Joel Rosenberg's blog has a timely update on the situation between Iran and Israel.
We've been closely watching Iran's leadership continue to call for the total destruction of Israel.
We've also been watching their progression towards having enough enriched Uranium in order to produce nuclear weapons.
At the same time, we watch Israel and their confirmation that allowing Iran to produce such nuclear weapons is not an option; in other words, they must take action to prevent Iran's race towards nuclear weapons.
At the same time, many people are wondering what, exactly Joe Biden meant when he stated that Barack Obama, if elected, would face an "international crisis" within 6 months of the election. One can't help but wonder if perhaps this situation in the Middle-East is the reason for these comments.
This week, the rhetoric has increased quite dramatically. Top Iranian officials are now stating that they believe Iran must strike Israel first, in a "preemptive strike"article here. This threat must be taken seriously - will this hasten Israel's promise to destroy Iran's nuclear facilities?
With either scenario, it seems certian that war between Israel and Iran looms on the horizen. We have already mentioned the alliances between Iran and Russia. Additionally, if Israel destroys Iran's nuclear facilities, it will result in the deaths of many Russian workers, as Russia workers and engineers are vital to the building of these facilities.
Ezekiel 38-39, describes a massive invasion of Israel, as led by Russia. We see a leader called "Gog" leading people of "MaGog" and "Meshech and Tubal"; an identification of the descendants of Noah. These people migrated to and settled in modern day Russia. We also know that the invading people will come from "the far north" of Israel - which also identifies modern day Russia. The second country mentioned as aligned with Russia is easy to identiy. The land now known as "Iran" was previously called "Persia" until the 1930's when the name changed. Interestingly, its these two countries, Iran and Russia who can arguably claim to have the strongest alliance in the Middle-East today. Current events are progressing rapidly to the fulfillment of this prophetic battle - one which will be ended supernaturally by God himself: "I will execute judgment upon him...I will show my greatness and my holiness, and I will make myself known in the sight of many nations." (Ezekiel 38:22-23).
That should be very interesting. A massive, epic invasion of Israel, in which God supernaturally intervenes in order to protect Israel. It is difficult to know exactly when this will happen, but it appears possible that such events could take place very soon. Keep your eyes on the Middle-East right now, we may be on the verge of another prophetic fulfillment, on a scale not seen since 1948, when the world witnessed the miraculous regathering of the Nation of Israel.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Thursday, October 9, 2008
More Signs: The New Global Economy
Prophecy watchers keep an eye on world events - watching to see if these events are consistent with biblical prophecy. I can recall several years ago - discussing the various signs that point to the coming seven-year tribulation period as described in Revelation 6-18. One such sign involved the development of a global economy - something that has to be in place according to Revelation 13:16-17. Chapter 13 gives a detailed description of a figure known as the Antichrist - an individual who will rise up during this tribulation period and who will ultimately seize control of a "world-government" system, as described in Revelation 17.
This figure known as the Antichrist will ultimately control the world financial system, and he will do so by forcing all individuals to do two things:
1) Pledge full devotion to the Antichrist, and "prove" this devotion by,
2) Taking the "Mark of the Beast", which will be a visible mark on his/her right hand or forehead.
By doing this, the Antichrist will have the capability of controlling finance of every individual in this manner.
"He also forced everyone, small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on his right hand or his forehead, so that no one could buy or sell unless he had the mark, which is the name of the beast or the number of his name."
First of all - what is this mark? It must to be something which controls the ability of someone to buy or sell. Numerous articles and commentaries have been written about the "VeriChip", which is a tiny (about the size of a grain of rice), implantable microchip, which can contain an individuals medical and financial information. It could also be used as a way to manage financial transactions, eliminating the need for credit cards, checkbooks, and debit cards. It would also be more secure than our current system of handling money and all of our financial transactions. This technology sounds ominously similar to the "mark" described in Revelation 13.
To do so, however, must include a single currency for the entire world.
The recent economic crisis, which has cascaded from the U.S. to the rest of the world, has solidified the concept that we are indeed in a "global economy". Something that received little attention outside of economic circles, the term "global economy" is heard daily on the news and in commentaries. There is no doubt that we are indeed living in a global economy. But an interesting story is emerging as well - a call for an international, single currency. One can see a variety of proposals, even suggestions that the world could go back to the gold standard in efforts to create a single currency. The benefits of a single, world currency are now being discussed as a matter of fact, not speculation. Are you ready for a global currency? and similar articles are now mentioned as something real and tangible, not as speculation.
I can recall teaching on these possibilities, just a few short years ago, and the concepts such as a global economy and a global currency seemed impossible in our lifetimes. Yet, here we are, in just a few short weeks, such talk is common.
It is amazing how quickly our world can change. The world's economy has reached a crisis stage in a matter of weeks.
The stage is being set for a world economic system, accompanied by a unified world currency. It may be the only way for the world to resolve this current economic crisis.
These things must happen. We know because Bible prophecy gives us a clear understanding of the future; and in this instance, a future which includes one single economic system, and currency, which will ultimately be led by this figure known as the Antichrist.
Jesus warned us that these things would take place. He also told us, in Matthew 24 that such things must happen, but we are not to have a spirit of fear. He also told us why we should not fear:
"When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift your heads, because your redemption draws near." (Luke 21:28).
Thats a good plan. As we watch these world events - events which we believe are leading into the final stages of this age - we know that our redemption is close. We know that the return of Jesus, for His church, is close. Very close.
This figure known as the Antichrist will ultimately control the world financial system, and he will do so by forcing all individuals to do two things:
1) Pledge full devotion to the Antichrist, and "prove" this devotion by,
2) Taking the "Mark of the Beast", which will be a visible mark on his/her right hand or forehead.
By doing this, the Antichrist will have the capability of controlling finance of every individual in this manner.
"He also forced everyone, small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on his right hand or his forehead, so that no one could buy or sell unless he had the mark, which is the name of the beast or the number of his name."
First of all - what is this mark? It must to be something which controls the ability of someone to buy or sell. Numerous articles and commentaries have been written about the "VeriChip", which is a tiny (about the size of a grain of rice), implantable microchip, which can contain an individuals medical and financial information. It could also be used as a way to manage financial transactions, eliminating the need for credit cards, checkbooks, and debit cards. It would also be more secure than our current system of handling money and all of our financial transactions. This technology sounds ominously similar to the "mark" described in Revelation 13.
To do so, however, must include a single currency for the entire world.
The recent economic crisis, which has cascaded from the U.S. to the rest of the world, has solidified the concept that we are indeed in a "global economy". Something that received little attention outside of economic circles, the term "global economy" is heard daily on the news and in commentaries. There is no doubt that we are indeed living in a global economy. But an interesting story is emerging as well - a call for an international, single currency. One can see a variety of proposals, even suggestions that the world could go back to the gold standard in efforts to create a single currency. The benefits of a single, world currency are now being discussed as a matter of fact, not speculation. Are you ready for a global currency? and similar articles are now mentioned as something real and tangible, not as speculation.
I can recall teaching on these possibilities, just a few short years ago, and the concepts such as a global economy and a global currency seemed impossible in our lifetimes. Yet, here we are, in just a few short weeks, such talk is common.
It is amazing how quickly our world can change. The world's economy has reached a crisis stage in a matter of weeks.
The stage is being set for a world economic system, accompanied by a unified world currency. It may be the only way for the world to resolve this current economic crisis.
These things must happen. We know because Bible prophecy gives us a clear understanding of the future; and in this instance, a future which includes one single economic system, and currency, which will ultimately be led by this figure known as the Antichrist.
Jesus warned us that these things would take place. He also told us, in Matthew 24 that such things must happen, but we are not to have a spirit of fear. He also told us why we should not fear:
"When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift your heads, because your redemption draws near." (Luke 21:28).
Thats a good plan. As we watch these world events - events which we believe are leading into the final stages of this age - we know that our redemption is close. We know that the return of Jesus, for His church, is close. Very close.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
America and prophecy. Where is America?
I am frequently asked about the role of America in biblical "end-times" prophecy. Often the question arises "What does the bible have to say about America's role in prophecy?
The short answer is "nothing". The bible does not address America in any way in our end-times prophetic scriptures.
What does this mean?
This answer is more difficult. The books of Daniel and Revelation, which include detailed accounts of the events of the seven-year Tribulation, give great detail to the world's powers during the last days of "this generation". We hear about the growth of the revival of the Roman Empire, which we consider to be currently represented by the EU/Mediterranian Union; we read about the "Kings of the East", and their military forces; we also read about other potent countries and regions, mainly located in the European theatre, but nothing whatsoever as far as America. In fact, we don't even see scriptures which mention our general region of the world.
Its hard to imagine that America would not have a significant role in end-times prophecy, with such epic, world-wide events taking place, but the fact remains, America is not mentioned, either by name, or by region. There are several theories which attempt to explain this:
- The first and perhaps the most plausable theory is the Rapture of the Church, creates a scenario which would immediately weaken the U.S. and create financial and military collapse. The most obvious rebuttal to this theory is that the entire world would be affected by the Rapture, but a closer analysis might lend more information. The fact is, the U.S. has a greater percentage of Christians than the countries/regions that ARE mentioned in prophetic scriptures. We know that the Islamic countries, surrpunding Israel will be a potent force, and the Rapture of the Church will create little damage to these countries/regions. Unfortunately, Europe is in the same situation, as the Church is dying a slow death in most European countries. The same can be said for the "Kings of the East", a vague reference to the regions east of the Euphrates River, which are not predominately Christian. This theory holds that the U.S. would be damaged far more than these other countries and the financial and military collapse due to the Rapture would weaken the U.S. irreversibly, and essentially remove the U.S. from the world stage.
- A second theory considers the fact that Islamic terrorists, who are committed to destroying the U.S. and Israel, may finally acquire weapons of mass destruction and damage the U.S. with a series of nuclear, chemical or biological attacks, or perhaps an "EMP" (electro-magnetic pulse) attack, all of which could render the U.S. as completely ineffective during these final years.
- Yet another theory considers a possible financial collapse of the U.S. as hastened by China, Russia and other countries manipulating the dollar and global oil in order to severely weaken the U.S.
There are other theories as well, but the above seem the most plausable. We could also see a combination of the above.
Regardless, we do have some instructions from God, which should direct our path during these difficult times,.
First, we are told to NOT have a spirit of fear. We must remember that God remains firmly in control, and He has given us the final chapters of earth's history. We know how the book ends, we just don't have every detail. Jesus began His dissertation on end-times prophecy by telling us not to face these days with fear: "...but see to it that you are not alarmed" (Matt. 24:6). Even more comforting, Jesus informed us of another germane fact: "Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near." (Luke 21:31)
If the above scriptures aren't comforting, then we may focus on this message from Jesus: "When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift your heads, because your redemption is drawing near." (Luke 21:28)
We are told not to have fear during these times. We are also told to "watch" for His return during these times. Lastly, we are told that by seeing the various signs around us, which are in abundance, we should know that His return is near.
These are not empty words. These are not words to ignore. These are not words to dismiss.
As we face these last days, the temptation is to submit to fear - fear that we could face economic collapse; fear that the U.S. could be attacked by terrorists, making 9/11 look like a minor event; fear of an uncertian future. But the future is very very certian. We have promises from Jesus; we have assurance from Jesus; we have absolute certianty about our future.
There is a certian irony in all of this. The more uncertian the world around us seems, the more assurance we should receive from the scriptures - Jesus knew we would be facing these times, and He responded by reassurance, hope and knowledge. When things look the bleakest, we should have our strongest convictions. When the world around us seems the most ominous is when we should be the most optimistic - because our future is certian.
Jesus told us to forget about fear, and to focus on His return.
Good news in bad times. Keep watching: His return near. Its a promise.
The short answer is "nothing". The bible does not address America in any way in our end-times prophetic scriptures.
What does this mean?
This answer is more difficult. The books of Daniel and Revelation, which include detailed accounts of the events of the seven-year Tribulation, give great detail to the world's powers during the last days of "this generation". We hear about the growth of the revival of the Roman Empire, which we consider to be currently represented by the EU/Mediterranian Union; we read about the "Kings of the East", and their military forces; we also read about other potent countries and regions, mainly located in the European theatre, but nothing whatsoever as far as America. In fact, we don't even see scriptures which mention our general region of the world.
Its hard to imagine that America would not have a significant role in end-times prophecy, with such epic, world-wide events taking place, but the fact remains, America is not mentioned, either by name, or by region. There are several theories which attempt to explain this:
- The first and perhaps the most plausable theory is the Rapture of the Church, creates a scenario which would immediately weaken the U.S. and create financial and military collapse. The most obvious rebuttal to this theory is that the entire world would be affected by the Rapture, but a closer analysis might lend more information. The fact is, the U.S. has a greater percentage of Christians than the countries/regions that ARE mentioned in prophetic scriptures. We know that the Islamic countries, surrpunding Israel will be a potent force, and the Rapture of the Church will create little damage to these countries/regions. Unfortunately, Europe is in the same situation, as the Church is dying a slow death in most European countries. The same can be said for the "Kings of the East", a vague reference to the regions east of the Euphrates River, which are not predominately Christian. This theory holds that the U.S. would be damaged far more than these other countries and the financial and military collapse due to the Rapture would weaken the U.S. irreversibly, and essentially remove the U.S. from the world stage.
- A second theory considers the fact that Islamic terrorists, who are committed to destroying the U.S. and Israel, may finally acquire weapons of mass destruction and damage the U.S. with a series of nuclear, chemical or biological attacks, or perhaps an "EMP" (electro-magnetic pulse) attack, all of which could render the U.S. as completely ineffective during these final years.
- Yet another theory considers a possible financial collapse of the U.S. as hastened by China, Russia and other countries manipulating the dollar and global oil in order to severely weaken the U.S.
There are other theories as well, but the above seem the most plausable. We could also see a combination of the above.
Regardless, we do have some instructions from God, which should direct our path during these difficult times,.
First, we are told to NOT have a spirit of fear. We must remember that God remains firmly in control, and He has given us the final chapters of earth's history. We know how the book ends, we just don't have every detail. Jesus began His dissertation on end-times prophecy by telling us not to face these days with fear: "...but see to it that you are not alarmed" (Matt. 24:6). Even more comforting, Jesus informed us of another germane fact: "Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near." (Luke 21:31)
If the above scriptures aren't comforting, then we may focus on this message from Jesus: "When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift your heads, because your redemption is drawing near." (Luke 21:28)
We are told not to have fear during these times. We are also told to "watch" for His return during these times. Lastly, we are told that by seeing the various signs around us, which are in abundance, we should know that His return is near.
These are not empty words. These are not words to ignore. These are not words to dismiss.
As we face these last days, the temptation is to submit to fear - fear that we could face economic collapse; fear that the U.S. could be attacked by terrorists, making 9/11 look like a minor event; fear of an uncertian future. But the future is very very certian. We have promises from Jesus; we have assurance from Jesus; we have absolute certianty about our future.
There is a certian irony in all of this. The more uncertian the world around us seems, the more assurance we should receive from the scriptures - Jesus knew we would be facing these times, and He responded by reassurance, hope and knowledge. When things look the bleakest, we should have our strongest convictions. When the world around us seems the most ominous is when we should be the most optimistic - because our future is certian.
Jesus told us to forget about fear, and to focus on His return.
Good news in bad times. Keep watching: His return near. Its a promise.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
More Rumors of War
We're watching developments in the Middle East very closely. Most end times events are centered around Israel and the surrounding countries who are sworn enemies of Israel, consistently calling for Israel's destruction.
Just this week, we can see this powder keg nearing an event which would serve as the triggering mechanism in the region. We believe this event to be an ominous and seemingly imminent conflict between Iran and Israel. In one article this week we can see the window of opportunity for Israel to take action is rapidly closing.
In a separate article we observe the fact that Iran's nuclear facility, as built primarily by Russia, is reaching its final stages.
The clock continues to tick. Each passing day brings us closer and closer to the final prophetic events which will close this era of history. The Tribulation is rapidly approaching and that fact should be of tremendous comfort to those Christians who are obedient to Christ's multiple commands to watch for the world events which indicate His coming is near:
Luke 21:36: "Be always on the watch, and pray..."
Mark 13:33: "Be on guard! Be Alert! You do not know when that time will come."
Mark 13:35: "Therefore keep watch..."
Mark 13:37: "What I say to you, I say to everyone: Watch!"
Matthew 24:42: Therefore keep watch because you do not know on what day your Lord will come."
Matthew 25:13: "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour."
Jesus also gave us additional instructions:
Luke 21:31: "Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the Kingdom of God is near."
Mark 13:29: "Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that it is near, right at the door."
But perhaps more importantly, Jesus gave us the following bit of information - one that should give us hope and comfort during these perilous times:
"When you see these things begin to take place, stand up and lift your heads, because your redemption is drawing near."
We are most definitely seeing "these things" - a reference to the various signs that could be observed - signs that indicate we are indeed living in that last generation.. The signs are all here. It can only mean one thing. Our redemption is drawing near.
It is always good to have a periodic reminder of the promises given by Jesus. We should be watching. And we should also be acutely aware that our redemption is close. Jesus is close. He is at the door.
Are you ready?
Just this week, we can see this powder keg nearing an event which would serve as the triggering mechanism in the region. We believe this event to be an ominous and seemingly imminent conflict between Iran and Israel. In one article this week we can see the window of opportunity for Israel to take action is rapidly closing.
In a separate article we observe the fact that Iran's nuclear facility, as built primarily by Russia, is reaching its final stages.
The clock continues to tick. Each passing day brings us closer and closer to the final prophetic events which will close this era of history. The Tribulation is rapidly approaching and that fact should be of tremendous comfort to those Christians who are obedient to Christ's multiple commands to watch for the world events which indicate His coming is near:
Luke 21:36: "Be always on the watch, and pray..."
Mark 13:33: "Be on guard! Be Alert! You do not know when that time will come."
Mark 13:35: "Therefore keep watch..."
Mark 13:37: "What I say to you, I say to everyone: Watch!"
Matthew 24:42: Therefore keep watch because you do not know on what day your Lord will come."
Matthew 25:13: "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour."
Jesus also gave us additional instructions:
Luke 21:31: "Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the Kingdom of God is near."
Mark 13:29: "Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that it is near, right at the door."
But perhaps more importantly, Jesus gave us the following bit of information - one that should give us hope and comfort during these perilous times:
"When you see these things begin to take place, stand up and lift your heads, because your redemption is drawing near."
We are most definitely seeing "these things" - a reference to the various signs that could be observed - signs that indicate we are indeed living in that last generation.. The signs are all here. It can only mean one thing. Our redemption is drawing near.
It is always good to have a periodic reminder of the promises given by Jesus. We should be watching. And we should also be acutely aware that our redemption is close. Jesus is close. He is at the door.
Are you ready?
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Politics and Prophecy
As much as I try, its hard to avoid politics during an election cycle. Over the years, I have developed a singular interest in politics. That interest is atypical, as I don't watch politics for the purpose of seeing one party win or lose. I watch politics in order to see how various prophetic developments may occur based upon who occupies the oval office. But this year, specifically, the next 5 months may prove to be very interesting.
President Bush has approximately 5 more months in office. During this period, Iran will most likely have nuclear capability, if they don't already. Israel is painfully aware of this fact, as the clock is ticking, day by day. A countdown that forces Israel to face the potential for their complete destruction, by a leader who has promised such on many occasions. Israel also knows that they have a "favorable" administration in office now, and that may change in a few short months. That fact puts tremendous pressure on Israel to make decisions based on the U.S. political climate.
Additionally, there is good evidence (here) that a military buildup has been ongoing in the Persian Gulf, where a large percentage of the world's oil supply is shipped on a daily basis. The U.S. has sent the largest armada to this region since the Gulf War began in 2003. French and British ships are also moving into this region, paralleling the U.S. movements into the Gulf.
This is a very large show of military force in this tenuous region. We have been watching this region, as we know from the biblical prophets, notably Ezekiel and Zechariah, that those countries surrounding Israel will launch a massive attack upon Israel. This attack, according to Ezekiel will lead to God's direct intervention - an intervention that will be obviously performed by God and God alone. Its hard to imagine what that will look like, but it will obviously be quite dramatic.
The Middle-East is a powder keg at the moment. Tensions are extremely high right now. And because of politics, and the political process in the U.S., we may be seeing some epic events take place over the next five months. The window of opportunity for Israel to take action is rapidly closing - based not only on U.S. politics, but also because of Iran's imminent development of nuclear arms.
Keep watching. I believe Jesus is preparing His return - to gather His Bride, the Church, for an early "exit" from this planet. Its a promise:
"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my fathers house there are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me, that you also may be where I am."
Jesus is coming. I believe this will be soon, probably sooner than most folks realize.
Are you ready?
President Bush has approximately 5 more months in office. During this period, Iran will most likely have nuclear capability, if they don't already. Israel is painfully aware of this fact, as the clock is ticking, day by day. A countdown that forces Israel to face the potential for their complete destruction, by a leader who has promised such on many occasions. Israel also knows that they have a "favorable" administration in office now, and that may change in a few short months. That fact puts tremendous pressure on Israel to make decisions based on the U.S. political climate.
Additionally, there is good evidence (here) that a military buildup has been ongoing in the Persian Gulf, where a large percentage of the world's oil supply is shipped on a daily basis. The U.S. has sent the largest armada to this region since the Gulf War began in 2003. French and British ships are also moving into this region, paralleling the U.S. movements into the Gulf.
This is a very large show of military force in this tenuous region. We have been watching this region, as we know from the biblical prophets, notably Ezekiel and Zechariah, that those countries surrounding Israel will launch a massive attack upon Israel. This attack, according to Ezekiel will lead to God's direct intervention - an intervention that will be obviously performed by God and God alone. Its hard to imagine what that will look like, but it will obviously be quite dramatic.
The Middle-East is a powder keg at the moment. Tensions are extremely high right now. And because of politics, and the political process in the U.S., we may be seeing some epic events take place over the next five months. The window of opportunity for Israel to take action is rapidly closing - based not only on U.S. politics, but also because of Iran's imminent development of nuclear arms.
Keep watching. I believe Jesus is preparing His return - to gather His Bride, the Church, for an early "exit" from this planet. Its a promise:
"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my fathers house there are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me, that you also may be where I am."
Jesus is coming. I believe this will be soon, probably sooner than most folks realize.
Are you ready?
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