What reassurance do we find in Scripture regarding the future of Israel?
First, Israel will survive. No matter what happens during the remainder of the current war or in its aftermath, the nation will not only remain viable but will also continue to attract the world’s attention (in most cases, unwelcome). While we have yet to see the complete fulfillment of Zechariah 12:1-3, we already witness the world’s baffling passion for meddling in all things pertaining to Jerusalem.
Scripture also tells us that someday God will restore a glorious kingdom to Israel. At the end of the Tribulation, Jesus will return to Israel, and a repentant remnant will welcome Him (Matthew 23:37-39). He will destroy Satan’s kingdom and reign over all the nations of the earth. Once we understand what lies ahead for Israel, it makes sense that our adversary would do all he can to thwart God’s plans.
Second, although the current conflict is not the Gog/Magog war foretold in Ezekiel chapters 38-39, it’s preparing the way for it. For the past several years, we have watched as nations involved in this future invasion of Israel have aligned precisely as predicted by the ancient prophet. We don’t know when, but it appears that this invasion lies in the not-too-distant future.
The Lord revealed to His prophet that the Gog/Magog invasion will happen when Israel resides securely (38:11). Should Israel soundly defeat the current regime in Iran along with its allies, which seems probable, it’s likely that such a victory could lead to the peaceful conditions that will precede this future war.
Third, the current conflict is continuing to condition Israel to accept the peace accord that the antichrist will offer to its leaders. I can’t imagine what it’s like to go into bomb shelters two or three times a day and listen to intercepted missiles exploding in the air and feel the impact of those that get past the defenses. All this is on top of the October 7, 2023, barbaric massacre and the constant warfare that has ensued since then, which already has a war-weary Israel longing for peace.
Daniel 9:27 tells us that the coming antichrist will initiate a peace agreement with Israel, which he will break three and a half years later (see also Matthew 24:15).
I agree with the many prophecy experts who believe the Gog/Magog invasion will occur just before the antichrist appears on the world scene. By then, Israel’s leaders will be all the more willing to agree to the terms of someone who’s able to guarantee an extended period of peace for them. Should he include the rebuilding of the temple in his deal, that will make his offer all the more enticing.
Bible Prophecy’s Consoling Message for Us
The certainty of God fulfilling His covenant promises to Israel is extremely good news for us. It reminds us that He remains in control of all things. Just as He able to bring Israel to repentance and restore a kingdom to its people in the future, so He’s able to keep all His promises to us. Jesus will surely come for us and take us home to the place He’s preparing for us (John 14:1-3). Count on it!
God cannot lie. He will not fail to bring all those He justifies to Heaven above (Romans 8:28-39). Just as the Lord exercises His sovereignty on behalf of Israel, so He will do the same to bring us safely to glory before the start of the coming seven-year Tribulation.
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