramatic way (Ezekiel 38:18-23 and Ezekiel 39:21-19) - a way that hasn't occurred during the Church Age - a way that God DID reveal Himself to the Nation of Israel - prior to the Church Age. Just one of the reasons that we don't believe the Church will be around to witness Ezekiel 38-39.
Maranatha!
His return is near!
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Is the EU taking control of Middle East peace process?
Biblical prophecy (Daniel 9:27) informs us that the antichrist will ultimately confirm the covenant between Israel and her neighbors, a covenant which for a temporary period of time, early in the Tribulation will give peace in the Middle East (although it will be short-lived; see Revelation 6). We know that the antichrist will come from the revived Roman Empire (Daniel 2 & 7, Rev. 17), so it makes sense to watch for developments of the EU and any involvement in the ongoing attempts at peace in the region.
The EU already has a prominent role, through its membership in the "Quartet" (EU, UN, Russia, US), but the EU is expected to begin assuming a leadership role as we approach the Tribulation.
"EU officials call for international conference to discuss Palestinian state"
Quotes:
"Paris, France, February 23, 2010 (Pal Telegraph) - French President Nicolas Sarkozy has reiterated his call for the creation of a "viable" Palestinian state but has not ruled out the possibility the international community could recognise a new state before its borders were set."
"Speaking after a meeting with Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas in Paris yesterday, Sarkozy left open the possibility of recognising a Palestinian state before negotiations with Israel were complete. His foreign minister, Bernard Kouchner, has said in recent days that he would be "tempted" by the idea."
"Foreign minister Bernard Kouchner said before Abbas's arrival that to break the stalemate in the Middle East peace process, some countries might recognise a Palestinian state before its borders were determined. Israel has criticised the idea of any unilateral initiative and says only negotiations can achieve meaningful peace."
"One can imagine a Palestinian state being rapidly declared and immediately recognised by the international community, even before negotiating its borders. I would be tempted by that," Kouchner said.
"Writing in Le Monde yesterday, Kouchner and Spanish counterpart Miguel Angel Moratinos - whose country holds the rotating presidency of the EU - called for a major international conference "to frame and give dynamic" to the peace process. After such a conference, "Europe could recognise a Palestinian state, finally allowing the Palestinians to become full members of the international community," they wrote."
----------
Just look at what we have in this revealing article. The EU considers that an international conference that they hold, can make determinations regarding Israeli borders and create a "Palestinian State" and force Israel to live with the decision. The arrogance of these discussions is astonishing.
What is also ominous about this "discussion" is the fact that it isn't isolated to this specific conference - it has been a constant message from European leaders now for several weeks, and seems to be growing in momentum. The surrounding terrorist groups are also (predictably) embracing this idea.
One way or the other, the Middle East situation will shift to the EU. With the U.S. involved in its internal problems, there has been less of a focus on the Middle East situation and it is apparent that the Obama administration will not help Israel. The UN is basically worthless, and Russia will support any legislation which favors the surrounding enemies of Israel (Iran, Syria, Lebanon, Hamas, Hezbollah, etc.) - which translates to their support for these EU proposals.
It seems obvious, without even reading these most recent proposals, that the EU will ultimately assume control of the Middle East peace initiatives. We are seeing that process begin to shift more and more to the EU, and that will predictably continue as we watch the ongoing process of the world marching lockstep into the Tribulation.
Additionally, I am also watching for more details regarding proposals on how the peace will be maintained once the "covenant" is confirmed, or, better stated, how this peace deal will be "confirmed". I believe (and this is my speculation only) that the only way to "confirm" a covenant in the Middle East is by having "peace-keeping" forces in the region. Therefore, one aspect worth watching is who will step forward with a plan to maintain the peace once the deal is signed.
Will there be a proposal to have European forces sent to the region in order to maintain ("confirm") whatever deal is reached?
We shall see.
The EU already has a prominent role, through its membership in the "Quartet" (EU, UN, Russia, US), but the EU is expected to begin assuming a leadership role as we approach the Tribulation.
"EU officials call for international conference to discuss Palestinian state"
Quotes:
"Paris, France, February 23, 2010 (Pal Telegraph) - French President Nicolas Sarkozy has reiterated his call for the creation of a "viable" Palestinian state but has not ruled out the possibility the international community could recognise a new state before its borders were set."
"Speaking after a meeting with Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas in Paris yesterday, Sarkozy left open the possibility of recognising a Palestinian state before negotiations with Israel were complete. His foreign minister, Bernard Kouchner, has said in recent days that he would be "tempted" by the idea."
"Foreign minister Bernard Kouchner said before Abbas's arrival that to break the stalemate in the Middle East peace process, some countries might recognise a Palestinian state before its borders were determined. Israel has criticised the idea of any unilateral initiative and says only negotiations can achieve meaningful peace."
"One can imagine a Palestinian state being rapidly declared and immediately recognised by the international community, even before negotiating its borders. I would be tempted by that," Kouchner said.
"Writing in Le Monde yesterday, Kouchner and Spanish counterpart Miguel Angel Moratinos - whose country holds the rotating presidency of the EU - called for a major international conference "to frame and give dynamic" to the peace process. After such a conference, "Europe could recognise a Palestinian state, finally allowing the Palestinians to become full members of the international community," they wrote."
----------
Just look at what we have in this revealing article. The EU considers that an international conference that they hold, can make determinations regarding Israeli borders and create a "Palestinian State" and force Israel to live with the decision. The arrogance of these discussions is astonishing.
What is also ominous about this "discussion" is the fact that it isn't isolated to this specific conference - it has been a constant message from European leaders now for several weeks, and seems to be growing in momentum. The surrounding terrorist groups are also (predictably) embracing this idea.
One way or the other, the Middle East situation will shift to the EU. With the U.S. involved in its internal problems, there has been less of a focus on the Middle East situation and it is apparent that the Obama administration will not help Israel. The UN is basically worthless, and Russia will support any legislation which favors the surrounding enemies of Israel (Iran, Syria, Lebanon, Hamas, Hezbollah, etc.) - which translates to their support for these EU proposals.
It seems obvious, without even reading these most recent proposals, that the EU will ultimately assume control of the Middle East peace initiatives. We are seeing that process begin to shift more and more to the EU, and that will predictably continue as we watch the ongoing process of the world marching lockstep into the Tribulation.
Additionally, I am also watching for more details regarding proposals on how the peace will be maintained once the "covenant" is confirmed, or, better stated, how this peace deal will be "confirmed". I believe (and this is my speculation only) that the only way to "confirm" a covenant in the Middle East is by having "peace-keeping" forces in the region. Therefore, one aspect worth watching is who will step forward with a plan to maintain the peace once the deal is signed.
Will there be a proposal to have European forces sent to the region in order to maintain ("confirm") whatever deal is reached?
We shall see.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Headlines
I've been gone for a few days and just getting back to the news. Its amazing how much happens over the course of a few days. A quick look at the headlines shows this:
1. Netanyahu has proposed a restoration and preservation plan for historic sites in the West Bank and its creating a firestorm among the usual Palestinian groups. In this article, Netanyahu responds:
"Abbas campaign is hypocritical"
"Hamas tells W. Bank to 'rise up' over holy sites"
Key quotes:
"Earlier on Tuesday, Abbas had told Belgian parliamentarians that Netanyahu’s decision to include Jewish landmarks in the West Bank in the government’s new list of heritage sites was a “severe provocation” that could lead to a new cycle of violence in the region."
"He warned that the decision could also bring about a third intifada, adding that Netanyahu’s insistence on making the announcement only a short time after he was asked by US President Barack Obama to take confidence-building measures vis-à-vis the Palestinians."
----------
"Sarkozy warns Mideast peace talks must be restarted to avoid 'catastrophe'"
In this article, we see the continual calls for the "pre-1967 borders"; code for Israel giving up Jerusalem. Also see references of the discussion regarding the creation of new borders without Israeli consent.
----------
"Lebanon army should seek help from Iran, Syria"
The article contains the usual threats against Israel, and the process of the anti-Israeli coalition which is ongoing:
"A member of Lebanon's parliament has called on the country's military to expand its defensive capability through extensive cooperation with Iran and Syria."
"Iran and Syria are the only states willing to assist our country in building a powerful military," Nawaf al Mousawi told lawmakers at the Lebanese Majlis.
"Speaking a week after the movement's Secretary General Seyyed Hassan Nasrallah indicated a new approach toward Israeli aggression against Lebanon, al Mousawi added that "neither the United States nor Europe will provide Lebanon with what it needs to defend itself from Israel."
"Nasrallah on Tuesday warned that the movement will strike Israel's infrastructure, including its airports and refineries, in the event of any Israeli attack on Lebanon."
----------
More provocation from Iran:
"Iran to build nuke sites 'inside mountains'"
----------
And last but not least, two more articles which confirm Iran's influence in the region, and their manipulation and creation of tensions which many believe are leading to imminent war:
"Netanyahu faces double intifada from Palestinians and settlers"
"Iran using Hezbollah as diversion from nukes"
Key quotes:
"Does a Christian Phalange leader in Lebanon know something that Israeli newspaper readers do not know? In a statement published in Lebanon, Dr. Samir Ja'ja claims that Hezbollah may involve his country in a war in the near future. He also warned that the Lebanese home front is far less prepared than its Israeli counterpart for war and therefore the civilian population in his country will bear the brunt of any future round of fighting."
"The reports of tension between Israel, Lebanon and Syria are coming at a time when there is a daily torrent of assessments, threats and forecasts concerning the progress of Iran's nuclear program. The two subjects are linked."
"Along with the Iranian connection, Hezbollah is also providing cause for heightened Israeli alertness. In his speech last week Nasrallah reiterated his view on the balance of terror. He claimed he will attack Tel Aviv and Ben-Gurion International Airport in response to Israeli attacks on Beirut and Lebanon's civilian infrastructure."
"A possible trigger to such confrontation, besides paranoia, is that Iran's encouraging its partners is linked to the delivery of arms. Israel believes, in retrospect, it failed when it did not focus its efforts on preventing the transfer of arms from Iran and Syria to Hezbollah following the Second Lebanon War in the summer of 2006."
"Several times during the past two years Israel knew how to draw red lines, such as when it suspected Syria was about to make the mistake of passing on dangerous weapons. It's possible the issue of red lines will reemerge in the near future."
----------
It is just a matter of time. The Middle East, according to biblical prophecy will erupt into a sequence of significant battles, which actually continue throughout the Tribulation and conclude at Armageddon, with the return of Christ. Isaiah 17 and Ezekiel 38-39 will happen early in the process; we are watching the alignment of the nations now, which will be involved in these wars.
1. Netanyahu has proposed a restoration and preservation plan for historic sites in the West Bank and its creating a firestorm among the usual Palestinian groups. In this article, Netanyahu responds:
"Abbas campaign is hypocritical"
"Hamas tells W. Bank to 'rise up' over holy sites"
Key quotes:
"Earlier on Tuesday, Abbas had told Belgian parliamentarians that Netanyahu’s decision to include Jewish landmarks in the West Bank in the government’s new list of heritage sites was a “severe provocation” that could lead to a new cycle of violence in the region."
"He warned that the decision could also bring about a third intifada, adding that Netanyahu’s insistence on making the announcement only a short time after he was asked by US President Barack Obama to take confidence-building measures vis-à-vis the Palestinians."
----------
"Sarkozy warns Mideast peace talks must be restarted to avoid 'catastrophe'"
In this article, we see the continual calls for the "pre-1967 borders"; code for Israel giving up Jerusalem. Also see references of the discussion regarding the creation of new borders without Israeli consent.
----------
"Lebanon army should seek help from Iran, Syria"
The article contains the usual threats against Israel, and the process of the anti-Israeli coalition which is ongoing:
"A member of Lebanon's parliament has called on the country's military to expand its defensive capability through extensive cooperation with Iran and Syria."
"Iran and Syria are the only states willing to assist our country in building a powerful military," Nawaf al Mousawi told lawmakers at the Lebanese Majlis.
"Speaking a week after the movement's Secretary General Seyyed Hassan Nasrallah indicated a new approach toward Israeli aggression against Lebanon, al Mousawi added that "neither the United States nor Europe will provide Lebanon with what it needs to defend itself from Israel."
"Nasrallah on Tuesday warned that the movement will strike Israel's infrastructure, including its airports and refineries, in the event of any Israeli attack on Lebanon."
----------
More provocation from Iran:
"Iran to build nuke sites 'inside mountains'"
----------
And last but not least, two more articles which confirm Iran's influence in the region, and their manipulation and creation of tensions which many believe are leading to imminent war:
"Netanyahu faces double intifada from Palestinians and settlers"
"Iran using Hezbollah as diversion from nukes"
Key quotes:
"Does a Christian Phalange leader in Lebanon know something that Israeli newspaper readers do not know? In a statement published in Lebanon, Dr. Samir Ja'ja claims that Hezbollah may involve his country in a war in the near future. He also warned that the Lebanese home front is far less prepared than its Israeli counterpart for war and therefore the civilian population in his country will bear the brunt of any future round of fighting."
"The reports of tension between Israel, Lebanon and Syria are coming at a time when there is a daily torrent of assessments, threats and forecasts concerning the progress of Iran's nuclear program. The two subjects are linked."
"Along with the Iranian connection, Hezbollah is also providing cause for heightened Israeli alertness. In his speech last week Nasrallah reiterated his view on the balance of terror. He claimed he will attack Tel Aviv and Ben-Gurion International Airport in response to Israeli attacks on Beirut and Lebanon's civilian infrastructure."
"A possible trigger to such confrontation, besides paranoia, is that Iran's encouraging its partners is linked to the delivery of arms. Israel believes, in retrospect, it failed when it did not focus its efforts on preventing the transfer of arms from Iran and Syria to Hezbollah following the Second Lebanon War in the summer of 2006."
"Several times during the past two years Israel knew how to draw red lines, such as when it suspected Syria was about to make the mistake of passing on dangerous weapons. It's possible the issue of red lines will reemerge in the near future."
----------
It is just a matter of time. The Middle East, according to biblical prophecy will erupt into a sequence of significant battles, which actually continue throughout the Tribulation and conclude at Armageddon, with the return of Christ. Isaiah 17 and Ezekiel 38-39 will happen early in the process; we are watching the alignment of the nations now, which will be involved in these wars.
Monday, February 22, 2010
More Rumors of War
The rhetoric which seems to be leading to war in the Middle East continues, and Israel makes a fascinating announcement:
"Israel unveils new drone fleet that can reach Iran"
For those of us who have been wondering what Israel has been waiting for - perhaps this is the answer. Quotes from the article:
"Israel's air force on Sunday introduced a fleet of huge pilotless planes that can remain in the air for a full day and could fly as far as the Persian Gulf, putting rival Iran within its range."
"The Heron TP drones have a wingspan of 86 feet (26 meters), making them the size of Boeing 737 passenger jets and the largest unmanned aircraft in Israel's military. The planes can fly at least 20 consecutive hours and are primarily used for surveillance and carrying diverse payloads."
"With the inauguration of the Heron TP, we are realizing the air force's dream," said Brig. Gen. Amikam Norkin, commander of the base that will operate the drones. "The Heron TP is a technological and operational breakthrough."
The Jerusalem Post added more interesting information (article here).
"It can fly at medium-to-high altitudes for more than 20 hours, while carrying a variety of payloads and advanced equipment weighing hundreds of kilograms for thousands of kilometers."
"The air force expects a squadron of Heron TPs to be formed this year."
"Despite its mammoth proportions, its engine is quiet, so it can be used in covert operations."
I find it hard to believe that that its simply a coincidence that this aircraft can reach Iran, as stated in each article. Obviously, this aircraft was built with Iran in mind. This represents a very interesting development in the ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran.
----------
Another interesting news story in the category of "Rumors of War" - we see the following:
"20 Ships to Head for Clash in Gaza"
Quotes:
"The Turkish IHH Humanitarian Relief Foundation announced that a fleet of 20 ships would be sent to break Israel’s embargo on Hamas-run Gaza two months from now. Five of the ships will be under the auspices of IHH; the support of charitable businessmen in Turkey is being sought for funding to purchase them."
This may be interesting to watch as well.
----------
Another article of interest:
"Israel rejects recognition of Palestinian state"
Quotes:
" Israel on Sunday rejected the idea of foreign countries recognising a Palestinian state without a negotiated peace agreement, after France's foreign minister hinted at such a scenario."
"France's Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner said over the weekend he could envision the recognition of a Palestinian state even before its borders are drawn up."
"The issue before us at the moment is the building of a reality: France is training Palestinian police, businesses are being created in the West Bank," Kouchner told France's Journal du Dimanche.
"It follows that one can envision the proclamation soon of a Palestinian state, and its immediate recognition by the international community, even before negotiating its borders," he said.
There is a lot of talk within the UN (and now, apparently the EU), that the "world" should just go ahead and create a Palestinian State, and ignore Israel in the process. France's foreign minister seems to agree with this idea. Obviously the Israeli administration will fight this, but the drumbeat seems to grow louder by the day. It is beyond amazing to think that the "international community" (for lack of a better word) could literally redraw Israeli borders without their consent, but that is exactly what is being proposed. We'll be watching to see how this develops.
It seems like there is rarely a quiet day in the Middle East right now. I keep saying that this summer could be when things erupt, but perhaps it won't be that long - the palpable tension in the region and the increasing rhetoric which worsens by the day, makes one wonder if it will take until summer for things to erupt. We will see.
"Israel unveils new drone fleet that can reach Iran"
For those of us who have been wondering what Israel has been waiting for - perhaps this is the answer. Quotes from the article:
"Israel's air force on Sunday introduced a fleet of huge pilotless planes that can remain in the air for a full day and could fly as far as the Persian Gulf, putting rival Iran within its range."
"The Heron TP drones have a wingspan of 86 feet (26 meters), making them the size of Boeing 737 passenger jets and the largest unmanned aircraft in Israel's military. The planes can fly at least 20 consecutive hours and are primarily used for surveillance and carrying diverse payloads."
"With the inauguration of the Heron TP, we are realizing the air force's dream," said Brig. Gen. Amikam Norkin, commander of the base that will operate the drones. "The Heron TP is a technological and operational breakthrough."
The Jerusalem Post added more interesting information (article here).
"It can fly at medium-to-high altitudes for more than 20 hours, while carrying a variety of payloads and advanced equipment weighing hundreds of kilograms for thousands of kilometers."
"The air force expects a squadron of Heron TPs to be formed this year."
"Despite its mammoth proportions, its engine is quiet, so it can be used in covert operations."
I find it hard to believe that that its simply a coincidence that this aircraft can reach Iran, as stated in each article. Obviously, this aircraft was built with Iran in mind. This represents a very interesting development in the ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran.
----------
Another interesting news story in the category of "Rumors of War" - we see the following:
"20 Ships to Head for Clash in Gaza"
Quotes:
"The Turkish IHH Humanitarian Relief Foundation announced that a fleet of 20 ships would be sent to break Israel’s embargo on Hamas-run Gaza two months from now. Five of the ships will be under the auspices of IHH; the support of charitable businessmen in Turkey is being sought for funding to purchase them."
This may be interesting to watch as well.
----------
Another article of interest:
"Israel rejects recognition of Palestinian state"
Quotes:
" Israel on Sunday rejected the idea of foreign countries recognising a Palestinian state without a negotiated peace agreement, after France's foreign minister hinted at such a scenario."
"France's Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner said over the weekend he could envision the recognition of a Palestinian state even before its borders are drawn up."
"The issue before us at the moment is the building of a reality: France is training Palestinian police, businesses are being created in the West Bank," Kouchner told France's Journal du Dimanche.
"It follows that one can envision the proclamation soon of a Palestinian state, and its immediate recognition by the international community, even before negotiating its borders," he said.
There is a lot of talk within the UN (and now, apparently the EU), that the "world" should just go ahead and create a Palestinian State, and ignore Israel in the process. France's foreign minister seems to agree with this idea. Obviously the Israeli administration will fight this, but the drumbeat seems to grow louder by the day. It is beyond amazing to think that the "international community" (for lack of a better word) could literally redraw Israeli borders without their consent, but that is exactly what is being proposed. We'll be watching to see how this develops.
It seems like there is rarely a quiet day in the Middle East right now. I keep saying that this summer could be when things erupt, but perhaps it won't be that long - the palpable tension in the region and the increasing rhetoric which worsens by the day, makes one wonder if it will take until summer for things to erupt. We will see.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Syria threatens "ruinous war" in future conflict
In just a matter of weeks from Syrian's foreign minister threatening Israeli cities with missiles in a future conflict, now Syria's Prime Minister is beginning to make similar proclamations:
"Syria warns: Next war will be ruinous"
Mike Mickey at RaptureAlert.com found an interesting article describing more potential war preparations being made along the Lebanese-Syrian border RaptureAlert.
In addition, he has provided an interesting commentary regarding this situation which is emerging rapidly in the region:
Syria: Next war with Israel will be ruinous
by Michael G. Mickey
(2-20-10)
In yesterday's commentary, I wrote of reports that Lebanon was blasting large areas of rock near the Lebanese-Syrian border to build a staging area for the deployment of Syrian tanks, presumably in preparation of Syria getting involved in what we can be sure is on the horizon, another military conflict between Israel and her enemies.
Today's headline in The Jerusalem Post, perhaps by the design of its staff, seems to make reference to Isaiah 17. It reads "Syria warns: Next war will be ruinous".
Ruinous? If that doesn't take one's mind to Isaiah 17:1, nothing will!
Isaiah 17:1: The burden of Damascus. Behold, Damascus is taken away from being a city, and it shall be a ruinous heap.
In the Jerusalem Post article, we find that Syrian Prime Minister Naji al-Otari, after what has been a quietened level of rhetoric between the two nations following a period of ominous declarations made by each side several weeks ago, today stirred the coals of conflict once again, warning "Israel that any new Mideast war would be catastrophic for the region and beyond."
The following is an excerpt from the JP article highlighting some of the recent saber rattling that has taken place between the two:
Syria's foreign minister warned Israel earlier this month that any new war would reach Israeli cities, to which Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman responded that the Syrian army would be defeated and its regime would collapse in any future conflict.
Based on everything being said, both by Israel and Syria, the probability of a military conflict exploding in the Middle East at any moment, potentially elevating rapidly to prophetic, downright wrath of God levels is very high.
Today Damascus is here, but tomorrow? Who knows? Things are that tense.
Keep looking up! Our redemption draweth nigh
(link here)
"Syria warns: Next war will be ruinous"
Mike Mickey at RaptureAlert.com found an interesting article describing more potential war preparations being made along the Lebanese-Syrian border RaptureAlert.
In addition, he has provided an interesting commentary regarding this situation which is emerging rapidly in the region:
Syria: Next war with Israel will be ruinous
by Michael G. Mickey
(2-20-10)
In yesterday's commentary, I wrote of reports that Lebanon was blasting large areas of rock near the Lebanese-Syrian border to build a staging area for the deployment of Syrian tanks, presumably in preparation of Syria getting involved in what we can be sure is on the horizon, another military conflict between Israel and her enemies.
Today's headline in The Jerusalem Post, perhaps by the design of its staff, seems to make reference to Isaiah 17. It reads "Syria warns: Next war will be ruinous".
Ruinous? If that doesn't take one's mind to Isaiah 17:1, nothing will!
Isaiah 17:1: The burden of Damascus. Behold, Damascus is taken away from being a city, and it shall be a ruinous heap.
In the Jerusalem Post article, we find that Syrian Prime Minister Naji al-Otari, after what has been a quietened level of rhetoric between the two nations following a period of ominous declarations made by each side several weeks ago, today stirred the coals of conflict once again, warning "Israel that any new Mideast war would be catastrophic for the region and beyond."
The following is an excerpt from the JP article highlighting some of the recent saber rattling that has taken place between the two:
Syria's foreign minister warned Israel earlier this month that any new war would reach Israeli cities, to which Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman responded that the Syrian army would be defeated and its regime would collapse in any future conflict.
Based on everything being said, both by Israel and Syria, the probability of a military conflict exploding in the Middle East at any moment, potentially elevating rapidly to prophetic, downright wrath of God levels is very high.
Today Damascus is here, but tomorrow? Who knows? Things are that tense.
Keep looking up! Our redemption draweth nigh
(link here)
Friday, February 19, 2010
Paving the road to the Tribulation
An article came out today (Jerusalem Post) that is barely receiving any attention, but I believe should be viewed in the context of the coming Tribulation:
"Biometric law will make identity theft harder"
Interesting quotes:
"Effective use of biometric data could have prevented the apparent theft of Anglo-Israelis’ identities, MK Meir Sheetrit (Kadima), the architect of the country’s Biometric ID Law, and a former minister of intelligence services, told The Jerusalem Post Thursday evening."
“People attacked the law because they were afraid that someone could ‘break in’ to the biometric database and steal identities,” said Sheetrit, arguing that it would be harder, not easier, to do that once the law went into effect."
“Someone could steal a biometric identity card, but they simply could not make their fingerprint match the one stored in the government’s databases,” he said
"Once we have the smart chip in passports and identification cards, we will finally be part of the developments that we are beginning to see throughout the world,” he added. “It will become increasingly difficult to cross international borders with fake identification once more and more countries install fingerprint-reading devices at border crossings."
"On Thursday, Interpol Secretary-General Ronald K. Noble said that 'it is becoming clear that those who carefully planned and carried out the murder of Mahmoud al-Mabhouh most likely used forged or fake European passports of innocent citizens whose identities were stolen.'”
“The majority of states in the world, including the United Kingdom and other European countries, are going in the direction of biometric identity documents and biometric scans at borders,” said Sheetrit.
----------
This article reveals a lot of information:
- It is almost universally agree that some form of "biometric" ID is becoming more and more necessary in the world we inhabit today, as identity theft becomes a growing problem. Biometric IDs would be an excellent way to stop this crime, but there are exceptions.
- With the use of biometric identity cards and passports (using a "smart chip") it will be, according to the article, "increasingly difficult to cross international borders with fake identification" and more difficult for "terrorists and spies" to steal Israeli identification/identity.
- As quoted, "The majority of states in the world, including the United Kingdom and the other European countries are going in the direction of biometric identity documents".
- However, even with the use of biometric cards, the article warns that criminals may be able to "secure false IDs with their own biometric information listed on the chip" inside the cards. In other words, if the criminals can get involved during the early period in which the documents are issued, they could STILL successfully secure false IDs with their own biometric information". So even with the use of these "ID Cards", criminals could get around the system.
So we have some form of biometric IDs emerging in most of the industrialized countries of the world. As the first step in this process, we are seeing identity cards used in conjunction with people's fingerprint, which will help solve the ever increasing problem of identity theft. But this will still give criminals a way to steal identity if they can do so early in the process.
I believe the next step (which will occur during the Tribulation) will be to take this technology, and rather than issue ID cards, we will see the Mark of the Beast implemented - because use of an implantable microchip - the "loophole" that criminals can now use to continue stealing identities - would be effectively closed. With an implantable microchip, it would impossible for the criminals to steal identity this way. It is an obvious solution to the problem of identity theft.
It also seems clear that the Mark of the Beast will be a progressive "rollout" starting with an ID card, and then progressing into simply changing from a card to an implantable microchip - thus closing the door on the criminal element of identity theft.
Of course, the antichrist will have a much larger agenda - and with an implantable microchip, he (and the false prophet) will have a relatively easy way to control world finance and make such a biometric "system" mandatory.
For now, once again, we are seeing the road being paved. Once acceptance sets in for a ID card, with microchip technology, it will only be a small step into this chip being inserted into the right hand or forehead - for everyone. Home pets have been chipped for years now, and many people have received implantable chips already.
----------
In other news:
"IAEA: Teheran may be working on nukes"
The IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) has finally come out and admitted that Iran is working on nukes. How does one categorize this one? Suggestions:
- IAEA finally makes it to the party...incredibly late
- IAEA wakes up and enters the "real world"
- IAEA states the incredibly obvious
----------
John Bolton, former U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. is interviewed regarding the Middle East and had some interesting quotes.
"Secret Fears on Iran Realized"
" All of this work that the IAEA has been looking at is the engineering, basically, to go from having highly enriched uranium to actually fabricating it into a weapon and then fitting that weapon onto the top of a ballistic missile. These are all important steps, obviously, but not that hard to do."
"I think they're very close in Iran to getting a deliverable nuclear weapon. I'd emphasize again there's much in Iran that we don't know. That shouldn't make us feel better. What we don't know probably takes them closer to that capability."
"One reason that Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel was in Moscow this week was to try and persuade the Russians of the seriousness of the situation and to have the Russians continue to withhold delivery of sophisticated new air defenses that the Iranians need."
"It doesn't end with Iran. If they get nuclear weapons, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Turkey, other countries will, as well."
----------
In defense of the IAEA, their main concern seems to be not just Iran's capability to enrich uranium, but their ability to actually take this technology and produce a "deliverable" nuclear weapon, including the ability to fit the warhead onto a ballistic missile.
The fact that now even the IAEA believes Iran is close to a deliverable nuclear weapon should send chills throughout the Middle East and the U.S. - particularly given their recent advances in missile technology.
Its all coming together - or you could say the road to the Tribulation continues to be paved. With each passing day, the shadow of the approaching Tribulation looms larger and larger. The set-up for the arrival of the antichrist is already well formed and it will be interesting to see how much more this road will be paved.
Fortunately, the Church has a different destiny. We may see more "road paving" but we won't be here for the beginning of the Tribulation: The Bible is crystal clear on that aspect.
"Biometric law will make identity theft harder"
Interesting quotes:
"Effective use of biometric data could have prevented the apparent theft of Anglo-Israelis’ identities, MK Meir Sheetrit (Kadima), the architect of the country’s Biometric ID Law, and a former minister of intelligence services, told The Jerusalem Post Thursday evening."
“People attacked the law because they were afraid that someone could ‘break in’ to the biometric database and steal identities,” said Sheetrit, arguing that it would be harder, not easier, to do that once the law went into effect."
“Someone could steal a biometric identity card, but they simply could not make their fingerprint match the one stored in the government’s databases,” he said
"Once we have the smart chip in passports and identification cards, we will finally be part of the developments that we are beginning to see throughout the world,” he added. “It will become increasingly difficult to cross international borders with fake identification once more and more countries install fingerprint-reading devices at border crossings."
"On Thursday, Interpol Secretary-General Ronald K. Noble said that 'it is becoming clear that those who carefully planned and carried out the murder of Mahmoud al-Mabhouh most likely used forged or fake European passports of innocent citizens whose identities were stolen.'”
“The majority of states in the world, including the United Kingdom and other European countries, are going in the direction of biometric identity documents and biometric scans at borders,” said Sheetrit.
----------
This article reveals a lot of information:
- It is almost universally agree that some form of "biometric" ID is becoming more and more necessary in the world we inhabit today, as identity theft becomes a growing problem. Biometric IDs would be an excellent way to stop this crime, but there are exceptions.
- With the use of biometric identity cards and passports (using a "smart chip") it will be, according to the article, "increasingly difficult to cross international borders with fake identification" and more difficult for "terrorists and spies" to steal Israeli identification/identity.
- As quoted, "The majority of states in the world, including the United Kingdom and the other European countries are going in the direction of biometric identity documents".
- However, even with the use of biometric cards, the article warns that criminals may be able to "secure false IDs with their own biometric information listed on the chip" inside the cards. In other words, if the criminals can get involved during the early period in which the documents are issued, they could STILL successfully secure false IDs with their own biometric information". So even with the use of these "ID Cards", criminals could get around the system.
So we have some form of biometric IDs emerging in most of the industrialized countries of the world. As the first step in this process, we are seeing identity cards used in conjunction with people's fingerprint, which will help solve the ever increasing problem of identity theft. But this will still give criminals a way to steal identity if they can do so early in the process.
I believe the next step (which will occur during the Tribulation) will be to take this technology, and rather than issue ID cards, we will see the Mark of the Beast implemented - because use of an implantable microchip - the "loophole" that criminals can now use to continue stealing identities - would be effectively closed. With an implantable microchip, it would impossible for the criminals to steal identity this way. It is an obvious solution to the problem of identity theft.
It also seems clear that the Mark of the Beast will be a progressive "rollout" starting with an ID card, and then progressing into simply changing from a card to an implantable microchip - thus closing the door on the criminal element of identity theft.
Of course, the antichrist will have a much larger agenda - and with an implantable microchip, he (and the false prophet) will have a relatively easy way to control world finance and make such a biometric "system" mandatory.
For now, once again, we are seeing the road being paved. Once acceptance sets in for a ID card, with microchip technology, it will only be a small step into this chip being inserted into the right hand or forehead - for everyone. Home pets have been chipped for years now, and many people have received implantable chips already.
----------
In other news:
"IAEA: Teheran may be working on nukes"
The IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) has finally come out and admitted that Iran is working on nukes. How does one categorize this one? Suggestions:
- IAEA finally makes it to the party...incredibly late
- IAEA wakes up and enters the "real world"
- IAEA states the incredibly obvious
----------
John Bolton, former U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. is interviewed regarding the Middle East and had some interesting quotes.
"Secret Fears on Iran Realized"
" All of this work that the IAEA has been looking at is the engineering, basically, to go from having highly enriched uranium to actually fabricating it into a weapon and then fitting that weapon onto the top of a ballistic missile. These are all important steps, obviously, but not that hard to do."
"I think they're very close in Iran to getting a deliverable nuclear weapon. I'd emphasize again there's much in Iran that we don't know. That shouldn't make us feel better. What we don't know probably takes them closer to that capability."
"One reason that Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel was in Moscow this week was to try and persuade the Russians of the seriousness of the situation and to have the Russians continue to withhold delivery of sophisticated new air defenses that the Iranians need."
"It doesn't end with Iran. If they get nuclear weapons, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Turkey, other countries will, as well."
----------
In defense of the IAEA, their main concern seems to be not just Iran's capability to enrich uranium, but their ability to actually take this technology and produce a "deliverable" nuclear weapon, including the ability to fit the warhead onto a ballistic missile.
The fact that now even the IAEA believes Iran is close to a deliverable nuclear weapon should send chills throughout the Middle East and the U.S. - particularly given their recent advances in missile technology.
Its all coming together - or you could say the road to the Tribulation continues to be paved. With each passing day, the shadow of the approaching Tribulation looms larger and larger. The set-up for the arrival of the antichrist is already well formed and it will be interesting to see how much more this road will be paved.
Fortunately, the Church has a different destiny. We may see more "road paving" but we won't be here for the beginning of the Tribulation: The Bible is crystal clear on that aspect.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
More Talk, No Action
The current U.S. administration is full of talk, but unfortunately hasn't taken any definitive actions with regard to the Middle East situation. We are facing a time now where tough decisions must be made, as the Iranian nuclear situation reaches the crisis stage. Additionally, we know from biblical prophecy - when the Gog-MaGog invasion takes place, no one will take Israel's side, as they will have God to protect them at that point. Zechariah 12 also stated clearly that Israel will be alone in facing a hostile world. This is shaping up right now exactly as the prophets stated:
"Clinton: U.S. has no plan to strike Iran over nuclear program"
At the same time, Iran (again) makes their intentions crystal clear:
"Iran earlier Wednesday said it will not give up uranium enrichment and the West must get used to an Iran that is a "master of enrichment," Tehran's envoy to the UN nuclear watchdog was quoted as saying."
"But the West just has to cope with a strong Iran, a country with thousands of years of civilization, that is now the master of enrichment. I know it is hard for them to digest, but it is the reality," he said.
So Iran has promised the world over and over - again and again - that they will not stop their nuclear progress despite any sanctions. The U.S. response? See these quotes:
"Obviously, we don't want Iran to become a nuclear weapons power, but we are not planning anything other than going for sanctions," Clinton told Al-Arabiya television.
"What we are focusing on is trying to change Iranian behavior, and the international community has been united in trying to send a message to Iran that it is time for it to clarify its intentions," she said.
----------
This is bordering on bizarre...surreal...How many times does Iran have to make their intentions clear? Does the U.S. not read the same headlines that I (and everybody else) reads? Or - does the U.S. simply not care, and intend to "hide" behind the threat of sanctions knowing full well that they will not be effective?
Netanyahu responds:
"Watered-down sanctions, modest sanctions, will not do the job," he said adding that new measures must aim to curtail Iran's oil exports and energy supply. (Although an oil producer, Iran has limited refining capacity and imports gasoline).
----------
It also seems clear that Mr Netanyahu understands the situation perfectly. If he is to attack Iran's nuclear facilities, Israel will stand alone. Just as our prophetic scriptures have already informed us.
----------
We also see these headlines:
"Peres warns of a nuclear Mideast"
This quote stands out:
"Peres said that he was surprised by the foot-dragging of the international community which still seemed reluctant to recognize Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad for what he is – “a dictator and a murderer who hangs people in the streets, shoots at unarmed civilians, calls for the destruction of a nation and travels the world as if he was a legitimate leader."
We also see this pertinent article:
"Nasrallah (Hezbollah) warns TA will be targeted in next conflict"
Quotes:
"Hizbullah leader Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah issued a new threat against Israel on Tuesday, warning that Tel Aviv would be targeted in the next conflict.
“If you attack the Rafik Hariri Airport, we'll attack Ben-Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv," he said in a televised speech to supporters in Beirut. "If you attack our ports we'll attack your ports."
Nasrallah added that if Israel attacks the Dahiya neighborhood of Beirut, a Hizbullah stronghold, the guerrilla group would bomb buildings in Tel Aviv."
----------
Again, as usual, we see the Middle East shaping up exactly as the prophets predicted. The vice is clamping down around Israel by the day - and the world backs off leaving Israel alone. Sanctions will not work - that is abundantly clear - yet world leaders, including the U.S., play the game that somehow sanctions will work. At this point it seems exactly that. A game.
The administration can pretend that it is doing something to stop Iran's nuclear development, knowing full well that Iran will completely ignore any sanctions. Also, it is important to note that the UN security council includes Russia (who is building these nuclear facilities) and China. Neither country has warmed up to the idea of significant sanctions, for all of the usual/obvious reasons.
Israel will stand alone as she faces her enemies. We knew that all along. Soon the world will see what we prophecy watchers have known: Its Israel and God vs. the world.
I'm putting my money on Israel and God. If you have any doubt, just read the last few paragraphs of Ezekiel 38 and 39.
"Clinton: U.S. has no plan to strike Iran over nuclear program"
At the same time, Iran (again) makes their intentions crystal clear:
"Iran earlier Wednesday said it will not give up uranium enrichment and the West must get used to an Iran that is a "master of enrichment," Tehran's envoy to the UN nuclear watchdog was quoted as saying."
"But the West just has to cope with a strong Iran, a country with thousands of years of civilization, that is now the master of enrichment. I know it is hard for them to digest, but it is the reality," he said.
So Iran has promised the world over and over - again and again - that they will not stop their nuclear progress despite any sanctions. The U.S. response? See these quotes:
"Obviously, we don't want Iran to become a nuclear weapons power, but we are not planning anything other than going for sanctions," Clinton told Al-Arabiya television.
"What we are focusing on is trying to change Iranian behavior, and the international community has been united in trying to send a message to Iran that it is time for it to clarify its intentions," she said.
----------
This is bordering on bizarre...surreal...How many times does Iran have to make their intentions clear? Does the U.S. not read the same headlines that I (and everybody else) reads? Or - does the U.S. simply not care, and intend to "hide" behind the threat of sanctions knowing full well that they will not be effective?
Netanyahu responds:
"Watered-down sanctions, modest sanctions, will not do the job," he said adding that new measures must aim to curtail Iran's oil exports and energy supply. (Although an oil producer, Iran has limited refining capacity and imports gasoline).
----------
It also seems clear that Mr Netanyahu understands the situation perfectly. If he is to attack Iran's nuclear facilities, Israel will stand alone. Just as our prophetic scriptures have already informed us.
----------
We also see these headlines:
"Peres warns of a nuclear Mideast"
This quote stands out:
"Peres said that he was surprised by the foot-dragging of the international community which still seemed reluctant to recognize Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad for what he is – “a dictator and a murderer who hangs people in the streets, shoots at unarmed civilians, calls for the destruction of a nation and travels the world as if he was a legitimate leader."
We also see this pertinent article:
"Nasrallah (Hezbollah) warns TA will be targeted in next conflict"
Quotes:
"Hizbullah leader Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah issued a new threat against Israel on Tuesday, warning that Tel Aviv would be targeted in the next conflict.
“If you attack the Rafik Hariri Airport, we'll attack Ben-Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv," he said in a televised speech to supporters in Beirut. "If you attack our ports we'll attack your ports."
Nasrallah added that if Israel attacks the Dahiya neighborhood of Beirut, a Hizbullah stronghold, the guerrilla group would bomb buildings in Tel Aviv."
----------
Again, as usual, we see the Middle East shaping up exactly as the prophets predicted. The vice is clamping down around Israel by the day - and the world backs off leaving Israel alone. Sanctions will not work - that is abundantly clear - yet world leaders, including the U.S., play the game that somehow sanctions will work. At this point it seems exactly that. A game.
The administration can pretend that it is doing something to stop Iran's nuclear development, knowing full well that Iran will completely ignore any sanctions. Also, it is important to note that the UN security council includes Russia (who is building these nuclear facilities) and China. Neither country has warmed up to the idea of significant sanctions, for all of the usual/obvious reasons.
Israel will stand alone as she faces her enemies. We knew that all along. Soon the world will see what we prophecy watchers have known: Its Israel and God vs. the world.
I'm putting my money on Israel and God. If you have any doubt, just read the last few paragraphs of Ezekiel 38 and 39.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
More news...
It has been relatively quiet as far as "prophecy news" for several days now, and interestingly, the earthquake story has also been quiet for several days. However, there are a few stories of interest in the news.
In the category of "pestilences" we see the following:
"Tuberculosis' deadly return to Europe"
Quotes:
"The disease has returned in a novel form that is quietly stalking Europe, beneath the media's radar, most of the time marching a soldier's slow but steady stride westward, but at times moving as fast as it takes for a plane to travel from Tallinn's Lennart Meri airport to Heathrow."
"Experts worry that Europe, which spent millions battling a Swine flu that killed 14,286 last year, is at a loss when dealing with the threat from the more mundane but far more lethal TB, which strikes down 1.77 million people annually worldwide."
"As many as half a million TB cases identified each year are resistant to multiple drugs, 40,000 of them XDR. This latter form has so far turned up in some 50 countries. Of the 27 countries most affected by MDR, 15 are in the WHO European region, with Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and the Russian Federation having some of the highest rates of drug resistance amongst new patients."
"Paul Nunn of the WHO says XDR "is raising the spectre of something that we have been worried might happen for a decade - the possibility of virtually untreatable TB."
----------
In other news...
"Oh, those Russians"
This story addresses the pending sale of "S-300" missiles to Iran. This is highly significant because these missiles represent an advanced anti-aircraft system and would significantly impair Israel's ability to destroy Iran's nuclear sites.
We also see this article:
"Russia: S-300 delivery delayed"
Despite previous occasions in which Russia implied that they may withhold the sale of this missile system, this article states otherwise:
"The Interfax news agency on Wednesday cited a top Russian defense official as saying that S-300 air defense missiles will be delivered to Iran once unspecified technical problems are resolved."
"Alexander Fomin, deputy head of the Federal Military-Technical Cooperation Service, was quoted as saying "the delay is taking place because of technical problems. The delivery will take place when they have been resolved."
"A day before the prime minister’s arrival, the deputy head of Russia’s National Security Council, Vladimir Nazarov, was quoted as saying the weapons systems would be delivered."
"Israel has said in the past that the sale of S-300s to Iran, which could be used to defend its nuclear installations, would tip the strategic balance in the region."
"The missiles would significantly boost Iran's defense capacity and the contract has caused great concern in Israel."
----------
Last but not least - we see the rhetoric between Israel and Hezbollah continuing:
"Hezbollah warns Israel over future war"
----------
The missile sale of the S-300 is highly significant and worth tracking closely. It is generally felt that Israel would need to "attack" Iran's nuclear facilities prior to any installation of this missile system. In fact, the progress of the S-300 and its sale to Iran will precipitate Israeli action as much or more than any other factor.
It is kind of interesting to reflect on the news today. I would consider this a very "slow" day as far as pertinent, prophecy-related news, yet we have a pretty serious story about pestilence (drug resistant TB emerging in Europe) and serious discussions regarding a major arms sale between "Gog-MaGog" partners; a weapons sale which could serve as the triggering mechanism for an epic, "biblical" war in the region.
...and it is considered as a slow news day.
My, how times have changed.
In the category of "pestilences" we see the following:
"Tuberculosis' deadly return to Europe"
Quotes:
"The disease has returned in a novel form that is quietly stalking Europe, beneath the media's radar, most of the time marching a soldier's slow but steady stride westward, but at times moving as fast as it takes for a plane to travel from Tallinn's Lennart Meri airport to Heathrow."
"Experts worry that Europe, which spent millions battling a Swine flu that killed 14,286 last year, is at a loss when dealing with the threat from the more mundane but far more lethal TB, which strikes down 1.77 million people annually worldwide."
"As many as half a million TB cases identified each year are resistant to multiple drugs, 40,000 of them XDR. This latter form has so far turned up in some 50 countries. Of the 27 countries most affected by MDR, 15 are in the WHO European region, with Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and the Russian Federation having some of the highest rates of drug resistance amongst new patients."
"Paul Nunn of the WHO says XDR "is raising the spectre of something that we have been worried might happen for a decade - the possibility of virtually untreatable TB."
----------
In other news...
"Oh, those Russians"
This story addresses the pending sale of "S-300" missiles to Iran. This is highly significant because these missiles represent an advanced anti-aircraft system and would significantly impair Israel's ability to destroy Iran's nuclear sites.
We also see this article:
"Russia: S-300 delivery delayed"
Despite previous occasions in which Russia implied that they may withhold the sale of this missile system, this article states otherwise:
"The Interfax news agency on Wednesday cited a top Russian defense official as saying that S-300 air defense missiles will be delivered to Iran once unspecified technical problems are resolved."
"Alexander Fomin, deputy head of the Federal Military-Technical Cooperation Service, was quoted as saying "the delay is taking place because of technical problems. The delivery will take place when they have been resolved."
"A day before the prime minister’s arrival, the deputy head of Russia’s National Security Council, Vladimir Nazarov, was quoted as saying the weapons systems would be delivered."
"Israel has said in the past that the sale of S-300s to Iran, which could be used to defend its nuclear installations, would tip the strategic balance in the region."
"The missiles would significantly boost Iran's defense capacity and the contract has caused great concern in Israel."
----------
Last but not least - we see the rhetoric between Israel and Hezbollah continuing:
"Hezbollah warns Israel over future war"
----------
The missile sale of the S-300 is highly significant and worth tracking closely. It is generally felt that Israel would need to "attack" Iran's nuclear facilities prior to any installation of this missile system. In fact, the progress of the S-300 and its sale to Iran will precipitate Israeli action as much or more than any other factor.
It is kind of interesting to reflect on the news today. I would consider this a very "slow" day as far as pertinent, prophecy-related news, yet we have a pretty serious story about pestilence (drug resistant TB emerging in Europe) and serious discussions regarding a major arms sale between "Gog-MaGog" partners; a weapons sale which could serve as the triggering mechanism for an epic, "biblical" war in the region.
...and it is considered as a slow news day.
My, how times have changed.
Monday, February 15, 2010
In the news...
Most of the news today are coming from the Middle East, but this first story was unavoidable:
"Teens shot during California church service". After the previous post on persecution of the Church, its hard to believe that there was another shooting at a church service, but here it is. During a church service in Richmond, California, three gunmen opened fire on congregants, injuring two teens. It is unbelievable that this is happening in churches, but it seems to be part of daily life in these end times.
On to the Middle East:
"Are Lebanon and Israel Headed for War?"
The subtitle to this article was perhaps more revealing: "Word on the Streets of Beirut is That The Drums are Beating for Battle". Other quotes:
"...people in Lebanon say tension is now so high the smallest incident may provide the trigger."
"And the next round of hostilities, they warn, will be much broader and more terrible than the last war when Hezbollah battled the Israeli army in 2006."
"The Israelis fear Hezbollah's growing arsenal of long range rockets. They fear for their biggest cities and strategic targets. They see Hezbollah and Syria as Iran's proxies, liable to attack from the north if Israel strikes Iran's nuclear sites. Hezbollah fought the once feared Israeli Defense Force to a standstill in 2006. The Jewish state's reputation and deterrence was severely dented. The Israelis have unfinished business."
"Hezbollah today has somewhere between 40,000 and 50,000 missiles, many more than in 2006, and many capable of hitting targets deep inside Israel."
"Everyone ABC News spoke to expects a brutal Israeli response if war breaks out. Hezbollah is part of the Lebanese government. So, Israel says, all of Lebanon will be responsible for a Hezbollah attack. To reassert military deterrence Israel must achieve a tangible victory."
"And they believe there is substance to Syria's tough talk too. On the road between Damascus and Beirut, residents tell of unusual military activity, all night construction work, army flat bed trucks moving around with their lights switched off."
----------
And of course we know that the whole Middle East situation ultimately boils down to the fate of Jerusalem:
"Jerusalem will be Palestinian capital"
Quotes:
"Abbas: Peace talks can’t start until Israel stops Jerusalem construction."
"Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas on Thursday said that the Palestinians would not accept Abu Dis, a town between Jerusalem and Ma'aleh Adumim that is currently controlled by the PA, as the capital of their future state, but would insist on receiving control over east Jerusalem."
On cue, the Russians weigh in on the situation regarding Jerusalem:
"Settlement moratorium insufficient: Hours before PM leaves for Moscow, Russian FM calls for ME situation 'alarming'"
Quotes:
"Hours before Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu left for Moscow on Sunday evening, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov – on a visit to Nicaragua – called the situation in the Middle East “alarming” and proposed an urgent Quartet meeting."
“We are quite concerned over the categorical refusal to stop settlement activities in east Jerusalem,” Lavrov said. “We want to help the Palestinians and the Israelis to find conditions for resuming direct negotiations as soon as possible."
----------
With almost any article written about the "Middle East situation", if you dig deep enough, you will find Jerusalem mentioned as a key point, if not THE key point. Sooner or later in any discourse regarding the Middle East, the fate of Jerusalem will come up. As Joel Rosenberg often states: Israel is the epicenter of the world, Jerusalem is the epicenter of Israel and the Temple Mount is the epicenter of Jerusalem. That indeed seems to be the case today.
This is exactly what the prophet Zechariah warned us about in Zechariah 12. Its all about Jerusalem.
"Teens shot during California church service". After the previous post on persecution of the Church, its hard to believe that there was another shooting at a church service, but here it is. During a church service in Richmond, California, three gunmen opened fire on congregants, injuring two teens. It is unbelievable that this is happening in churches, but it seems to be part of daily life in these end times.
On to the Middle East:
"Are Lebanon and Israel Headed for War?"
The subtitle to this article was perhaps more revealing: "Word on the Streets of Beirut is That The Drums are Beating for Battle". Other quotes:
"...people in Lebanon say tension is now so high the smallest incident may provide the trigger."
"And the next round of hostilities, they warn, will be much broader and more terrible than the last war when Hezbollah battled the Israeli army in 2006."
"The Israelis fear Hezbollah's growing arsenal of long range rockets. They fear for their biggest cities and strategic targets. They see Hezbollah and Syria as Iran's proxies, liable to attack from the north if Israel strikes Iran's nuclear sites. Hezbollah fought the once feared Israeli Defense Force to a standstill in 2006. The Jewish state's reputation and deterrence was severely dented. The Israelis have unfinished business."
"Hezbollah today has somewhere between 40,000 and 50,000 missiles, many more than in 2006, and many capable of hitting targets deep inside Israel."
"Everyone ABC News spoke to expects a brutal Israeli response if war breaks out. Hezbollah is part of the Lebanese government. So, Israel says, all of Lebanon will be responsible for a Hezbollah attack. To reassert military deterrence Israel must achieve a tangible victory."
"And they believe there is substance to Syria's tough talk too. On the road between Damascus and Beirut, residents tell of unusual military activity, all night construction work, army flat bed trucks moving around with their lights switched off."
----------
And of course we know that the whole Middle East situation ultimately boils down to the fate of Jerusalem:
"Jerusalem will be Palestinian capital"
Quotes:
"Abbas: Peace talks can’t start until Israel stops Jerusalem construction."
"Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas on Thursday said that the Palestinians would not accept Abu Dis, a town between Jerusalem and Ma'aleh Adumim that is currently controlled by the PA, as the capital of their future state, but would insist on receiving control over east Jerusalem."
On cue, the Russians weigh in on the situation regarding Jerusalem:
"Settlement moratorium insufficient: Hours before PM leaves for Moscow, Russian FM calls for ME situation 'alarming'"
Quotes:
"Hours before Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu left for Moscow on Sunday evening, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov – on a visit to Nicaragua – called the situation in the Middle East “alarming” and proposed an urgent Quartet meeting."
“We are quite concerned over the categorical refusal to stop settlement activities in east Jerusalem,” Lavrov said. “We want to help the Palestinians and the Israelis to find conditions for resuming direct negotiations as soon as possible."
----------
With almost any article written about the "Middle East situation", if you dig deep enough, you will find Jerusalem mentioned as a key point, if not THE key point. Sooner or later in any discourse regarding the Middle East, the fate of Jerusalem will come up. As Joel Rosenberg often states: Israel is the epicenter of the world, Jerusalem is the epicenter of Israel and the Temple Mount is the epicenter of Jerusalem. That indeed seems to be the case today.
This is exactly what the prophet Zechariah warned us about in Zechariah 12. Its all about Jerusalem.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
PERSECUTION...In the U.S.
Most of us seem to accept the daily persecution that we endure as a Christian, here in the U.S.
Most of the Christians I know seem to accept this as daily life, as the form of persecution here in America is typically limited to the subtle comments (or sneering) by TV personalities, teachers, professors, work-groups, neighbors, etc. It seems perfectly acceptable in the U.S. to make comments or remarks which indicate: a) the stupidity of Christians, b) the "irrational" beliefs of a Christian (abortion, creation, right to pray in public, end-times-prophecy etc.), and, c) the ever-present "straw-man" argument that Christians are "haters" whenever they express views that are contrary to the main-stream-media's beliefs. These are just a few examples.
We have also seen our basic beliefs constantly ridiculed: it seems that attacks on Christianity are perfectly acceptable, in fact fashionable in our society, but these rules don't apply to ANY OTHER religion, such as Islam, Buddhism, etc., where their beliefs are protected to the nth degree.
But of course, we know from biblical prophecy that this would be an end-times sign of this age:
"Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me." (Matthew 24:9)
"All men will hate you because of me" (Mark 13:13)
That brings us to two current stories - stories which may indicate that persecution in the U.S. is progressing in a more ominous way:
"NEWS ALERT: Street Preachers Killed in the United States"
In this heartbreaking story, we see that two young men, who were simply preaching the Gospel of Christ Jesus, were gunned down:
"Tite Sufra, 24, and Stephen Ocean, 23, were shot and killed late Saturday, January 30, in Boynton Beach in the U.S. State of Florida, where they evangelized, after meeting 18-year-old Jeriah Woody, local police said."
"They witnessed to Woody for fifteen minutes when he got a phone call and told the preachers he 'had to go', added the Commission, which closely monitored the case."
"As they walked away, Woody suddenly started walking back toward them. Sufra walked up to greet him and was killed with a shot gun blast at point blank range. When Ocean ran, he was shot in the back. After he fell, Woody shot him in the head execution style."
"Woody was detained Wednesday, February 3, and is charged with two counts of first-degree murder. Bail was reportedly denied to him."
"Cass complained about a lack of interest in national media. "As of today, there are no national news organizations reporting this vicious murder of two innocent Christian men. Why?" Cass said, "I'll ask this: If two Muslims, or
two feminists or two homosexuals were murdered, wouldn't the media be all over it? These were two fine young black Christian men shot by another black man for their Christian faith, yet the media does not seem to care."
----------
"East Texas on edge over church fires"
"9th, 10th Texas Church Fires Ruled Arson"
"Two More Churches Burn in East Texas"
There have been 10 churches burned in east Texas just since January 1. This would seem to be an occurrence saved for China or perhaps Pakistan (just to name two of the many places we would expect to see this), but in the United States?
It seems persecution is growing worse here in the U.S.
As the rhetoric (generally accepted by Christians) seems to increase, violent acts against Christians are also increasing in scope and magnitude. Two of our brothers murdered in cold blood for simply attempting to proclaim the gift of salvation that Jesus offers to everyone - based on His work on the cross. And that warrants a response leading to murder?
Ten churches - churches in which people gather to peacefully worship Christ Jesus on Sunday mornings - burned to the ground.
In America, 2010.
It will only get worse, as the road to the Tribulation continues. Jesus warned us.
But remember this:
They can take our churches. They can take our religious freedom. They can scoff at us. They can attempt to make us look "stupid". They can argue with us. They can marginalize us. They can attempt to evoke fear in our hearts. They can make it illegal to pray in public. They can scoff. They can intimidate. They can even murder us in cold blood.
But they can never ever take our faith. They can never ever take our permanent destination - Heaven - away from us. Nor will they be able to stop the chain of events that is rapidly approaching.
And no matter what they say - they will never be able to change or stop what happened on the cross. Its too late. Jesus won the day for us and that will NEVER EVER change - despite their attempts to do so.
Jesus seemed to have a special feeling for those who endured persecution:
"Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, as it is for the prophets before you" (Matthew 5:17).
Persecution: Its just another sign of the times.
Most of the Christians I know seem to accept this as daily life, as the form of persecution here in America is typically limited to the subtle comments (or sneering) by TV personalities, teachers, professors, work-groups, neighbors, etc. It seems perfectly acceptable in the U.S. to make comments or remarks which indicate: a) the stupidity of Christians, b) the "irrational" beliefs of a Christian (abortion, creation, right to pray in public, end-times-prophecy etc.), and, c) the ever-present "straw-man" argument that Christians are "haters" whenever they express views that are contrary to the main-stream-media's beliefs. These are just a few examples.
We have also seen our basic beliefs constantly ridiculed: it seems that attacks on Christianity are perfectly acceptable, in fact fashionable in our society, but these rules don't apply to ANY OTHER religion, such as Islam, Buddhism, etc., where their beliefs are protected to the nth degree.
But of course, we know from biblical prophecy that this would be an end-times sign of this age:
"Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me." (Matthew 24:9)
"All men will hate you because of me" (Mark 13:13)
That brings us to two current stories - stories which may indicate that persecution in the U.S. is progressing in a more ominous way:
"NEWS ALERT: Street Preachers Killed in the United States"
In this heartbreaking story, we see that two young men, who were simply preaching the Gospel of Christ Jesus, were gunned down:
"Tite Sufra, 24, and Stephen Ocean, 23, were shot and killed late Saturday, January 30, in Boynton Beach in the U.S. State of Florida, where they evangelized, after meeting 18-year-old Jeriah Woody, local police said."
"They witnessed to Woody for fifteen minutes when he got a phone call and told the preachers he 'had to go', added the Commission, which closely monitored the case."
"As they walked away, Woody suddenly started walking back toward them. Sufra walked up to greet him and was killed with a shot gun blast at point blank range. When Ocean ran, he was shot in the back. After he fell, Woody shot him in the head execution style."
"Woody was detained Wednesday, February 3, and is charged with two counts of first-degree murder. Bail was reportedly denied to him."
"Cass complained about a lack of interest in national media. "As of today, there are no national news organizations reporting this vicious murder of two innocent Christian men. Why?" Cass said, "I'll ask this: If two Muslims, or
two feminists or two homosexuals were murdered, wouldn't the media be all over it? These were two fine young black Christian men shot by another black man for their Christian faith, yet the media does not seem to care."
----------
"East Texas on edge over church fires"
"9th, 10th Texas Church Fires Ruled Arson"
"Two More Churches Burn in East Texas"
There have been 10 churches burned in east Texas just since January 1. This would seem to be an occurrence saved for China or perhaps Pakistan (just to name two of the many places we would expect to see this), but in the United States?
It seems persecution is growing worse here in the U.S.
As the rhetoric (generally accepted by Christians) seems to increase, violent acts against Christians are also increasing in scope and magnitude. Two of our brothers murdered in cold blood for simply attempting to proclaim the gift of salvation that Jesus offers to everyone - based on His work on the cross. And that warrants a response leading to murder?
Ten churches - churches in which people gather to peacefully worship Christ Jesus on Sunday mornings - burned to the ground.
In America, 2010.
It will only get worse, as the road to the Tribulation continues. Jesus warned us.
But remember this:
They can take our churches. They can take our religious freedom. They can scoff at us. They can attempt to make us look "stupid". They can argue with us. They can marginalize us. They can attempt to evoke fear in our hearts. They can make it illegal to pray in public. They can scoff. They can intimidate. They can even murder us in cold blood.
But they can never ever take our faith. They can never ever take our permanent destination - Heaven - away from us. Nor will they be able to stop the chain of events that is rapidly approaching.
And no matter what they say - they will never be able to change or stop what happened on the cross. Its too late. Jesus won the day for us and that will NEVER EVER change - despite their attempts to do so.
Jesus seemed to have a special feeling for those who endured persecution:
"Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, as it is for the prophets before you" (Matthew 5:17).
Persecution: Its just another sign of the times.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Iran's End Game
First, to the news:
More threats of "sanctions": "EU sanctions against Iran 'within days'"
...and THIS time, they REALLY mean it....sigh.
Quotes:
"The European Union could announce "very strong sanctions" against Tehran within "days or weeks," Finnish foreign minister Alexander Stubb said on Thursday (11 February). Last week, Iran declared itself a "nuclear state," prompting the US to call for tougher sanctions."
Its really not worth spending any more time on this topic. Iran has made it crystal clear, over and over and over again, that sanctions won't work. The EU and the U.S. don't seem to understand this. They are dealing with this situation as if it is a "political" situation, and assuming that a "political" solution will work. They do not understand that this is a holy war, and Ahmadinejad and the clerics of Iran are not concerned with sanctions. The desire to destroy Israel, as they have stated on so many occasions is not an idle threat - its a religious mission. Big difference.
----------
Then we see this:
Ahmadinejad warns Israel against military move"
Quotes:
"Iran's President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said Israel should be resisted and finished off if it launched military action in the region, state broadcaster IRIB reported on Thursday."
"If the Zionist regime should repeat its mistakes and initiate a military operation, then it must be resisted with full force to put an end to it once and for all."
"Ahmadinejad, who has often predicted the imminent demise of the Jewish state, said Iran would remain on the side of regional nations including Syria, Lebanon and Palestine."
----------
Then this...
"Next war with Israel will be regional"
Quotes:
"Senior Hamas leader Khaled Mashaal warned that if war breaks out with Israel it will not be limited to the Gaza Strip but will involve the entire region, in an interview with London-based Al Hayat newspaper that was published Friday."
----------
Reviewing numerous commentaries and articles regarding Iran's big announcement has led to some interesting perspectives.
I have been saying for a year or two that it seems apparent that Iran is attempting to "bait" Israel into attacking their nuclear facilities, and now this seems the case more than ever.
By drawing attention to Iran yesterday and then announcing that Iran is now "nuclear" due to their ability to enrich uranium, we can see how this is a VERY provocative act by Ahmadinejad. As the EU and the U.S. discuss the ever-present threat of sanctions, Ahmadinejad has sent a loud message to the world: Not only is he unconcerned with the prospect of sanctions, he will move ahead with nuclear development in a VERY overt way.
This has been the case for at least a couple of years now. Every time the "west" moves towards these "sanctions", Ahmadinejad will come out with provocative statements in a very public manner.
As before, I believe Ahmadinejad wants an Israeli invasion. What would this accomplish?
I see two separate scenarios:
1. Iran already has a nuclear weapon, perhaps obtained from Russia, N. Korea, or through terrorists on the black market. I believe any of these possibilities could have already happened. If so, in the event of an Israeli "attack", Ahmadinejad could claim that Israel used "nukes" on Iran (presumably Israeli bombs against nuclear facilities could release nuclear radiation, which could be used as "proof" that Israel used nukes). This would give Ahmadinejad a perfect opportunity to attempt to use his nuclear weapon against Israel. Additionally, he would have the full support of a highly inflamed Muslim community in the Middle East, who would rapidly arm up to fight Israel.
(of course we know a nuke cannot be launched against Israel, biblically, because a nuke would destroy Israel, and we know that won't happen. So if he DOES have a nuke, it will not be successfully launched against Israel. Perhaps it could accidentally land on Damascus?)
2. Iran does not have a nuclear weapon. Much of the above would still apply, but in this case, Ahmadinejad could use the anti-Israeli sentiment - a sentiment which would clearly prevail in the Middle East (more than ever, upon an Israeli "attack" against Islam - the whole area would be inflamed like never before) to assist Russia into forming a coalition to attack Israel.
The surrounding region of radical Islam would see this as an opportunity to set up a massive invasion against Israel.
Either way, it seems apparent that Ahmadinejad is almost BEGGING Israel to go after these nuclear facilities. They are desperately trying to paint Israel into a corner so that they have no choice but to "invade".
Israel may have no choice. It is very clear that once Iran obtains a nuclear weapon, they will use it against Israel - they have made this abundantly clear in their repetitive calls for the destruction of Israel.
What happens next?
The EU and U.S. will probably impose some sanctions, and these sanctions will have no effect - other than to buy Iran more time in their nuclear development. Presumably Israel realizes this, and will continue with their plans. At the same time, we see the tensions between Israel and Syria/Lebanon/Hezbollah continuing to heat up - and one must realize that Iran is pushing those buttons.
The end-game for Iran is the destruction of Israel. An "invasion" of Iranian land by Israel would serve as a perfect opportunity to set up a massive invasion against Israel. A massive attempt to invade Israel by such a coalition has been described in the book of Ezekiel, specifically chapters 38-39. We may be watching the early phases of this process now, as Iran continues its posturing and "baiting" Israel for an attack.
We shall see. I still target this summer for the fireworks to begin; it is hard to imagine the lid being kept on this powder keg much longer than that. We shall see.
More threats of "sanctions": "EU sanctions against Iran 'within days'"
...and THIS time, they REALLY mean it....sigh.
Quotes:
"The European Union could announce "very strong sanctions" against Tehran within "days or weeks," Finnish foreign minister Alexander Stubb said on Thursday (11 February). Last week, Iran declared itself a "nuclear state," prompting the US to call for tougher sanctions."
Its really not worth spending any more time on this topic. Iran has made it crystal clear, over and over and over again, that sanctions won't work. The EU and the U.S. don't seem to understand this. They are dealing with this situation as if it is a "political" situation, and assuming that a "political" solution will work. They do not understand that this is a holy war, and Ahmadinejad and the clerics of Iran are not concerned with sanctions. The desire to destroy Israel, as they have stated on so many occasions is not an idle threat - its a religious mission. Big difference.
----------
Then we see this:
Ahmadinejad warns Israel against military move"
Quotes:
"Iran's President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said Israel should be resisted and finished off if it launched military action in the region, state broadcaster IRIB reported on Thursday."
"If the Zionist regime should repeat its mistakes and initiate a military operation, then it must be resisted with full force to put an end to it once and for all."
"Ahmadinejad, who has often predicted the imminent demise of the Jewish state, said Iran would remain on the side of regional nations including Syria, Lebanon and Palestine."
----------
Then this...
"Next war with Israel will be regional"
Quotes:
"Senior Hamas leader Khaled Mashaal warned that if war breaks out with Israel it will not be limited to the Gaza Strip but will involve the entire region, in an interview with London-based Al Hayat newspaper that was published Friday."
----------
Reviewing numerous commentaries and articles regarding Iran's big announcement has led to some interesting perspectives.
I have been saying for a year or two that it seems apparent that Iran is attempting to "bait" Israel into attacking their nuclear facilities, and now this seems the case more than ever.
By drawing attention to Iran yesterday and then announcing that Iran is now "nuclear" due to their ability to enrich uranium, we can see how this is a VERY provocative act by Ahmadinejad. As the EU and the U.S. discuss the ever-present threat of sanctions, Ahmadinejad has sent a loud message to the world: Not only is he unconcerned with the prospect of sanctions, he will move ahead with nuclear development in a VERY overt way.
This has been the case for at least a couple of years now. Every time the "west" moves towards these "sanctions", Ahmadinejad will come out with provocative statements in a very public manner.
As before, I believe Ahmadinejad wants an Israeli invasion. What would this accomplish?
I see two separate scenarios:
1. Iran already has a nuclear weapon, perhaps obtained from Russia, N. Korea, or through terrorists on the black market. I believe any of these possibilities could have already happened. If so, in the event of an Israeli "attack", Ahmadinejad could claim that Israel used "nukes" on Iran (presumably Israeli bombs against nuclear facilities could release nuclear radiation, which could be used as "proof" that Israel used nukes). This would give Ahmadinejad a perfect opportunity to attempt to use his nuclear weapon against Israel. Additionally, he would have the full support of a highly inflamed Muslim community in the Middle East, who would rapidly arm up to fight Israel.
(of course we know a nuke cannot be launched against Israel, biblically, because a nuke would destroy Israel, and we know that won't happen. So if he DOES have a nuke, it will not be successfully launched against Israel. Perhaps it could accidentally land on Damascus?)
2. Iran does not have a nuclear weapon. Much of the above would still apply, but in this case, Ahmadinejad could use the anti-Israeli sentiment - a sentiment which would clearly prevail in the Middle East (more than ever, upon an Israeli "attack" against Islam - the whole area would be inflamed like never before) to assist Russia into forming a coalition to attack Israel.
The surrounding region of radical Islam would see this as an opportunity to set up a massive invasion against Israel.
Either way, it seems apparent that Ahmadinejad is almost BEGGING Israel to go after these nuclear facilities. They are desperately trying to paint Israel into a corner so that they have no choice but to "invade".
Israel may have no choice. It is very clear that once Iran obtains a nuclear weapon, they will use it against Israel - they have made this abundantly clear in their repetitive calls for the destruction of Israel.
What happens next?
The EU and U.S. will probably impose some sanctions, and these sanctions will have no effect - other than to buy Iran more time in their nuclear development. Presumably Israel realizes this, and will continue with their plans. At the same time, we see the tensions between Israel and Syria/Lebanon/Hezbollah continuing to heat up - and one must realize that Iran is pushing those buttons.
The end-game for Iran is the destruction of Israel. An "invasion" of Iranian land by Israel would serve as a perfect opportunity to set up a massive invasion against Israel. A massive attempt to invade Israel by such a coalition has been described in the book of Ezekiel, specifically chapters 38-39. We may be watching the early phases of this process now, as Iran continues its posturing and "baiting" Israel for an attack.
We shall see. I still target this summer for the fireworks to begin; it is hard to imagine the lid being kept on this powder keg much longer than that. We shall see.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Thats it?
Is this the "punch" to the west that Iranian President Ahmadinejad promised for today?
"Ahmadinejad Says Iran Is Now a 'Nuclear State'"
"Iran proclaims new success in uranium enrichment"
Quotes:
"President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad claimed Thursday that Iran has produced its first batch of uranium enriched to a higher level, saying his country will not be bullied by the West into curtailing its nuclear program a day after the U.S. imposed new sanctions."
"I want to announce with a loud voice here that the first package of 20 percent fuel was produced and provided to the scientists," he said.
"Enriching uranium produces fuel for a nuclear power plants but can also be used to create material for atomic weapons if enriched further to 90 percent or more."
----------
IF (and I repeat "if", because there is a lot left of this day ((February 11th)), and anything could still happen) this is "it" - then look at the contradiction:
Ahmadinejad promised that the west would receive a "punch" today, sending it reeling.
He also stated (again) that Iran's nuclear progress is ONLY for peaceful purposes (to produce energy)....So, under that premise, why would enrichment of uranium, for "peaceful purposes" be a "punch" to the west? It would only be a "punch" if intended for weaponry.
Regardless, the day is young and we shall see. Additionally, there are already mass protests occurring in Iran, as predicted. How that is handled should be interesting as well.
As a parting shot from Ahmadinejad, we also see this today:
"Ahmadinejad warns Israel against any military move"
In this article, Ahmadinejad stated that Israel should be "finished off" if it were to launch any military action in the region.
Other quotes:
"Last week, Syria -- a key regional ally of Iran -- accused Israel of pushing the Middle East toward a new war."
"Lebanese Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri, in an interview broadcast on Wednesday, said Israeli aircraft were making daily incursions into Lebanese air space, creating a very dangerous situation."
----------
More rhetoric. That is what February 11th has brought thus far. We'll watch events in the Middle East closely today, but it wouldn't be surprising if the announcement on enrichment is the big "punch"...Ahmadinejad is on the verge of becoming as infamous as "Baghdad Bob", if he keeps this up!
"Ahmadinejad Says Iran Is Now a 'Nuclear State'"
"Iran proclaims new success in uranium enrichment"
Quotes:
"President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad claimed Thursday that Iran has produced its first batch of uranium enriched to a higher level, saying his country will not be bullied by the West into curtailing its nuclear program a day after the U.S. imposed new sanctions."
"I want to announce with a loud voice here that the first package of 20 percent fuel was produced and provided to the scientists," he said.
"Enriching uranium produces fuel for a nuclear power plants but can also be used to create material for atomic weapons if enriched further to 90 percent or more."
----------
IF (and I repeat "if", because there is a lot left of this day ((February 11th)), and anything could still happen) this is "it" - then look at the contradiction:
Ahmadinejad promised that the west would receive a "punch" today, sending it reeling.
He also stated (again) that Iran's nuclear progress is ONLY for peaceful purposes (to produce energy)....So, under that premise, why would enrichment of uranium, for "peaceful purposes" be a "punch" to the west? It would only be a "punch" if intended for weaponry.
Regardless, the day is young and we shall see. Additionally, there are already mass protests occurring in Iran, as predicted. How that is handled should be interesting as well.
As a parting shot from Ahmadinejad, we also see this today:
"Ahmadinejad warns Israel against any military move"
In this article, Ahmadinejad stated that Israel should be "finished off" if it were to launch any military action in the region.
Other quotes:
"Last week, Syria -- a key regional ally of Iran -- accused Israel of pushing the Middle East toward a new war."
"Lebanese Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri, in an interview broadcast on Wednesday, said Israeli aircraft were making daily incursions into Lebanese air space, creating a very dangerous situation."
----------
More rhetoric. That is what February 11th has brought thus far. We'll watch events in the Middle East closely today, but it wouldn't be surprising if the announcement on enrichment is the big "punch"...Ahmadinejad is on the verge of becoming as infamous as "Baghdad Bob", if he keeps this up!
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Middle East Update
There is a lot happening in the Middle East right now, and its hard to know if things between Israel and Lebanon/Hezbollah/Syria are related to the recent Iranian threats targeted for February 11.
Below are some quotes from an interesting analysis that has been circulating today (the full article is definitely worth reading). This analysis makes a very compelling case that war is just on the brink in northern Israel, between Israel and Lebanon/Hezbollah/Syria:
"A devastating war between Israel and Hezbollah is on the horizon"
*Israel is preparing to invade Lebanon with massive ground troops.
*Israel will not spare any kind of weaponry, including phosphorous and cluster bombs.
*Israel is secretly evacuating its northern region residents.
*Israel intends to create a new security zone inside Lebanon, south of the Litani to enhance her long term occupation.
"While the war of words is escalating around the clock between Israel on the one side and Hezbollah and Syria on the other, analysts in the Middle East and Europe strongly believe that war is inevitable and will break out within a few months."
"In this scary context, senior Lebanese sources told the Saudi daily Al-Okaz that Hezbollah has announced emergency readiness in all areas of the country where it operates. Senior figures of the organization were asked to exercise greater caution in their movements amid fears they would be targeted by Israel. Hezbollah’s leaders are bragging that they are capable of defeating, humiliating and destroying Israel’s war machine."
"In a report written by Hamid Ghoriafi, Middle East analyst and journalist, that was published today by the Kuwaiti Daily Al-Seyassah, Ghoriafi drew a very dim picture for the whole situation and predicted a very devastating imminent war that will be according to the Israelis the last one with on their northern borders. Below are some excerpts from this report:
*Reliable European intelligence reports in London unveiled on Monday an extensive secretive Israeli ongoing operation to evacuate hundreds of families living in the Galilee settlements adjacent to the border with Lebanon to safer locations inside Israel, especially west Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and surrounding areas. These families are transported by trucks and buses and priority is given to families with many children, the elderly and the physically disabled. The evacuees' houses are put under the control of the Northern Military Command for reasons not yet known.
*The report quoted the Israeli defense sources saying that the war will actually begin in the northern region of the Litani Rriver and all though the Bekaa Valley and eastern Lebanese mountainous areas that separate Syria and Lebanon because the presence of Hezbollah in the south of the Litani is no longer as heavy as it was in 2006. The UNIFIL troops took control of this region after the 2006 war. The report disclosed that the backbone of the coming Israeli war will be based on two plans:
The first plan is for extensive jet plane aerial bombardment of Hezbollah's scattered military weaponry caches and missile bases with phosphorus and cluster bombs, replicating the kind of devastation the southern suburbs of Beirut (Hezbollah's ministate) suffered during the 2006 war.
The second plan is to execute for the first time, air-landing operations behind Hezbollah's lines after weakening and destroying its bases in the south, Bekaa Valley and Beirut."
"The report said that 60% of the Israeli air force has already been put on full alert and is well prepared for action on the first day of the coming war in an extensive attack on the Lebanese. Israel is planning to fulfill all its objectives and finish the war within a few weeks. The remaining 40% of the Israeli air force will be ready to join in swiftly and effectively if the Syrian army gets involved."
"The same French report added that Israel is determined to make this war the last one on her northern borders. The Jewish military command will not spare any advanced and destructive kind of weaponry that is stored in its caches. Hezbollah will not be the only target within the Shiite regions that are under its control, but also the Lebanese army, all Lebanese institutions and infrastructure. Israel is well convinced that Hezbollah is in full control of the Lebanese government and accordingly its army will not spare the country's infrastructure as was the situation in the 2006 war. Israel is planning to end Hezbollah the same way it ended the PLO in the 1982-1983 war."
----------
There is much more to this analysis, including the contingency plans for Israel to "deal" with Syrian and any Palestinian involvement. Additionally, the article above describes a plan for Israel to develop a demilitarized zone in Northern Israel, with new airports and troops. This area has been under the "control" of UNIFIL troops since 2006, and has been a disaster. To quote the article:
"All technical and logistic equipments required for the erection of these two airports are already in locations situated behind the front lines of the Israeli army that is extensively present on the northern border. Analysts say that this kind of preparations gives the impression that Israel is definitely planning for a long-term occupation to the south Litani area."
The plan sounds both definitive and imminent.
Of course, this is one opinion. However, there have been many such reports over the past two weeks, reports that are entirely consistent with this one. As the saying goes, "where there is smoke there is fire", and there has been a lot of smoke in the region lately.
Below are some quotes from an interesting analysis that has been circulating today (the full article is definitely worth reading). This analysis makes a very compelling case that war is just on the brink in northern Israel, between Israel and Lebanon/Hezbollah/Syria:
"A devastating war between Israel and Hezbollah is on the horizon"
*Israel is preparing to invade Lebanon with massive ground troops.
*Israel will not spare any kind of weaponry, including phosphorous and cluster bombs.
*Israel is secretly evacuating its northern region residents.
*Israel intends to create a new security zone inside Lebanon, south of the Litani to enhance her long term occupation.
"While the war of words is escalating around the clock between Israel on the one side and Hezbollah and Syria on the other, analysts in the Middle East and Europe strongly believe that war is inevitable and will break out within a few months."
"In this scary context, senior Lebanese sources told the Saudi daily Al-Okaz that Hezbollah has announced emergency readiness in all areas of the country where it operates. Senior figures of the organization were asked to exercise greater caution in their movements amid fears they would be targeted by Israel. Hezbollah’s leaders are bragging that they are capable of defeating, humiliating and destroying Israel’s war machine."
"In a report written by Hamid Ghoriafi, Middle East analyst and journalist, that was published today by the Kuwaiti Daily Al-Seyassah, Ghoriafi drew a very dim picture for the whole situation and predicted a very devastating imminent war that will be according to the Israelis the last one with on their northern borders. Below are some excerpts from this report:
*Reliable European intelligence reports in London unveiled on Monday an extensive secretive Israeli ongoing operation to evacuate hundreds of families living in the Galilee settlements adjacent to the border with Lebanon to safer locations inside Israel, especially west Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and surrounding areas. These families are transported by trucks and buses and priority is given to families with many children, the elderly and the physically disabled. The evacuees' houses are put under the control of the Northern Military Command for reasons not yet known.
*The report quoted the Israeli defense sources saying that the war will actually begin in the northern region of the Litani Rriver and all though the Bekaa Valley and eastern Lebanese mountainous areas that separate Syria and Lebanon because the presence of Hezbollah in the south of the Litani is no longer as heavy as it was in 2006. The UNIFIL troops took control of this region after the 2006 war. The report disclosed that the backbone of the coming Israeli war will be based on two plans:
The first plan is for extensive jet plane aerial bombardment of Hezbollah's scattered military weaponry caches and missile bases with phosphorus and cluster bombs, replicating the kind of devastation the southern suburbs of Beirut (Hezbollah's ministate) suffered during the 2006 war.
The second plan is to execute for the first time, air-landing operations behind Hezbollah's lines after weakening and destroying its bases in the south, Bekaa Valley and Beirut."
"The report said that 60% of the Israeli air force has already been put on full alert and is well prepared for action on the first day of the coming war in an extensive attack on the Lebanese. Israel is planning to fulfill all its objectives and finish the war within a few weeks. The remaining 40% of the Israeli air force will be ready to join in swiftly and effectively if the Syrian army gets involved."
"The same French report added that Israel is determined to make this war the last one on her northern borders. The Jewish military command will not spare any advanced and destructive kind of weaponry that is stored in its caches. Hezbollah will not be the only target within the Shiite regions that are under its control, but also the Lebanese army, all Lebanese institutions and infrastructure. Israel is well convinced that Hezbollah is in full control of the Lebanese government and accordingly its army will not spare the country's infrastructure as was the situation in the 2006 war. Israel is planning to end Hezbollah the same way it ended the PLO in the 1982-1983 war."
----------
There is much more to this analysis, including the contingency plans for Israel to "deal" with Syrian and any Palestinian involvement. Additionally, the article above describes a plan for Israel to develop a demilitarized zone in Northern Israel, with new airports and troops. This area has been under the "control" of UNIFIL troops since 2006, and has been a disaster. To quote the article:
"All technical and logistic equipments required for the erection of these two airports are already in locations situated behind the front lines of the Israeli army that is extensively present on the northern border. Analysts say that this kind of preparations gives the impression that Israel is definitely planning for a long-term occupation to the south Litani area."
The plan sounds both definitive and imminent.
Of course, this is one opinion. However, there have been many such reports over the past two weeks, reports that are entirely consistent with this one. As the saying goes, "where there is smoke there is fire", and there has been a lot of smoke in the region lately.
Monday, February 8, 2010
New Threats from Iran: February 11?
First it was Iranian President Ahmadinejad threatening "the West", now Iran's "Supreme Leader", Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is also making direct threats aimed at "Western powers":
"Iran anniversary will be 'punch' to West: Khamenei"
Quotes:
"Iran's all powerful supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Monday that the 31st anniversary of the Islamic revolution would be a "punch" to the world's "arrogant" powers that would stun them."
"The Iranian nation, with its unity and God's grace, will punch the arrogance (Western powers) on the 22nd of Bahman (February 11) in a way that will leave them stunned," Khamenei, who is also Iran's commander-in-chief, told a gathering of air force personnel."
----------
"Ayatollah Khamenei: Israel's destruction will be imminent"
Quotes:
"While world leaders continue seeking any alternative to confronting Irans true intentions regarding its 'peaceful nuclear program'and remain deaf to what their stated goals are, the supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei came out and said on Sunday the destruction of Iran's arch-foe Israel was "imminent," and called for continued resistance against the Jewish state, state media reported."
----------
"Iran's Supreme Leader: West can't save Israel"
Quotes:
"Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei said Sunday that Western support of Israel was ineffective, telling a top Palestinian militant leader that its obliteration was imminent according to the will of God."
"In his comments, Khameini joined a long list of top Iranian officials, especially President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad who have said on several occasions in the past that Israel should be destroyed."
----------
This is an interesting set of comments. First, we see that Iran is threatening something, or, in the words of the Ayatollah a "punch" to the west which will leave them stunned. Then we see that Israel's destruction is now "imminent". Then last but not least, we see it stated that the "west" would be incapable of helping Israel.
This could simply represent more rhetoric that has been typical coming from Iran's leaders. This has been going on for several years. However, this is somewhat different from past statements, as a specific date has been set, and for the first time (that I can recall), it is being stated that the "west" (aka the U.S.) will be unable to help...After having stated that the "west" would receive a "punch", leaving it "stunned".
Are these events somehow connected? Some kind of action against the "west", which would render them (U.S.) incapable of helping Israel?
It is hard to know how seriously to take this latest round of threats directed against Israel and the U.S.
However, the 11th of February is coming up this week, so we will have our answers soon enough.
"Iran anniversary will be 'punch' to West: Khamenei"
Quotes:
"Iran's all powerful supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Monday that the 31st anniversary of the Islamic revolution would be a "punch" to the world's "arrogant" powers that would stun them."
"The Iranian nation, with its unity and God's grace, will punch the arrogance (Western powers) on the 22nd of Bahman (February 11) in a way that will leave them stunned," Khamenei, who is also Iran's commander-in-chief, told a gathering of air force personnel."
----------
"Ayatollah Khamenei: Israel's destruction will be imminent"
Quotes:
"While world leaders continue seeking any alternative to confronting Irans true intentions regarding its 'peaceful nuclear program'and remain deaf to what their stated goals are, the supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei came out and said on Sunday the destruction of Iran's arch-foe Israel was "imminent," and called for continued resistance against the Jewish state, state media reported."
----------
"Iran's Supreme Leader: West can't save Israel"
Quotes:
"Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei said Sunday that Western support of Israel was ineffective, telling a top Palestinian militant leader that its obliteration was imminent according to the will of God."
"In his comments, Khameini joined a long list of top Iranian officials, especially President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad who have said on several occasions in the past that Israel should be destroyed."
----------
This is an interesting set of comments. First, we see that Iran is threatening something, or, in the words of the Ayatollah a "punch" to the west which will leave them stunned. Then we see that Israel's destruction is now "imminent". Then last but not least, we see it stated that the "west" would be incapable of helping Israel.
This could simply represent more rhetoric that has been typical coming from Iran's leaders. This has been going on for several years. However, this is somewhat different from past statements, as a specific date has been set, and for the first time (that I can recall), it is being stated that the "west" (aka the U.S.) will be unable to help...After having stated that the "west" would receive a "punch", leaving it "stunned".
Are these events somehow connected? Some kind of action against the "west", which would render them (U.S.) incapable of helping Israel?
It is hard to know how seriously to take this latest round of threats directed against Israel and the U.S.
However, the 11th of February is coming up this week, so we will have our answers soon enough.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Preparations of the Bride
I recently stumbled on a very well done commentary regarding The Church and how we should be preparing for the epic, upcoming event known as the Rapture; also known as the "catching up" or "gathering up" of the Bride of Christ. I can't testify to the website nor the author; this article came from a site known as "Midnight Call", (link here), and their "about us" is found here. It seems pretty solid, and I intend to dig deeper to see if this is a site to recommend. So far it seems solid. The article below is excellent.
This article is worth reading for several reasons. Relating to a conversation from last week, many of us notice that - often it is hard to be a prophecy watcher. Most of us watch prophecy because of an intense longing to be with Christ Jesus. We watch prophecy because it tells us of the nearness of that event - the event which will bring us to the very presence of Jesus - and that creates great excitement. Having this ongoing "edge" or feeling that one is just on the brink of that moment, however, can become tiresome because it HASN"T happened yet, and it is something that we crave constantly and unremittingly. Maintaining that "edge" can lead to "prophecy fatigue", and occasionally it is good to get a "booster shot", such as this article.
Additionally, the information contained in the article below details how our time should be spend in the remaining days on earth - as we prepare for and await the Rapture: Often, after a presentation on "Signs of the Coming Christ", and having described the "signs" that surround us - telling us that we are at the end of the generation - and close to the Rapture of the Church, I receive the question "Ok, you have convinced me...but now what? What do I do now?", or "What do I do now that I have this information?"
The article below does a beautiful job of answering those questions.
In fact the article is quite long, and I wasn't planning to post all of it, but during the process of editing, I couldn't find any sections worth deleting. This article is so well written, and it is a topic that doesn't receive nearly enough attention, so it is worth posting in its entirety (I hope it means as much to you as it did to me...It is worth saving and re-reading periodically):
THE CONSEQUENCES OF THE RAPTURE
The Consequences of the Rapture
Ernst Kraft
How much more should we Christians be joyful, singing people? Awaiting us is a different kind of marital bliss. What is the reality however? Are we not all too like the people around us who lament all the time? Yet we should be joyful because the time of our salvation is nearer than it was.
We are all on a journey. Every day we draw nearer to the goal. Whether we are conscious of it or not, today we are a day closer to the Rapture than yesterday. Paul also spoke of this truth in Romans 13:11-12, “And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.” With every passing day this glorious event comes nearer. We may comfort ourselves with this (1 Thessalonians 4:18). Although we have surely all heard and read that for those who believe on Jesus Christ in truth, the best and most glorious awaits us, yet this assurance often hardly affects us in our daily lives.
We read in Ephesians 1:15-18, that the believers in Ephesus were blessed with all spiritual blessings, really believed in Jesus and also lived in true love for one another, yet they did not have the true picture where the heavenly glory is concerned. Paul prayed for this, “That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints” (verses 17-18). They had everything, and yet Paul had to pray that their eyes would be enlightened to see it.
Is this not our problem also? We are captivated by what is visible and the many things that occupy us, and we do not have our eyes enlightened for this glorious future.
How different our lives would be if we would have the Rapture in our sights! This would even help us to overcome suffering. Paul says in Romans 8:18, “For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”
A German pastor named Johannes Busch once told how he was walking down a street in a town on a cold, dismal day. Suddenly he heard someone singing a joyful song. He stood still and listened. The song came from a very poor-looking house. Who could the happy person be? On an impulse he went into the house and found to his surprise a young girl scrubbing the floor. He asked what was the reason for her song. The girl sat up and said to him with radiant eyes, “In a week I will be getting married!” With such joy in a person’s heart, they may well sing!
How much more should we Christians be joyful, singing people? Awaiting us is a different kind of marital bliss. What is the reality however? Are we not all too like the people around us who lament all the time? Yet we should be joyful because the time of our salvation is nearer than it was. We should all be concerned with the preparations for the meeting with the Bridegroom. What is it like when a wedding takes place in a family? Mother, father, sisters and brothers, relatives, and all who have been invited are concerned with this event, the bridal couple maybe for years even. It fills their thoughts when they work. Perhaps they buy a new dress or suit. They live in this anticipation every day. And the nearer the day draws, the greater their joy is. The bridal couple are completely occupied with their thoughts and deeds in order to please one another.
Remember that we as believers in Jesus, as His bride, have received an invitation to a wedding from Jesus Himself. He spoke very clearly of our glorious future. And yet it seems as though many believers have forgotten it completely. For them it is important to be blessed here and now, to earn more money and to gain the world in order to lead a better life. Where is Jesus? Do not such Christians actually lack enlightened eyes? Where is their longing for the Bridegroom, their complete occupation with the preparations for this glorious day, their life as a purified vessel in sanctification? If we have the promise of living with Him in all eternity, then we should make progress in purification and sanctification at all costs.
The consequence for a bride is that she cannot enter into any further love relationships. She is now destined for the bridegroom alone. Paul said in 2 Corinthians 7:1, “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” This verse speaks in its context clearly of the separation from the world, unrighteousness and darkness. We should concern ourselves with what relates to the Bridegroom. We should only have eyes for our Bridegroom, Jesus Christ. We should not court friendship with the world, “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God” (James 4:4). Verse 5 continues in the NIV, “Or do you think Scripture says without reason that the spirit he caused to live in us envies intensely?”
Cleanse yourself in preparation for the meeting with the Bridegroom! This was Paul’s endeavor, “For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ” (2 Corinthians 11:2). This cleansing is necessary in order to be able to live with Him alone. Think what a glorious future He has planned for you. “But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation” (1 Peter 1:15). It is necessary to live in holiness so we can live with Him in glory for all eternity. “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14).
When Ruth prepared to meet Boaz, Naomi said to her, “Wash thyself therefore, and anoint thee, and put thy raiment upon thee, and get thee down to the floor” (Ruth 3:3). To wash has to do with cleansing. The bride must be suitable for the Bridegroom. This is the untiring work of God in us, for it says in Romans 8:29, “For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.” This is why we are sometimes tossed and turned. It is the purification we need so that we become more like
Jesus.
Cleansing and sanctification are what precedes the Rapture, “To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints” (1 Thessalonians 3:13). And, “Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless” (2 Peter 3:14).
A Christian was once asked critically, “Are you still a sinner?” He answered, “Yes, unfortunately!” “Well, what is the difference between your previous condition and your present condition?” the man asked. The Christian thought for a moment and then said, “Before, I was a sinner who pursued sin. Now I am a sinner who is running away from sin.”
In 1 Thessalonians 4, which speaks of the Rapture (in verses 13-18), we read twice, in verses 1 and 10, “ more and more.” These words refer to our increasing in our faith lives. Paul pursued this goal and said in Philippians 3:12, “Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.” His wish was to gain Christ and be found in Him (verses 8-9).
Naomi gave Ruth the advice to bathe, to anoint herself with perfume and to put on her best clothes for the meeting with Boaz (Ruth 3:3). She was not only to be clean and pure but also to give off a pleasant scent, and through her clothing show that this meeting was something special for her. We put on our best clothes for festive occasions.
Our clothing, according to Colossians 3:12-14 in the NIV, should be compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience and love. With this clothing we are fit for our Bridegroom and give forth a pleasant aroma. We should work on this and prepare for the Rapture in this way. It may be that we soil our garments, that we walk around in our old clothes again, which draws attention to us and not to Jesus. Then suddenly sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, greed, anger, rage, malice, slander and filthy language are to be found in our lives (Colossians 3:5-8). God’s Word tells us to “Put off the old man with his deeds; and… put on the new man” (verses 9-10), “…so ye would abound more and more” (1 Thessalonians 4:1). It should be our aim to become like Jesus.
Is it not so with married couples that live together in harmony, that they become more and more united in their thoughts and desires? It may be that the husband says something and his wife says she was just thinking the same thing. Jesus wants to see this more and more in us, that we think like Him, desire like Him and strive after that which pleases Him.
The church has the same duty as the wife toward her husband, “For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church; and he is the saviour of the body” (Ephesians 5:23). The wife should submit herself to her husband. In the same way, the Church should submit to Jesus and increase more and more in this. Yet we often live for ourselves instead of asking Him, obeying Him and doing what He says.
The need for patience. It says in Hebrews 10:37, “For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.” In the preceding verse it says, “For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.” This means living in continual expectation. We may become impatient and through this go astray. In Matthew 24:48-49, such a situation is described, “But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to smite his fellowservants, and to eat and drink with the drunken….” The same thing is said in James 5:7-9, “Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.”
Impatience concerning His return is a danger. The years go by and we so hoped that He would return soon, but till now He has not returned. If we no longer keep in mind that He could actually come at any time, our lives will be characterized by indifference: “He is not coming yet so it doesn’t matter if I….” The consciousness of His presence is lacking. Let us take heed that we do not give up our expectation through impatience and behave like the scoffers who say, “Where is the promise of his coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation” (2 Peter 3:4). The Lord will not neglect to keep His promise: He will come. But it is because He has so much patience that He has not yet returned, because He does not want anyone to be lost (verse 9).
It happened that after the Second World War, some women remarried because they had not received any news of their husbands and thought they would not return. But some husbands did return one day and found their wives married to another. Imagine what it would mean if Jesus were to find us like this because we no longer reckoned with His coming.
Dear reader, be patient and strengthen your heart in the assurance that He will return and bring glory with Him.
We see nothing of this glory, and yet it is very near for the believer. Even if He keeps us waiting, we know with certainty that He will come, because He promised to. Of Moses it says in Hebrews 11:27, “He endured, as seeing him who is invisible.” Peter said in 1 Peter 1:8, “Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory.”
In faith we comfort ourselves with the promise of His return and rejoice, although we perhaps have to go through a valley of weeping here. We see nothing of this glory, and it is as described in Hebrews 11: we are in the midst of a great battle of suffering, have tribulation, go through trouble and humiliation, and feel ourselves to be strangers here on earth. All this can lead to our wanting to cast aside our confidence, because the visible things almost crush us. This is why the Lord encourages His own, “Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward” (Hebrews 10:35). My dear reader, do not draw back but persevere in faith. The Rapture will bring us redemption from all the present unpleasant things. “The just shall live by faith” (verse 38), even if we see and experience nothing of this glory.
The true believer has God as his Comforter and is not strengthened by the things of earth and heaven, but through God Himself, “Whom have I in heaven but thee? And there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee. My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever” (Psalm 73:25-26). Joy in the Lord can give us such strengththat we can overcome in the greatest tribulation, in the knowledge that the best is yet to come.
We do not know when the Rapture will take place. For this reason we should put our lives in order today. Let us make peace where we are in conflict, pray for forgiveness where it is necessary, and sever bonds that do not please God. We should watch and walk in the light. Then His light will not terrify us when He comes but cause us great joy.
Peter also mentioned this thought in 1 Peter 4:7-8, “But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer. And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.” Above all things we should walk in love, so that we do not live in strife when the Rapture takes place. The epistle of Jude also makes this clear. Of false teachers, Jude testifies that they cause divisions and quarrels, and then he says, “Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life” (verse 21).
The enemy is attempting in all sorts of ways to keep us busy and to involve us in many things, so that the love for the Lord is not kept alive in our hearts. Where there is no love, is chaos. “For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work” (James 3:16). We are only prepared to be raptured if we stand in this love of God. A wedding, the union of a man and a woman, only takes place on the basis of love. It is the same with the Rapture.
The fear of this day is also solved in this way. We know that the most glorious things await us, and yet there is often the question in our hearts, “But what about my mistakes and failures?” Where true love is, fear is banished, “Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first loved us” (1 John 4:17-19).
This is why it is so important that our love is perfect and not hindered by anything. If our love is hindered, our expectation of Jesus is not joyful but fearful. A bride gives her Bridegroom all her love. Although she is concerned with many other things, her perfect love only belongs to him. This is how it should be for us: we should not love anything more than Him alone!
All the work and problems that are connected with the preparations for the wedding cannot touch the joy of the bride and groom. Before the wedding takes place, they have to confront many sorts of people. There are some among them who make the lives of the bridal couple more difficult. And yet the two will not give up until the moment of their marriage comes. Only one thing can hinder this celebration, and there really have been cases where one of the two has called off the wedding. What was the reason? Were the preparations too difficult? No. There is only one reason for a planned marriage not taking place, and that is the lack of love of one of the partners. One of them never really loved the other.
The love of Jesus Christ will never be lacking. Therefore the question for us is, how is our love for Jesus? If we love Him with all our hearts, we will prepare ourselves and look forward to this meeting. Where our love is no longer His alone, however, it becomes difficult and problematic. What would you think of a bride who had put on her wedding dress and opened all the presents and said, “I don’t care if the bridegroom comes or not. I’ve got all the presents, and I can have the company of my friends. That’s enough for me!”? Either she never loved him or she has given her love to another.
My dear reader, the Holy Spirit is striving after your whole heart belonging to the Lord Jesus Christ. He is your Bridegroom. Love Him, then, with all your heart!
The Rapture is not a thing that we hope will not take place yet, but an event that we await longingly. The Rapture will bring us together with Jesus forever. We will be with Him for eternity!
Song of Solomon 7:10 says, “I am my beloved’s, and his desire is toward me.” How is it with you? Is He only allowed to live in one room in your heart, or the One who is standing at the door? Open your whole heart to Jesus Christ, your Bridegroom. Give Him all your love, and wonderful fellowship with Him will become reality. Invite Him in now, as it is described in Luke 24:29, “But they constrained him, saying, Abide with us: for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent. And he went in to tarry with them.” Jesus had fellowship with those who invited Him in. And not only that, they said in verse 32, “Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way?” This is how we should go toward the Rapture: in unclouded fellowship with Him and with a burning heart. Without doubt, the wedding is the climax of the lives of two people. And without doubt, the Rapture will be more glorious than everything we can imagine, “The hope of the righteous shall be gladness” (Proverbs 10:28)
This article is worth reading for several reasons. Relating to a conversation from last week, many of us notice that - often it is hard to be a prophecy watcher. Most of us watch prophecy because of an intense longing to be with Christ Jesus. We watch prophecy because it tells us of the nearness of that event - the event which will bring us to the very presence of Jesus - and that creates great excitement. Having this ongoing "edge" or feeling that one is just on the brink of that moment, however, can become tiresome because it HASN"T happened yet, and it is something that we crave constantly and unremittingly. Maintaining that "edge" can lead to "prophecy fatigue", and occasionally it is good to get a "booster shot", such as this article.
Additionally, the information contained in the article below details how our time should be spend in the remaining days on earth - as we prepare for and await the Rapture: Often, after a presentation on "Signs of the Coming Christ", and having described the "signs" that surround us - telling us that we are at the end of the generation - and close to the Rapture of the Church, I receive the question "Ok, you have convinced me...but now what? What do I do now?", or "What do I do now that I have this information?"
The article below does a beautiful job of answering those questions.
In fact the article is quite long, and I wasn't planning to post all of it, but during the process of editing, I couldn't find any sections worth deleting. This article is so well written, and it is a topic that doesn't receive nearly enough attention, so it is worth posting in its entirety (I hope it means as much to you as it did to me...It is worth saving and re-reading periodically):
THE CONSEQUENCES OF THE RAPTURE
The Consequences of the Rapture
Ernst Kraft
How much more should we Christians be joyful, singing people? Awaiting us is a different kind of marital bliss. What is the reality however? Are we not all too like the people around us who lament all the time? Yet we should be joyful because the time of our salvation is nearer than it was.
We are all on a journey. Every day we draw nearer to the goal. Whether we are conscious of it or not, today we are a day closer to the Rapture than yesterday. Paul also spoke of this truth in Romans 13:11-12, “And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.” With every passing day this glorious event comes nearer. We may comfort ourselves with this (1 Thessalonians 4:18). Although we have surely all heard and read that for those who believe on Jesus Christ in truth, the best and most glorious awaits us, yet this assurance often hardly affects us in our daily lives.
We read in Ephesians 1:15-18, that the believers in Ephesus were blessed with all spiritual blessings, really believed in Jesus and also lived in true love for one another, yet they did not have the true picture where the heavenly glory is concerned. Paul prayed for this, “That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints” (verses 17-18). They had everything, and yet Paul had to pray that their eyes would be enlightened to see it.
Is this not our problem also? We are captivated by what is visible and the many things that occupy us, and we do not have our eyes enlightened for this glorious future.
How different our lives would be if we would have the Rapture in our sights! This would even help us to overcome suffering. Paul says in Romans 8:18, “For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”
A German pastor named Johannes Busch once told how he was walking down a street in a town on a cold, dismal day. Suddenly he heard someone singing a joyful song. He stood still and listened. The song came from a very poor-looking house. Who could the happy person be? On an impulse he went into the house and found to his surprise a young girl scrubbing the floor. He asked what was the reason for her song. The girl sat up and said to him with radiant eyes, “In a week I will be getting married!” With such joy in a person’s heart, they may well sing!
How much more should we Christians be joyful, singing people? Awaiting us is a different kind of marital bliss. What is the reality however? Are we not all too like the people around us who lament all the time? Yet we should be joyful because the time of our salvation is nearer than it was. We should all be concerned with the preparations for the meeting with the Bridegroom. What is it like when a wedding takes place in a family? Mother, father, sisters and brothers, relatives, and all who have been invited are concerned with this event, the bridal couple maybe for years even. It fills their thoughts when they work. Perhaps they buy a new dress or suit. They live in this anticipation every day. And the nearer the day draws, the greater their joy is. The bridal couple are completely occupied with their thoughts and deeds in order to please one another.
Remember that we as believers in Jesus, as His bride, have received an invitation to a wedding from Jesus Himself. He spoke very clearly of our glorious future. And yet it seems as though many believers have forgotten it completely. For them it is important to be blessed here and now, to earn more money and to gain the world in order to lead a better life. Where is Jesus? Do not such Christians actually lack enlightened eyes? Where is their longing for the Bridegroom, their complete occupation with the preparations for this glorious day, their life as a purified vessel in sanctification? If we have the promise of living with Him in all eternity, then we should make progress in purification and sanctification at all costs.
The consequence for a bride is that she cannot enter into any further love relationships. She is now destined for the bridegroom alone. Paul said in 2 Corinthians 7:1, “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” This verse speaks in its context clearly of the separation from the world, unrighteousness and darkness. We should concern ourselves with what relates to the Bridegroom. We should only have eyes for our Bridegroom, Jesus Christ. We should not court friendship with the world, “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God” (James 4:4). Verse 5 continues in the NIV, “Or do you think Scripture says without reason that the spirit he caused to live in us envies intensely?”
Cleanse yourself in preparation for the meeting with the Bridegroom! This was Paul’s endeavor, “For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ” (2 Corinthians 11:2). This cleansing is necessary in order to be able to live with Him alone. Think what a glorious future He has planned for you. “But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation” (1 Peter 1:15). It is necessary to live in holiness so we can live with Him in glory for all eternity. “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14).
When Ruth prepared to meet Boaz, Naomi said to her, “Wash thyself therefore, and anoint thee, and put thy raiment upon thee, and get thee down to the floor” (Ruth 3:3). To wash has to do with cleansing. The bride must be suitable for the Bridegroom. This is the untiring work of God in us, for it says in Romans 8:29, “For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.” This is why we are sometimes tossed and turned. It is the purification we need so that we become more like
Jesus.
Cleansing and sanctification are what precedes the Rapture, “To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints” (1 Thessalonians 3:13). And, “Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless” (2 Peter 3:14).
A Christian was once asked critically, “Are you still a sinner?” He answered, “Yes, unfortunately!” “Well, what is the difference between your previous condition and your present condition?” the man asked. The Christian thought for a moment and then said, “Before, I was a sinner who pursued sin. Now I am a sinner who is running away from sin.”
In 1 Thessalonians 4, which speaks of the Rapture (in verses 13-18), we read twice, in verses 1 and 10, “ more and more.” These words refer to our increasing in our faith lives. Paul pursued this goal and said in Philippians 3:12, “Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.” His wish was to gain Christ and be found in Him (verses 8-9).
Naomi gave Ruth the advice to bathe, to anoint herself with perfume and to put on her best clothes for the meeting with Boaz (Ruth 3:3). She was not only to be clean and pure but also to give off a pleasant scent, and through her clothing show that this meeting was something special for her. We put on our best clothes for festive occasions.
Our clothing, according to Colossians 3:12-14 in the NIV, should be compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience and love. With this clothing we are fit for our Bridegroom and give forth a pleasant aroma. We should work on this and prepare for the Rapture in this way. It may be that we soil our garments, that we walk around in our old clothes again, which draws attention to us and not to Jesus. Then suddenly sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, greed, anger, rage, malice, slander and filthy language are to be found in our lives (Colossians 3:5-8). God’s Word tells us to “Put off the old man with his deeds; and… put on the new man” (verses 9-10), “…so ye would abound more and more” (1 Thessalonians 4:1). It should be our aim to become like Jesus.
Is it not so with married couples that live together in harmony, that they become more and more united in their thoughts and desires? It may be that the husband says something and his wife says she was just thinking the same thing. Jesus wants to see this more and more in us, that we think like Him, desire like Him and strive after that which pleases Him.
The church has the same duty as the wife toward her husband, “For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church; and he is the saviour of the body” (Ephesians 5:23). The wife should submit herself to her husband. In the same way, the Church should submit to Jesus and increase more and more in this. Yet we often live for ourselves instead of asking Him, obeying Him and doing what He says.
The need for patience. It says in Hebrews 10:37, “For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.” In the preceding verse it says, “For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.” This means living in continual expectation. We may become impatient and through this go astray. In Matthew 24:48-49, such a situation is described, “But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to smite his fellowservants, and to eat and drink with the drunken….” The same thing is said in James 5:7-9, “Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.”
Impatience concerning His return is a danger. The years go by and we so hoped that He would return soon, but till now He has not returned. If we no longer keep in mind that He could actually come at any time, our lives will be characterized by indifference: “He is not coming yet so it doesn’t matter if I….” The consciousness of His presence is lacking. Let us take heed that we do not give up our expectation through impatience and behave like the scoffers who say, “Where is the promise of his coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation” (2 Peter 3:4). The Lord will not neglect to keep His promise: He will come. But it is because He has so much patience that He has not yet returned, because He does not want anyone to be lost (verse 9).
It happened that after the Second World War, some women remarried because they had not received any news of their husbands and thought they would not return. But some husbands did return one day and found their wives married to another. Imagine what it would mean if Jesus were to find us like this because we no longer reckoned with His coming.
Dear reader, be patient and strengthen your heart in the assurance that He will return and bring glory with Him.
We see nothing of this glory, and yet it is very near for the believer. Even if He keeps us waiting, we know with certainty that He will come, because He promised to. Of Moses it says in Hebrews 11:27, “He endured, as seeing him who is invisible.” Peter said in 1 Peter 1:8, “Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory.”
In faith we comfort ourselves with the promise of His return and rejoice, although we perhaps have to go through a valley of weeping here. We see nothing of this glory, and it is as described in Hebrews 11: we are in the midst of a great battle of suffering, have tribulation, go through trouble and humiliation, and feel ourselves to be strangers here on earth. All this can lead to our wanting to cast aside our confidence, because the visible things almost crush us. This is why the Lord encourages His own, “Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward” (Hebrews 10:35). My dear reader, do not draw back but persevere in faith. The Rapture will bring us redemption from all the present unpleasant things. “The just shall live by faith” (verse 38), even if we see and experience nothing of this glory.
The true believer has God as his Comforter and is not strengthened by the things of earth and heaven, but through God Himself, “Whom have I in heaven but thee? And there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee. My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever” (Psalm 73:25-26). Joy in the Lord can give us such strengththat we can overcome in the greatest tribulation, in the knowledge that the best is yet to come.
We do not know when the Rapture will take place. For this reason we should put our lives in order today. Let us make peace where we are in conflict, pray for forgiveness where it is necessary, and sever bonds that do not please God. We should watch and walk in the light. Then His light will not terrify us when He comes but cause us great joy.
Peter also mentioned this thought in 1 Peter 4:7-8, “But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer. And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.” Above all things we should walk in love, so that we do not live in strife when the Rapture takes place. The epistle of Jude also makes this clear. Of false teachers, Jude testifies that they cause divisions and quarrels, and then he says, “Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life” (verse 21).
The enemy is attempting in all sorts of ways to keep us busy and to involve us in many things, so that the love for the Lord is not kept alive in our hearts. Where there is no love, is chaos. “For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work” (James 3:16). We are only prepared to be raptured if we stand in this love of God. A wedding, the union of a man and a woman, only takes place on the basis of love. It is the same with the Rapture.
The fear of this day is also solved in this way. We know that the most glorious things await us, and yet there is often the question in our hearts, “But what about my mistakes and failures?” Where true love is, fear is banished, “Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first loved us” (1 John 4:17-19).
This is why it is so important that our love is perfect and not hindered by anything. If our love is hindered, our expectation of Jesus is not joyful but fearful. A bride gives her Bridegroom all her love. Although she is concerned with many other things, her perfect love only belongs to him. This is how it should be for us: we should not love anything more than Him alone!
All the work and problems that are connected with the preparations for the wedding cannot touch the joy of the bride and groom. Before the wedding takes place, they have to confront many sorts of people. There are some among them who make the lives of the bridal couple more difficult. And yet the two will not give up until the moment of their marriage comes. Only one thing can hinder this celebration, and there really have been cases where one of the two has called off the wedding. What was the reason? Were the preparations too difficult? No. There is only one reason for a planned marriage not taking place, and that is the lack of love of one of the partners. One of them never really loved the other.
The love of Jesus Christ will never be lacking. Therefore the question for us is, how is our love for Jesus? If we love Him with all our hearts, we will prepare ourselves and look forward to this meeting. Where our love is no longer His alone, however, it becomes difficult and problematic. What would you think of a bride who had put on her wedding dress and opened all the presents and said, “I don’t care if the bridegroom comes or not. I’ve got all the presents, and I can have the company of my friends. That’s enough for me!”? Either she never loved him or she has given her love to another.
My dear reader, the Holy Spirit is striving after your whole heart belonging to the Lord Jesus Christ. He is your Bridegroom. Love Him, then, with all your heart!
The Rapture is not a thing that we hope will not take place yet, but an event that we await longingly. The Rapture will bring us together with Jesus forever. We will be with Him for eternity!
Song of Solomon 7:10 says, “I am my beloved’s, and his desire is toward me.” How is it with you? Is He only allowed to live in one room in your heart, or the One who is standing at the door? Open your whole heart to Jesus Christ, your Bridegroom. Give Him all your love, and wonderful fellowship with Him will become reality. Invite Him in now, as it is described in Luke 24:29, “But they constrained him, saying, Abide with us: for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent. And he went in to tarry with them.” Jesus had fellowship with those who invited Him in. And not only that, they said in verse 32, “Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way?” This is how we should go toward the Rapture: in unclouded fellowship with Him and with a burning heart. Without doubt, the wedding is the climax of the lives of two people. And without doubt, the Rapture will be more glorious than everything we can imagine, “The hope of the righteous shall be gladness” (Proverbs 10:28)