I Am A Watchman

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I Am A Watchman Publishing

Union City, California

THE PROPHECY BOOK

Through Bible prophecy God reveals His sovereignty, His power, and

His love. The fulﬁllment of prophecy proves that God is in control, and

that the Bible is not just accurate, but divinely inspired. Do you realize

that prophetic passages are one of God’s great gifts to humanity.

Some believers (and teachers) tend to avoid prophetic passages

thinking that they carry negative or somber overtones. But those who

avoid studying the almost one third of God’s Word that is prophetic

in nature miss a great blessing. God, through prophecy, warns those

whom He loves. Prophetic passages are wrapped in love, not wrath.

They arm the Lord’s amazing and steadfast love even as the chronic

unfaithfulness of humanity is foretold. Through prophetic passages,

God revealed how He would send His Son and redeem humanity, and

how He will be victorious in the epic struggle of good versus evil. God’s

prophecies are His promises. God wants His people to know (and

rejoice in) what He has promised to do. It is the enemy who desires the

body of Christ to be unaware.

This writing presents a basic overview of the who, what, when, where,

and why of Bible prophecy. May God bless you as you study the

fullness of His message.

THE PROPHECY BOOK

The I Am A Watchman ministry desires to equip and

encourage believers, reach the lost, and see individuals

prepared for the return of the King.

I Am a Watchman Publications

www.IAmAWatchman.com

Printed in the United States of America

ISBN# 9781642544107

First Printing, September, 2018

I Am A Watchman Publishing

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

It is with profound gratitude that I recognize the following

for making it possible for me to write this book and share

in the Kingdom’s work.

I recognize that it is by the grace of God I am here today.

My prayer is that this work, and the resources developed

by the I Am A Watchman ministry, will bring honor and

glory to His matchless name. The Word is true when it

states that our heavenly Father is patient, loving, and kind.

Secondly, I would like to recognize my wife. Her love,

support, and partnership in ministry has changed my life. I

am very proud of her. She has a creative mind, a generous

heart, and tirelessly serves. I am blessed.

I would also like to recognize my two children—both of

whom have worked hard and sacriﬁced much in support of

the Kingdom’s work. And I would like to thank my parents;

they adopted me, cared for me, and time and time again

went out of their way to show their love for me. They have

fostered in me a desire to learn, share, dream, and do, and

for that I am forever grateful.

And ﬁnally, I would like to thank Scott and Beck Townsend,

founders of the I Am A Watchman ministry. Their vision,

sacriﬁce, and faith have been a blessing to me, and to

prophecy

a worthy study topic for every believer in Christ

INTRODUCTION

WHAT MAKES BIBLE PROPHECY DIFFERENT, AND

SUPERIOR TO OTHER PREDICTIVE METHODS?

A GENERAL OVERVIEW OF BIBLICAL PROPHECY

THE HEBREW FESTIVALS AND PROPHECY

FORESHADOWING AND TYPES IN SCRIPTURE

MESSIANIC PROPHECIES

PROPHECIES CONCERNING ISRAEL

PROPHECIES AND THE CHURCH AGE

A REVIEW OF THE BATTLE OF ARMAGEDDON AND THE

GOGMAGOG INVASION

UPCOMING CONFLICTS NOT MENTIONED IN THE BOOK

OF REVELATION

PROPHECIES REGARDING FOUR EVIL END TIME ENTITIES

ANOTHER LOOK AT PRETRIBULATION PROPHECIES

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

COMPARING THE OLIVET DISCOURSE IN MATTHEW 24

WITH THE FOUR HORSEMEN OF THE APOCALYPSE IN

REVELATION 6

A PROFILE OF RAPTURE AND MILLENNIAL VIEWS

PROPHECIES PERTAINING TO THE TRIBULATION PERIOD

THE SONGS OF SOLOMON AND ESCHATOLOGY

INTERPRETING THE BOOK OF REVELATION 4 VIEWS

THE ANTICHRIST

IS AMERICA MENTIONED IN BIBLE PROPHECY?

JUDGMENTS NOT MENTIONED IN THE BOOK OF

REVELATION

THE CHURCHES IN THE BOOK OF REVELATION

THE MILLENNIAL REIGN OF CHRIST

THE DANGER OF SETTING DATES FOR THE RETURN

OF JESUS CHRIST

LINKS TO FOLLOWUP TEACHINGS

ABOUT THE I AM A WATCHMAN MINISTRY

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INTRODUCTION

The reason for this study book: The Church often struggles to ﬁnd balance

with regard to teaching on the topic of prophecy. Some ministries teach almost

exclusively on eschatology and prophecy — others rarely teach on prophecy or

end-time events at all.

Nearly one third of Scripture is prophetic in nature. Those who study this

signiﬁcant segment of Scripture will ﬁnd comfort and gain insight, for prophecy

notes what God has done and what God is going to do. I believe that God’s

prophetic message is given as a gift to prepare, equip, and inspire His people.

Further, I believe there are three primary reasons that prophecies are presented

in the Word. These reasons are noted below, and should facilitate a desire to

gain a deep understanding of, and appreciation for, holy Scripture:

1. Prophecy notes the goodness of God. The Lord warns those whom He

loves. It is a good and loving God who takes the time to reveal, in advance,

what will happen in the days to come. The wise make themselves aware of

the warnings and declarations of God.

2. Prophecy conﬁrms the wonder and integrity of Scripture. The record

of prophetic fulﬁllment is 100% accuracy. There are no parallels in all

of history. Prophecy sets the Bible, and Christianity, apart from all other

religious books and teachings.

3. Understanding prophecy can better one’s witness. The world today is

spiritual, but skeptical. A strong witness will include

reasons to believe

Presenting information on the accuracy and statistical probability of

prophecy fulﬁllment strengthens one’s witness. When one concedes that

Bible prophecy is veriﬁably true, what often follows is an acknowledgment

that there is a divine hand behind the writing. And when one acknowledges

that past prophecies have been fulﬁlled, one must concede that future

prophecies will likely come true and that wise spiritual decisions should be

made to prepare for what is to come.

May God richly bless you as you seek Him (Acts 17:11).

iamawatchman.comGary Ray

WHAT MAKES BIBLE PROPHECY

DIFFERENT AND SUPERIOR

TO OTHER PREDICTIVE METHODS?

There are several ways to predict the future—a few are noted below. Though

it is true that some methods show some degree of accuracy, it is also true that

no method of predicting the future comes close to the degree of predictive

precision and accuracy one ﬁnds in biblical prophecy. A few of the common

ways to predict future happenings are noted below.

● Prediction based on signs: This method of foretelling the future is often

based on feelings or signs. For example, when Aunt Sue’s shoulder begins

to ache, she predicts rain tomorrow. The ancient maxim, ‘Red sky at night,

sailors’ delight. Red sky at morning, sailors take warning’ references a

way to forecast the weather based on certain atmospheric conditions. This

method of foretelling has its highest degree of accuracy when dealing with

fairly local and near-future issues.

● Prediction based on probability: This method of foretelling the future

uses past performance or happenings to predict future events. The old

Farmer’s Almanac is a good example—a sports betting pool is another.

This method of predicting future events is limited, and a very poor method

of predicting non-near-future events.

● Web Bot: This method of foretelling the future is newer and more

sophisticated. It assumes that most, if not all humanity have a 6th sense—

an intuition which draws them to gather information on signiﬁcant events.

In our current digital age, it is possible to track Google-type search engine

queries. And if for example, there is a statistical spike in searches for west

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coast earthquakes, the theory is that there will be a west coast earthquake

in the near future. Though there is some interesting research on this

predictive method, it should be considered highly questionable.

● Distance seeing: This method of foretelling the future focuses on ‘training’

the mind or utilizing ‘gifted individuals’ to see into the future, and/or observe

non-local happenings. It is said that the US Military has experimented with

this. The 2009 movie, “Men Who Stare At Goats” referenced this activity

(‘Third Eye’ viewing or ‘Remote Viewing’ are related subjects). Again,

though there is some interesting research on this predictive method, it

should be considered highly questionable, if not dubious.

● Clairvoyance: This method of foretelling the future focuses on ‘gifted’

individuals who utilize dierent means to see into the future. Edgar Casey

had dreams. Jeane Dixon had feelings. Nostradamus utilized nutmeg and

wrote quatrains. Related to this are crystal balls, séances, Ouija boards,

etc. This method of foretelling generally seeks information from the spirit

world. It is dangerous and expressly forbidden in Scripture (Deut. 18, 19;

Exod. 22).

● Divine Revelation: This method of gaining insight into the future relies on

looking to Scripture for understanding. Scripture notes that the Word of

God is sucient for all believers need to know to live well in the moment,

and to prepare for the future (2 Pet. 1:3, 4; John 20:30, 31).

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A GENERAL OVERVIEW

OF BIBLICAL PROPHECY

Many believe the Bible is a good book; others call it an important historical

work which embodies positive messages and practical counsel. Some go

so far as to call it unique—a few refer to it as absolutely true and accurate.

However, the Bible is more than just true and accurate. I have several history

and biographical study books in my library that are true and accurate. What

gives the Bible its singular distinction is the fact that it is divinely inspired. It is

God’s Word.

Historical records and archaeological ﬁnds verify the Biblical record is true,

the study of ancient manuscripts (manuscript attestation) show the Bible to be

accurate and unique, but perhaps more than any other single ﬁeld of study, it

is the study of Bible Prophecy which demonstrates that the Bible is divinely

inspired. No other book is so ﬁlled with prophecy—and no other writing comes

close to the Bible’s prophetic accuracy rate - 100%.

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT BIBLE PROPHECY

How many prophecies are in the Bible - How do we know?

Many are aware that there are prophecies in the Bible, but few realize that more

than 27% of the 31,124 verses in the Bible are prophetic. The J. Barton Payne’s

Encyclopedia of Biblical Prophecy notes that there are 1,239 prophecies in

the Old Testament and 578 prophecies in the New Testament, for a total of

1,817. These encompass 8,352 verses. More than 90% of the prophecies in the

Bible should have been fulﬁlled by this time in history—and they have. No Bible

prophecy has been shown to be in error. The accuracy rate for the fulﬁllment of

Bible prophecy is 100%.

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HOW ARE BIBLE PROPHECIES COUNTED?

1. General: Some record prophecies in a broad or general way – this is

appropriate but does reduce the number of prophecies by about 50%. The

Bible records that Jesus was a descendant of David, who was a descendant

of Jacob, Isaac, and Abraham. A general way to view the fulﬁllment of this

prophecy is to acknowledge that Jesus was a descendant of Abraham—hence,

one prophecy was fulﬁlled.

2. Speciﬁc: Most Bible scholars record prophecies in a more precise way—

counting each part of the fulﬁllment of a general prophecy as an independent

prophecy fulﬁllment. For example, the Bible notes that Jesus was a descendant

of David, who was a descendant of Jacob, Isaac, and Abraham. Therefore, this

represents the fulﬁllment of four prophecies (not one)—Jesus was a descendant

of Abraham (1), and Isaac (2), and Jacob (3) and David (4).

THE PRECISION OF BIBLE PROPHECY

Most psychics today speak in very general terms and oer what I call ‘Fortune

cookie-type counsel.’ It is important to note that Bible prophecies are speciﬁc

and measurable. And though many have tried, no one has been able to prove a

Bible prophecy to be in error. There are approximately 1000 general prophecies

in the Bible; about 900 have come to pass, 895 have been veriﬁed to be true.

Five are unveriﬁable at this time, but as they are unveriﬁable, they cannot be

used to prove the prophecies are false.

Jesus fulﬁlled more than 120 speciﬁc prophecies. Scholars note the probability

of Jesus fulﬁlling just eight prophecies picked at random is approximately 1 in

1017. These odds approximate the likelihood of blindly picking the one marked

silver dollar mixed in with coins two feet deep in an area the size of Texas.

Scholars have noted that the probability of Jesus fulﬁlling just 48 prophecies

approximates the probability of randomly selecting the one marked atom in all

of the observable universe.

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It is not dicult to illustrate the precision of Bible prophecy. Ezekiel 4 provides

one example. The prophet Ezekiel wrote at a time in history when his nation,

Israel, had fallen to invaders. Many were forced to serve as slaves in Babylon.

Ezekiel chapter 4 notes how long it would be before Israel would again be a

sovereign and independent nation. Let’s take a look at this prophecy.

Ezekiel chapter 4 records that the prophet was bound on his left and right

sides for a certain number of days. The number of days (430) prophetically

point to the number of years it would take before Israel would be restored as

a nation (Ezek. 4:4-6). Jeremiah prophesied that the period of captivity would

last exactly 70 years. Historians note that Babylon captured Israel (and took

inhabitants away as slaves) in the spring of 606 B.C. and that exiles returned to

Israel precisely 70 years later (as foretold) in the spring of 536 B.C.

In fulﬁllment of Jeremiah’s prophecy, exiles returned to Jerusalem after 70

years (536 B.C.). However, that still left 360 years of judgment to be served

(430 - 70 years = 360 years) before Israel would be an independent nation

again. One might ask: What happened 360 years after Israel returned from

exile? Did Israel become an independent nation at that time (176 B.C.)? The

answer is no. In fact, when Jesus ministered on the earth, Israel still had not

re-established as a nation. At the turn of the 20th century, Israel still had not

become an independent nation, and this is why.

Leviticus 26:18 indicates that in the face of stubborn rebellion, the Lord “will

punish you seven times more for your sins.” Many Hebrews returned to Israel,

but most quickly fell away from true faith. Therefore, the 360 years noted were

to be multiplied by seven, equaling a total of 2520 biblical years [360 day

years]. To convert the 2,520 prophetic years into solar [365.25 days] years, one

must multiply 2,520 by the 360 days in the prophetic/biblical year (907,200

days). The next step is to divide 907,200 days by 365.25 (the length of a solar

year). The answer is 2,483 calendar years, 9 months, 21 days.

Therefore, Ezekiel’s prophecy indicates that the end of Israel’s displacement/

judgment would occur 2,483 calendar years, 9 months, 21 days after the

Babylonian exile (which took place on July 23, 537 B.C.). When one adds 2,483

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calendar years, 9 months, 21 days to July 23, 537 BC (the year in which the

Babylonian captivity ended), they arrive at May 14, 1948 (the precise day Israel

regained their independence under UN Charter). Bible prophecy is accurate

and precise.

Similarly, the 69-week prophecy in Daniel 9:25-27 presents a prophetic

clock—a countdown of 173,880 days from the day a Persian King makes a

speciﬁc declaration until the Messiah is presented in Jerusalem (the Triumphal

Entry) and shortly after that, “cut o” (cruciﬁed). The precision of Bible prophecy

is astounding. The accuracy, volume, and scope of Bible prophecy support the

Christian teaching that the Bible is divinely inspired.

The study of Bible prophecy can embolden faith, facilitate conﬁdence in the

Word, and position one to be a powerful witness. We invite you to learn more

about Bible Prophecy by listening to the teaching videos (see below) on this

subject:

BIBLE PROPHECIES PRINCIPALLY FALL

INTO ONE OF THREE CATEGORIES

Prophecies concerning Israel: There are many prophecies about the land of

Israel. They speak of the formation of the nation of Israel, wars against Israel,

the exile of the Hebrew people and their return to the land, the restoration of

the nation of Israel and prophetic events in and near Israel in the last days.

Prophecies concerning the Gentile World: Many prophecies proﬁle the rise

and fall of Gentile kingdoms; for example, Daniel 11-12 presents more than 100

such prophecies.

The Messiah: There are several hundred speciﬁc prophecies concerning the

Messiah. During His ﬁrst coming the Messianic fulﬁlled more than 125 speciﬁc

prophecies – scores more will be fulﬁlled in the last days.

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THERE ARE FOUR PROMINENT CONCENTRATIONS

OF PROPHETIC FULFILLMENT

The 100-year period surrounding the birth of Israel (roughly 1450—1350 B.C.)

marks the ﬁrst signiﬁcant concentration of prophetic fulﬁllment. During this time

Moses led the Hebrews out of Egypt and Joshua led Israel to possess the

promised land. Prophecies include:

● God told Abraham that from him would come a nation.

● God revealed the nation’s borders.

● God foretold of an upcoming time in Egypt.

● God foretold that plagues would befall Egypt.

● God foretold of Israel’s new home in the new land.

● God foretold that Israel would eat quail and manna as they traveled in the

wilderness with Moses.

● God revealed which armies Israel would face, and conquer.

The period surrounding the exile of Israel (roughly 620—520 BC) marks the

second signiﬁcant concentration of prophetic fulﬁllment. During this time Israel

turned away from the Lord, was overrun by Babylon, served 70 years in captivity

and then returned to rebuild Jerusalem and the Temple. Prophecies include:

● Judah would make treaties with other nations but will fall.

● The northern kingdom would fall ﬁrst, followed by Judah and Jerusalem.

● The “Jews would be scattered.” (Deut. 28:64; Ezek. 36:17-24)

● Invaders would destroy the Temple.

● The people would be taken away in bondage for 70 years.

● The Temple treasure would be taken but returned.

● A foreign king would issue a decree to return the treasure and provide

for Hebrew rebuilding projects.

● Permission would be given to rebuild the city of Jerusalem and the Temple.

The 100 year period surrounding the birth and ministry of Christ (roughly

5 B.C.—95 AD) marks the third signiﬁcant concentration of prophetic fulﬁllment.

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During this time the Messiah was born, cruciﬁed, and rose again, the Church

was established, and believers received the Holy Spirit. Prophecies include:

● A star would announce the birth of the Messiah.

● The Messiah would be born in Bethlehem.

● His birth would be associated with the slaughter of innocents.

● His ministry would be marked by miracles.

● His ministry would be in the region of Galilee.

● He would be falsely accused, tried, convicted and cruciﬁed.

● He would rise on the third day.

● The New Testament Church would be born.

● The Gentile Church would bring the Gospel message to the world.

The ﬁnal concentration of prophetic fulﬁllment will unfold in the last days. Many

believe that we are now in the ﬁnal period of prophecy fulﬁllment and that this

last prophetic cycle began when Israel became a sovereign and independent

nation (1948). During this time ‘birth pains’ will increase, the tribulation period

will begin, and the Antichrist will come to power. Prophecies include:

● Knowledge and birth pains will increase (Matt. 24; Daniel 12).

● Jews will return to Israel (Zech. 8:7-8).

● The Hebrew language will once again be the predominant language

spoken in the land of Israel (Zeph. 3:9).

● Israel will bloom and prosper (Isaiah 35).

● A confederation of 10 nations will attack Israel (Psalm 83).

● Destruction will befall the city of Damascus (Isaiah 17:1).

● There will be technology for global commerce (Rev. 13:16-18).

● The Gospel preached to all (Matt. 24:14, 28:18-20).

● A peace agreement/covenant will be signed (Daniel 9:27).

● Permission will be given to rebuild the Temple (Matthew 24:15).

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WHY IS THERE SUCH AN EMPHASIS

ON PROPHECY IN THE BIBLE?

The gift of prophecy is an expression of God’s love. Because He loves us, He

warns us. God wants His people to know He is aware of what is happening, and

what will happen. Prophecy is given as an empirical proof for the existence of

God. It shows God is master of past, present, and future, and can be used to

validate the integrity of Scripture. The 100% accuracy rate of biblical prophecy

is unmatched among the religious writings of the world.

Speaking of prophecy, the prophet Isaiah noted: “I declared them (prophecies)

to you long ago, before they took place I proclaimed them to you, lest you

should say, ‘My idol has done them…’” (Isaiah 48:5). God uses prophecy to

declare that He is the author of all that is good. He is in control, He has a plan

for the future, and nothing takes Him by surprise. Noted below are a few verses

which provide insight regarding what God will do in the last days.

Key Verses

● “But you, Daniel, shut up the words and seal the book UNTIL the time of

the end...many shall run to and fro but] knowledge shall increase” (Daniel

12:4).

This verse indicates that the ability to understand the meaning of the

more dicult Bible prophecies will increase in the last days.

● “I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will

prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see

visions. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my

Spirit in those days. I will show wonders in the heavens and on the earth,

blood and ﬁre and billows of smoke. The sun will be turned to darkness

and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and dreadful day of

the Lord. And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved”

(Joel 2:28-31).

This verse indicates that God will provide insight to His

moving in the last days via dreams and visions. Non-clergy members will

receive these visions.

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A syllabus of prophetic language

The language of prophecy: The language of the Old Testament is Hebrew.

Therefore, it is essential to interpret Old Testament prophecies in light of

ancient Hebrew culture. For example, in our culture, someone might say, “After

I watch the Hawks and 49ers on the 60” plasma, I’m going to drive the Ford to

SeaTac then catch the Red Eye to the Windy City. Most today would have little

diculty understanding that sentence. However, if we went back in time just

100 years the sentence would not make sense. Remember, Bible prophecies

are more than 2000 years old, and are presented in a dierent cultural context.

Therefore, interpreting prophetic words and phrases must be done with great

care. A few common words with uncommon meanings follow.

● Days = often equal years.

● Week = a week of years or 7 years.

● Horn = often represents power.

● Biblical years = 360 days (the ancient calendar followed a lunar cycle).

● Animals can be used to represent kings and kingdoms.

● Animals with wings can be used to indicate swiftness.

● Multiple eyes can indicate all-seeing (four can indicate seeing throughout

the four points of the compass).

● Wind = can indicate a war or a unique working or moving of God.

● Water = can indicate life or cleansing; it can also represent judgment.

● Oil = can be a symbol of blessing.

● Virgin = often signiﬁes purity.

● Prostitute/harlot = unfaithful or false church.

● Yeast = often represents sin.

● The number 1000 was considered perfect and uncountable.

● A generation = 40, 70 or 80 years (depending upon the context).

● Fire and various signs in the heavens warn of or announce divine judgment.

● End days/Last days/End times = the period from Pentecost to the end of

the Great Tribulation.

● Birth Pangs = The end of the Last Days to the beginning of the Tribulation

period. During this period ‘troubles’ on the earth will intensify.

● The Rapture = A catching-up and rescue of believers in Christ prior to the

outpouring of God’s wrath proﬁled in the book of Revelation.

● The Tribulation = The last 7 years. Great Tribulation = The last 3 ½ years.

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THE HEBREW FESTIVALS

AND PROPHECY

The Jewish Festivals have a prophetic element. The Passover Festival is linked

to the Cross, the Feast of First Fruits is linked to the resurrection, the Feast of

Pentecost is linked to the giving of the Spirit and birth of the New Testament

Church, etc. The spring Festivals are linked to Jesus’ ﬁrst coming. The three

fall Festivals are linked to the Lord’s second coming. The commandment to

annually celebrate seven Festivals was given by God, through Moses, more

than 1400 years before the birth of Jesus Christ. The commandment predates

Israel’s entering the Promised Land and the age of Judges or Kings. The ancient

Hebrews saw in them great cultural and spiritual signiﬁcance—but do they have

prophetic signiﬁcance? Read on to learn how the Hebrew Festival calendar

points to what Jesus did 2000 years ago and what He will do in the future, and

how the Hebrew calendar greatly inﬂuenced recent predictions of the Lord’s

return in the fall of 2015 and 2017.

The structure of the Hebrew language

The Hebrew language has a poetic element—it is rich in imagery and word-

pictures. For example, many of the names for God in the Old Testament have

ties to stories and special events. Jehovah Jireh (God is the provider) is one

such example. That title has ties to the story of God providing a substitute

sacriﬁce for Abraham as he was about to sacriﬁce his son, Isaac.

The word, provider is typically a verb—it is something someone does. However,

in the Hebrew cultural context, it is a blend of a verb and a proper noun—it

is something God does, and it is who He is. The point here is that in Hebrew

culture, certain words, numbers, and even celebrations have deep spiritual

meaning. As such, Festivals and Feasts have profound implications in Jewish

culture and end times prophecy.

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Signs in the heavens

God told the ancients that the sun and moon were for light and warmth, for

direction, “and to set boundaries for times and seasons” (Genesis 1:14). In

time humanity would learn about the earth’s tilt, the speed of the earth’s rotation,

the path of earth’s orbit, the vernal equinox, lunar gravitational impact on tides,

and how all these things link to the sun and moon—the ‘lights in the…sky.’ Not

only are the sun and moon linked to the division of days, months and years,

but also to ‘sacred times.’ In the days of Moses, Festivals were established and

linked to the lunar cycle. These Festivals were not simple community gatherings

or meals—they were ‘sacred’ religious celebrations of great importance.

The origin and meaning of the Festivals

As mentioned above, the Festivals were established by God in the days of

Moses. About one year after the Hebrews left Egypt, God gave instructions

regarding the need to observe seven annual Festivals—four in the spring and

three in the fall. In the book of Leviticus we read:

“The LORD said to Moses, ‘Speak to the Israelites and say

to them: These are my appointed festivals, the appointed

festivals of the LORD, which you are to proclaim as sacred

assemblies.’” Leviticus 23:1-2

In the writings of Moses, we see a tie between new moons and Festival

celebrations. The celebrations were to be reminders of the great things God

had done and also to foreshadow the great things God would do in the future.

For example, in Leviticus 23:4-5 we read:

“These are the LORD’s appointed festivals, the sacred

assemblies you are to proclaim at their appointed times: The

LORD’s Passover begins at twilight on the fourteenth day of

the ﬁrst month.”

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Here we see that the Festival of Passover commemorates how in the days of

Moses and tenth plague, judgment and death passed-over those who had

the blood of an unblemished lamb over the door to their home. Passover

then, commemorated how lamb’s blood and God’s grace provided salvation

for Moses and the Hebrew people. However, this Festival also (prophetically)

foreshadowed the great work and sacriﬁce of the Jesus, whom John called the

Lamb of God—and how His blood and grace provides the hope of salvation for

all who believe.

Note that the words Feast and Festival are synonyms. Note also that the word

“Feast” does not mean food. The Hebrew word for feast is “Moed” and means

an appointment (mow`ed = an appointment or ﬁxed time). These Festivals

were called Holy “Convocations,” which in the Hebrew is “Miqura” which

means, an “assembly” but also implies a “dress rehearsal.” That is, these

Festivals were a type of dress rehearsal or time to prepare (prophetically) for a

great working of God in the future.

The Festivals point to the fulﬁllment of speciﬁc prophecies. Let me not how

the spring Festivals are associated with prophetic fulﬁllment.

1. The Passover Festival (Lev. 23:5) points to the Messiah being our

Passover lamb (1 Cor. 5:7) which makes possible the forgiveness of our sins

and redemption. It was the shedding of His blood on Calvary that makes

salvation possible, just as the blood of unblemished lambs saved the

ancient Hebrews in the days of Moses. Note that the cruciﬁxion of Jesus

took place on the day of preparation for the Passover and that He died

at the same hour (3:00 pm) lambs were being sacriﬁced for the Passover

meal that evening (John 19:14). Jesus’ death on the cross was the prophetic

fulﬁllment of the Old Testament Passover Festival.

2. The Festival of Unleavened Bread (Lev. 23:6) pointed to the Messiah’s

sinless life (as leaven is a symbol of sin). Being sinless, He was the perfect

sacriﬁce for our sins. Jesus’ body was in the grave during the ﬁrst days of

the Passover Feast. He was hidden (in the tomb), as the center piece of

unleavened bread is hidden during the Passover celebration. During the

Passover meal, the center of unleavened bread is hidden and later returned

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to the table as participants celebrate. Jesus, the center piece of the Trinity,

returned (rose again) on the third day in fulﬁllment of the Scripture.

3. The Festival of First Fruits (Lev. 23:10) was a happy Festival which

celebrated the ﬁrst reaping of the spring harvest. It also pointed to the

Messiah’s resurrection as the joyful “ﬁrst fruit” of a new harvest—the new

covenant of grace and redemption. Jesus was resurrected on the day of

First Fruits, which is one of the reasons the Apostle Paul refers to Jesus in

1 Cor. 15:20 as the “ﬁrst fruits from the dead.”

4. The Festival of Weeks or Pentecost (Lev.23:16) occurs ﬁfty days after

the beginning of the Feast of Unleavened Bread. The Festival was a time

to celebrate new beginnings (originally marking the giving of the law to

Moses). The gift of the Holy Spirit was given 50 days after the cruciﬁxion

(Acts 2). This event marked the beginning of the Church Age and the new

covenant of grace. The book of Acts notes that on this day, the disciples

began to speak in tongues, and 3,000 Jews responded to Peter’s sermon.

Prophetic elements in these ﬁrst four [spring] Festivals were

fulﬁlled during Jesus’ ﬁrst coming, 2000 years ago. Many

suggest that prophetic elements associated with the three fall

Festivals (below) will be fulﬁlled at the Lord’s second coming.

5. The Festival of Trumpets (Leviticus 23:24) is the ﬁrst of the fall Feasts. It

begins with the new moon and the blowing of a trumpet. Many see the

parallel between this Old Testament celebration and trumpet sound, and

the joyous celebration and trumpet sound associated with the return of

Jesus Christ (1 Thess. 4:13-18; 1 Cor. 15:52). The Old Testament Festival

announced the “Days Of Awe” and ended with the Day of Atonement and

the beginning of a new year. Many see parallels to this Festival’s trumpet

call and the Rapture, the “Days of Awe” and the years of Tribulation,” and

the conclusion of the Festival and beginning of the new year with the

‘glorious appearing’ and Christ making ‘all things new.’

6. The Day of Atonement (Leviticus 23:27). This Festival followed the ‘Days

of Awe’ and celebrates being cleansed, forgiven and invited to begin anew

in the new year. Many believe this Old Testament Festival prophetically

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points to the day of the Second Coming of Jesus (which will follow the

seven-year tribulation period). On this day the Jewish remnant will “look

upon Him whom they have pierced,” and receive Jesus as their Messiah

(Zechariah 12:10; Romans 11:1-6, 25-36).

7. The Festival of Tabernacles or Booths (Leviticus 23:34). This Old

Testament Festival commemorated how God journeyed with them through

the wilderness in the days of Moses. Many believe this Feast points to the

Lord’s promise that He will once again “tabernacle” with His people (i.e.,

the Millennial reign of Christ) when He returns to reign over all the world

(Micah 4:1-7).

WHY SOME BELIEVE THE TIMING OF THE

SECOND COMING WILL BE IN THE FALL

● As noted in this section, the Festivals seem to foreshadow the future

working of the Messiah. Jesus fulﬁlled the spring festivals during His ﬁrst

coming. Many believe He will fulﬁll the fall Festivals at His second coming.

This will include the rapture, the commencement of the Tribulation and the

beginning of the Millennial Reign of Christ.

● The fall festivals embody the tone of judgment and newness, which

complements the tone of eschatological prophecies.

● The fall Festivals have associations to trumpets, wonders in the heavens,

judgment, and the phrases, a

thief in the night

and

no one knows the day

or the hour

, all of which have links to the second coming of the Messiah.

» The

thief in the night

phrase has ties to the Temple Priest who, like a

thief in the night, would sometimes check on those ordered to stand

watch at night to sight and announce (with a trumpet blast) the new

moon. The arrival of the new moon in the fall had a 48-hour window.

The ancients did not know on which day the new moon would arrive,

so temple ocials would stand watch and wait—sometimes for two

days. Temple ocials were reprimanded by the High Priest if caught

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asleep at their post. Periodically the High Priest would check on

them slyly as a thief in the night). Sighting of the new moon would be

signaled by a trumpet blast and would mark the beginning of the fall

festival of Trumpets.

» The

no one knows the day or the hour

phrase has ties to the ancient

custom of the bride’s father setting the wedding date and time. 2000

years ago, if, a few months before the wedding, someone asked a

bride, “What day and time the wedding event would occur?” The bride

would respond, ‘Only the father knows—no one knows the day or the

hour.’ This phrase became linked to the return of Christ and the fall

Festival of Trumpets because Jesus presents himself as the Groom

who will one day come for his bride (the church) at a time which no

one knows.

WHY SOME LOOKED AT THE

FALL OF 2015 AS BEING SIGNIFICANT

A number of books (written between 2010 and 2015) speculated that the Lord

would return in fall of 2015. Noted below are some of the reasons that prompted

the supposition:

● Fall 2015 coincided with the Hebrew Year of Jubilee (Jesus’ ministry began

in the Year of Jubilee).

● Fall 2015 marked the beginning of a Shemitah cycle—a seven-year cycle

associated with blessings for the faithful and judgment for those who have

forsaken the Lord. The last day of the Shemitah cycle for 2015 was Elul 29

(September 13th), the day of a solar eclipse.

● The Fall 2015 Festival of Trumpets marked the end of a 49 Hebrew Year

cycle (7 cycles of 360-day years) from June 7, 1967, the day Israel gained

control of Jerusalem, to 2015’s Festival of Trumpets.

● Fall 2015 marked the end of a Lunar Tetrad (4 Blood Moons—each falling

on the days of signiﬁcant Hebrew Festivals).

» The rarest form of a solar eclipse (Total and Annular eclipse—Class 3)

preceded the Lunar Tetrads. The next Total and Annular eclipse will

take place in 2172.

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» Some previous Lunar Tetrads seem to have ties to signiﬁcant

happenings (relative to Israel or the Hebrews).

● In 1733, Sir Isaac Newton, using the writings of Daniel and the Hebrew

tradition of the Cycle of Jubilees, wrote that the tribulation would begin in

the fall of 2015 (and also noted 2060 as a possible date).

● In the early 13

century, Rabbi Judah Ben Samuel predicted the number of

years the Ottoman empire would control Jerusalem, the period between

the Ottoman loss of control of Jerusalem and the city falling again under

Hebrew control, and the coming of the Messiah (which he predicted would

be the fall of 2015).

● The 12

century Bishop Malachy is said to have been given a vision that

there would be 112 more Popes and that the last Pope’s would be evil. The

current Pope Francis is the 112

Pope.

● About 100 years ago, three young girls (in Fatima, Portugal) said they

received visions regarding apostasy and God’s judgment. Some suggest

the visions concern Francis, the 112

Pope.

● There was an increase in the posting of dreams and visions regarding the

rapture and coming divine judgments.

WHY SOME LOOKED TO THE FALL OF 2017 AS BEING

PROPHETICALLY SIGNIFICANT

● Some suggest that the Hebrew cycle of Jubilees coincides with the fall of

2017, rather than the fall of 2015, as most suppose.

● Preceding the fall Festivals of 2017 was a solar eclipse.

● Scientists recorded a marked increase in the number of annual ﬁreballs,

earthquakes, and volcanic activities since 2015.

● Many suggest that Revelation 12 references a particular and signiﬁcant

celestial formation. The timing of this rare celestial formation was

associated with the timing of the Feast of Trumpets (September 23, 2017).

The Revelation 12 text and a proﬁle of the celestial formation follow.

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“And a great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with

the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a

crown of twelve stars.

She was pregnant and was crying out

in birth pains and the agony of giving birth.

And another sign

appeared in heaven: behold, a great red dragon, with seven

heads and ten horns, and on his heads seven diadems.

His

tail swept down a third of the stars of heaven and cast them to

the earth. And the dragon stood before the woman who was

about to give birth, so that when she bore her child he might

devour it.

She gave birth to a male child, one who is to rule all

the nations with a rod of iron, but her child was caught up to

God and his throne,

and the woman ﬂed into the wilderness…

where she has a place prepared by God, in which she is to be

nourished for 1,260 days.” Revelation 12:1-6

The celestial alignment (Interpretation possibilities)

Some suggest it tells a story. The protagonist is a sun-clothed woman (God’s

people). The antagonist is a dragon (the devil). The hero is the woman’s child,

representing Israel and the Messiah. Other players move on and o the stage—

noting that though Satan constantly rages against God, the Lord will prevail.

● The setting (understanding the text by looking BACK in time)

» The woman had a child (Jesus).

» Satan, the dragon, sought to destroy the child (perhaps a reference to

Herod’s order to kill infant boys in Bethlehem).

» The woman ﬂees to safety (perhaps a reference to Joseph, Mary and

Jesus’ ﬂight to safety in Egypt).

» The war in heaven is perhaps a reference to the circumstances

surrounding the fall of Satan. “Now war arose in heaven, Michael and

his angels fought against the dragon. And the dragon and his angels

fought back…” Revelation 12:7

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● The setting (understanding the text looking FORWARD in time)

» The child is the Church.

» Satan, the dragon, seeks to destroy the child. His eort intensiﬁes

during the Tribulation period.

» The woman ﬂees to safety and is kept safe for 1260 days (perhaps a

reference to God’s protection on His remnant during the last half of

the Tribulation period, 1260 days).

Summary

Many focus on trying to determine exactly when the Lord will return. However,

the better course of action is to focus on being ready for His return. The ﬁrst and

best step to prepare for His coming is to receive Jesus as Lord and commit to

making Him the Lord of your life. Scripture notes, “So you also must be ready,

because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.

Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge

of the servants in his household to give them their food at the proper time? It

will be good for that servant whose master ﬁnds him doing so when he returns.”

Matthew 24:44-46

Note: Links to literature and a video teaching on the topic of salvation and being

spiritual prepared for the return of Jesus are provided in the appendix of this book.

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We are to focus on the WHO more than the WHEN

(See Acts 1:7-8)

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FORESHADOWING AND

TYPES IN THE BIBLE

God is not limited to communicating only through the spoken and written

words of the prophets. In addition to speaking through His prophets, God

has used ceremonies, signiﬁcant historical events, supernatural happenings,

key dates, and locations to foreshadow important events in the future. Many

Bible scholars refer to these particular foreshadowings as types. What

follows are examples of some of the signiﬁcant types in the Old Testament.

Celebrations:

● The chapter in this book on Hebrew Festivals (see page 20) notes

how the spring Festivals, instituted approximately 1450 years before

the birth of Christ, foreshadowed Jesus’ cruciﬁxion, His time in the

tomb, and His resurrection.

» The Passover foreshadows the cruciﬁxion and the sacriﬁce of

Jesus Christ.

» The Feast of Unleavened Bread foreshadows Jesus’ time in

the tomb.

» The Feast of First Fruits foreshadows Jesus’ resurrection

» Pentecost foreshadows the coming of the Holy Spirit and birth

of the New Testament Church.

Special Happenings:

● A means of salvation in the midst of judgment #1: In the story of

Noah, an ark was built, the people were told to repent and believe,

and a ﬁnal warning was given that judgment would come in seven

days. After seven days the rain fell and those who heeded the

call to believe and entered the ark were saved. This foreshadows

how Jesus (a type of ark) provides rescue and salvation for all who

believe in Him. It is possible that the ﬁnal warning (that judgment

would come in seven days) may foreshadow how the rapture

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and commencement of the Tribulation period marks a ﬁnal warning

for humanity—indicating that judgment will come and the end of the

seven-year Tribulation.

● A means of salvation in the midst of judgment #2: In the story of

Moses, on the eve of the Exodus the people were warned that a terrible

judgment (a plague of death) was coming, but were consoled in that a

provision for salvation was available. Those whose homes were marked

by the blood of an unblemished lamb were saved when the judgment

of death fell upon the land. This foreshadowed how the blood of Jesus,

the Lamb of God, shed on the cross at Calvary, provides the repentant

salvation and rescue their sins and the power of death.

● The sacriﬁce of a son: In Genesis 22, Abraham was told to sacriﬁce his

son Isaac (this is a test of faith and prophetic teaching moment). He

travels to Mt. Moriah for three days. An altar is built, and just as he is

about to sacriﬁce his son (as a burnt sin oering), God intervenes, and

provides a substitute sacriﬁce. This foreshadows not only how God

would forgive the sins of humanity by providing a substitute sacriﬁce

(His Son), but the location, Mt. Moriah is the same location that Jesus

was cruciﬁed.

● Plagues in days of Moses: The ten plagues visited on Egypt in the

days of Moses represent both God’s judgment, and God’s desire

for the proud to humbly acknowledge Him and surrender to His will.

The plagues in the days of Moses foreshadow the judgments of God

that unfold in the book of Revelation. At the end of time, God’s goal,

and many of His judgments (frogs, ﬁre, hail, water turned into blood,

darkness, etc.) once again fall on a stubborn humanity.

● Persecution and deﬁlement of the Temple: Antipas Epiphanes,

referenced as the little horn in Daniel 11 (and in the apocryphal book 1

Maccabees), was prophesied to terribly oppress the Hebrews, march

on Jerusalem, loot and deﬁle the Temple, and forbid the daily sacriﬁces.

This happened roughly 165 years before the birth of Christ, and

foreshadows the activity of the Antichrist who, during the Tribulation

period, will oppress God’s people, deﬁle the temple, and forbid the

daily sacriﬁces.

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● The 12 sons of Jacob: The sons of Jacob became the 12 tribes of

Israel, the core, foundation and structure of the Old Testament nation

of Israel. This foreshadowed how the 12 disciples of Jesus would

provide a structure for the New Testament Church.

Locations:

● Moriah: Abraham was told to sacriﬁce his son Isaac on Mt Moriah.

About a thousand years later, Solomon built the ﬁrst Temple (where

priestly sacriﬁces were made) on Mt. Moriah. About a thousand years

after that Jesus was cruciﬁed in the same area. Mt. Moriah is linked

sacriﬁce and redemption.

● The Mount of Olives: It is the place where a king was scorned but

later returned in triumph (2 Sam. 15). Later, it was the place where Jesus

agonized (in the Garden of Gethsemane), where Jesus was acclaimed

(the Triumphal En-try), where Jesus ascended into heaven (Acts 1), and

the place where Jesus will return (Zech. 14:4).

● The Jezreel Valley: In the 14th century BC, Canaanite Kings tried to

displace the Hebrews, but lost decisive battles in this valley (Joshua

12). In Revelation 16, the armies of the Antichrist will gather in this valley

(also called, Har Megiddo) and will be defeated (due to the merciful

intervention of Jesus Christ) in the battle of Armageddon.

Dates:

● The 14th day of the Hebrew month, Nisan: This day is linked to rescue

and victory. The following took place on this day:

» Abraham is saved from an angry Pharaoh (Gen. 12).

» Abraham is saved from the angry king Abimelech (Gen. 20).

» Lot is saved from the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah

(Gen. 19).

» Gideon and 300 ﬁnd victory over a huge Midianite army (Judges 7).

» The Hebrews are saved from the plague of death (Exod. 11).

» Daniel is saved from hungry lions (Daniel 6).

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» Ezra and the exiles begin (and preserved on) their journey home

(Ezra 7).

» Jesus is cruciﬁed, making possible the salvation of sinners.

● The 17th day of the Hebrew month, Nissan 17: This day is linked to

the end of great toil and the beginning of a time of reaping. In the days

of Moses it was celebrated as the Festival of First Fruits. On this day...

» Noah’s Ark came to rest on Mount Ararat (Gen 8:4).

» Moses and the Hebrews pass through the Red Sea, which after

the Hebrews were safe on the other side, closed-in on pursuing

Egyptians (Exod. 14:13-14).

» The Hebrews enjoy the bountiful ﬁrst fruits of their crops in the

promised land (Josh 5:10-12).

» Jesus rose from the dead, an event the Apostle Paul links to the

fulﬁllment of the Festival of First Fruits (1 Cor. 15). This is a double

reference indicating not only that Jesus was the ﬁrst of those who

would be resurrected under the New Testament Covenant of

grace, but also a reference to the Old Testament requirement that

the ﬁrst of any harvested crops were to be brought to the Lord as

an oering.

● The 50th day after the 14th day of Nissan: This day, known as

Pentecost or the beginning of the Festival of Weeks, follows the Festival

of First Fruits and is associated with new beginnings. On this day...

» Enoch was taken into heaven (Gen. 5).

» Moses received his calling from God (who spoke from a burning

bush). Exodus 3.

» Moses received the 10 Commandments (Exodus 34).

» Israel cross the Jordan and enter the Promised Land (Josh 3).

» Israel was restored as a sovereign and independent nation by

United Nations Resolution #181 (1948).

» The city of Jerusalem came under Hebrew control during the 6

Day War in 1967.

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CONCLUSIONS: One can glean insight into key future prophetic fulﬁllments

by examining signiﬁcant events and recurring dates in the past. Some likely

conclusions are noted below:

● The persecution and oppression associated with the evil Antipas

Epiphanies (the Little Horn in Daniel 11) and Roman Empire will be seen

again during the Tribulation and reign of the Antichrist.

● As the Spring Festivals were fulﬁlled in Christ during His ﬁrst coming,

it is likely that the Fall Festivals (see page 20) will be associated with

key end-time events (perhaps the Rapture, the commencement of

the Tribulation Period, and/or the beginning of the Millennial Reign of

Jesus Christ).

● Just as God intervened and saved Jerusalem from a huge enemy army

in the days of Nehemiah, during the Tribulation Jerusalem will again be

threatened with annihilation (in the Battle of Armageddon), but God will

intervene and bring about the victory.

● The Roman Empire, which was foreseen by Daniel and became the

great persecutor of the New Testament Church, will be revived and

controlled by the Antichrist during the Tribulation period.

● Babylon, a powerful, prideful, regime and hub of evil in the 7th century

BC, will be also be reborn in the last days (Jer. 50-51; Rev. 17).

● The Days of Awe, which announce and lead up to the Day of Atonement

and beginning of the new year in the Hebrew calendar, may correspond

to the Tribulation period, a time of awe that announce and leads to a

new Kingdom, and the Millennial Reign of Christ.

● The wedding motif that is prominent in the Songs of Solomon and many

of Jesus’ parables, is also associated with the Rapture (the time when

the Groom comes for His bride, the Church), and the future wedding

banquet celebration in the kingdom of heaven (Rev. 19:7-10).

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MESSIANIC

PROPHECIES

Prophecies concerning the Messiah make up the largest category of biblical

prophecy. These prophecies were given so that individuals would have hope,

would recognize the Messiah when He came, and would trust the integrity of

God’s Word. The fulﬁllment of these prophecies arm that Scripture is true, and

that what God has promised He can bring about.

Some have suggested that 2000 years ago, a group familiar with Messianic

prophecies sought to manufacture a Messiah to give hope to the oppressed

nation of Israel. The story is that to this end, they worked with Joseph to help

him travel with Mary to Bethlehem and then to Egypt, they helped to establish

Jesus’ ministry in Galilee, staged many of His purported miracles, faked His

death on the cross, resuscitated Him and circulated reports of His resurrection.

This supposition is designed to disparage the integrity of Scripture and deny the

deity of Christ. It also supposes that individuals could somehow orchestrate the

fulﬁllment of the scores of precise prophecies (many of which are far beyond

the ability to control). The truth is, it takes more faith to believe that humans

could orchestrate the fulﬁllment of more than a hundred Messianic prophecies

than it does to believe that God was at work and these prophecies were fulﬁlled

as part of the unfolding of His perfect plan.

As stated in a previous section, Jesus fulﬁlled more than 125 general prophecies.

The probability of Jesus fulﬁlling just eight prophecies picked at random is

approximately 1 in 10

. This number approximates the odds of blindly picking

the one marked silver dollar mixed in with coins two feet deep in an area the

size of the state of Texas. The probability of Jesus fulﬁlling just 48 of the 125

speciﬁc prophecies he fulﬁlled is 1 in 10

157

(a number similar to the number of

atoms in the universe). A proﬁle of a few dozen Messianic prophecies follow.

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A PARTIAL LIST OF MESSIANIC PROPHECIES

THE MESSIANIC

PROPHECY

OLD TESTAMENT

REFERENCE

NEW TESTAMENT

FULFILLMENT

The Messiah would be born

of a virgin

Genesis 3:15,

Isa. 7:14

Matt. 1:20-23;

Gal. 4:4; Luke 1:26-31

The Messiah would come

from the line of Abraham,

Isaac, Jacob, and David

Gen. 12:3, 17:19, 21:12,

22:18, 49:10, Num.

24:17; 2 Sam. 7:12-13

Genesis 22:18

Matt. 1:1-2;

Luke 1:32-33, 3:33-34;

Rom. 1:3, 9:5;

Heb. 7:14

The Messiah would ﬂee

to Egypt

Hosea 11:1 Matt. 2:14-15

A massacre of children

would accompany the

Messiah’s birth

Jeremiah 31:15 Matthew 2:16-18

A messenger would prepare

the way for Messiah

Isaiah 40:3-5 Luke 3:3-6

The Messiah would be

despised and rejected by his

own people

Psalm 69:8

Isaiah 53:3

John 1:11

John 7:5

The Messiah would be

declared the Son of God

Psalm 2:7 Matthew 3:16-17

The Messiah would be a

Nazarene

Isaiah 11:1 Matthew 2:23

The Messiah would minister

in the region of Galilee

Isaiah 9:1-2 Matthew 4:13-16

10.

The Messiah would speak in

parables

Psalm 78:2-4

Isaiah 6:9-10

Matthew 13:10-15,

34-35

11.

The Messiah would be sent

to heal the brokenhearted

Isaiah 61:1-2 Luke 4:18-19

12.

The Messiah would be

praised by children

Psalm 8:2 Matthew 21:16

13.

The Messiah betrayed for 30

pieces of silver

Psalm 41:9

Zechariah 11:12-13

Luke 22:47-48

Matthew 26:14-16

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THE MESSIANIC

PROPHECY

OLD TESTAMENT

REFERENCE

NEW TESTAMENT

FULFILLMENT

14.

The Messiah would be

falsely accused

Psalm 35:11 Mark 14:57-58

15.

The Messiah would be silent

before His accusers

Isaiah 53:7 Mark 15:4-5

16. The Messiah would be struck Isaiah 50:6 Matthew 26:67

17.

The Messiah would be

cruciﬁed with criminals

Isaiah 53:12

Matthew 27:38

Mark 15:27-28

18.

The Messiah would be given

vinegar to drink

Psalm 69:21

Matthew 27:34

John 19:28-30

19.

The Messiah’s hands and

feet would be pierced

Psalm 22:16

Zechariah 12:10

John 20:25-27

20.

Soldiers would gamble for

Messiah’s garments

Psalm 22:18

Luke 23:34

Matthew 27:35-36

21.

The Messiah’s bones would

not be broken

Exodus 12:46

Psalm 34:20

John 19:33-36

22.

Soldiers would pierce the

Messiah’s side

Zechariah 12:10 John 19:34

23.

The Messiah would be

buried with the rich

Isaiah 53:9 Matthew 27:57-60

24.

The Messiah would

resurrect from the dead

Psalm 16:10

Psalm 49:15

Matt. 28:2-7

Acts 2:22-32

25.

The Messiah would ascend

to heaven

Psalm 24:7-10

Mark 16:19

Luke 24:51

26.

The Messiah would be a

sacriﬁce for sin.

Isaiah 53:5-12 Romans 5:6-8

SOURCES FOR ADDITIONAL STUDY

100 Prophecies Fulﬁlled by Jesus: Messianic

Prophecies Made Before the Birth of Christ

by Rose Publishing; Book of Bible Lists by H.L. Willington;

NKJV Study Bible; Life Application Study Bible.

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We never carry our cross alone

(See Matthew 11:28-30)

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PROPHECIES

CONCERNING ISRAEL

Israel’s First Captivity and Return

About 2000 years before the birth of Jesus, on the 14th day of Nisan (the future

day of Passover), the Lord made a covenant with Abraham concerning the

Promised Land. God foretold that Abraham’s descendants would be in aiction

and bondage for four centuries.

“And he said unto Abraham, know of a surety

that thy seed shall be a stranger in a land that is not theirs, and shall serve

them, and they shall aict them four hundred years”

(Genesis 15:13).

● Exodus 12 and Galatians 3 notes how this prophecy was fulﬁlled.

“Now the

sojourning of the children of Israel, who dwelt in Egypt, was four hundred

and thirty years. And it came to pass at the end of the four hundred and

thirty years, even the selfsame day it came to pass, that all the hosts of the

Lord went out from the land of Egypt”

(Exodus 12:40-41).

●

“On Passover, 430 years later, the captivity ended.”

(Galatians 3:17)

Israel’s Second Captivity and Return

Between 900 and 606 B.C., many of the kings of Israel rebelled against God

and led their people to turn to idol worship despite God’s explicit warnings

through His prophets. Because of willful disobedience, the ten northern tribes

of Israel were conquered by the Assyrians in 721 B.C. (2 Kings 17:6). Jeremiah

prophesied that the Kingdom of Judah would also be invaded and the people

displaced (for precisely 70 years) because of their sins.

“And this whole land

shall be a desolation, and an astonishment; and these nations shall serve the

king of Babylon seventy years” (Jeremiah 25:11).

Precisely 70 years after their

exile, on the ﬁrst day of Nisan, 536 B.C. (just as Jeremiah had prophesied), King

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Cyrus of Persia released the Jews. Despite the royal permission, only a small

remnant of the Jews left Babylon and returned to Israel. The vast majority never

returned, and chose to live throughout the Persian empire.

The Third Displacement

The Bible contains numerous prophecies regarding a ﬁnal return of exiles to

the Promised Land in the “last days.” The prophet Ezekiel received a vision

concerning the ﬁnal return of his people.

“This shall be a sign to the house of Israel. Lie thou also upon

thy left side, and lay the iniquity of the house of Israel upon it:

according to the number of the days that thou shalt lie upon

it thou shalt bear their iniquity. For I have laid upon thee the

years of their iniquity, according to the number of the days,

three hundred and ninety days: so shalt thou bear the iniquity

of the house of Israel. And when thou hast accomplished them,

lie again on thy right side, and thou shalt bear the iniquity of

the house of Judah forty days: I have appointed thee each

day for a year.”

(Ezekiel 4:3-6).

An analysis of the prophecy is presented below:

● Ezekiel declared that each day represents one biblical year.

● Israel, therefore, would be punished (kept from being a nation) for 430

years (390 years plus 40 years).

● At the end of 70 years of captivity, in Nisan of 536 BC, a small remnant

of the house of Judah returned to Jerusalem to fulﬁll the prophecy of

Jeremiah 25:11.

● The vast majority of Jews remained in the Persian Empire as colonists. As a

whole, the nation of Israel was viewed as being unfaithful to the Lord.

Interpreting the Ezekiel 4 Prophecy

● When one deducts the 70 years of captivity (in Babylon) that ended in

Nisan 536 BC, from Ezekiel’s 430 years of punishment, Israel is still left

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with 360 years of further captivity to serve (or better said, 360 years of not

being an independent nation). However, 360 years later, Israel was still not

a sovereign and independent nation.

R The solution to this mystery is found in Leviticus 26. There the Lord

established promises and punishments based on obedience and

disobedience. God told Israel four times in this passage that if, after being

punished for her sins, Israel would not repent, the punishments previously

speciﬁed would be multiplied by seven.

“And if ye will not yet for all this

hearken unto me, then I will punish you seven times more for your sins”

(Leviticus 26:18; also Leviticus 26:21, 23-24, 27-28). As the Israelites did

not repent, the punishment previously promised (360 years) was now

multiplied seven times (360 years x 7 = 2,520 biblical years). Therefore,

Israel would become a sovereign and independent nation only after 2,520

biblical years from the time of the exile and fall of the government of Israel

in 606 BC.

● Interpreting the prophecy

» Biblical Years: The Hebrews of old followed a lunar calendar and each

year was 360 days. The 70-year Babylonian captivity (Jer. 25:11) ended

in the spring of 536 BC (1

Nisan). Our calculations begin at this date.

» The period of worldwide captivity/displacement would last 2,520

years (as reckoned by the ancient Hebrews a lunar calendar).

» 2520 biblical years = 907,200 days.

» The next step is to add 907,200 days from the day Israel returned from

exile (536 BC).

» Make the adjustment for the (lack of) year 0.

» Make an adjustment for the changes made when the world moved to

the Gregorian Calendar (1582).

THE CALCULATIONS BRING YOU TO

MAY 14TH 1948THE DAY THAT ISRAEL WAS

REESTABLISHED AS AN INDEPENDENT NATION.

Note that a little more than 19 years after the surrender of the Hebrew

government (606 BC), Jerusalem was destroyed by the forces of

Nebuchadnezzar (587 BC).

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By following the same process noted above…

● Add 907,200 days from the day Israel returned from exile (536 BC).

● Make an adjustment for the year 0.

● Make an adjustment for the move to the Gregorian Calendar (in 1582).

● Add the number of days between the fall of the government and the fall of

Jerusalem, to the day that Israel became a nation in 1948 = June 7, 1967.

THIS IS THE DAY THAT ISRAEL REGAINED CONTROL

OF JERUSALEM IN THE 6 DAY WAR.

PROPHECY 1

“And this whole land shall be a desolation

and astonishment. And these nations shall serve the king of

Babylon seventy years.”

Jer. 25:11

PROPHECY 2

“Lie also on your left side, and lay the iniquity

of the house of Israel upon it. According to the number of days

that you lie on it, you shall bear their iniquity. For I have laid

on you the years of their iniquity, according to the number of

the days, 390 days so you shall bear the iniquity of the house

of Israel. And when you have completed them, lie again on

your right site. Then you shall bear the iniquity of…Judah for

40 days. I have laid on you a day for each year.”

Ezek. 4:4-6

NEW TESTAMENT ERA PROPHECIES REGARDING ISRAEL

Noted in this section is a sampling of New Testament era prophecies about

Israel and the Hebrew people. These prophecies were fulﬁlled between 70

A.D. and the present. Note: ‘Birth Pains’ and Tribulation period prophecies are

proﬁled in another section.

● The destruction of the Temple: The Temple was destroyed by the Romans

in the year 70 AD. “And they shall fall by the edge of the sword…Jerusalem

shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be

fulﬁlled.” Luke 21:24, Luke 19:43-44.

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● The scattering of the Jews: This happened as a result of a series of failed

uprisings against the Romans to gain independence. “…And I scattered

them among the heathen, and they were dispersed through the countries:

according to their way and according to their doings I judged them...”

Ezek. 36:17-24.

● The Hebrews will return to the land of Israel: The exodus back to Israel

began in 1948, and is happening in great numbers even now. “This is what

the Lord says: ‘I will save my people from the countries of the east and the

west. I will bring them back to live in Jerusalem…’” Zech. 8:7-8

● The cities of Israel will be rebuilt: The rebuilding of Israel these last 70

years has been amazing. Israel leads the region in agriculture, economy,

education, and medical research. “I will bring back my exiled people Israel;

they will rebuild the ruined cities and live in them. They will plant vineyards

and drink their wine; they will make gardens and eat their fruit. I will plant

Israel in their own land, never again to be uprooted from the land I have

given them,” says the Lord your God.” Amos 9:14-15

● Israel will become a nation in a day: This very strange prophecy was

fulﬁlled when, by UN Charter, Israel became a sovereign and independent

nation by the stroke of a pen in May 1948. “Before she goes into labor,

she gives birth; before the pains come upon her, she delivers a son. Who

has ever heard of such a thing? Who has ever seen such things? Can a

country be born in a day or a nation be brought forth in a moment? Yet no

sooner is Zion in labor than she gives birth to her children.” Isaiah 66:7-8

● The Hebrew language will return to Israel: Many do not recognize that

because the Jews were scattered and Israel was occupied by various

nations through the centuries, Hebrew was not the primary language in the

land of Israel for more than 1000 years. Yet, in fulﬁllment of this prophecy, it

is today. Note: Israel is the only nation in the world to be displaced for more

than 1000 years and then reestablish as a nation. “For then I will return to

the people a pure language, that they may all call upon the name of the

Lord, to serve him…” Zeph. 3:9 (KJV)

● Israel will prosper: It is clear that Israel’s prosperity these last 50-70 years

is disproportionate to that of the nations which surround her (Egypt, Libya,

Jordan, Syria, etc.). This is not because Israel has received some ﬁnancial

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backing from America. Russia and various Arab states have provided

signiﬁcant military and ﬁnancial support to the nations surrounding Israel.

It is because of the grace of God, and is the fulﬁllment of prophecy. “I

will increase the number of men and animals upon you, and they will be

fruitful… I will settle people on you as in the past and will make you prosper

more than before. Then you will know that I am the Lord.” Ezekiel 36:11

● The new or reestablished Israel will not be a divided kingdom: Israel

was a divided Kingdom for about three hundred years (approximately 940

B.C. to its fall in 600 B.C.). It was restored as a nation in 1948 A.D., and has

been a united nation since that time, fulﬁlling the Ezek. 37:15-22 prophecy.

● A King will not rule the restored Israel: The returning Jews will have no

king until Jesus returns (Hosea 3:4-5).

● The red heifer: A red heifer without blemish must be born and sacriﬁced

to purify the Temple in Israel (Numbers 19:2-9). The Temple Institute has

recently acquired a kosher red heifer.

● Signs and wonders: Signs and wonders will not convince the masses to

turn to Jesus. Though Israel will be the focus of many fulﬁlled prophecies,

most will not recognize Jesus as Messiah (Luke 19:41-42; Luke 13:34-35;

Rom. 11:25-26).

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PROPHECIES PERTAINING

TO THE CHURCH AGE

More than 100 Bible prophecies address the Church Age and 21st-century

Church. This section provides a general summary of these prophecies, and will

assist the reader in gaining insight into what will take place in the Church, and in

the world, in the days to come. For additional information, please see our study

on the Lord’s message to the seven churches in the book of Revelation on

the

IAmAWatchman.com

website.

● Jesus Christ will establish the Church and serve as the Head and

Cornerstone: (Matthew 16:18 / 1 Peter 2:6). The fulﬁllment of this prophecy

took place at Pentecost – 50 days after the cruciﬁxion.

● Every nation will hear the Gospel message:

“And this gospel of the

kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations,

and then the end will come.” (Matt. 24:14; 28:18-20).

The fulﬁllment of this

prophecy is expected to be fulﬁlled soon.

● False prophets will lead many astray: (2 Peter. 2:1-2). This prophecy is

in the process of being fulﬁlled. The last days will see an increase in the

number and inﬂuence of false teachers.

● Violence will increase: The Bible notes that war, crime, and violence will

signiﬁcantly increase during the ﬁnal decades before the commencement

of the Tribulation period (Luke 17:26; Genesis 6:11-13). In the United States,

violent crime has increased nearly 500% since 1960. Fifty years ago

abortion was illegal in most countries. Today abortion is legal in many

countries, and more than 50 million children each year. The news seems

saturated with reports of terror and violence, but the worst is yet to be.

● Knowledge will increase: This is not a reference to technological, scientiﬁc

or medical advances, it is a reference to an increase in understanding of

Scripture and prophetic references (Daniel 12:4). It is interesting to note that

since the year 2000, there has been a marked increase in the development

of prophecy-related books and ministries.

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● Disease (pestilences) will increase: (Matthew 24:7; Revelation 6:8).

Through the centuries there have been plagues--but in recent decades

there has been a marked increase in unusual and exotic deadly diseases.

● There will be “signs and wonders” in the heavens: (Luke 21:11, 26;

Revelation 6:12). These may include (but not be limited to) red or blood

moons, solar eclipses, comets, unusual sun activity, and uncommon

celestial formations.

● Famines will increase: (Luke 21:11; Revelation 6:5-8). In recent years, at any

given time approximately 20 million people are on the brink of starvation.

● A global economic system will exist: (Revelation 13:16-17). Global ﬁnancial

systems and economic alliances are fragile. That fact, and advancing

technology, make moving to a new economic system (a cashless society)

where all purchases can be monitored, a not-too-distant-future possibility.

● The nations surrounding Israel will conspire against them and attack

(Psalm 83:4-8; Zechariah 12:2). Today, Israel is surrounded by hostile

nations and ﬁnds little support in the United Nations organization.

● Jerusalem will be a “burdensome stone” and “cup of trembling:” (Zech.

12:2-3). Since 1967, issues regarding the partition of Jerusalem and the

Temple Mount have been a source of tension and regional conﬂict.

● God will return Jerusalem to the Jews: (Zech. 12:3). Israel regained control

over Jerusalem after the 1967 war (a miraculous victory). However, rightful

control over this city is in dispute. The United Nations, the Vatican, and

many world leaders want to make Jerusalem an international city. The

Palestinians want Jerusalem as their capital city. However, God says

that the city is His and He has given it to the Jews forever (Gen. 15:18;

Lev. 25:23; 2 Chron. 6:6). All who burden themselves with it will be “cut

in pieces.” Despite God’s warning, UN Resolution 476 states that Israel’s

claims to Jerusalem are null and void, and in May of 2017, UNESCO (the

United Nations Educational, Scientiﬁc and Cultural Organization) stated

that Israel has no historic right to the Temple Mount area.

● The destruction of Damascus: Damascus will lie in ruins and be rendered

uninhabitable (Isaiah 17:1, 14; Jeremiah 49:23-27; Amos 1:3-5; Zechariah

9:1-8). Damascus is the capital of Syria, and Syria is hostile to Israel and

heavily supported by Russia and Iran. The destruction of this city will be a

signiﬁcant international event.

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● Great earthquakes: There will be an increase in the number of earthquakes

“in diverse” (unusual) places (Luke 21:11; Isaiah 24:19-20; Revelation 6:12-14;

16:18-20). Experts note that in the last 50 years, the number of earthquakes

each year has remained relatively constant, but the number of higher

magnitude earthquakes has increased substantially.

● Narcissism: Humanity will become increasingly materialistic, selﬁsh and

lovers of pleasure (2 Timothy 3:1-5). It not dicult to see that in many

(perhaps most) cultures, selﬁshness, self-centeredness, and feelings of

entitlement are on the rise.

● A lack of respect for authority: Youth will become increasingly rebellious

(2 Timothy 3:2-3; Mark 13:12). Anger, crime, the school drop-out rate, the

creation of safe zones, protests and counter-culture demonstrations point

to social-shifts that are moving the world toward the fulﬁllment of this

prophecy.

● Persecution: Jesus said Christians “would be hated for His name’s sake”

(Luke 21:17; Revelation 6:9-11; 20:4). Studies show that Christians are the

#1 persecuted people-group in the world. Open Doors ministry reports

that on average, more than 215 million people face extreme persecution

for their faith every day. The current scope of persecution surpasses the

persecution Christians experienced during the dark days of the Roman

Empire.

● Sexual confusion and homosexuality: Jesus warned that the last days

would be like the days of Lot (Luke 17:28-30). Since 1960, there has been

a profound shift regarding homosexuality in many parts of the world. The

behavior has moved from being viewed as sinful and shameful, to being

commended and lauded. It is common now for politicians and the media to

endorse and proﬁle the behavior. Teachers seek to shape the thinking of

today’s youth by presenting the behavior as a new normal. The behavior

has never been, and will never be acceptable to God, but prophecy notes

that the world will attempt to make it seem so in the last days.

● Apostasy in the Church: Apostasy will occur before the Antichrist is

revealed (2 Thessalonians 2:3). Prophecy notes that in the last days the

Church will question and move away from foundational teachings. In recent

decades a number of ‘mainline’ denominations have argued (and some

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have split) because church leadership cannot agree on core teachings

such as: Is hell to be understood literally or ﬁguratively? Is the Bible true

and to be understood literally? Was Jesus divine? Did Jesus indeed die

on the cross? Is homosexuality a sin? Is there a Heaven? etc. Increasingly,

experience-based Christianity is replacing the Bible as the standard for

saving faith.

● The ecumenical movement is striving for unity at the expense of truth. In

the name of tolerance Christ’s absolutes are rejected as irrelevant. This

trend will continue and escalate until the midpoint of the tribulation period

when there will be a forced One-World (compromised) religion (Rev. 13, 17).

“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

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A REVIEW OF THE BATTLE

OF ARMAGEDDON AND THE

GOG-MAGOG INVASION

The term Armageddon is one of the best known (and least understood) four-

syllable biblical words. Some suggest the term Armageddon references a

battle proﬁled in the book of Revelation; others suggest it references two or

more conﬂicts, separated by a thousand years. Some argue that Armageddon

does not refer to a battle at all, but to a geographic location. Of those who

believe it is a geographic location are two groups – one believes it is a valley;

the other teaches it is a battle in the mountains. Others note that the Battle of

Armageddon is linked to (and the same as) the conﬂicts mentioned in Psalm

83 and Isaiah 17, while still others link the Battle of Armageddon with the

engagements mentioned in Ezekiel 38-39 (also called the Gog-Magog War).

In this section I will provide an overview of pivotal battles noted in prophetic

passages, and how these conﬂicts correlate with the Battle of Armageddon.

WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT? Satan loves confusion, doubt, and division. Those

who do not know the truth are vulnerable to false teaching and can easily

become discouraged when prophecies fail to unfold as bad teachers predict

(as was the case which Jesus did not return in May 2014, or October 2015, or

September 2017). Believers in Christ are to know His teachings and be able to

“correctly handle the word of truth” (2 Tim. 2:15b).

KEY PROVISIONS: In recent decades there has been a push to view the Bible

as allegorical. Many now hold that the Bible may impart a few generally positive

guiding principles, but it certainly is not a living, Spirit-inspired message from

God to be taken literally. Many faulty approaches to interpreting Scripture ﬂow

from this corrupt view. In researching this vital subject and writing this article, I

followed the most common hermeneutic practices (procedures governing the

interpretation of Scripture) established by conservative leaders of the historic

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Christian Church. These guiding principles include:

● A belief that the Bible is accurate, true, and inspired.

● A belief that major prophetic sections of the books of Revelation and

Ezekiel are written in chronological order.

● A belief that Bible prophecy is speciﬁc and every detail of a prophecy

must be fulﬁlled for the prophecy to be considered fulﬁlled. [For

example, if a prophecy notes that 6 nations will attack Israel, and

only 4 nations attack, that prophecy would be considered not yet

fulﬁlled.]

● A belief that some variance in detail does not negate the possibility

of writers proﬁling the same event. [For example, the Gospel writers

presented signiﬁcantly dierent details when recording the events

that took place on the Sunday following the cross.]

KEY TERMS: Understanding what Bible prophecy notes will happen in the

future begins with an understanding of key biblical terms. These include:

● Armageddon: T

he word appears only once in the New Testament

(Rev. 16:16) and references the location of the last (and decisive)

battle before the return of Christ and commencement of His

Millennial Reign. This battle will conclude the seven-year Tribulation

period. During this battle the armies of the Antichrist and False

Prophet will be defeated by Jesus Christ. The Antichrist and False

Prophet will be judged and thrown into the pit of fire, and Christ will

then usher-in His Millennial Kingdom.

● Millennial Reign: The literal 1000-year period in which Christ will

reign on a renewed earth in fulfillment of the Isaiah 9:7 prophecy.

His Kingdom and reign will be marked by peace and righteousness.

His subjects will include the saints, Tribulation martyrs, and

believers who survived the Tribulation period.

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● The Gog-Magog War: In general, this references vast evil armies

moving against Israel. The primary biblical reference point for this war

is Ezekiel chapters 38-39, however, the terms Gog and Magog are also

referenced in Revelation 20.

● Elam: An ancient reference to southwestern Iran (Persia).

● Gog and Magog: In Genesis 10, Gog is mentioned as an individual

(a descendant of Noah), and his land is Magog. Gog can also be

understood as a title, meaning leader. I.e., Gog is the leader of the

inhabitants of Magog.

WHAT IS CLEAR: Though there is debate regarding the interpretation of some

prophetic passages, the vast majority of Bible Scholars agree that...

● The Psalm 83 War is NOT the Battle of Armageddon or the Gog-Magog

War. The names of the nations or people groups attacking Israel,

the scope of the battle, how Israel is victorious in the ﬁght, and the

aftermath of the battle are markedly dierent in the Psalm 83 War than

in the Battle of Armageddon (Revelation 16-19) or the Gog-Magog War

(Ezekiel 38-39).

● The Psalm 83 War can likely be linked to the destruction of Damascus

(noted in Isaiah 17), and the expansion of Israel’s borders or sphere of

control (noted in Ezekiel 23, Jeremiah 49 and Isaiah 19).

● The Battle of Armageddon is proﬁled in Revelation 16-19.

● Ezekiel’s eschatological proﬁle of future Israel is chronological. Chapter

36 prophecies promise a renewed Israel, chapter 37 prophecies note a

restored Israel, chapter 38-39 prophecies notes an invasion against a

restored Israel, and chapter 40 prophecies proﬁle the Millennial Reign

of Christ in Israel.

● The Bible notes that there are TWO battles involving Gog and Magog.

There is conjecture regarding the timing of the ﬁrst Gog-Magog

conﬂict, but virtually all conservative scholars agree that this conﬂict is

proﬁled in Ezekiel 38-39 and will precede the Millennium. The second

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Gog-Magog conﬂict will take place at the end of the Millennial Reign of

Christ, and is proﬁled in Revelation 20:1-10.

WHAT IS NOT ABSOLUTELY CLEAR: Good Bible scholars are not in agreement

on the following points regarding the wars.

● Whether or not the Psalm 83 War prophecy has already been fulﬁlled.

Most believe that the Psalm 83 War is yet future, but some notable

teachers hold that Psalm 83 prophecies were fulﬁlled in the battle for

Israel that took place in 1948, or that Psalm 83 prophecies were fulﬁlled

in stages, in conﬂicts that took place in 1948, 1949, 1967 and 1973.

Those who hold this view believe that the Isaiah 17 prophecy regarding

the destruction of Damascus is imminent but can occur separately from

the fulﬁllment of the Psalm 83 prophecy by some years.

● Whether or not the Ezekiel 38-39 Gog-Magog War is the same is the

Revelation 16-19 Battle of Armageddon. What follows is a comparative

analysis of the two conﬂicts.

WHY SOME BELIEVE THE BATTLE OF ARMAGEDDON AND THE EZEKIEL

38-39 GOG-MAGOG CONFLICT ARE ONE AND THE SAME.

● In both conﬂicts, God intervenes and brings about the victory (which is

dierent from the Psalm 83 War where Israel’s army, blessed by God,

secures the victory).

● The depiction of God’s wrath in Ezekiel 38:19-22 resembles happenings

associated with the Battle of Armageddon as proﬁled in Revelation

16. In both passages, God aids Israel by sending an earthquake and

pestilence, and ﬁre and hail fall from the sky.

● The Revelation 16-19 Battle of Armageddon directly precedes the

Millennial Reign of Christ, which tracks well with the eschatological

chronology in Ezekiel: in chapter 36 there is a promise to renew the

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land of Israel, in chapter 37 Israel is restored as a nation, in chapters

38-39, Israel is attacked but supernaturally protected, and in chapter

40 the Millennial Reign of Christ begins.

● The immediate aftermath of the wars is similar when comparing Ezekiel

39:17-20 with Revelation 19:17-20.

● Gog and Magog are mentioned in Ezekiel 38 and Revelation 20.

● Historically, most have equated the Gog-Magog War with Armageddon.

● The devastating earthquake that ﬂattens every mountain in Ezekiel 38

is very similar to the earthquake prophesied to take place during the

Battle of Armageddon in Revelation 16.

WHY SOME BELIEVE THE REVELATION 16-19 BATTLE OF ARMAGEDDON

AND THE EZEKIEL 38-39 GOG-MAGOG CONFLICT ARE SEPARATE AND

DISTINCT CONFLICTS

● There seem to be more nations involved in the Battle of Armageddon

than in the Gog-Magog War.

● In the Gog-Magog War of Ezekiel 38-39, it takes seven months to bury

the dead, and Israelis utilize enemy weapons for fuel for seven years.

This is not mentioned in the Revelation 16-19 Battle of Armageddon,

and some argue that because the Revelation 16-19 battle happens at

the end of the Tribulation period, there is not an interpretation allowing

for the burying of the dead over a period of months, or for the use of

enemy weapons as fuel for seven years. Note: The argument is that

such activity would extend well past the end of the Tribulation period,

and would not appear to ﬁt well with the time that Jesus reigns on a

supernaturally renewed earth and is providing for His people in what is

known as the Millennial Reign of Christ.

● The purpose of God bringing victory to Israel in the Ezekiel 38-39 Gog-

Magog War is to bring Israel to repentance so that all acknowledge the

Lord. The purpose of God moving to bring victory to Israel in the Battle

of Armageddon is to deliver believers from the horrors of the reign of

the Antichrist.

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● In Matthew 24 and in Revelation 12, those who ﬂee the wrath of the

Antichrist run to the hills (a move encouraged by Jesus in Mark 13:14).

However, the Gog-Magog War takes place in the mountains (which

God will ﬂatten via a supernatural earthquake). This likely puts this

Ezekiel 38-39 Gog-Magog War before the mid-point of the Tribulation.

● In the Ezekiel 38-39 Gog-Magog War, the name of the leader of the

armies advancing against Israel is Gog—in Hebrew, the numerical

value of his name is 12. In the Battle of Armageddon, the leader of the

armies advancing against Israel is the Beast—the numerical value of

his name is 666.

● In Ezekiel 38-39, the battle takes place in the mountains of Israel, and

the battle does not seem to impact Jerusalem. In the Revelation 16-19

Battle of Armageddon, enemy forces are vanquished in a valley (Joel

3:2), and a river of blood runs through Israel (Rev 14:20).

● The Ezekiel 38-39 Gog-Magog War occurs when Israel is enjoying

peace and safety (“…a nation of unwalled villages…” Ezek. 38:11). The

Revelation 16-19 Battle of Armageddon takes place at the end of the

Tribulation. At that time, the Antichrist is oppressing and threatening to

destroy Israel, and some Hebrews have ﬂed to the mountains of Petra

(Revelation 12:6) for safety.

● The purpose of the Gog-Magog invasion is to “take the spoil,” while the

purpose of Armageddon is to destroy Israel once and for all.

● The primary direction of advancing armies in the Gog-Magog War

come from the North—in the Battle of Armageddon enemies move

against Israel from all corners of the globe.

● At the end of the Battle of Armageddon, Jesus Christ stands on Mount

Olivet—there are no references to a divine presence appearing in the

Ezekiel 38-39 Gog-Magog War.

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RESPONSES TO ANTICIPATED QUESTIONS REGARDING THE ABOVE

(see italics font)

● There seem to be more nations involved in the Battle of Armageddon

than in the Gog-Magog War. It is possible that Ezekiel 38 presents a

partial listing of enemy nations (noting only key players or leaders of the

engagement), and that the “every nation of the world” verse associated

with the Battle of Armageddon is a general statement meaning many

nations are involved in the attack. Neither passage provides conclusive

evidence to argue for or against the view that the Gog-Magog War is the

same as the Battle of Armageddon.

● In the Gog-Magog War of Ezekiel 38-39, it takes seven months to bury the

dead, and Israelis utilize enemy weapons for fuel for seven years. This is

not mentioned in the Revelation 16-19 Battle of Armageddon, and some

argue that because the Revelation 16-19 battle happens at the end of the

Tribulation period, there is not an interpretation allowing for the burying

of the dead over a period of months, or for the use of enemy weapons

as fuel for seven years. In the Gog-Magog War, the dead are buried—

in the Battle of Armageddon the dead are vaporized by the power of

God or savaged by birds and wild animals. The dierences regarding

the dead, and the fact that Israel will use weapons of war for fuel for

seven years after the Gog-Magog War represents reasonably compelling

evidence supporting the view that the Gog-Magog War and the Battle of

Armageddon are two separate conﬂicts.

● The purpose of God bringing victory to Israel in the Ezekiel 38-39 Gog-

Magog War is to bring Israel to repentance so that all acknowledge the

Lord. The object of God moving to bring victory to Israel in the Battle of

Armageddon is to deliver believers from the horrors of the reign of the

Antichrist. Again, these dierences represent reasonably compelling

evidence supporting the view that the Gog-Magog War and the Battle of

Armageddon are two separate conﬂicts.

● In Matthew 24 and in Revelation 12, those who ﬂee the wrath of the

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Antichrist run to the hills (a move encouraged by Jesus in Mark 13:14).

However, the Gog-Magog War takes place in the mountains (which God

will ﬂatten via a supernatural earthquake). This likely puts the Ezekiel 38-

39 Gog-Magog War before the mid-point of the Tribulation. References

to the location of the Gog-Magog War and the Battle of Armageddon

are general and do not provide conclusive evidence that these are two

dierent conﬂicts. Those who argue that Armageddon must take place

in the Valley of Jehoshaphat must remember that the engagement will

involve millions of soldiers and that soldiers and equipment will likely

occupy the entire region. Also, the word Armageddon means the mound

(mountain) of Megiddo or “Mountain of Assembly.”

● In the Ezekiel 38-39 Gog-Magog War, the name of the leader of the

armies advancing against Israel is Gog—in Hebrew, the numerical value

of his name is 12. In the Battle of Armageddon, the leader of the armies

advancing against Israel is the Beast—the numerical value of his name is

666. The dierence in how the key leaders are referenced (more than the

dierence in the numerical value of the names of the leaders) represents

reasonably compelling evidence supporting the view that the Gog-

Magog War and the Battle of Armageddon are two separate conﬂicts.

● In Ezekiel 38-39, the battle takes place in the mountains of Israel—the

battle does not seem to impact Jerusalem. In the Revelation 16-19 Battle

of Armageddon, enemy forces are vanquished in a valley (Joel 3:2), and

a river of blood runs through Israel (Rev 14:20). Again, references to the

location of the Gog-Magog War and the Battle of Armageddon (and

the inclusion of the detail about the ‘river of blood’) do not represent

conclusive evidence that these are two dierent conﬂicts.

● The Ezekiel 38-39 Gog-Magog War occurs when Israel is enjoying peace

and safety (“nation of unwalled villages” Ezek. 38:11). The Revelation 16-

19 Battle of Armageddon takes place at the end of the Tribulation, at a

time when the Antichrist is oppressing and threatening to destroy Israel

(and some Hebrews have ﬂed to the mountains of Petra (Revelation 12:6)

for safety. In the Hebrew text, the term “safety” can be understood as

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conﬁdence. That is, though there is a threat of war (as there is today),

Israel can be at peace and feel safe because they are conﬁdent in their

military ability to check any threat against them. This is the primary

counter-argument to those who teach that Israel will only live in peace

and safety AFTER the Psalm 83 War and expansion of borders or AFTER

they enter into a peace compact with the Antichrist (Daniel 9:27).

● The stated purpose of the armies involved in the Gog-Magog invasion is

to “take the spoil,” while the purpose of Armageddon is to destroy Israel

once and for all. The distinction regarding motive represents compelling

evidence supporting the view that the Gog-Magog War and the Battle of

Armageddon are two separate conﬂicts.

● In the Gog-Magog invasion, armies advance on Israel from the North. In

the Battle of Armageddon, enemies move against Israel from all corners of

the globe. The dierent notations regarding the direction of the attack do

not represent conclusive evidence that the Gog-Magog War and Battle of

Armageddon are separate conﬂicts. The reference “from the North” can

merely be a reference to the location of the base of the principal leader,

the primary (but not sole) direction of the advance, or the direction that

armies from the four corners of the earth will gather and then begin their

advance.

● At the end of the Battle of Armageddon, Jesus Christ appears and stands on

Mount Olivet, but there are no references to a divine presence appearing

in the Ezekiel 38-39 Gog-Magog War. Even though Ezekiel was writing

before the birth of Christ, the distinction regarding the conclusion of these

battles is signiﬁcant enough to represent compelling evidence supporting

the view that the Gog-Magog War and the Battle of Armageddon are two

separate conﬂicts.

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REASONABLE CONCLUSIONS

● The Psalm 83 War prophecy could be partially fulﬁlled at this point in

history, but it appears that all Psalm 83 prophecies have not yet been

completely fulﬁlled. It can be argued that the 10 nations or people

groups identiﬁed in Psalm 83 have not, in coordination, attacked Israel

as prophesied, and the stated result of the Psalm 83 War – that these

nations would be “ﬁlled with shame and seek your name” (83:16-18)

has not yet been realized.

● The Isaiah 17 prophecy regarding the destruction of Damascus can

likely be associated with (or will immediately follow) the Psalm 83 War.

● The expansion of Israel’s borders will likely be associated with (or

immediately follow) the complete fulﬁllment of the prophesied Psalm

83 and Isaiah 17 conﬂicts (see Ezekiel 23, Jeremiah 49 and Isaiah 19).

● The expansion of Israel’s borders (see Ezekiel 23, Jeremiah 49 and

Isaiah 19) likely explains why the nations near Israel are not mentioned

in the coalition of nations attacking Israel in the Ezekiel 38-39 Gog-

Magog War or Battle of Armageddon.

● The Ezekiel 38-39 Gog-Magog War is dierent from the Battle of

Armageddon, and because it will take place in the mountains (where

God’s people will later take refuge), the battle will likely take place

before the midpoint of the Tribulation.

● There will be TWO wars associated with the terms Gog and Magog.

The ﬁrst is the war is proﬁled in Ezekiel 38-39, the second is proﬁled

in Revelation 20 and takes place at the end of the Millennial Reign of

Jesus Christ.

PROJECTED TIME-LINE/SEQUENCE OF EVENTS (Note: It is possible that

several of the prophecies noted below will be fulﬁlled simultaneously)

● The Psalm 83 War prophecy will be completely fulﬁlled.

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● Damascus will be destroyed (Isaiah 17).

● Israel’s borders will expand (Ezekiel 23, Jeremiah 49 and Isaiah 19).

● Elam (southwest Iran) will threaten Israel but will be destroyed by a

preemptive Israeli strike (Jeremiah 49:34-39).

● Russia (Rosh/Ros or Gog) will lead an invasion against Israel—advancing

from the North (Ezekiel 38-39).

● The Antichrist will stand in a new Temple in Jerusalem and proclaim

himself to be God (2 Thess. 2:4).

● The Antichrist will lead the armies of the world to attack Jerusalem in

the Battle of Armageddon (Rev. 16-19).

● The Battle of Armageddon will conclude when Jesus appears on Mt.

Olivet and defeats all enemy forces (Rev. 19:17-21) with the power of

His spoken word. The Antichrist and False Prophet will be captured,

bound, and thrown into the ﬁery lake of burning sulfur (Rev. 19:20).

● The Millennial Reign of Christ will begin after the Battle of Armageddon.

After 1000 years, Satan will be released and will lead one last desperate

battle against the rule of God. He will gather forces and attempt to

attack Jerusalem in the second war associated with the terms Gog and

Magog (Rev. 20:7-10). Satan and all who follow him will be defeated.

Then will come the ﬁnal judgment and eternal reward for believers

(Rev. 20:11-15).

WHAT NEEDS TO HAPPEN BEFORE THE PROPHECIES CAN BE FULFILLED?

● Regarding the Rapture: NO prophecies need to be fulﬁlled before

the Rapture takes place. The Rapture can come at any time. All are

cautioned to be ready for the imminent return of the King (Matt. 24:44).

● Regarding the Psalm 83 War: Some aspects of this prophetic war may

have been fulﬁlled, but as stated in the Responses To Anticipated

Questions section above, several key parts of this prophecy seem to

be yet outstanding. The fulﬁllment of this prophecy is likely among the

next of the major prophecies to be fulﬁlled.

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● Regarding the Isaiah 17 prophecy concerning the destruction of

Damascus: This prophecy is likely linked to the Psalm 83 War and

among the next of the major prophecies to be fulﬁlled.

● Regarding the Ezekiel 38-39 Gog-Magog War: Ezekiel 38:4 notes that

“I will turn you around…” That is, Russia will reverse its traditionally

hostile position toward Israel and the Jewish people (Russia currently

actively supports the enemies of Israel with weaponry, economic aid,

and intelligence reports). Before this war, Russia must appear as the

friend of Israel, and must coordinate a vast coalition of infantry to march

against Israel with the stated purpose of “gaining spoil.”

● Regarding the Battle of Armageddon: This battle is proﬁled in the ﬁnal

chapters of the book of Revelation, which assumes that the Antichrist

has been in control of world systems for several years, the new Temple

has been built and the seven-year Tribulation period is nearly complete.

WHAT ARE THE CORE TAKE-AWAY TRUTHS IN THIS TEACHING?

● The Rapture can happen at any time. Tell others. Be ready.

● Many of the prophecies noted in this document can be fulﬁlled rapidly,

or simultaneously. World events can change quickly—current alliances

can be broken, and former friends can become ﬁerce enemies

overnight. It is not wise to project that it will take months or years for the

political landscape to change so speciﬁc prophecies can be fulﬁlled.

Believers should teach that latter-day prophecies can be fulﬁlled in the

near future.

● Psalm 83 prophecies may have been fulﬁlled, but the Isaiah 17

prophecy regarding the destruction of Damascus and the multiple

prophecies regarding the expansion of Israel’s borders are yet future.

These conﬂicts may set the stage for the Antichrist to broker a peace

agreement between Israel and her enemies.

● The prophecy regarding the sense of peace and security that Israel

enjoys before the beginning of the Ezekiel 38-39 war may already

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be fulﬁlled (if peace and security are to be understood as conﬁdence

in their military strength). Still, that aspect of the Ezekiel 38-39 Gog-

Magog War prophecy is but one of several components that need to

be fulﬁlled for the Gog-Magog War to unfold as foretold.

● Believers are to proclaim what prophecy notes will happen in the

future - In every battle God stands with Israel, the integrity of the Bible

is validated, and the Lord desires that the wonder of it all draws people

into a personal relationship with Him through His Son Jesus Christ.

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UPCOMING CONFLICTS NOT

MENTIONED IN THE BOOK

OF REVELATION

Many are concerned about what will happen in the last days. The book of

Revelation provides insight into what will happen during the last seven years

(known as the Tribulation period), but the question remains: Does the Bible

provide any insight into what will happen before the Antichrist comes to power

and the Tribulation begins? The answer is, ‘Yes.’ This section notes several

prophetic events (not speciﬁcally mentioned in the book of Revelation) that

could precede the commencement of the Tribulation period. These prophetic

events include:

● The expansion of the borders of Israel (to include much of Egypt, Syria,

and Jordan).

● Israel will be attacked by the ten nations that are near to its borders.

● The capital of Syria (Damascus) will be attacked and rendered uninhabitable.

● There will be a preemptive strike by Israel against Elam (an area of Iran).

● A coalition of armies from distant lands will attack Israel (an engagement

known as the Gog/Magog war).

Will the borders of Israel be expanded?

Genesis 15:18-21 (and Ezekiel 47-48) records God’s promise that the borders of

Israel will be much larger than they were at their maximum extent almost 3000

years ago, and much greater than they are today. Consider what God says in

Genesis 15.

“On that day the Lord made a covenant with Abram and said,

‘To your descendants I give this land, from the Wadi of Egypt

to the great river, the Euphrates—the land of the Kenites,

Kenizzites, Kadmonites, Hittites, Perizzites, Rephaites,

Amorites, Canaanites, Girgashites, and Jebusites.’”

(Genesis 15:18-21)

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Though the above prophecy seems rather speciﬁc, some question whether

or not the prophecy is to be understood literally, meaning that there may be a

Hebrew inﬂuence in these lands, but not that Israel would control them. Others

believe that an expansion of Israel’s borders will happen, but only during

the Millennial Kingdom which will take place after the Tribulation period (see

teaching link on this topic in the appendix of this book).

However, the Bible notes that Israel will feel secure, and be a land of unwalled

villages before the last half of the Tribulation period begins. Those holding

a more literal view of the Genesis 15 text believe that only an Israel with

signiﬁcantly expanded borders would feel a level security sucient to warrant

the removal of their defensive walls. If this is true, then the borders of Israel can

be expanded before the formal arrival of the Antichrist and the commencement

of the Tribulation period.

Will the borders of Israel expand as a result of war?

It may be that boundaries will change after Israel signs the Peace Agreement

Covenant brokered by the Antichrist. However, it is probable that the conﬂict

mentioned in Psalm 83 precipitates the beginning of a series of battles that will

lead to the expansion of Israel’s borders. The ﬁrst conﬂict, mentioned in Psalm

83, is sometimes called the Psalm 83 war.

THE PSALM 83 WAR

“O God, do not remain silent; do not turn a deaf ear, do not

stand aloof, O God. See how your enemies growl, how your

foes rear their heads. With cunning they conspire against

your people; they plot against those you cherish. “Come,”

they say, “let us destroy them as a nation so that Israel’s name

is remembered no more.” With one mind they plot together;

they form an alliance against you—the tents of Edom and the

Ishmaelites, of Moab and the Hagrites, Byblos, Ammon and

Amalek, Philistia, with the people of Tyre. Even Assyria has

joined them to reinforce Lot’s descendants. Do to them as you

did to Midian…Make them like tumbleweed, my God, like cha

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before the wind. As ﬁre consumes the forest or a ﬂame sets

the mountains ablaze…Cover their faces with shame, Lord, so

that they will seek your name.

Psalm 83 indicates that the nations surrounding Israel will conspire and launch a

preemptive attack. As the text is ore than 2600 years old, the nations that attack

Israel are noted by ancient designations. Below is a listing of contemporary

identiﬁcations.

● Tents of Edom = [descendants of Esau] Palestinian Refugees and Southern

Jordanians

● Ishmaelites = Saudi Arabians

● Moab = Palestinian Refugees and Central Jordanians

● Hagrites = Egyptians

● Gebal = Northern Lebanese

● Amalek = Arabs South of Israel

● Ammon = Palestinian Refugees and Northern Jordanians

● Philistia = Palestinian Refugees and Hamas of Gaza Strip

● Inhabitants of Tyre = Hezbollah and Southern Lebanese

● Assyria = Syrians and perhaps Northern Iraqis

● Children of Lot = Moab and Ammon

Some teach that Psalm 83 is not prophetic at all, but that it was written late

in history and refers to battles noted in 2 Chronicles 20. Others believe the

prophecy refers to conﬂicts in that took place in 1949, 1969, and 1973 (when

neighboring nations conspired against and attacked Israel). However, there has

never been a time when ALL parties mentioned in Psalm 83 attacked Israel at

the same time, and the prophecies concerning Israel’s response to this attack

have not been fulﬁlled. These facts lead most Bible scholars to conclude that the

fulﬁllment of the Psalm 83 prophecies (or perhaps, the fullness of the fulﬁllment

of Psalm 83 prophecies) are yet future.

The apparent outcome: Though the nations surrounding Israel will launch a ﬁrst

strike, an outnumbered Israel will prevail. Most scholars believe God will be

behind Israel’s victory, but the victory will not be perceived (by the world) as

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supernatural (as it will be in the battle of Armageddon). Israel’s army will be

engaged and will be victorious. It is likely that this war leads to, or includes, the

next conﬂict: war with Syria and the destruction of Damascus.

War with Syria and the destruction of Damascus

Isaiah 17 and Jeremiah 49:23-27 reference a war in Syria and the destruction of

Damascus.

“See, Damascus will no longer be a city but will become a

heap of ruins. The cities of Aroer will be deserted…The fortiﬁed

city will disappear…In that day their strong cities, which they

left because of the Israelites, will be like places abandoned to

thickets and undergrowth. And all will be desolation. You have

forgotten God your Savior; you have not remembered the

Rock, your fortress. Therefore, though you set out the ﬁnest

plants…yet the harvest will be as nothing in the day of disease

and incurable pain.” (Isaiah 17:1-5)

Some believe this prophecy is ﬁgurative and that past battles involving

Damascus fulﬁll this prophecy. However, Damascus is the oldest continually

inhabited city in the world—it has never been rendered uninhabitable, and

therefore the prophecy remains unfulﬁlled. Isaiah notes that Damascus will

be left barren, uninhabited and associated with disease and incurable pain.

These references lead many to believe that the battle for Damascus will involve

chemical or nuclear warfare. Further, some suggest that the use of conventional

weapons inadvertently hitting a stockpile of chemical weapons (which Syria is

known to have) could account for the fulﬁllment of the Isaiah 17 prophecy. The

next conﬂict pertains to an ancient (and current) enemy of Israel, Elam.

A decisive strike on the land of Elam

Jeremiah 49 includes a notable prophecy regarding Israel striking a country

hundreds of miles from its borders.

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This is what the Lord Almighty says: “I will break the bow of

Elam, the mainstay of their might.

…I will scatter them to the four winds, and there will not

be a nation where Elam’s exiles do not go. I will shatter Elam

before their foes, before those who want to kill them; I will

bring disaster on them…”

To understand this prophecy, one must ﬁrst discern where the land of Elam is.

Elam is an ancient designation for a region in west-central Iran. Interestingly,

the location of ancient Elam is currently where Iranian nuclear and missile

development facilities are based.

Jeremiah 49 notes that Elam will threaten Israel, but that Israel will address that

threat via a preemptive strike, which removes their “bows...the mainstay of their

strength.”

Some ask why the battle of Armageddon principles does not include Elam or

Persia. Perhaps it is because the battle of Armageddon likely takes place after

the event noted above, and Israel has mitigated their inﬂuence and potential

for war.

The Gog/Magog conﬂict

Ezekiel 38-39, Psalm 83; Jeremiah 49; Matthew 24:6; Genesis 49:22-27, Joel

2:2-20, Revelation 9 and Revelation 16 reference wars that will take place in the

last days. The Gog/Magog war, mentioned in Ezekiel 38-39, is one of the more

prominent conﬂicts.

Ezekiel 38

”Son of man, set your face against Gog, of the

land of Magog, the chief prince of Meshek and Tubal; prophesy

against him

and say…

I will turn you around…

Persia, Cush,

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and Put will be with them…

also Gomer with all its troops, and

Beth Togarmah from the far north with all its troops… 11You

will say, “I will invade a land of unwalled villages; I will attack a

peaceful and unsuspecting people...

This is what will happen

in that day: When Gog attacks the land of Israel, my hot anger

will be aroused

…There shall be a great earthquake.

…The

mountains will be overturned; the clis will crumble…

I will

execute judgment on him…I will pour down torrents of rain,

hailstones and burning sulfur on him and on his troops…

Ezekiel 39

People will be continually employed in cleansing

the land… [for] seven months…

…Anyone who sees a human

bone will leave a marker beside it until the gravediggers bury

it in the Valley of Hamon Gog,

near a town called Hamonah.

And so they will cleanse the land.’

The Ezekiel 38-39 passage speaks of a coalition that moves to attack Israel:

● Magog, Rosh = Russia

● Persia = Iran

● Cush = Sudan, Ethiopia, and Eritrea

● Put = Libya, Algeria, and Tunisia

● Gomer, Meshech, and Tubal = Turkey (possibly Germany and Austria)

● Beth-Togarmah = Turkey, Armenia, and the Turkish-speaking people of

Asia Minor and Central Asia

The outcome of this engagement

Though vastly outnumbered, God will intervene and supernaturally thwart the

attack against Israel. Israel’s army will not need to ﬁght—God will bring about

complete victory.

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PROPHECIES REGARDING FOUR

EVIL END TIME ENTITIES

Evil entities in the book of Revelation

Bible prophecy notes that several evil entities will arise in the last days. These

entities are not merely symbols of evil; they are evil individuals, systems or

governments that Satan will work through to advance his agenda. In dierent

ways these entities manifest Satan’s rage, for he knows “his time is short” (Rev.

12:12). Read-on to learn more about who or what these evil entities are and

what they are prophesied to do.

Evil Entity #1 - The Antichrist

The Antichrist is one of the principal characters in the book of Revelation. He

is evil personiﬁed. There are more than eighty references to him in Scripture—

none are positive. It is true that the Antichrist will be attractive, politically savvy,

and wise, but these qualities are quickly overwhelmed by his ruthlessness, and

his hatred of God, His plan, and His people. The Antichrist will be a man but will

be indwelt by Satan. The scope of the pain and suering he will inﬂict on the

world will have no equal. He is the arch-enemy of all that is good. Revelation 13

provides a poetic proﬁle of who he is and what he does.

“The dragon stood on the shore of the sea. And I saw a beast

coming out of the sea. It had ten horns and seven heads, with

ten crowns on its horns, and on each head a blasphemous

name.

The beast I saw resembled a leopard but had feet like

those of a bear and a mouth like that of a lion. The dragon

gave the beast his power and his throne and great authority.

One of the heads of the beast seemed to have had a fatal

wound, but the fatal wound had been healed. The whole

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world was ﬁlled with wonder and followed the beast.

People

worshiped the dragon because he had given authority to the

beast, and they also worshiped the beast and asked, “Who

is like the beast? Who can wage war against it?”

The beast

was given a mouth to utter proud words and blasphemies and

to exercise its authority for forty-two months...

It was given

power to wage war against God’s holy people and to conquer

them. And it was given authority over every tribe, people,

language and nation.

All inhabitants of the earth will worship

the beast—all whose names have not been written in the

Lamb’s book of life, the Lamb who was slain from the creation

of the world.

Whoever has ears, let them hear.”

The Antichrist will likely enjoy an unprecedented rise to power. He will

impress and sway world leaders by his wit, wisdom, cunning, bribery, and

ability to solve global issues. He will initially be welcomed by the world and

lauded for brokering a peace covenant agreement with Israel; likely bringing

peace to the Middle East. His seven-year reign will soon tarnish as he reveals

his true agenda and nature. By the midpoint of the Tribulation, there will be no

pretenses. He will be indwelt by Satan, usurp control of all world systems, and

demand to be worshiped.

War, violence, pride, vanity, and the persecution of all who refuse to worship

him will be the hallmarks of his rule. His power will be absolute, and those who

defy him will perish by the sword. During his reign, he will proclaim himself to

be God, imbue his false prophet with the power to manifest miracles and lead

many astray, and tirelessly persecute the Jewish people. Presented below are

several verses which proﬁle his nature and work.

The timing of his coming

His identity will be revealed to those who know Scripture when he leads in

conﬁrming a “peace covenant with the many,” including Israel (Daniel 9:27).

His character and nature

● The Antichrist will be a great deceiver. Displays of power, signs, and

wonders will embolden his claim to be an agent of good (2 Thess. 2:9).

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● He will be unusually wise and cunning (Daniel 8:23).

● He will prosper in everything that he does (Daniel 8:24).

● He will not regard the desire of women (Daniel 11:37).

● He will sit in the Temple of God and claim to be God (2 Thessalonians 2:4).

The early part of his rule

● The Antichrist will ascend to power on a platform of peace (Daniel 8:25).

● The Antichrist will arise from among ten kings (Daniel 7:8).

● The Antichrist will form a world government, which he will dominate

(Revelation 13:1-2).

The latter part of his rule

● The Antichrist will assume complete control over the world government 3

1/2 years after he conﬁrms the covenant with Israel. He then will continue

to reign for 42 months (Revelation 13:5).

● The Antichrist will wage war against God’s people—culminating in the

battles of Armageddon (Rev. 6-19).

His fate

● During the battle of Armageddon, when Jerusalem is surrounded,

outnumbered and out-gunned, Christ will come and vanquish the enemies

of God. The Apostle Paul noted that Christ will consume the Antichrist, and

all enemies of God with the “spirit of his mouth,” which is the Word of God

(2 Thessalonians 2:8).

● The Antichrist will be cast alive into the Lake of Fire (Revelation 19:20).

● The Antichrist will be tormented day and night forever (Revelation 20:10).

● For additional information on the Antichrist, please refer to the link to

the video teaching on this subject in the appendix of this book.

Evil Entity #2 - The Beast

There are dierences of opinions regarding the identity of the Beast. The

Bible references a Beast and the Beast. The Beast of Daniel 7 seems linked

to an evil system or government. The Beast of Revelation 13 seems to be an

individual. Though there are a few verses which make identiﬁcation of the

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Beast dicult, most scholars who review all biblical references to the Beast

see the high correlation between the attributes of the Beast and the attributes

of the Antichrist, and therefore identify the Beast as the Antichrist.

Verses which appear to dierentiate the two merely speak to dierent aspects

of Satan’s plan or nature. For example, the socio-economic system of the

Tribulation period is referred to as a Beast as it is vicious and evil. However, it

will be the Beast that governs this global system. The attributes of the system

he governs depict the nature of the Beast. The global system he governs will

point to his vast authority. The beastly attributes of this system will evidence

the evil forces that support it. The signs and wonders associated with the

Beast point to the supernatural—his agenda links him to the demonic, and his

attributes, which mirror that of the Antichrist, makes him one with the Antichrist.

Just as there is a symbiotic relationship between the Antichrist and Satan, there

seems to be a shared identity between the Beast and the Antichrist. Revelation

13 references the system of the Beast, and the work of the Beast.

“I saw a second beast, coming out of the earth. It had two

horns like a lamb, but it spoke like a dragon. And it performed

great signs, even causing ﬁre to come down from heaven to

the earth in full view of the people. Because of the signs…it

deceived the inhabitants of earth…It also forced all people,

great and small, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a

mark on their right hands or on their foreheads, so that they

could not buy or sell unless they had the mark, which is the

name of the beast or the number of its name. This calls for

wisdom. Let the person who has insight calculate the number

of the beast, for it is the number of a man. That number is

666.” (Revelation 13:12-18)

Evil Entity #3 - The False Prophet

The false prophet, like the Beast, noted above, is a mysterious being. His

work is speciﬁcally referenced in Revelation 13, 16, and 19 (though intimated

elsewhere). Satan imitates the things of God (2 Corinthians 11:14-15) and

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during the Tribulation period, he will arrange for the building of a new Temple

in Jerusalem. Through the Antichrist and False Prophet he will compel the

world to worship him, and with the Antichrist and False Prophet, he will create

a pseudo-trinity. Revelation 20 notes that in the end he will be judged and

thrown into the Lake of Fire.

Whereas the primary work of the Beast/Antichrist will be to govern political,

social, and economic systems, the primary work of the False Prophet will

be to lead a corrupt religious system designed to lead the world away from

acknowledging God and His Son Jesus Christ. The False Prophet will speak

words which persuade, and have power to manifest signs and wonders to

deceive the masses. The False Prophet will lead a global religion designed to

honor Satan and the Antichrist. Many who refuse to follow the False Prophet or

worship the Antichrist will die as martyrs (Revelation 14:9-12, 20:4-6).

Evil Entity #4 - The Woman Who Rides the Beast

The book of Revelation references a mysterious evil entity referred to as Mystery

Babylon, The Whore of Babylon, The Great Prostitute, and The Woman Who

Rides The Beast. Revelation 17 describes her in detail.

“One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls came and

said to me, ‘Come, I will show you the punishment of the great

prostitute, who sits by many waters.

With her the kings of the

earth committed adultery, and the inhabitants of the earth were

intoxicated with the wine of her adulteries.’

… I saw a woman

sitting on a scarlet beast that was covered with blasphemous

names and had seven heads and ten horns.

The woman was

dressed in purple and scarlet, and was glittering with gold,

precious stones and pearls. She held a golden cup in her hand,

ﬁlled with abominable things and the ﬁlth of her adulteries.

The name written on her forehead was a mystery: Babylon

the great the mother of prostitutes and of the abominations

of the earth.

I saw that the woman was drunk with the blood

of God’s holy people, the blood of those who bore testimony

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to Jesus. When I saw her, I was greatly astonished.

Then the

angel said to me: ‘Why are you astonished? I will explain to

you the mystery of the woman…

The beast, which you saw,

once was, now is not, and yet will come up out of the Abyss

and go to its destruction. The inhabitants of the earth whose

names have not been written in the book of life from the

creation of the world will be astonished when they see the

beast, because it once was, now is not, and yet will come.

This calls for a mind with wisdom. The seven heads are seven

hills on which the woman sits.

They are also seven kings. Five

have fallen, one is, the other has not yet come; but when he

does come, he must remain for only a little while.

The beast

who once was, and now is not, is an eighth king. He belongs

to the seven and is going to his destruction.

“The ten horns

you saw are ten kings who have not yet received a kingdom,

but who for one hour will receive authority as kings along with

the beast…

They will wage war against the Lamb, but the

Lamb will triumph over them…

Then the angel said to me,

“The waters you saw, where the prostitute sits, are peoples,

multitudes, nations and languages.

The beast and the ten

horns you saw will hate the prostitute. They will bring her to

ruin and leave her naked; they will eat her ﬂesh and burn her

with ﬁre.

For God has put it into their hearts to accomplish

his purpose…

The woman you saw is the great city that rules

over the kings of the earth.’”

What the text reveals about the Woman Who Rides the Beast

The Old and New Testaments reference this evil entity. She is referred to as

a ”mystery” because the nation or system was yet future and would be very

dierent from other empires or nations noted in Scripture. She is referred to

as a “whore” because she is unfaithful to the God she claims to love. She is

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referred to as a “daughter of Babylon” because she embraces many of the

pagan philosophies and practices of ancient Babylon.

The many descriptive phrases for this “Woman who rides the Beast” may

provide a clue to the identity of the nation or system she represents. Presented

below are prophetic, descriptive phrases which to many, show the “Woman

who rides the Beast” to have an association with the United States of America.

● She is noted for her architecture and skyline (Isa. 13:22).

● She is the lone or newest world power (Isaiah 47:5,8).

● She is respected and envied by the world, and yet at the same time, hated

by the world (Isaiah 18:2).

● She has a remarkable beginning (Isaiah 18:2).

● She is a “Queen among nations” (Isaiah 47:5,7; Revelation 17,18; Isaiah 13:6).

● She is called a lady (Isaiah 47:7-9).

● She is a land quartered by mighty rivers (Isaiah 18:2).

● She destroys her land with pollution and waste (Isaiah 14:20, 18:2, 7).

● She is a democracy—ruled by many counsels (Isa. 47:13).

● Her governmental system will break down (Isa. 47:13).

● She is known for religious confusion (Isaiah 47:12-13).

● She is a virgin nation; her lands untouched by foreign invaders (Isaiah 47:1).

● Her enemies lie on the other side of the world (Isa. 13:5).

● Her people think they are God’s chosen (Isa. 47:7-8).

● She acts carelessly before the Lord (Isaiah 47:8).

● She is proud, haughty, and does not consider her end or ways (Isaiah 47:7-8).

● She is the youngest and greatest of the end time nations (Jeremiah 50:12).

● She is a most powerful nation (Isaiah 47, Jeremiah 50, 51, Revelation 18).

● The strength of her armies will make her the “Hammer of the whole earth”

(Jeremiah 50:23; Revelation 18:23).

● She is a land rich in minerals (Jeremiah 51:13) and agriculture (Jeremiah

50:16,26-27; Revelation 18).

● She is a leading import/export nation (Jeremiah 51:13, 51; Revelation 18).

● She sits upon “many waters” (Jeremiah 51:13).

● She turns on her heritage (Jeremiah 50:11-12).

● Her leaders lead their ﬂocks astray (Jeremiah 50:6; implied in Rev. 18:2).

● She has a mother nation that remains to her death (Jeremiah 50: 12).

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● This mother nation has the symbol of the lion (Daniel 7:4; Ezekiel 38:13;

Jeremiah 51:38; Psalms 17:12).

● She will turn against her own people (Jeremiah 50:7,33; 51:35; 39; Daniel

7:25; Revelation 13:7; 17:6; 18:24).

● She trades with many via ships all year round (Revelation 18:17-18).

THE PROPHET JEREMIAH CHAPTERS 5051

AND THE APOSTLE JOHN IN THE BOOK OF

REVELATION 17 NOTE THE FATE

OF THE “WOMAN WHO RIDES THE BEAST.”

OUR CALLING

» Pray

» Witness

» Serve

» Be a Watchman (Ezek. 33:1-9)

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ANOTHER LOOK AT

PRETRIBULATION PROPHECIES

Just before the cruciﬁxion, Jesus shared a prophetic word with His disciples

concerning the destruction of the great Jewish Temple in Jerusalem and end

time events. When asked about the timing of these things, Jesus presented

what is now known as the Olivet Discourse. In this discourse (Matthew 24-25),

Jesus presents the longest and most detailed account of end-time events in

the Gospels.

The material Jesus presents in the Olivet Discourse proﬁles ﬁve distinct time

periods or events:

1. The years leading up to the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem.

2. The tribulations associated with the persecuted Church in the Last

Days.

3. The ‘Birth Pains’, which is the period of time immediately preceding the

beginning of the Tribulation period.

4. The Rapture

5. The Tribulation period (the last 7 years).

A brief proﬁle of the Olivet Discourse teaching is noted below.

The Lord’s primary teaching points

1. The destruction of the Temple

» The prophecy: Not one stone of the Temple will be left unturned (Matt.

24:2). This prophecy was fulﬁlled in 70 AD. Jerusalem was attacked

by the Romans—the Temple was destroyed and, because there was

gold in the mortar holding in place the foundation stones, soldiers

(As proﬁled in the Olivet Discourse and

the Four Horsemen in Revelation 6)

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removed each stone from its place (thus fulﬁlling the prophecy).

» Parallel passage: “They will fall by the edge of the sword…and

Jerusalem will be trampled underfoot by the Gentiles, until the times

of the Gentiles are fulﬁlled.” Luke 21:24

God’s directive

“But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then

know that its desolation has come near. Then let those who

are in Judea ﬂee to the mountains…” (Luke 21:10-21)

The siege against Jerusalem began in 68 AD. But Emperor

(Nero) died as the powerful and ruthless Roman army

approached the city, The commanding General decided to

hold his position until the next Caesar was appointed and he

received new orders. In 70 A.D. he received orders to advance

on Jerusalem. Approximately 1,000,000 Jews died in the war

that ensued, but those who heeded Jesus’ prophecy and ﬂed

when they saw ‘Jerusalem surrounded by armies’ were saved.

2. The Last Days and Birth Pains

» Matthew 24:5-8 notes a few happenings associated with the time

period referred to as the birth pains.

For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’

and will deceive many.

You will hear of wars and rumors of

wars…



There will be famines and earthquakes in various

places.

All these are the beginning of birth pains.

» Luke 21 is a parallel passage to Matthew 24. In Luke’s account of the

Olivet Discourse, Jesus ﬁrst references birth pain period happenings

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(verses 9-11), and then brieﬂy proﬁles events that will precede them.

The period that precedes the birth pains is referred to as the Last

Days. The Last Days is a general reference to the period of time from

the birth of the New Testament Church to the end of the seven-year

Tribulation.

When you hear of wars and uprisings, do not be frightened.

These things must happen…

“But before all this, they will

seize you and persecute you. They will hand you over to

synagogues and put you in prison, and you will be brought

before kings and governors, and all on account of my name.

And so you will bear testimony to me.

But make up your mind

not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves.

For

I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries

will be able to resist or contradict.

You will be betrayed even

by parents, brothers and sisters, relatives and friends, and

they will put some of you to death.

Everyone will hate you

because of me... Luke 21:9-17.

» Many believe the tribulations noted above (Luke 21:12-17) are

represented, prophetically, by the Church of Smyrna in Revelation

chapter two

● God’s directives

» Do not be led astray (Luke 21:8).

» Endure to the end (Matt. 24:13).

» Do not be afraid (Rev. 2:9).

» Persevere (Rev. 2:11b) “The one who is victorious will not be hurt at all

by the second death.”

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Many believe that seven Church Ages are referenced, prophetically, by the

seven churches in Revelation 2-3.

CHURCH TIME PERIOD CHURCH AGE

Ephesus 30-100 A.D. The Apostolic Church

Smyrna 100-313 A.D. The Church of the Roman Persecution

Pergamum 313-600 A.D.

The Church of the Age of Constantine

and Compromise

Thyatira 600-1517 A.D. The Church of the Dark Ages

Sardis 1517-1648 A.D. The Church of the Reformation

Philadelphia 1648-1900 A.D. The Church of the Missionary Movement

Laodicea 1900-Present The Church of the Apostasy

● According to Matthew 24, the Last Days and time of ‘Birth Pains’ will be

marked by:

» False Christs, false prophets, and false teachings will increase (V.5, 11).

» Wars and rumors of wars will grow in frequency (V.6).

» Famines and earthquakes will grow in intensity (V.7).

» There will be intense persecution and hatred of believers (V.9).

» Apostasy will increase (V.10).

● God’s directives

» Do not be led astray (V.4).

» Endure to the end (V.13).

» Proclaim the Gospel (V.14).

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3. The Rapture

» The Rapture refers to a sudden taking away of believers before the

outpouring of God’s wrath during the Tribulation period.

» It is thought by many that Jesus’ words in verses 41-46 of Matthew 24

point to a Rapture.

» The Rapture can take place at any time. No prophecies need to be

fulﬁlled prior to a Rapture taking place. The wise will be spiritually

prepared for the imminent return of the King. A few of the verses

from the Olivet Discourse which point to a Rapture are noted below”

“There will be two in the ﬁeld—one will be left” (V.40).

“Two women will be grinding at the mill—one will be taken

and one will be left” (V.41).

● God’s directives

» Stay awake (V.42).

» Be ready (V.44).

» Be busy about the Master’s work (V.46)

● The challenge

» “It will be good for those servants whose master ﬁnds them watching

when he comes.” (Luke 12:37)

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4. The Tribulation

● The prophecy - This period will be marked by ﬁve main characteristics.

» False Christs, prophets, and teachings will increase. (V.5, 11).

» Wars and rumors of wars will grow in frequency and intensity (V.6).

» Famines and earthquakes will grow in intensity (V.7).

» There will be intense persecution/hated of believers (V.9).

» Apostasy will increase (V.10).

● The commandment

» Do not be led astray (V.4).

» Endure to the end (V.13).

» Proclaim the Gospel (V.14).

“…There will be false teachers among you. They will secretly

introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign

Lord who bought them—bringing swift destruction on

themselves.” (2 Peter 2:1)

/ iamawatchman // Gary Ray

COMPARING THE OLIVET DISCOURSE

IN MATTHEW 24 WITH THE FOUR

HORSEMEN OF THE APOCALYPSE IN

REVELATION 6

The Four Horsemen in the book of Revelation are said to represent key

happenings in the Last Days. To understand the meaning of the Horsemen

in Revelation, one must ﬁrst see the correlation between John’s writing in

Revelation 6, and Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 24 (The Olivet Discourse). The

parallel between the events noted by Jesus in Matthew 24 and the events

associated with the Four Horsemen of in Revelation 6 is striking. The simple

chart below compares the passages. Commentary notes are included in italics

font.

THE HORSEMEN MATTHEW 24 REVELATION 6

THE WHITE

HORSE

Jesus answered:

“Watch out that no

one deceives you. For

many will come in my

name, claiming, ‘I am

the Messiah,’ and will

deceive many…

I looked, and there before me was a

white horse! Its rider held a bow, and he

was given a crown, and he rode out as a

conqueror…

Though in some ways this ﬁgure may

look like Jesus, it is an imposter—

The crown he is wearing is not a

royal crown (as in Rev. 19). This spirit

is evil and conquers by deception

and violence.

THE RED

HORSE

You will hear of wars

and rumors of wars

but see to it that you

are not alarmed. Such

things must happen, but

the end is still to come.

Then another horse came out, a ﬁery

red one. Its rider was given the power to

take peace from the earth and to make

people kill each other. To him was given

a large sword. This spirit ushers-in

war and conﬂict.

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THE BLACK

HORSE

Nation will rise

against nation, and

kingdom against

kingdom. There will

be famines and

earthquakes in various

places. 8 All these are

the beginning of birth

pains.

…I looked, and there before me was a

black horse! Its rider was holding a pair

of scales in his hand. Then I heard what

sounded like a voice among the four

living creatures, saying, “Two pounds of

wheat for a day’s wages, and six pounds

of barley for a day’s wages…

This spirit is associated with

poverty and economic hardship. The

reference to ‘scales in his hand’ is

a reference to commerce/economic

hardship.

THE PALE

LIGHT GREEN

HORSE

“Then you will be

handed over to be

persecuted and put

to death, and you will

be hated… because

of me.

I looked, and there before me was

a pale horse! Its rider was named

Death, and Hades was following

close behind him. They were given

power over a fourth of the earth to kill

by sword, famine, and plague, and by

the wild beasts of the earth.

A FEW NOTES ON THE FOUR HORSEMEN OF THE APOCALYPSE

● The Four Horsemen are evil spirits or demons.

● The book of Zechariah also proﬁles colored horses (see chapters three

and six). These horsemen are spiritual beings that roam the earth.

● Many have taught that the Four Horsemen announce or launch the seven-

year Tribulation period. Scripture, however, notes that the Tribulation

begins with the signing of a peace accord between the Antichrist and

Israel (Dan. 9:27).

The Four Horsemen—Four schools of thought

1. The Four Horsemen depict happenings which can precede the Tribulation.

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Note that there seems to be a strong tie to the work associated with

horsemen and the birth pangs (Matthew 24:8), which are said to precede

the Tribulation period.

2. The Four Horsemen of Revelation 6 may represent the initial waves of

judgments during the Tribulation period. These tribulations precede the

seal, bowl, and trumpet judgments which begin in Revelation 7.

3. The Four Horsemen of Revelation 6, if associated with Birth Pains events,

could provide a preview of the happenings that will take place on earth

during the seven-year Tribulation period as proﬁled in Revelation 7-20

(though it is possible that Revelation 6 provides an overview of what will

happen in Revelation 7-20).

4. The Four Horsemen likely depict the cumulative impact of evil (trials,

tribulation, suering, famine, war, death, etc.) of all time. It is possible

that the Four Horsemen are spiritual beings that have been at work for

centuries, and will continue (and intensify) their work until the end of the

Tribulation period.

Common Associations

Over the centuries many have linked the colored horses to individuals,

movements, groups, and governments. Noted below are four of the most

common contemporary associations.

● The white horse has been said to represent the Pope or Catholicism.

● The red horse has been said to represent Communism, China or Russia.

● The green horse has been said to represent Islam.

● The black horse has been said to represent violent geopolitical groups

such as Germany’s SS or ISIS.

Linking the Horsemen to speciﬁc individuals or movements is an exercise prone

to error. Over the centuries the Horsemen have been thought to represent

Genghis Khan, Hitler’s Nazi’s, the Ottoman Empire, Mao, Stalin, the British

Empire, Napoleon, the Black Death, the Spanish Flu, etc. It is likely that there

was some logic behind these assumptions, but all of these assertions were in

error.

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Regarding the interpretation of what the Four Horsemen represent; it is perhaps

best to center on what is abundantly clear. Below is a summary of such points.

● The Horsemen represent more general than speciﬁc events. For example,

they are likely to represent war in general, more than a speciﬁc battle or

war (such as WWI).

● The Horsemen likely represent repressive and oppressive movements

(Communism, ISIS, Nazism) more than particular tyrannical rulers.

● The Horsemen point to the work of the devil, the ramiﬁcations of evil, and

the need for God to bring judgment and check evil.

● There is a very limited tie between the activity of the Horsemen and

particular events or time frames. For example, when a Trumpet or Seal

judgment takes place, there is a singular action; such as ﬁre and large

hailstones fall from the sky, or water becoming poisoned. The activity

associated with the Horsemen is general and passive such as war,

deception, false teachings, and poverty.

● The Horsemen remind the reader that there is a spiritual component to

many happenings on earth.

● The Horsemen remind the reader that trials and “troubles” are coming,

and will unfold per the sovereign plan of God.

● The Horsemen introduce the trials and judgments proﬁled in the book

of Revelation. The Horsemen are the beginning, not the end, of a great

story which concludes with the glorious appearing of Jesus Christ and the

triumph of good over evil.

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A PROFILE OF RAPTURE AND

MILLENNIAL VIEWS

This section proﬁles the primary schools of thought regarding the Rapture, the

Millennium, the Millennial Reign of Christ. In general, teachings regarding the

timing of the Rapture and Millennium fall into two main categories.

● Rapture positions (four primary positions)

● Millennial positions (three primary positions)

RAPTURE VIEWS

Foundational thoughts

● The beginning of the Tribulation period may not precisely coincide with

the timing of the Rapture.

The Tribulation begins with the signing of a

‘peace covenant’ (Dan. 9:27), not a war or the Rapture.

● The word Rapture is not found in the Bible (the English, Hebrew or Greek

text), but the concept of a Rapture or sudden taking away of God’s people

(the Church) is clearly present in Scripture. For example, in 1 Thess. 4:16-17

Paul spells out the Rapture in distinct language.

“Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed

about those who sleep in death so that you do not grieve

like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe

that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God

will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.

According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still

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alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly

not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord,

himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command,

with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of

God, and the dead in Christ will rise ﬁrst. After that, we who

are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them

in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with

the Lord forever.” 1 Thessalonians 4:14-17

● Implicit in the Rapture teaching is the thought that the Church (Gentile

believers) will be caught-up by Christ and thereby escape the fullness of

God’s wrath on earth. Supporting verses include the following:

» The Church will be “kept from the hour of testing that shall come

upon all the world.” (Rev. 3:10)

» The exhortation to be comforted by the “coming of the Lord” (1 Thess.

4:18) is valid only in the context of the pre-tribulation view. It could

even be a fearsome thing in a post-tribulation view.

● It is the Holy Spirit (which currently dwells in the hearts of believers) that

currently holding back Satan. “And you know what restrains him [Satan]

now…For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only he [the Holy

Spirit] who now restrains will do so until he is taken out of the way.…”

(2 Thess. 2:6-7). The Church is the Body of Christ—believers. The Holy

Spirit resides in the hearts of believers. It is the Holy Spirit which restrains

Satan. The Antichrist will not be able to take the world stage until the

removal of the abiding presence of the Holy Spirit, which will happen at

the Rapture (when the Church/Body of Christ is called to join the Lord in

heaven). Paul speaks of a time when the time of the Gentiles [Church] will

come to an end.

» “Jerusalem will be trampled underfoot by the Gentiles until the times

of the Gentiles be fulﬁlled.” (Lk. 21:23-24; Rom. 11:25-26)

» Additional support verses for the Rapture include (Matt. 24:30-31;

John 14:2; 1 Thess. 4:16-17; 1 Cor. 15:52).

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Primary Rapture Views

● Pre-tribulation view: This view holds that the church will be raptured

(caught up to be with Christ) at some point before the commencement of

the seven-year tribulation period. There are several primary supporting

arguments for this position.

» The Tribulation describes a period of suering unsurpassed, “such

as was not since there was a nation, no, nor shall be” (Dan. 12:1). The

Tribulation period will be a time of wrath (Rev. 6:16-17, 11:18; 14:19;

Zeph. 1:15, 18). However, we see in 1 Thess. 5:9 that the Church is not

appointed unto wrath, but unto salvation.

» 1 Thess. 4:13-18 supports the pre-tribulation view: “For...we which

are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent

(precede) them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend

from heaven with a shout...and with the trump of God: and the dead

in Christ shall rise ﬁrst: Then we which are alive and remain shall be

caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the

air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord...”

» 1 Cor. 15:51-55 supports the pre-tribulation view. “Behold, I show you

a mystery; we shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a

moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet

shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall

be changed.”

» Many Scriptures note the “Jewishness” of Tribulation events proﬁled

in the Bible. It is said to be “the time of Jacob’s trouble,” it concerns

“Daniel’s people,” a “false Messiah,” the city of Jerusalem, the twelve

tribes of Israel, the “son of Moses,” and a “ﬂight on the Sabbath.” The

Church is not speciﬁcally mentioned in the book of Revelation after the

judgments begin. It may be that the Gentile Church is simply outside

the Hebrew focus or narrative of the book. The I Am A Watchman

ministry believes the church is not speciﬁcally mentioned because

the Church is raptured before the beginning of the Tribulation.

» Jesus’ teaching on the end times in Matthew 24 seems to indicate

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that the timing of the Rapture is immediately after the ‘Birth Pains’ and

before the Tribulation.

“Immediately after the distress of those days the sun will be

darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall

from the sky...’ And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet

call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds…“Now

learn this lesson from the ﬁg tree: As soon as its twigs get

tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is

near. Even so, when you see all these things, you know that it

is near, right at the door. That is how it will be at the coming of

the Son of Man. Two men will be in the ﬁeld; one will be taken

and the other left. Two women will be grinding with a hand

mill; one will be taken, and the other left. “Therefore keep

watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will

come. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will

come at an hour when you do not expect him.” Matt. 24:29-44

● Pre-wrath view: The Pre-wrath position holds that a Rapture of the true

Church takes place near the midpoint of the Tribulation (hence, this view

is also known as the mid-trib view). The second half of the Tribulation

period is known as the Time of Jacob’s Trouble, The Great Tribulation

and The Time Of God’s Wrath. The Apostle Paul writes that God has not

destined his people to wrath (1 Thess. 5:9). “His people” are the Church.

Therefore, the Lord will remove His Church before the commencement of

the outpouring of God’s wrath. The outpouring of God’s wrath is said to

take place during the Great Tribulation (the second half of the seven-year

Tribulation period).

R Post-tribulation view: There are several schools of thought in the post-

tribulation camp. The two most prominent are 1) the Church is destined to

exist in a perpetual state of tribulation--the seven-year Tribulation period

is not future, but the past, present, and future. The Church will be received

by Christ when He returns at the end of the Tribulation period. 2) The

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second (and dominant) view in this school of thought is that the seven-year

Tribulation period is yet future, the Church will exist during the Tribulation

period, but the Church will be sheltered by God’s protective hand through

the Tribulation period.

» Some have supported this view by noting that although 1 Thessalonians

4:16 refers to a resurrection of the dead in Christ (a verse commonly

quoted by pre-tribulationist) and Revelation 20:1-6 speaks of the ﬁrst

resurrection. The argument is that if the Revelation 20 resurrection is the

ﬁrst resurrection, there cannot be a Rapture—and the 1 Thessalonians

4 and Revelation 20 resurrections are in fact the same.

MILLENNIAL VIEWS

● Pre-millennialism: This view holds that Jesus will return at the end of

Daniel’s 70th week (the Tribulation period), with the saints who were in

heaven, and reign for 1000 years. This 1000-year period is known as the

Millennial Reign of Christ. The primary subjects of this kingdom will be

the surviving remnant of the world that come to faith during the Tribulation.

The pre-millennialists position does not ﬁx the timing of the Rapture to

a particular timetable but does place that momentous event before the

1000-year reign of Christ.

 Most Bible scholars today hold this view.

 The

I Am A Watchman

ministry holds a pre-millennial view and

places the Rapture prior to the beginning of the Tribulation

period.

● Amillennialism: This view holds that there will be no Millennial Reign of

Christ. A general summary of the amillennial view is that the Kingdom

began with Jesus’ ﬁrst coming (His birth) and will continue until His Second

Coming (the glorious appearing at the end of the tribulation period). This

view holds that there will not be a 1000-year Millennial Kingdom on earth,

and favors an allegorical system of interpretation to understand prophetic

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events. For example, the material in the Olivet Discourse and the greater

part of the book of Revelation is thought to point, symbolically, to past

historical events. This position does not anticipate a Rapture but does

anticipate the second coming of Christ at the end of the tribulation. This

position holds that conditions in this world will continue to deteriorate

up until the second coming of Christ. This view is usually traced back to

Augustine (354-430 AD).

● Post-millennialism: This view holds that the Millennium is generally

synonymous with the Church Age and is currently being experienced.

The view holds that Jesus will return at the end of the Millennium, and

that conditions on earth will improve until the second coming of Christ.

This minor view originated in England and was advanced by Unitarian

minister Daniel Whitby (1638-1726). This position does not support a literal

interpretation of the 1000-year Millennial Kingdom noted in Revelation 20,

and suggests the Millennial Kingdom will last an unspeciﬁed but long period

of time. In his book, The Millennium, Loraine Boettner (a post-millennialist)

states: “The millennium to which the post-millennialist looks forward is thus

a golden age of spiritual prosperity during this present dispensation, that

is, the Church Age.” This Millennial view does not suggest there will be a

time on earth when every person will be a Christian, or that sin will be no

more. But it does imply that evil in all its forms eventually will be reduced

to negligible proportions, that Christian principles will be embraced and be

the rule in culture, and that Christ will return to a truly “Christianized” world.

In general, this view holds that conditions on earth will continually improve

and that we are currently experiencing the Millennial Kingdom.

A link to the teaching video on the Millennial Reign of Christ

is provided in the appendix of this book.

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PROPHECIES PERTAINING

TO THE TRIBULATION PERIOD

The world is approaching a notable period of history—the Tribulation period.

The Bible references the Tribulation by many names; Daniel’s 70

week, the

time of Jacob’s sorrow, the time of God’s wrath, etc. Jesus prophesied that it

would be a time of unprecedented upheaval. Still, the Bible notes that in the

midst of this dark season God will move. The Lord Jesus will come bringing His

army of saints to win a great victory over the enemies of Israel, and rescue all

believers who were saved during the 7-year Tribulation period.

Some believe Bible prophecies regarding judgments appear to indicate God

is angry or mean. However, the opposite is true. God is not angry—God warns

whom He loves, and only as a last resort does He use drastic measures to

prompt individuals to pursue a better path.

This writer believes that if the world turned to Christ today, the prophesied

future Tribulations would not occur. But God knows that humanity is willful, and

knows the choices they will make. Therefore, the prophecies will come true. In

the last seven years of our history, God will bring tribulation and wrath to the

earth. Why? To bring humanity to repentance and receive His oer of salvation.

This section provides a biblically-based overview of the Tribulations period

events that are prophesied to come.

TRIBULATION PERIOD PROPHECIES (not in chronological order)

● Israel will enter into a peace treaty: The Antichrist will impose a “covenant

with the many” which will include Israel (Daniel 9:27; 8:23-25). It is this

‘covenant’ that initiates the seven-year Tribulation period.

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● Israel will be at peace and “without walls” before the invasion from the

North and Gog-Magog war (Ezekiel 38-39). It is probable that this sense

of security is the result of the peace covenant noted earlier. The invasion

from the North will likely come after the mid-point of the Tribulation period.

● The third Temple will be built in Jerusalem: Daniel, Jesus, Paul, and

John refer to a Temple being in Jerusalem in the last days. This event is

referenced in Daniel 9:27, 12:11; Mark 13:14; 2 Thess. 2:4; and Rev. 11:1-2.

Note: Plans for the construction of the new Temple are complete.

● Temple sacriﬁces will be re-instituted in Israel in the last days. Daniel

9:27; 12:11, and Revelation 13 reference this.

● Temple sacriﬁces will be forbidden: At the mid-point of the Tribulation

period, the Antichrist will seize control of the Temple, abruptly end the

daily sacriﬁces and proclaim himself to be God. (Revelation 13).

● 144,000 believers will be sealed by the Spirit: The Holy Spirit will ‘seal’

12,000 Jewish believers from each of the 12 tribes of Israel. This is very

likely a symbolic number representing a vast and perfect number of

believers God uses to evangelize the world (Rev. 7). Along with these

sealed witnesses will come two great prophets (Rev. 11:3-14). These

prophets will preach with power for 42 months and then be put to death.

Their deaths will be celebrated by many. Their bodies will lie in the street

for three days, after which they will be miraculously resurrected and taken

up into Heaven.

● Revival: During the Tribulation, many will turn to Jesus (Revelation 7:9-17;

Daniel 12:10; Zechariah 2:11; Isaiah 19:16-25).

● Earthquakes: Great earthquakes will shake the world during the Tribulation

period (Revelation 6:12, 8:5, 11:13, 16:18, etc.).

● Vegetation decimated: Revelation 8:7 notes that the ﬁrst trumpet judgment

will bring the destruction of 1/3 of all vegetation on Earth.

● A meteor or comet falls into the sea: Revelation 8:8-9 notes that the

second trumpet judgment facilitates something falling into the sea, and

destroying 1/3 of life in all seas.

● Wormwood: Similar to the second trumpet judgment, the third trumpet

judgment facilitates celestial object falling to the earth which causes fresh

water to turn bitter—resulting in many deaths.

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● Reduction of light: The fourth trumpet judgment brings about a 1/3

reduction of light (from the sun, moon, and stars).

● Tormenting creatures: The ﬁfth trumpet judgment will bring scorpion-like

creatures from the demon world. These creatures torment humanity, but

they do not cause death, only grievous anguish. Some suggest that these

creatures will not be able to torment believers in Jesus Christ.

● Forced worship of Antichrist: 2 Thessalonians 2 and Revelation 13 note

that the Beast (the Antichrist) will force all to worship him. Failure to do

so will result in starvation, ridicule, and death. Proof of allegiance to the

Antichrist will include receiving a mark on the right hand or forehead.

● Sores on those who receive the mark: Revelation 16:1-2 notes that those

who accept the mark of the Beast, signifying their worship of him, will

contract painful sores (KJV reads, ‘boils’) on their body.

● Refuge: Ancient Petra (located in Jordan) will become a place of refuge for

believers (Isaiah 16:1-4; Matthew 24:16; Revelation 12:6,14).

● A great army from the east: The sixth trumpet announces the coming of

a great army from the east (two hundred million men). This army advances

toward Israel and leaves devastation in its wake (Rev. 9:13).

● The Euphrates River blocked or dried-up: The great river Euphrates will

dry-up, allowing armies from the east to advance toward Israel. (Revelation

16:12).

● The Antichrist wounded: Revelation 13 notes that the Antichrist will

apparently suer a fatal wound to the head, but will recover to the

amazement of many—a manifestation that increases his following.

● The Woman Who Rides The Beast: Revelation 17 (and Jeremiah 50-51)

notes the judgment on this woman—also called the Whore of Babylon and

Mystery Babylon. This is the judgment of a nation, not an individual.

● Life in seas and rivers dies: Revelation 16:3 indicates that remaining life in

the sea dies as the second vial of judgment is poured out. The death toll is

such that the oceans become as blood. The third vial of judgment brings

about the death of life in the rivers (Rev. 16:4).

● Scorching heat: The fourth vial of judgment brings scorching heat which

causes misery and devastates vegetation.

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● Darkness: The ﬁfth vial of judgment brings anomalous darkness and

painful maladies, some translations say ‘plagues.’ (Revelation 16:10-11).

● War: There will be a series of wars—the last great series of wars, are

collectively referred to as the battle of Armageddon.

● Victory: Though surrounded by her enemies, God will intervene, and

Israel will prevail in the great battle of Armageddon. The enemy will be

vanquished. Satan and the Beast will be bound and thrown into the pit.

Jesus Christ will begin His Millennial Reign and bring peace and justice to

the earth. (Revelation 19-21).

Conﬂicts Associated with the Antichrist

» Although the Antichrist will rise to world power through cunning,

deception, and intrigue (Daniel 8:23), he will have to resort to military

power to conquer the world.

» Revelation 13:7 notes that the Antichrist will ultimately achieve

“authority over every tribe and people and tongue and nation.”

This authority will be achieved through war. Revelation 6 records

the outbreak of global war and the resulting death of one-fourth of

humanity (Revelation 6:8).

“Then I stood on the sand of the sea. And I saw a beast (Satan’s

Antichrist) rising out of the sea, having seven heads and ten

horns, and on his horns ten crowns, (The book of Daniel

explains these represent ten nations he will rule) and on his

heads a blasphemous name…The dragon (Satan) gave him his

power, his throne, and great authority.” (Revelation 13:1-2)

“The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of

Satan, with all power, signs (miracles), and lying wonders.”

(2 Thessalonians 2:9-10)

“It was granted to him to make war...and authority was given

him over every tribe, tongue, and nation.” (Revelation 13:7)

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● Wars and conﬂicts arising during the reign of the Antichrist

» Revelation 9 seems to indicate conventional, spiritual and nuclear war

(nuclear because Rev. 8:7 states that the war will result in one-third

of the earth being burned up, and Rev. 16:2-11 notes “loathsome and

malignant” sores aicting survivors). The wars noted in Rev. 6, 8 and

9 will result in the deaths of more than half of humanity. The army from

the east mentioned in Rev. 9 is comprised of “200,000,000 men.”

» Rev. 12 Cosmic wars – past, present, and future.

» Rev. 12-13 Concerted oppression of all who believe in Jesus, Jews,

and all who will not follow the Beast.

» Some of the Jews in Israel will ﬂee to a place in the “wilderness”

where they will be supernaturally protected by God (Rev. 12:13-14).

Many believe this hiding place will be the ancient city of Petra, located

inside a box canyon in modern Jordan. There is good reason for this

assumption because Daniel 11:41 says the Antichrist will be prevented

from conquering Jordan when it is part of an end time rebellion.

» Zechariah 13:8 indicates that the Antichrist will kill two-thirds of the

Jewish people during this time.

» Revelation 12:17 notes that the Antichrist will also war against the

“ospring” of Israel — namely, those “who keep the commandments

of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus.” This is likely a reference

to those who accept Jesus as Lord during the Tribulation period.

» Revelation 7:9-14 pictures a great multitude of martyrs in Heaven.

They are identiﬁed as “the ones coming out of the Great Tribulation…”

» Revelation 17-18 notes an attack on the Whore of Babylon.

Then

the angel said to me, “The waters you saw, where the prostitute sits,

are peoples, multitudes, nations, and languages.

The beast and the

ten horns you saw will hate the prostitute. They will bring her to ruin

and leave her naked; they will eat her ﬂesh and burn her with ﬁre.

For God has put it into their hearts to accomplish his purpose…

(Revelation 17).

» Rev. 16-19 Battles of Armageddon. The war noted in Ezekiel 38

correlates with conﬂicts mentioned in Revelation 16-19 (not Psalm

83). Revelation 16 verses 8, 11, and 14 state that the war mentioned in

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Ezekiel 38 will occur when the people of Israel are living “securely” in

“unwalled villages.” Revelation 16 also notes that the allies of Russia

do not include a single Arab state with a border adjacent to Israel

(something that does correspond to the warring nations noted in

Psalm 83).

» The war noted in Ezekiel 38-39 can be considered Part ONE of the

Armageddon campaign (Rev. 16).

 Russia will lead a coalition of nations (none are nations proximate

to Israel) to march against Israel. Their motive is stated in Ezek.

38:12… “to capture spoil and to seize plunder.”

 The invading armies will be supernaturally destroyed by God “on

the mountains of Israel” (Ezekiel 39:4). The Lord will accomplish

this destruction through earthquakes, pestilence, hail storms,

ﬁre, brimstone, and battleﬁeld confusion (Ezekiel 38:19-22). All

will recognize that the victory came from God, and many will

open their hearts to the Lord (Ezekiel 38:23).

 Timing: Ezekiel 39:9 notes that the Jews will spend seven years

burning the weapons captured in the war (but this does not

necessitate the battle preceding the beginning of the Tribulation).

» Daniel 11:40-45 describes a military campaign of the Antichrist in the

Middle East occurring toward the end of the Tribulation. The Antichrist

will invade “the Beautiful Land” and subdue area lands except Jordan.

» Phase two of the Battle of Armageddon is noted in Joel 3, Zechariah

14, and Revelation 19.

» It appears that just as the armies from the East and the North arrive in

the Valley of Armageddon, the Lord appears, speaks a supernatural

word, and all the armies are instantly destroyed “with the breath of

His mouth.” (2 Thess. 2:8)

 Joel 3:16 notes that the Lord will “roar from Zion” and “utter His

voice from Jerusalem.” Isaiah 10:16 notes that the result will be

“a wasting disease.” Zech. 14:12 notes that there will be a plague

that will cause the ﬂesh of the soldiers “to rot while they stand on

their feet.” Their eyes will rot in their sockets, and their tongues

will rot in their mouths.’’

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» The aftermath (Revelation 20)

 The Battle of Armageddon will be followed by the Millennial

Reign Of Christ. This is a time when Jesus reigns on earth – a

time of righteousness and justice (Isaiah 11:4-5,9). Swords will be

beat into plowshares and “nation will not lift up sword against

nation…” (Isaiah 2:4). The world will be ﬂooded with agricultural

abundance (Amos 9:13). There will be no homelessness or

hunger. It will be a time of peace and prosperity (Micah 4:4).

Satan will be bound during this period (Rev. 20:1-2).

 The Millennium will begin with only believers. They will begin

to propagate, and since death will be curtailed and life spans

extended (Isaiah 65:20), the population of the world will grow

exponentially. Those born during this time will have the old sin

nature. They will desire all the things of the ﬂesh — they will see

that any violation of the Law of God results in swift and certain

justice. The Bible states that Jesus will rule with “a rod of iron”

(Psalm 2:9 and Revelation 2:26-27). Despite the fact that His

reign will produce righteousness, fairness, and perfect justice

(Isaiah 11:4-5), some living in this era will resent the fact that they

cannot freely pursue sin.

 At the end of the millennial reign of Christ, Satan is released

(Revelation 20:7), and many will unite in one last rebellion against

God (Revelation 20:7-9). God will prevail.

 Following this last rebellion there will be a ﬁnal judgment.

(2 Peter 3:10-13; Revelation 21).

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Jesus always has a plan to provide for His people

(See John 6:5, 11-14)

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THE SONGS OF SOLOMON

AND ESCHATOLOGY

The Old Testament book, Songs Of Solomon can be understood to have an

eschatological focus designed to warn and urge individuals to be ready for

the coming of the bridegroom. This section proﬁles how Songs of Solomon

is a love story between a mighty and fair Groom (Jesus) and His willful and

disobedient love (the Church or believers). Songs of Solomon embodies a

Rapture-readiness warning. This section proﬁles a few key passages which

make this focus clear.

About the book

● The author (Solomon)

» Also wrote: Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and perhaps Psalm 72 and 127:1-5.

● The book, Songs Of Solomon (Shir Hashshirim)

» In Hebrew it is “The Song of Songs” or “An Ode of the Odes.”

» An Ode indicates the “most excellent of all others.”

» The book was written in the early part of Solomon’s reign as king.

» The book was understood by the Hebrews to be poetry containing

sublime and important matter, always sung or accompanied by a harp.

● Distinctions

» The name of God is not found in this book.

» The New Testament does not reference this book.

● Various views on how to interpret the book

» Mr. Harmer: “It is a poem but presents a rather straightforward

statement on the marriage of Solomon to the daughter of Pharaoh,

and is to be understood in no other way.”

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101

» The Targumist: “It is an allegory relative to the conduct of God towards

the Hebrews (bringing them out of Egypt to the Promised Land”).

» Origen: “It is intended to represent the incarnation of Jesus Christ, or

his marriage with human nature, in reference to its redemption.”

» Dr. Gill: “It represents Christ’s love for the Church or elected souls,

and their love for him.”

» Catholicism: “It is an allegorical poem on the glories of Jesus Christ

and the Virgin Mary.”

» Dr. Mason Good: “It is a collection of sacred poetic references; the

spiritual meaning is not agreed on.”

» The author of this work believers Songs of Solomon has a strong

eschatological message. It speaks of a Groom who loves his bride.

It notes that the station of the Groom is far above that of his bride.

It story notes that the bride recognizes that she is blessed and has

been chosen, but she does not remain vigilant in wisely waiting for

her Groom when he is away. The book, therefore, serves as a warning

to the Church to stand ready for the Groom’s return; reminiscent of

Jesus’ parable of the 10 virgins in Matthew 25.

SONGS OF SOLOMON CHAPTER PROFILE

Chapter 1: The woman is enamored

● The woman speaks ﬁrst. She is overwhelmed. She is impressed by his

station, kindness, and loveliness. The bride exclaims, “Let Him kiss me

with the kisses of His mouth; for Thy love is better than wine.”

» (1:3) The bride praises the Groom. His very name is noted as beautiful

“ointment poured forth.”

» (1:5-6) The woman confesses she is “black” (unworthy or sinful). Yet,

the Bridegroom calls her “fair.” She experiences great joy, “Behold,

Thou art fair, my Beloved!”

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Chapter 2: The Groom oers an invitation to the bride

● The voice of the bride is heard again in the opening verses of this chapter;.

Some believe the Messiah is speaking of Himself as the Rose and the Lily

of the Valley, but most believe the exalted phrase comes from a joyful

bride. Being chosen by the Groom makes her a lily among thorns. She

refers to the Groom as an apple-tree. She has no fruit herself but rests

under Him as the blessed fruit-bearer. Under this tree she ﬁnds shelter and

provision—

she enjoys His fruit under His shade and pleasant covering.

» Then the Groom calls to her, “Arise, my love, my fair one, and come

away. Be wholly for Me!” He refers to her as, “My dove.” She is

overwhelmed. It is clear that the Groom longs for her and she longs

for Him. His eyes are upon her, His beloved bride—she is blessed.

» Joyfully the bride cries out as the assurance of His love stirs her soul,

“My Beloved is mine, and I am His.” Yet the fullness of joy and their

union has not yet come. There is an anticipation of a blessing yet

future. “Turn my Beloved,” she calls to Him, “be Thou like a gazelle

or a young hart, swift in Thy coming [Thy return]...” Here the Groom

indicates his departure—the bride expresses her desire for Him to

return quickly.

Chapter 3: The departure of the Groom

● The scene changes. The bride is now alone and in the darkness of night.

She seeks her Beloved but is unable to ﬁnd Him. She lacks joy and comfort.

She walks the streets, looking for “Him whom her soul loveth.” She seeks

him but “[ﬁnds] Him not.”

Chapter 4: Though away from the bride, she is not forgotten

● Here the Bridegroom’s love is rearmed. He speaks of her, who is

“perfect.” He has called her “from the lion’s den, from the mountains of the

leopards” (4:8). He has chosen her, and she is blessed. Though she was

“black,” there are now eight descriptions of her beauty. After a notation

of the beautiful attributes the bride now enjoys, the Groom states, “Thou

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103

art all fair, my love; and there is no spot in thee.” Her attributes are His

workmanship—she has not made herself fair—His grace and power have

accomplished it for her.

● 4:12-15 presents a beautiful description of a garden, the land of Israel. The

land is the Groom’s, and is the place where she is to wait for His return.

In this land are the provisions of precious fruits, trees, and frankincense.

Chapter 5: The Groom returns, but the bride is not ready

● The Bridegroom returns (as promised) with the hope that his bride is ready

to receive Him. The Groom calls out, “Eat, O friends; drink, yea, drink

abundantly...” He continues, “I am come into My garden...[for] My spouse.”

● However, there is no response from the bride. She is not found watching

or waiting or ready to receive the Groom.

● The Groom is then seen standing outside the bride’s home. In earnest

humility, the Groom stands waiting outside in the cold damp air—the night

dew covers his clothes and hair. He stands knocking at the door. There is

no response from His bride.

● (5:9). The bride arms the beauty of the Groom. She refers to Him as,

“the chiefest among ten thousand, ” and ascribes to Him ten wonderful

attributes. She references His holiness, love, sacriﬁce, compassion,

humanity, royal nature and more. Following these praises she cries out,

“Yea, He is altogether lovely...this is my friend.” However, though she

recognizes His beauty, she does not remain watchful for His return or

promptly responds when He knocks on her door.

● After a time of knocking and waiting with no response from the bride, the

Groom leaves. The bride misses being able to share in a great blessing.

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SONGS OF SOLOMON CHAPTER PROFILE

(with an eschatological view in mind)

Songs of Sol. 2:10-12 notes the coming of the Messiah and the

invitation to enter into relationship with Him.

● “My beloved spoke and said to me, ‘Arise, my darling, my beautiful one,

come with me. See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone.

Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come.’”

● The coming of the Messiah brightens the world.

Songs of Sol. 3:1-2 represents the Church Age (the Messiah is gone

but promises to return) Acts 1:9-11; 1 Thess. 4:13-18.

● “All night long on my bed I looked for the one my heart loves; I looked for

him but did not ﬁnd him. I will get up now and go about the city, through its

streets and squares; I will search for the one my heart loves. So I looked

for him but did not ﬁnd him.”

● There is some eort on behalf of the bride—but she grows weary of waiting

and does not remain in readiness for His return.

Songs of Sol. 5:2 notes the return of the Groom, the Messiah

● “I slept, but my heart was awake. Listen! My beloved is knocking: “Open to

me, my sister, my darling, my dove, my ﬂawless one. My head is drenched

with dew, my hair with the dampness of the night.”

● The Groom arrives—the bride is asleep. The Groom stands outside

knocking—beckoning the bride to rise—no response.

● The picture here is especially moving as the Groom stands outside,

drenched by the cold mist or fog of night, but is not well or quickly received

by the one He loves.

Songs of Sol. 5:3-4 notes the bride’s slow response (Matt. 25:1-13)

● “I have taken o my robe—must I put it on again? I have washed my feet—

must I soil them again?

●

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● Songs of Sol. 5:5-6a notes the Groom’s departure

● “I opened [the door] to my beloved, but my beloved had turned and gone.

I sought him, but found him not...”

● Matthew 25:1-13 notes a New Testament parallel teaching, the parable of

the 10 Virgins.

“At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins

who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom.

Five of them were foolish, and ﬁve were wise. The foolish

ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. The

wise, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps. The

bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became

drowsy and fell asleep. “At midnight the cry rang out: ‘Here’s

the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!’ “Then all the virgins

woke up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish ones said to

the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.’

‘No,’ they replied, ‘there may not be enough for both you

and us. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for

yourselves.’ “But while they were on their way to buy the oil,

the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in

with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut.”

“Later the others came. ‘Sir! Sir!’ they said. ‘Open the door

for us!’” “But he replied, ‘I tell you the truth, I don’t know you.’

“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or

the hour.”

Songs of Sol. 5:6 presents a warning

● “I opened [the door] for my beloved, but my beloved had left; he was

gone. My heart sank at his departure. I looked for him but did not ﬁnd him.

I called him, but he did not answer.”

● The bride ﬁnally rose to answer to the door to let the Groom in. But she

was too late. She was not ready to receive him. She had been ‘left behind.’

● See John 16:13; Matt. 24:37-44; 1 Thess. 5:3; Luke 21:36.

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“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

Summary

Songs of Solomon can be viewed as a beautiful love story. In this story the

Groom is of the highest rank—He brightens the setting by His presence. In

stark contrast is the bride, who is low, unworthy and “black.” Yet she is both

chosen by the Groom and made worthy by His grace.

His love for the bride is evident, but He must leave for a time. He promises

to return, makes provisions (a choice setting) available for His bride, and bids

her to watch and wait for Him. The bride waits for a time, but soon becomes

unfaithful in her duty. The Groom arrives at an unexpected time. He is not well-

received by His people or His bride. He travels to the home of His bride, knocks

at the door, but she is slow to respond. When she ﬁnally opens the door, the

Groom is gone.

The Church is referred to as the Bride of Christ in the New Testament. The

Groom, Jesus, has come, has left, and has promised to return. The Church,

the Bride of Christ is called to watch and wait for His return. In the Gospel of

Matthew we read: “So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will

come at an hour when you do not expect Him. Who then is the faithful and wise

servant, whom the Master has put in charge of the servants in His household

to give them their food at the proper time? It will be good for that servant

whose Master ﬁnds him doing so when He returns.” Matthew 24:44-46

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INTERPRETING THE BOOK

OF REVELATION 4 VIEWS

Interpreting the book of Revelation can be a challenge. The allusions

to Old Testament prophecies, the many symbols, the poetic language

and the unusual wording make understanding the book dicult, but not

impossible. Still, Revelation 1:3 notes that there is a blessing to those who

read and hear the words. Over the ages, individuals have established

four ways to interpret and understand the text. The approach one takes

to read the book, will determine how they understand the book. This

section notes the four primary methods for interpretation and makes a

recommendation for seekers of truth today.

Interpreting the book of Revelation generally follows one of four principle

views. Let me begin by sharing that I enjoy astronomy. I have a quality

scope and an assortment of eyepieces and colored ﬁlters/lenses. Though

the scope does not change, the eyepiece and colored ﬁlter/lens I choose

to look through determines whether I see Jupiter as a small white ball

(like a small moon), or as a large, majestic yellowish banded planet with

famous storm spot and multiple moons.

In the same way, the approach (lens) one takes to read the book of

Revelation will determine what they see in the book (and how he text

applies to their life). The following pages proﬁle the four primary ways to

interpret the book of Revelation:

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1. THE FUTURIST VIEW

The fourth approach to interpreting the book of Revelation is the futurist view.

This position holds that the prophetic events proﬁled in the Olivet Discourse

and book of Revelation (particularly chapters 4-22) will occur in the future. In

general Futurists use Revelation 1:19 as a guide to divide the book into three

sections: 1) “what you have seen” 2) “what is now (present) and 3) “what will

take place later.” According to this school of thought, chapter 1 is a presentation

of the past (“what you have seen”), chapters 2-3 are a presentation of the

present (“what is now”), and the remaining chapters proﬁle future events (“what

will take place later”).

Futurists apply a literal approach to interpreting the book of Revelation. The

tribulation period (as proﬁled in chapters 4-19) is 2520 days or 7 (Hebrew) years.

The seven-year Tribulation period is viewed as Daniel’s 70th week (Dan. 9:27).

During the Tribulation, the earth will experience 21 speciﬁc judgments of God

(divided into three sets of seven and depicted as seals, trumpets, and bowls).

The Antichrist and future global system that he leads (see chapter 13) are to be

understood literally, as are the battles of Armageddon, the return of Christ, and

the Millennial Kingdom. This position, and perhaps an incorporation of some

aspects of the Historists view—such as thinking that the seven churches in the

book of Revelation could reference actual ﬁrst-century churches and seven

future periods of Church History, is the primary approach to interpreting the

book of Revelation today, and the view that the I Am A Watchman ministry

holds.

One of the key arguments in support of the Futurists view is the date of the

writing of the book of Revelation. Preterists argue for a pre-70 AD date while

Futurists hold to a date of approximately 95 AD. There are good reasons to

argue for a later date. For example, Irenaeus, in his work Against Heresies,

states that John wrote Revelation at the end of Emperor Domitian’s reign,

which ended in 96 AD. Irenaeus was a disciple of Polycarp, who was a disciple

of the Apostle John. He thus had a connection with a contemporary of the

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Apostle John.

Another argument for the futurist view is that the conditions of the seven

churches in Revelation appear to describe a second-generation church,

rather than a ﬁrst-generation church. For example, John charged the Church

of Ephesus (Rev. 2:1-7) with abandoning their ﬁrst love and warned against

embracing the Nicolaitan heresy. If John had written the book of Revelation

in 65 A.D. (as Preterists allege), the book would have overlapped the time-

line of Paul’s letters to the Ephesians and Timothy. However, in the Apostle

Paul’s writing there is no mention of either the loss of a ﬁrst love or the threat

of the Nicolaitans. Ephesus was Paul’s base of ministry for three years—surely

such grave issues would have been mentioned by him. Also, the Church of

Smyrna did not exist during Paul’s ministry (60-64 A.D.). Polycarp, the ﬁrst

bishop of that city, documents this. It is also worthy to note that Jesus rebuked

the Laodicean church in Revelation chapter 3 for being “lukewarm.” However,

when the Apostle Paul wrote to the Colossians (near Laodicea), he commends

the church three times (2:2, 4:13, 16).

It is true that Paul wrote the book of Colossians a few years earlier than the

early date Preterists suggest for the book of Revelation. However, it would

likely take more than three years for the Laodicean church to decline such that

there were no commendable attributes in the church (as noted in Revelation 3).

Also, an earthquake in 61 A.D. left the region in ruins for some years. Thus, it is

unlikely that in a ruined condition John would describe them as rich.

Preterists who argue for the 70 AD date for the writing of the book of Revelation

pose the questions, “Why doesn’t John mention the fall of the Temple in the

book of Revelation?” and “Why does John reference the Temple in Revelation

11 if the Temple was destroyed 25 years earlier?” Futurists respond to these

questions by noting that John’s focus is future, not past events. Also, John

was writing to a Gentile audience in Asia Minor, which probably was not overly

distressed about a happening concerning Hebrews in Jerusalem, 25 years in

the past. Concerning the Temple reference in chapter 11, Futurists argue that a

reference to the Temple does not imply that it existed at the time of his writing,

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but rather, it is a reference to a prophesied Third Temple (see Dan. 9:26-27;

Ezek. 40-48).

2. THE IDEALIST VIEW

The next view or approach to interpreting the book of Revelation is the Idealist

view. This approach prioritizes using an allegorical method for interpretation.

The second-century church father, Origen (185-254 A.D.) introduced this

method. It was later made more prominent by the notable Bishop, Augustine

(354-420 A.D.). According to this method of interpretation, the events in the

book of Revelation are NOT referring to (or linked to) particular historical

happenings. The writing is viewed as ﬁgurative—symbolically representing

the epic struggle of good versus evil (God versus Satan). In this battle, good

will triumph; the followers of God are oppressed and persecuted, but will one

day receive their reward. Robert Mounce summarizes the idealist view stating,

“Revelation is a theological poem presenting the ageless struggle between

the kingdom of light and the kingdom of darkness. It is a philosophy of history

wherein Christian forces are continuously meeting and conquering the demonic

forces of evil.” There are three primary concerns with interpreting the book of

Revelation via the Idealist view.

1. It minimizes the gravity of the warnings presented in the book of

Revelation.

2. It minimizes a call to action, and the need to prepare for future tribulation

events as the references in Revelation that pertain to such things are

thought to be symbolic or allegorical.

3. Though at times endorsed by prominent church leaders, this view has

never been widely accepted by the Christian Church.

3. TWO PRETERIST VIEWS

Another approach to interpreting the book of Revelation is the Preterist view.

Preter is a Latin term meaning, “past.” There are two primary views within the

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Preterists approach to interpretation (Full Preterism and Partial Preterism). In

general, both Preterist views hold that the book of Revelation proﬁles past

events, and that the prophecies presented by Jesus in the Olivet discourse

(Matt. 24-25) are prophecies that were fulﬁlled primarily during the fall of

Jerusalem (which took place in 70 AD). According to this view, Revelation 1-3

proﬁles the conditions in seven ﬁrst century churches in Asia Minor before the

Jewish war (AD 66-70), and chapters 4-22 (and Matthew 24-25) proﬁles the

fall of Jerusalem and destruction of the Temple. Detailed below are the two

preterist views:

● Full preterists hold that the fulﬁllment of all prophecies recorded in the

book of Revelation took place by 70 A.D. (this includes all prophecies

in the Olivet Discourse and all prophecies in the book of Revelation).

Further, full preterist hold that humans are now living in a redeemed

state, referenced in Revelation as the new heavens and the new earth.

● Partial preterists believe that most of the prophecies recorded in

the book of Revelation were fulﬁlled between 66—70 A.D. (during

the Jewish-Roman war and subsequent destruction of the Temple).

However, partial preterist hold that the ﬁnal three chapters in the book

of Revelation allude to future events. Partial preterists await the return

of Jesus Christ (a view rejected by full preterist). The partial preterist

method of interpretation is the more widely accepted of the two

preterist views.

This method of interpretation has been endorsed by notable scholars as R. C.

Sproul, Hank Hanegraa, Kenneth Gentry, and the late David Chilton (Note:

Hank Hanegraa and David Chilton rejected this position later in life). Concerns

with the preterist positions include:

» Scripture notes that future tribulations would be markedly dierent

than any other time in history (which was not the case with 66-70 A.D.

happenings).

» The full preterist position does not anticipate the glorious return/

appearing of Jesus Christ.

» Preterist views do not adequately address references to the global

power and system of the Antichrist.

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3. THE HISTORICIST VIEW

The third approach to interpreting the book of Revelation is the Historicist view.

This approach holds that the material in the book of Revelation is symbolic—

representing historical events that will take place in the future (but primarily

prior to the 21st century). These events include the rise of various popes, future

empires, and rulers, the Protestant Reformation, the French Revolution, etc.

This position holds that references to the Beast and Antichrist are not to be

understood literally.

Many who hold this view believe chapters 1-3 represent seven periods in church

history (beginning with the ﬁrst-century church and ending with the Tribulation

period). Further, this position holds:

● The Seals in chapters 4-7 symbolize the fall of the Roman Empire.

● The Trumpet judgments in chapters 8-10 represent various invasions

of the Roman Empire.

● The Antichrist is a reference to the Pope. Chapters 11-13 point to the

struggle between the Protestant Church and Roman Catholicism.

● Chapters 14-16 reference divine judgment on the Catholic Church.

● Chapters 17-19 point to the future demise of Catholicism.

Prominent scholars who have used this approach to interpret the book of

Revelation include Martin Luther, George Whiteﬁeld, John Wyclie, John Calvin,

John Knox, William Tyndale, Charles Finney, John Wesley, Jonathan Edwards,

Ulrich Zwingli, C. H. Spurgeon, and Matthew Henry.

This view rose to popularity during the time of the Protestant Reformation

because of the profound persecution of Protestants by the Catholic Church

in the 16th and 17th centuries. However, since the beginning of the twentieth

century, this view has declined in prominence and is no longer a primary

approach to interpreting the book of Revelation.

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Summary

As the structure of the Bible is much more transformational rather than

informational, most scholars today encourage a Futurist approach to interpreting

the book of Revelation. The Bible is not simply a record of what was—it is living

Word that calls believers to action today, and provides insight into how God will

work in the future. The Futurist approach, more than the other approaches to

interpretation, compliments the structure and spirit of the whole of Scripture by

facilitating an interpretation of the text that exhorts, engages, and encourages

those who study the book.

Even if one does not hold to the Futurist approach to interpreting the book

of Revelation, there is no doubt the world is not at rest, and that there will

be turmoil and troubles in the days to come. Those who do not believe in a

Rapture or a second coming must still believe that a time of judgment and

accounting is coming. The call is to be ready.

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THE ANTICHRIST

The Antichrist is the Beast of the book of Revelation. He is evil personiﬁed—

indwelt by Satan, ruthless and intent on destroying all that God loves. A

dichotomy of character will allow this monster to garner support and move

into power. He will at once, charm the crowds while planning to kill millions.

He will solve global problems and appear to be good, but his agenda is evil.

The scope of the pain and suering he will inﬂict on the world will have no

equal. The Antichrist will be a man but will be indwelt by Satan. He will lead in

brokering a peace covenant with Israel, but is not a man of peace and will, in

fact, usher-in a period of war that will kill billions.

He is the personiﬁcation of evil and a master of deception. Like a real-life

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, or perhaps the nefarious Lex Luthor, he will be wise,

polished, and professional, but malevolent and merciless.

The biblical foundation for the term Antichrist

An antichrist is one who opposes the will of Christ. However, during the

Tribulation period, a great deceiver and enemy of Christ will appear (and reign)

on the earth. This individual is known as the “Abomination of Desolation” and

the

Antichrist.

Before proceeding, it is important to clarify the term “antichrist.” According to

the epistles of John, an antichrist is one who opposes the teachings of Christ.

In this sense, many can be an antichrist—in fact, anyone who hinders the ‘Great

Commission’ work and opposes the things of God is an antichrist. However,

Scripture notes that during the Tribulation period, a world leader will arise. The

world will praise him for leading in brokering a peace covenant in the Middle

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East and solving many complex global issues. In time he will gain control of

global systems. Though he will claim to be divine, he is, in fact, a man indwelt

by Satan. He is the Antichrist. This section of the book proﬁles that individual,

the Antichrist of the Tribulation period. This article will dierentiate him from

antichrists throughout history by referencing him with a capital “A” in his title.

● “…Many deceivers, who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the

ﬂesh, have gone out into the world. Any such person is the deceiver and

[an] antichrist” (2 John 7).

● “…Every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the

spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is

already in the world” (1 John 4:3).

The Timing of His Coming

● “The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and

follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons” (1 Timothy 4:1).

● The Antichrist will initiate the seven-year Tribulation by conﬁrming ”a

covenant” with Israel (Daniel 9:27).

His Character/Nature

● The Antichrist will be a great deceiver. Displays of power, signs, and wonders

will embolden his claim to be an agent of good (2 Thessalonians 2:9).

● Scripture notes that seven kings or rulers will precede the Antichrist

(Revelation 17:11 / Daniel 5). The empire of the Antichrist will be similar to, but

dierent from, past empires which embraced paganism and persecuted

God’s people.

● The Antichrist will be a man (Daniel 7:24-25).

● The Antichrist will have a ﬁerce countenance (Daniel 8:23).

● His look will be “stouter than his fellows” (Daniel 7:20). This can have

several meanings. It could mean the Antichrist will be larger in stature than

others, older than others, have a greater following than others, or is of

higher military or political rank than others, or that he is viewed as being

more qualiﬁed than others.

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Peculiar Aspects to His Rule

● The Antichrist will be supported by a miracle-working partner, known as the

False Prophet (Revelation 13:11-12).

● The Antichrist will be unusually wise and cunning (Daniel 8:23).

● The Antichrist will prosper in everything that he does (Daniel 8:24).

● The Antichrist will not regard the desire of women (Daniel 11:37). He may

like Hitler, present himself to be disinterested in relationships, or he may

embrace homosexuality.

● The Antichrist will sit in the Temple in Jerusalem (sometimes called the

third Temple) and claim to be God (2 Thessalonians 2:4).

● The Antichrist “will cause craft to prosper” (Daniel 8:25). It is interesting to

note the deﬁnition of the word “craft” here. The word in the original Hebrew

text is mirmah (meer-maw’), meaning deceiving; fraud, deceit, false, feigned,

guile, and treachery. These will be the hallmarks of his reign.

● Revelation 17:8 notes that the Antichrist “was, and is not, and yet is.” Many

believe this to be a reference to his overcoming an apparently fatal wound.

Some understand this to refer to a revived political career or empire.

“One of the heads of the beast seemed to have had a fatal

wound, but the fatal wound had been healed. The world was

ﬁlled with wonder and followed the beast” (Revelation 13:3)

The Early Years of His Rule

● The Antichrist will arise from among ten kings (Daniel 7:8).

● The Antichrist will oversee a ten-nation union, perhaps a form of a revived

Roman Empire (Daniel 2:44).

● The Antichrist will uproot three kings from the ten-nation union noted above

(Daniel 7:8).

● The Antichrist will ascend to power on a platform of peace (Daniel 8:25).

● The Antichrist will form a world government, which he will dominate

(Revelation 13:1-2).

● The Antichrist will rule a “mighty and strong kingdom” (Daniel 7:7).

● The Antichrist will “have power over all nations” (Revelation 13:7).

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● The Antichrist will lead large armies (Daniel 11:31).

● The Antichrist “will plant the tabernacles of his palace between the seas in

the glorious holy mountain” (Daniel 11:45). Perhaps the Antichrist will set up

small fortiﬁcations between the sea and Jerusalem.

The Final Years of His Rule

● The Antichrist will have an image made after him (Revelation 15:2).

● The Antichrist will assume complete control over the world government 3

1/2 years after he conﬁrms the covenant with Israel. He then will continue to

reign for 42 months (Revelation 13:5).

● The Antichrist will endorse the setting-up of the “Abomination of Desolation”

(an image unto himself that all are forced to worship). This event signals

the beginning of the ﬁnal 42 months and the commencement of the period

called the “Great Tribulation” (Daniel 9:27).

● The Antichrist will forbid daily sacriﬁces in the Temple (Daniel 11:31).

● The Antichrist will control the ability to buy and sell, and force all to prove

allegiance to him by taking the ‘Mark of the Beast’ (Revelation 14:11).

● The antichrist will seek to kill Jews and Christians (Daniel 12:7).

● The Antichrist will wage war against Israel—culminating in the battles of

Armageddon (Revelation 6-19).

» The focus of his rage will be God’s people, Israel and Jerusalem:

“Behold, a day is coming...when the nations [will] gather against

Jerusalem to battle, and the city shall be taken and the houses

plundered and the women raped. Half of the city shall go out into

exile, but the rest of the people shall not be cut o from the city. Then

the Lord will go out and ﬁght against those nations as when he ﬁghts

on a day of battle...” (Zechariah 14:1-2).

His Fate

● The Antichrist will stand [ﬁght] against the Prince of princes (Daniel 8:25).

● Christ will consume the Antichrist, and all enemies of God with the “spirit of

his mouth,” which is the Word of God (2 Thessalonians 2:8).

● The Antichrist will be “cast alive into the Lake of Fire” (Revelation 19:20).

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● The Antichrist will be “tormented day and night forever” (Revelation 20:10).

Summary

The Antichrist is an actual person (not a symbol of evil) who will seek to control

government, the economy, and religion. He will be responsible for persecution,

war, pain, and suering. But there is hope—His name is Jesus the Christ. Consider

this: The focus of the book of Revelation is not the power of the Antichrist, but

the power of God. The book of Revelation does not center on the victories of

Satan, but on the ultimate victory of God through His son Jesus. Yes, evil men

and movements will come—there will be battles—but God and good will prevail.

Scripture notes that Jesus is the Victor and that those who believe in Him will

share in His victory (1 Corinthians 15:57).

Turbulent times are coming—the Antichrist is coming, but help is available; His

name is Jesus Christ. There is a spiritual battle swirling about us—it will profoundly

impact the earth in the days to come. The only hope is to align with Jesus and

seek safety, strength, and salvation in Him. God will judge humans who, out of

fear, ignorance, or false hope, decide to stand with the Antichrist. Receiving his

mark is to acknowledge the world leader as your god.

Receiving the mark of the Antichrist is an unalterable decision indicating your

rejection of God and His oer of salvation, forgiveness, and Heaven. The wise

will seal their eternal fate now. It does not require money or special education—

but there is a cost.

You must surrender your will, your priorities, and your life to God. You must

believe in Him, and then accept Jesus into your heart as Lord and Savior. You

must allow Him to lead, and you must faithfully follow. You must confess your

sins to Him, and you must both accept His forgiveness and forgive others. From

these decisions ﬂow forgiveness, joy, and hope.



A link to the teaching video on the Antichrist is provided in the

appendix of this book.

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Blessed are they who faithfully watch and wait

for the return of the Lord and King

(See Luke 12:37-38)

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IS AMERICA MENTIONED

IN BIBLE PROPHECY?

Many have questioned why the United States is not clearly or prominently

mentioned in Scripture. Surely such a world power would be part of any end

times battles, especially being one of Israel’s strongest allies. Yet, it is dicult to

ﬁnd clear references to America in Scripture. Europe is identiﬁable; references

to Russia and China are pretty clear – Where is America?

America played a key role in helping Israel become a sovereign and

independent nation in 1948, and has provided support to the support and a

place of refuge for Jews for more than 200 years. Not only has Israel been a

support the Jews and Israel, America has dominated world aairs since WWII.

America has liberated countries, aided countries impacted by natural disasters,

led the world in trade and technology, and sent out more missionaries to more

regions than any nation in history. America has played a notable role on the

world stage in the past. The question is, what role will America play in the last

days? For possibilities follow:

America’s future: Four possibilities

1. America is not mentioned in Scripture because she is outside the focus of

John’s Revelation narrative, or because America plays no signiﬁcant role

in End Time events.

2. America is mentioned—symbolized as the great eagle in Revelation 12, or

possibly Isaiah 18:1-2.

3. America is mentioned—referenced as the Daughter of Babylon and

represented by the woman who rides the Beast, or the Whore of Babylon

in Revelation 13, 17 and 18.

4. America is mentioned—referred to as a young lion in Ezekiel 38.

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Option 1: America is not speciﬁcally noted in Scripture

Some Christians believe no clearly identiﬁable reference to America is found in

Scripture. Those who hold this position often suggest the US is simply outside

the focus of the Revelation narrative (which primarily centers on Jews and

Israel). It is also possible America is not mentioned because she simply plays

no signiﬁcant role in end-time events.

It may be the book of Revelation maintains a strict focus on Israel and the nations

who have direct interaction with Israel in the last seven years of history. The

absence of direct or explicit references to America in Scripture may indicate

the United States will not attack Israel, provide signiﬁcant support to Israel, or

play a signiﬁcant role in End-Time battles involving Israel.

Another option is that in the last days, America desires to support Israel, but

can’t because of a calamity, economic hardship, poor leadership or because she

has suered the judgment of God. Romans 1:18-23 notes that the nation who

embraces wickedness and opposes or suppresses truth will eventually suer

God’s judgment. Of course, that deﬁnition ﬁts many countries, not America

exclusively. (See Option 3 for additional information on God’s judgment).

Option 2: America Is the Great Eagle Mentioned in Revelation 12

The rescuing Eagle noted in Revelation 12:6, 14 aids and protects the Hebrew

people in the last days. This idea, however, requires that America provide

exceptional support to Israel in the last days—likely at signiﬁcant risk and cost:

transporting, supplying, and protecting several million Jews for 1260 days.

NOTE: Many believe the current political climate makes this option unlikely. In

this writer’s view, the following is more likely:

● The Eagle in Revelation 12 is linked to God’s supernatural provision (see

Exodus 19:4).

● The land of rescue is not the United States, but rather Petra, in the land of

Jordan. Daniel 11:41 notes that this area will not come under the control of

the Antichrist.

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Option 3: America is the Whore of Babylon in Revelation 13, 17 & 18.

The Whore of Babylon is also called the Daughter of Babylon, or the Woman

Who Rides the Beast. Many Americans are quick to dismiss this option, perhaps

due to the unﬂattering description and sobering ramiﬁcations. Though this

option may seem unlikely, a study of the descriptive phrases the Bible uses to

describe the attributes of the Daughter of Babylon makes this option worthy

of consideration. Compare the descriptions of the Daughter of Babylon to

the current condition of American culture and political structure. The nation is

described as follows:

● She is noted for her architecture, buildings, and skyline (Isaiah 13:22).

● She is the lone or newest notable world power (Isaiah 47:5,8).

● She is respected and envied, yet at the same time, hated by the world

(Isaiah 18:2).

● She has a unique and remarkable beginning (Isaiah 18:2).

● She is a “Queen among nations” (Isaiah 47:5,7; Revelation 17,18; Isaiah 13:6).

● She is called a lady (Isaiah 47:7-9).

● She is a land quartered by mighty rivers (Isaiah 18:2).

● She destroys her land, with pollution/waste (Isaiah 14:20, 18:2, 7).

● She is a democracy—ruled by many counsels (Isa. 47:13).

● Her governmental system will break down (Isaiah 47:13).

● She is known for religious confusion (Isaiah 47:12-13).

● She is a virgin nation; her lands untouched by foreign invaders (Isaiah 47:1).

● Her enemies lie on the other side of the world (Isaiah 13:5).

● Her people think they are God’s elect and chosen (Isaiah 47:7-8).

● She acts carelessly before the Lord (Isaiah 47:8).

● She is proud, haughty, and does not consider her end (Isaiah 47:7-8).

● She is the youngest and greatest of the end time nations (Jeremiah 50:12).

● She is a most powerful nation (Isaiah 47, Jeremiah 50, 51, Revelation 18).

● The strength of her armies will make her the “Hammer of the whole earth.”

(Jeremiah 50:23; Revelation 18:23).

● She is a land rich in minerals (Jeremiah 51:13) and agriculture (Jeremiah

50:16,26-27; Revelation 18).

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● She is a leading import/export nation. (Jeremiah 51:13, 51; Revelation 18).

● She sits upon “many waters” (Jeremiah 51:13).

● She turns on her heritage (Jeremiah 50:11-12).

● Her leaders lead their ﬂocks astray (Jeremiah 50:6; implied Rev. 18:2).

● She has a mother nation that remains to her death (Jeremiah 50: 12).

● This mother nation has the symbol of the lion (Daniel 7:4; Ezekiel 38:13;

Jeremiah 51:38; Psalms 17:12).

● She will turn against her own people (Jeremiah 50:7,33; 51:35; 39; Daniel

7:25; Revelation 13:7; 17:6; 18:24).

● She trades with many via ships all year round (Revelation 18:17-18).

JEREMIAH NOTES THE JUDGMENTS WHICH BEFALL THE NATION

OR ENTITY REFERENCED ABOVE

● JEREMIAH 50: “This is the word the Lord spoke through Jeremiah…

‘Babylon will be captured… A nation from the north will attack her and

lay waste her land….So Babylonia will be plundered; all who plunder her

will have their ﬁll…” ‘Take up your positions around Babylon, all you who

draw the bow. Shoot at her! Spare no arrows for she has sinned against

the Lord. She surrenders, her towers fall. The noise of battle is in the land,

the noise of great destruction! How broken and shattered is the hammer

of the whole earth! Come against her from afar…”See, I am against you,

arrogant one,’ declares the Lord, the Lord Almighty, ‘for your day has

come…’”

● JEREMIAH 51: “See, I will stir up the spirit of a destroyer against Babylon

and the people of Leb Kamai.” (this name is an athbash – an acronym

or code based on numbering Hebrew letters.) The reference here is the

equivalent of Chaldea, which Jeremiah 25:26 associates with Babylon.

“Babylon was a gold cup in the Lord’s hand…Babylon will suddenly fall

and be broken. Wail over her! Get balm for her pain; perhaps she can be

healed. The Lord will carry out His purpose…You who live by many waters

and are rich in treasures, your end has come…I will surely ﬁll you with

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troops…and they will shout in triumph over you…”Daughter Babylon is like

a threshing ﬂoor at the time it is trampled…Babylon will be captured, the

boast of the whole earth seized!”

Option 4: America is One of The Young Lions in Ezekiel 38.

Ezekiel 38:13 states, “Sheba, and Dedan, and the merchants of Tarshish, with

all the young lions thereof, shall say unto thee, ‘Art thou come to take a spoil?

Hast thou gathered thy company to take a prey? To carry away silver and gold,

to take away cattle and goods, to take a great spoil?’”

The above passage notes that Sheba, Dedan, and Tarshish resist (or at least

question) the vast army of the north that is approaching Israel. The question

is, Who are the people of Sheba, Dedan, and Tarshish? Several plausible

possibilities exist.

● Sheba and Dedan are referenced as the sons of Cush (Genesis 10:7).

Sheba and Dedan could be a general reference to the people who occupy

lands to the east of Israel (Genesis 25:1-6).

● Tarshish is harder to place. However, most Bible scholars believe it to be

among the kingdoms in the west, including the British Isles and Spain.

● America is a young nation. Its birth has links to both Spain and Britain.

Hence, some believe America could be one of Ezekiel’s young lions.

Summary

The goal of this chapter is not to frighten, but to inform. Through prophecy, God

provides warning and insight. Note that the Bible, with a few exceptions, does

not direct believers to ﬂee. Rather, believers are directed to take a stand and

be a light. A time of tribulation and judgment is coming, but so is the Rapture.

Let God’s people be found faithful and active in Great Commission work when

the Lord returns.

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COMING TO THE EARTH

This chapter proﬁles a number of coming judgments not speciﬁcally mentioned

in the book of Revelation. Note that these judgments will come, not because

God does not care about humanity, but because humanity is willful. God knows

there are times when mankind only responds to what one might call, ‘divine

tough love.’ The verse below notes the rationale for God’s actions.

“At night my soul longs for You. Indeed, my spirit within me

seeks You diligently; for when the earth experiences Your

judgments the inhabitants of the world learn righteousness.”

(Isaiah 26:9)

Scriptural references of coming judgments

“Those who contend with the LORD will be shattered…The

LORD will judge the ends of the earth…He will give strength to

His king, and will exalt...His anointed” (1 Samuel 2:10).

“[God] shakes the earth…and its pillars tremble…” (Job 9:6)

“The sound of Your thunder was in the whirlwind; the lightnings

lit up the world; the earth trembled and shook” (Psalm 77:18).

Judgments not mentioned in the book of Revelation

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“…Go into the caverns of the rocks and the clefts of the clis

before the terror of the LORD…when He arises to make the

earth tremble” (Isaiah 2:21).

“He is the LORD…His judgments are [on]…the earth.”

(1 Chronicles 16:14)

“Mountains quake…and hills dissolve; the earth is upheaved

by His presence…and the inhabitants in it” (Nahum 1:5).

“Then the channels of the sea appeared, the foundations

of the world were laid bare by the rebuke of the Lord…”

(2 Samuel 22:16).

“You have made the land quake, You have split it open; heal

its breaches, for it totters” (Psalms 60:2).

“Behold, the LORD lays the earth waste, devastates it,

distorts its surface and scatters its inhabitants…The earth will

be completely laid waste and completely despoiled, for the

LORD has spoken this word.” (Isaiah 24:1-6)

“...The sky will be rolled up like a scroll; all their hosts will also

wither away like a leaf withers from the vine, or as one withers

from the ﬁg tree. For My sword…shall descend for judgment

upon Edom and upon the people whom I have devoted to

destruction…” (Isaiah 34:4-15).

“Therefore I will shake the heavens, and the earth shall

remove out of her place…” (Isaiah 13:13).

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“…They pour out drink oerings to other gods to spite Me…

Therefore thus says the Lord GOD, ‘Behold, My anger, and My

wrath will be poured out on this place, on man and on beast

and on the trees of the ﬁeld and on the fruit of the ground; and

it will burn and not be quenched’” (Jeremiah 7:18-20).

“Therefore wait for Me,” declares the LORD, “For the day when

I rise up as a witness indeed, My decision is to gather nations,

to assemble kingdoms, to pour out on them My indignation,

all My burning anger; for all the earth will be devoured by…

ﬁre…” (Zephaniah 3:8-9).

“The earth shall reel to and fro like a drunkard…and the

transgression thereof shall be heavy upon it, and it shall fall,

and not rise again” (Isaiah 24:20).

“The earth is broken asunder…split through [and]…shaken

violently. The earth reels to and fro like a drunkard…for its

transgression are heavy upon it…” (Isaiah 24:19)

“Hear, O peoples…listen, O earth…and let the Lord GOD be

a witness against you, the Lord from His holy temple. For

behold, the LORD is coming…He will come down and tread on

the high places of the earth” (Micah 1:5-7).

“Do they spite Me?” declares the LORD. “Is it not themselves

they spite, to their own shame?” Therefore thus says the Lord

GOD, “Behold, My anger and My wrath will be poured out on

this place, on man and on the beast and on the trees of the

ﬁeld and on the fruit of the ground; and it will burn and not be

quenched.” (Jeremiah 7:19-20)

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“For the stars of Heaven and the constellations thereof shall

not give their light: the sun shall be darkened in his going forth,

and the moon shall not cause her light to shine” (Isaiah 13:10).

“And I will punish the world for their evil, and the wicked for

their iniquity; and I will cause the arrogance of the proud to

cease…” (Isaiah 13:11).

“You have made the land quake, You have split it open; heal its

breaches, for it totters” (Psalm 60:2).

“Then the moon shall be confounded, and the sun ashamed,

when the LORD of hosts shall reign in mount Zion, and in

Jerusalem…” (Isaiah 24:23).

“And when I shall put thee out, I will…make the stars thereof

dark; I will cover the sun with a cloud, and the moon shall not

give her light. All the bright lights of Heaven will I make dark

over thee, and set darkness upon thy land, saith the Lord GOD”

(Ezekiel 32:7-8).

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THE CHURCHES

IN THE BOOK OF REVELATION

The Lord’s message to the seven churches in the book of Revelation may

seem dated and mysterious. None of the churches mentioned are in existence

today, the names and places are unfamiliar, and the writing is rich in imagery

and symbolism. Nevertheless, the Lord’s message to the seven churches is

timeless and relevant. The Lord’s message was necessary for them to hear, and

is essential for us to grasp. This section is designed to encourage and inform as

it proﬁles the Lord’s message to each of the seven churches.

A Prophetic Message: Many Bible scholars believe that embodied in Lord’s

message to the seven churches in the book of Revelation, there is an application

for an actual ancient Church, there is an application for the Church today, there

is an application for the individual, and there is a prophetic application.

The application for the ancient church

Scholars such as Sir William Ramsay have veriﬁed that the seven churches

in Revelation were actual ﬁrst-century churches. These churches, located in

cities on the western side of present-day Turkey, lined the Roman Imperial Post

Road, which connected the gateway of ‘Asia’ to Rome. Several of these cities

were great metropolises—Ephesus, for example, had a population of about

250,000 when John wrote. Others, such as Thyatira, were more like frontier

outposts than great cities. A church served each of these cities—many were

likely planted by the Apostle Paul and his team when he used Ephesus as a

base for his ministry for about three years.

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In Revelation chapters 2 and 3 Jesus imparts a particular message to seven

distinct churches located in seven dierent cities. Scholars note that there were

about 100 churches in the greater ‘Asian’ region at the time of John’s writing.

So then, the question is: Why these seven churches? These churches were not

the largest or most notable, or what some might call the best of the best (two of

the seven churches in the book of Revelation had grave issues). Many believe

Jesus chose to speak to these churches because their location and ministry

were representative of both future periods in Church History (the prophetic

application), and the major issues that individuals and churches struggle with

very day.

● Ephesus struggled with priorities. They had “forgotten their ﬁrst love”

which is to say, they had neglected to demonstrate proper aection and

devotion to their foremost love—Jesus Christ.

● Smyrna faced great persecution and oppression. The name of the city has

a tie to the word, myrrh, which is a perfume associated with suering and

death. Note that the pleasant fragrance of myrrh is only released when it is

‘crushed,’ and that this correlates to the ministry of the ‘suering servant’

as presented in Isaiah 53.

● Pergamum slipped into compromise. Pergamum is a compound word

meaning mixed (as in a negative sense) and union. Located in a great

pagan center known as, The City of Temples, this church struggled to

remain pure. The Altar of Pergamos, which is infamous in history, was

located there. In time, this church embraced elements of paganism.

● Thyatira represents a falling away from truth and profound apostasy. This

city had ties to ancient Babylonian mythology which, in addition to being

marked by violence and sensuality, had a particular ability to pervert

(corrupt) true spiritual principles. For example, in Babylonian mythology,

snake symbols are good (not evil). The ‘star of the dawn’ (see Isaiah 14)

did fall from heaven because of sin and pride, the mythology teaches that

his fall was an injustice—one that will be rectiﬁed in the end time. There is

a chief god, but often this deity is presented as feminine. There is a son

of the king associated with light and glory. The king’s son, Tammuz (later

called Baal), comes to power through murder and requires violence from

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his followers. The ancient Babylonian religion was not just simply another

faith—it was an anti-faith—a religious system built on distorted truths.

Thyatira struggled with being able to discern truth from error, and allowed

false teachings to enter the Church. Satan is a master deceiver and would

have believers forget that a half truth is a full lie.

● Sardis was a divided city that perceived itself as being better than it was.

The word ‘Sardis’ is plural. The city of Sardis had an upper and lower

section—separated by a relatively short distance, but required more than

an hour’s travel time. Both sections referred to themselves as Sardis.

Resting atop a 1500’ cli sat the upper portion of the city. This rather

strong strategic position led city leaders to boast of their invincibility.

However, their great wealth (King Midas and gold are said to have come

from there) and location did not save them from military conquest (multiple

times). Historians reference Sardis as a city of false pretensions. This

mindset crept into the heart of the church and is reﬂected in Jesus’ stern

exhortation: “You think that you are [have a reputation for being] alive—but

you are dead” (Revelation 3:1b). The Church at Sardis was evaluating itself

against man’s standards, not God’s.

● Philadelphia was the youngest of the seven cities noted in the book of

Revelation. To this church, Jesus oered only words of commendation and

promise. This church was strong, loving and faithful. In the 14th century,

Philadelphia stood alone as the last Christian city in the entire region.

Jesus commends this church for its ability to endure, to remain faithful to

His Word, and to not deny His name. To the faithful, He promises a great

reward and an escape from “the hour of trial that is going to come upon

the whole world…” (Revelation 3:10b).

● Laodicea, like Pergamum and Sardis, is associated with apostasy. This

church did not think itself signiﬁcant as the Church at Sardis did—but was

comfortable and complacent. This ‘lukewarm’ church was an oense to

Jesus and received a stern rebuke in Revelation 3:16. Their wealth and

prosperity contributed to their lack of reliance on God. The lesson here is

that our security needs to ﬁxed on the Lord (Psalm 62:1-2), and our faith

needs to be ever growing and active (James 2-3).

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The application for the believer and Church today

● The message to the Church at Ephesus reminds believers of the

importance of demonstrating proper aection and devotion to their ﬁrst

love—the Lord Jesus Christ.

● The Lord’s word to the Church at Smyrna reminds believers that God

can use suering and opposition to bring about spiritual growth and

an increased witness. It is important to note that though the Church of

Smyrna suered terribly under Roman persecution, it was perhaps the

most vibrant and Great Commission-oriented of the churches.

● The message to the Church at Pergamum warns believers not to embrace

(become in union with) the things of the world (2 Cor. 6:14).

● The message to the Church at Thyatira reminds believers that the enemy

often slyly manipulates, twists and distorts the truth. Believers are enjoined

to “Test all things and hold to that which is good [and true]” (1 Thess. 5:21).

● The message to the Church at Sardis reminds believers that a divided city

is not a great city, that false pretensions lead to disaster, and that having a

reputation for good is not the same as actually being good. It is the united

and faithful church that will be blessed. In evaluating our eectiveness

and spirituality believers must not seek man’s assessment, but God’s. It is

God’s expectations and standards that believers must strive to meet.

● The message to the Church at Philadelphia reminds believers of the

importance of love, endurance, truth and being a witness. To the faithful

Jesus promises a great reward and an escape from “the hour of trial that

is going to come upon the whole world…” (Rev. 3:10b)

● The message to the Church at Laodicea is somber and reminds believers

that the ‘lukewarm’ church (and a ‘lukewarm’ faith) is not acceptable in the

sight of Jesus. Believers must put their trust in the Lord, and remember

that complacency is viewed as contemptible. (Psa. 62:1-2; Jas. 2-3).

The prophetic nature of the message to the seven churches

Many scholars believe that the message to the seven churches in Revelation

prophetically points forward to a future period in the history of the Church.

Though there is some dispute on this supposition, one can see that if the

message to these churches were dierent, or if there was a change in the order

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of the messages to these churches, the supposition would have no support.

It is the unique order, city history, and individual elements of each churches’

history that make the theory compelling.

What follows is a brief presentation of the possible prophetic applications of

the messages to the seven churches in the book of Revelation:

● The Church at Ephesus is said to represent the age of the Apostles

and early expansion of the New Testament Church. There was a mighty

beginning, quickly followed by a tendency to neglect to demonstrate

proper aection and devotion to their ﬁrst love—Jesus Christ. This church

is said to represent the period from 33 A.D. to 100 AD.

● The Church at Smyrna represents the age of persecution (primarily at the

hands of 10 notorious Roman Caesars). This church represents roughly the

period from 100 A.D. to 313 AD.

● The Church at Pergamum represents the age of compromise. The ﬁrst

‘Christian Caesar’ was Constantine. There are questions about the genuine

nature of his faith, but his coming to power early in the fourth century does

coincide with the reversal of many laws designed to persecute and oppress

Christians. This relaxing of prohibitions sounds like a great positive, but

for many, the relaxing of these prohibitions coincided with a reduction

of passion regarding living out one’s faith. As pressure diminished, the

Christian Church slid into compromise and complacency. The period of

313 to 600 AD saw the church weaken, and embrace worldly elements in

various aspects of its government, structure, and doctrine.

● The Church at Thyatira is said to represent a period of grave apostasy. It

points to a period of history (roughly 600-1517 AD) wherein various aspects

of church doctrine, practice and motive were corrupt. The Inquisitions, the

Crusades, the development of the political/military arm of ‘the church,’ the

sale of indulgences, the elevation of the clergy, and the embracing of false

doctrines took place during this dark time.

● The Church at Sardis represents the age of division, false pretension and

near death (1517—1648 AD). It is during this church age that the Holy Roman

Empire fades and the Protestant Reformation begins. It also represents a

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time of false pretensions as the 16th century Catholic Church saw no need

to reform. This position led to a split (Protestants and Catholics), and within

200 years the Protestant arm became fractured by the rise of various

denominations. Though there are some positive happenings in this church

age, it is known as a dark period in church history.

● The Church at Philadelphia is said to represent a time of love, spiritual

growth, and championing the name of Christ. Between 1648 and 1900 AD,

revival broke out in many places across the globe. Great preachers such

as Whitﬁeld, Spurgeon, Sunday, Finney, and Wesley were well received

and ushered-in a new era of respect for the church. There was a hunger for

Bible study, and many worked to establish new Bible Colleges, seminaries,

and missionary training and sending centers. This period of history marks

one of the high points of the Christian Church.

● The Church at Laodicea is said to represent the last era for the current

form of the Christian Church. Sadly, prophecy notes that during this period

there will be complacency, compromise, and egregious apostasy. 2000

years ago, the church at Laodicea was sternly rebuked for manifesting

these characteristics. The Church of the last age will suer the same fate.

The prophetic nature of the seven churches in the book of Revelation may

also point back in time to periods in Old Testament history. The simple chart

on the next page notes possible future and past associations to these seven

churches.

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SEVEN STAGES/AGES OF CHURCH HISTORY

CHURCH

HISTORY

TYPIFIED

DATES ISRAEL’S

HISTORY

TYPIFIED

VERSES

Ephesus

The Church led by

the Apostles

A.D. 30-100

The beginning

(Exodus)

Rev. 2:1-7+

Smyrna

The persecuted and

expanding Church

A.D. 100 - 313

Israel’s wandering and

entering Canaan

Rev. 2:8-11+

Pergamum

The Church of

Constantine and

Compromise

A.D. 313 - 600

The period of the

Judges

Rev. 2:12-17+

Thyatira

The Church of the

Dark Ages

A.D. 600-1517 Evil kings and Jezebel

Rev. 2:18-

29+

Sardis

The Church of the

Reformation

A.D. 1517-1648

The exile and return

of Israel

Rev. 3:1-6+

Philadelphia

The Church

of missionary

movements

A.D. 1648-1900

Rebuilding projects

and recommitments

Rev. 3:7-13+

Laodicea

The Church of the

Apostasy

A.D. 1900-today

The silent period

between the

Testaments

Rev. 3:14-22+

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Summary

This section of the book was written to provide insight into an ancient message

that has prophetic meaning and practical application. All of Scripture is inspired,

useful and important (2 Timothy 3:16). Though the full meaning of the Lord’s

message to the seven churches in the book of Revelation may be dicult to

grasp, it is vital that individuals today invest time in study and seek the Lord for

understanding. The warnings of admonitions of yesterday apply to the church,

and individuals, today.

Bible prophecy in general, and the book of Revelation in particular, reveals how

God will move in the last days. The message of the book of Revelation is that

God has a plan, God is good, and that in the end good will prevail.

The Lord’s word to the churches in the book of Revelation likely prophetically

points to future periods of persecution and apostasy. If this is true, then we are

now living in the last age represented by the church of Laodicea. Jesus said

that during this time there will be troubles, wars, and rumors of wars (Matt. 24).

Jesus prophesied that in the last days “love would wax cold” (Matt. 24:12).

The Apostle Paul wrote of how there would be a turning away from the truth

( 2 Thess. 2). Let every strong believer do their part to help the Church be the

light God has called it to be during this important time in history.

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THE MILLENNIAL

REIGN OF CHRIST

The Millennium and the Millennial Reign of Christ are referenced more than

2000 times in Scripture! Many view Revelation 20 as the principle (if not

the sole) reference to the Millennium in the Bible. However, there are more

references to the Millennium in the Old Testament than in the New Testament.

Scholars note that there are more than 1800 references to the Millennium in

the Old Testament and more than 300 in the New Testament. 85% of the books

in the New Testament reference the Millennium. The Millennium and Millennial

Reign of Christ are subjects that concern the future of the earth and believers

in Christ. This section seeks to provide an informative, encouraging biblical

overview of this prominent Bible subject.

Familiar references

Many do not realize that some familiar Scripture passages are actually

references to the Millennial Kingdom.

● Jesus referenced the Millennium in the Lord’s Prayer when He said, “Our

Father, which art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come,

Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” (Matthew 6:9-13)

● Isaiah referenced the Millennium in his Messianic prophecy. “For to us

a child is born, to us, a son is given, and the government will be on

his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,

Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government

and peace, there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and

over his kingdom...upholding it with justice and righteousness.” (Isaiah

9:6-9)

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● In his vision of future kingdoms, the prophet Daniel foresaw the Millennial

Kingdom and wrote: “In the time of those kings, the God of heaven will

set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed, nor will it be left to another

people. It will crush all those kingdoms and bring them to an end, but it will

itself endure forever.” (Daniel 2:1-44)

References to the Millennial Kingdom ﬂow through the Old and New

Testaments. Various Millennial Views were proﬁled earlier (pages 76-77). This

section proﬁles what Scripture notes we should expect during the Millennium.

WHAT THE MILLENNIUM WILL BE LIKE

(According to the premillennial view)

Satan will no longer oppress the earth or God’s beloved

● “Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, having the key to the

bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. He laid hold of the dragon,

that serpent of old, who is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a

thousand years; and he cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him

up, and set a seal on him, so that he should deceive the nations no more

till the thousand years were ﬁnished. But after these things, he must be

released for a little while” (Revelation 20:1-3).

The earth will be restored and renewed

● “For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall

not be remembered, nor come into mind” (Isaiah 65:17-25).

● Jesus will reign as King (Isaiah 2:4; 42:1).

● The world will be at peace (Isaiah 11:6-9; 32:18).

● Jesus will serve as King and righteous judge. “He shall judge between

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many peoples, and rebuke strong nations afar o; they shall beat their

swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall

not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more”

(Micah 4:3).

● Satan will be bound (Rev. 20:1–3). All inhabitants will freely worship God

(Isaiah 2:2-3).

The earth will be at peace

● “Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will raise unto David a

righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute

judgment and justice in the earth. In his days Judah shall be saved, and

Israel shall dwell safely: and this is his name whereby he shall be called,

‘The Lord our righteousness’” (Jeremiah 23:5-6).

Believers who survive the Tribulation will inhabit the New Earth.

Joining them will be Tribulation period martyrs and believers who are

currently in heaven.

● Jesus will rule in love and with a “rod of iron” (Psalm 2:9 Revelation 2:27,

12:5, 19:15). Tribulation period believers will receive special honor (Matthew

25:23; Luke 19:16-19).

● Surviving believers from the tribulation period will live in renewed mortal

bodies during Christ’s earthly reign (Zechariah 14:16-21; Revelation 20:7-

10). Longevity will be the norm.

● Believers who are currently in heaven with Christ will reign with Him in this

Kingdom (Daniel 7:18).

» “...For You were slain, and have redeemed us...by Your blood out of

every tribe and tongue...and nation, and have made us kings and

priests to our God; and we shall reign on earth” (Revelation 5:9-10).

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» These believers will possess the Kingdom (Daniel 7:18-27).

» These believers will lead with Christ as their King (Job 36:7).

» These believers will serve as judges, ocers, and leaders (Psalm 149;

Isaiah 60:17).

» These believers will teach truth (Psalm 37:29-31; Jeremiah 3:15).

» “…They shall be priests of God and Christ, and shall reign with Him a

thousand years” (Revelation 20:6).

Israel’s borders will expand

Note: This could happen as a result of the wars leading up to (or in the

early days of) the Tribulation

● The Land Covenant (Deuteronomy 30:1-10)

» In the days of Joshua and the kings, Israel did claim some of the lands

God promised to Abraham. However, Israel has never possessed all

of the lands God promised in Genesis 15:18–20 and Numbers 34:1-12.

» On the same day, the Lord made a covenant with Abram, God

promised: “To your descendants, I have given this land, from the river

of Egypt to the great river, the River Euphrates…” Genesis 15:18-21

» The prophet Ezekiel reminded Israel: “Thus says the Lord God: These

are the borders by which you shall divide the land as an inheritance

among the twelve tribes of Israel. Joseph shall have two portions.

You shall inherit it equally with one another; for I raised My hand in an

oath to give it to your fathers, and this land shall fall to you as your

inheritance. This shall be the border of the land on the north: from the

Great Sea, by the road to Hethlon, as one goes to Zedad, Hamath,

Berothah, Sibraim (which is between the border of Damascus and

the border of Hamath), to Hazar Hatticon (which is on the border of

Hauran). Thus, the boundary shall be from the Sea to Hazar Enan,

the border of Damascus; and as for the north, northward, it is the

border of Hamath. This is the north side.” Ezekiel 47:13-17

» Through the prophet Ezekiel God further promised: “On the east side

you shall mark out the border from between Hauran and Damascus,

and between Gilead and the land of Israel, along the Jordan, and

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along the eastern side of the sea. This is the east side. The south

side, toward the south, shall be from Tamar to the waters of Meribah

by Kadesh, along the brook to the Great Sea. This is the south side,

toward the south. The west side shall be the Great Sea, from the

southern boundary until one comes to a point opposite Hamath. This

is the west side. Thus, you shall divide this land among yourselves

according to the tribes of Israel.” (Ezekiel 47:18-21)

» Through Moses God promised: “If any of you are driven to the farthest

parts…from there the LORD your God will gather you…Then the LORD

your God will bring you to the land which your fathers possessed,

and you shall possess it. He will prosper you…” (Deuteronomy 30:4-6)

There will be a new Temple in Jerusalem

● “And it shall come to pass, that every one that is left of all the nations which

came against Jerusalem shall even go up from year to year to worship the

King, the LORD of hosts, and to keep the feast of tabernacles.”

(Zechariah 14:16-21)

Covenants will be fulﬁlled

● God’s covenant regarding the land and future of Israel will be realized

during the Millennial reign of Christ (Genesis 15:18-21).

● God’s covenant with David centers on how his heir would sit on the throne

and rule Israel (2 Sam. 7:16). Jesus is the fulﬁllment of this covenant, which

accounts for the recording of his genealogy via both His step-father

(Matthew 1:1–17) and His mother (Luke 3:23–38). The Jews acknowledged

the covenant when they laid down palm branches and their cloaks as

Jesus rode into Jerusalem (Matthew 21:1–17). However, they wrongly

expected Jesus to be a military and political leader that would liberate

Israel from the Romans. They did not understand that 2000 years ago

Jesus was preparing to introduce a New Covenant of Grace, not fulﬁll the

Davidic Covenant. The Davidic Covenant will be satisﬁed via the 1,000-

year reign of Christ on earth (Revelation 20:4,6).

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143

God’s covenant as proﬁled through Jeremiah and Ezekiel

● The prophet Jeremiah wrote, “But this is the covenant that I will make with

the house of Israel after those days, declares the LORD: I will put my law

within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and

they shall be my people.” (Jeremiah 31:33)

» The prophet Ezekiel provides additional details: “You shall dwell in

the land that I gave to your fathers, and you shall be my people, and

I will be your God.” (Ezekiel 36:28)

Life on earth will be dierent

● Longevity: “No more shall an infant from there live but a few days, nor an

old man who has not fulﬁlled his days; for the child shall die one hundred

years old…they shall build houses and…plant vineyards and eat their

fruit…” (Isaiah 65:20-22)

● Docile animals: “‘…The wolf and the lamb shall feed together; the lion

shall eat straw like the ox…They shall not hurt nor destroy in all My holy

mountain,’ Says the LORD.” (Isaiah 65:34-35)

● Peaceful coexistence: “The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the

leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and

the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them. And the cow and the

bear shall feed; their young ones shall lie down together: and the lion shall

eat straw like the ox. And the sucking child shall play on the hole of the

asp, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the cockatrice’ den. They

shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain: for the earth shall be full

of the knowledge of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.” (Isaiah 11:6-9)

● No War: “…They shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears

into pruning hooks…nation shall not lift up a sword against nation, neither

shall they learn war anymore.” (Mic. 4:3). Isaiah 2:4 is a similar passage.

There the prophet notes that not only will there no longer be war, but there

will be no weapons, nor will battle strategies be taught.

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The geography and topography of the earth will be dierent

● “…I create new heavens and a new earth; and the former shall not be

remembered or come to mind. But be glad and rejoice forever in what I

create; for behold, I create Jerusalem as a rejoicing…the voice of weeping

shall no longer be heard in her, nor the voice of crying.” (Isaiah 65:17-19)

● An earthquake will divide Jerusalem into three parts (Revelation 16:18-19).

The earthquake will occur when Jesus touches His foot on the Mount of

Olives. Water will ﬂow out from the city after the earthquake. (Zechariah

14:4-8). The millennial temple will stand over this river (Ezekiel 47:1-12).

● Jerusalem will be a prominent high point on Earth during the Millennium

(Isaiah 2:2). The great earthquake at the Second Coming of Jesus will level

mountains and make islands disappear (Revelation 16:20; Isaiah 40:4-5).

● There will be a new fountain of living water. “In that day there shall be a

fountain opened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem

for sin and uncleanness” (Zechariah 13:1). Zechariah 14:8 notes where the

waters will ﬂow. “And it shall be in that day, that living waters shall go out

from Jerusalem; half of them toward the former (eastern) sea, and half of

them toward the hinder (western) sea: in summer and in winter shall it be.”

The living waters will ﬂow out of Jerusalem in two directions, to the west

to the great sea (Mediterranean) and east to the Dead Sea (or Salt Sea).

Also see Ezekiel 47:1-7.

● This new fountain/river will impact the Dead Sea. The Dead Sea has no

outlet and is presently seven times saltier than the oceans. No ﬁsh live in

the Dead Sea at this time. Ezekiel 47:8-11 notes, however, that the waters

of the Dead Sea will be healed. “Then said he unto me, these waters issue

out toward the east country, and go down into the desert, and go into the

sea: which brought forth into the sea, the waters shall be healed. And it

shall come to pass, that…there shall be a very great multitude of ﬁsh…”

Worship during the Millennial Reign of Christ

● Jerusalem will be a center for worship. “And it shall come to pass that

everyone who is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem

shall go up from year to year to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, and

to keep the Feast of Tabernacles. And it shall be that whichever of the

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145

families of the earth do not come up to Jerusalem to worship…on them

there will be no rain…” (Zechariah 14:16-19)

» Ezekiel 40-48 notes that God will re-institute Temple worship and

sacriﬁces in the Millennium. Many believe the purpose for these

sacriﬁces is to commemorate the sacriﬁcial work of Christ. This will

serve as a stark picture and solemn reminder of the penalty Christ

paid in dying for our sins on the cross.

» “But in those sacriﬁces, there is a reminder of sins every year. For it is

not possible that the blood of bulls and goats could take away sins.”

(Hebrews 10:3)

● Gentiles will keep the Feast of Tabernacles which was formerly a Feast

just for Israel. To do so, individuals will travel to Jerusalem once each year

in the fall to “worship the King.” Ezekiel 43:7 notes: “And he said unto me,

Son of man, the place of my throne…[is] where I will dwell in the midst of

the children of Israel…”

● It may be that the Feast of Tabernacles takes on a slightly dierent meaning

during the Millennial Reign of Christ as the focus will no longer be Israel’s

rescue from Egypt, but rather, how Christ has saved his children from all

over the world. The prophet Jeremiah notes: “Therefore, behold, the days

come, saith the Lord, that it shall no more be said, The LORD liveth, that

brought up the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt; But, The LORD

liveth, that brought up the children of Israel from the land of the north, and

from all the lands whither he had driven them: and I will bring them again

into their land that I gave unto their fathers” (Jeremiah 16:14-15).

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE

MILLENNIAL REIGN OF CHRIST?

● War and ﬁnal judgment: “Now when the thousand years have expired,

Satan will be released from his prison and will go out to deceive the

nations which are in the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to

gather them together to battle, whose number is as the sand of the sea.

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They went up on the breadth of the earth and surrounded the camp of the

saints and the beloved city. And ﬁre came down from God out of heaven

and devoured them. The devil, who deceived them, was cast into the lake

of ﬁre and brimstone where the beast and the false prophet are. And they

will be tormented day and night forever and ever.” (Rev. 20:7-10)

● The great judgment and reward of the saints: “Then I saw a great white

throne and Him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven

ﬂed away. And there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead,

small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And

another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were

judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the

books. The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades

delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one

according to his works. Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of

ﬁre. This is the second death. And anyone not found written in the Book of

Life was cast into the lake of ﬁre” (Revelation 20:11-15).

Characteristics of the Millennial Kingdom

ATTRIBUTE SCRIPTURES

Duration One thousand years. Rev. 20:2-5+

Theocratic Rule

Jesus on the throne of

David. He will be the King of

Righteousness and Prince of

Peace.

2 Sam. 7:16; Ps. 89:20 Dan.

7:13-14 Isa. 24:23; Jer. 30:9,

33:15-17; Eze. 34:23-24, 45:22;

Hos.3:5; Luke 1:30-33

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ATTRIBUTE SCRIPTURES

Representative

Rule

The apostles and church-age

and Tribulation saints will

represent and rule with Christ

during the millennium.

Isa. 32:1; Dan. 7:17-27; Matt.

19:28; Luke 22:30; Rev. 3:21+;

5:10+

Universal Rule Christ will rule over the earth.

Psalm 2:6-9, 72:8; Dan. 2:44,

4:34, 7:14, 27;

Mic.4:1-2; Zec. 9:10

Seat of Government Christ will rule from Jerusalem.

Isa. 62:1; Isa. 65:18-19; Eze.

48:15-19; Luke 21:24; Rev.11:2+.

Residents

Believers who survive the

Tribulation will enter the

millennial kingdom and form its

initial population. Children will

be born to those who enter the

kingdom in their natural bodies.

Dan. 12:2; Isa.26:19;

Isa. 65:20, 23;

Matt. 25:31;

Rev. 20:4+

The Curse

Many aspects of the curse

(Gen. 3:15-19) will be reversed.

People will live to a great

age, but death will still occur.

As before the ﬂood, animals

will be docile and will no

longer fear man. Living waters

will ﬂow from beneath the

sanctuary of the Millennial

Temple bringing life to the

regions they water.

Isa. 11:6-9, 65:20,25;

Eze. 47:8-12;

Zec. 8:4, 14:8;

Rev. 21:1-2+

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ATTRIBUTE SCRIPTURES

Productivity

The land will be plentiful and

produce good fruit.

Psalm 67:6-7, 72:16;

Isa. 35:1, 55:13,65:22;

Joel 2:24-26; 3:18;

Amos 9:13-14

Mount Zion

The region of Mount Zion

will be lifted up to form the

Mountain of the Lord’s House.

Isa. 2:2; 56:7; Eze. 20:40, 40:2;

Zec.14:4-11, Mic. 4:1

Israel

Israel will inhabit the Promised

Land permanently. She will

serve as the focal point of the

nations because Jesus will

reign from Jerusalem.

Gen. 13:15, 17:8;

1 Chr.17:9; Psa.105:8-11,

Isa. 60:21;

Jer. 3:18, 30:3, 31:8-9;

Eze. 37:25, 39:25-29;

Amos 9:11-15

Peace

All implements of war will

be destroyed in favor of

implements of productivity.

Nations will no longer go to

war. Disagreements between

nations will be judged by Christ

from Jerusalem.

Psa.72:3+; Isa. 2:5, 9:7

Eze. 37:26; Mic. 4:3

Worship

A temple will stand in

Jerusalem and all the nations

will go up to Jerusalem to the

Feast of Tabernacles.

Isa. 2:3, 56:6-7, 66:20-23; Eze.

43:20, 43:26, 45:15, 45:17- 20;

Jer. 33:18; Dan. 9:24; Joel 3:18;

Hag. 2:7+

Zec. 6:12-15, 8:20-23, 14:16-21;

Mal. 3:3-4

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THE DANGER OF SETTING

DATES FOR

THE RETURN OF JESUS CHRIST

Predicting dates for the return of Christ or end of the world is not new.

Predictions are said to come by dreams, visions, mathematical calculations,

secret codes, sacred writings, angelic visitations, and more. Over the centuries

many have suggested dates for these events, some have done so with great

conﬁdence and authority. However, it seems that in recent decades there has

been an increase in the number of categorical statements regarding the return

of Christ or the end of the world.

The Bible is a source of truth, insight, and wisdom, but it is possible to

misinterpret important prophetic passages. When strong predictions from

“Christian leaders” fail to unfold as predicted, the credibility of church teaching

suers. Unfortunately, a history of miscalculations has minimized the potency

of wise biblically-based warnings regarding the end times. The wise do not

share in the folly of date-setting mania, but do remain vigilant, and believe that

the best course of action is to live as if Christ could return at any time.

Christians, and particularly Christian leaders, must be cautious about making

predictions and pronouncements regarding the precise timing of end-time

events. Acts 1:6.7 notes: “It is not for you to know the times or the season,

which the Father hath put in His own power.” Still, this clear admonition has

not stopped many from setting dates which likely discouraged believers and

hindered individuals from coming to faith. The next page details a few of the

more notable failed predictions.

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DATE THE PREDICTED EVENT

Theudas declared himself the Messiah, taking 400 people with him into the

desert to ﬁght the Romans.

Before the end of the ﬁrst century, there was talk that Christ’s return had

already taken place. The Thessalonians panicked and asked Paul for

clariﬁcation when they heard a rumor that the day of the Lord was at hand,

and they had missed the Rapture (see 2 Thessalonians 2).

130

Rabbi Jose, the Galilean, taught the Messiah would come 60 years, after

the destruction of the Temple.

381 Tichonus, a 4th Century writer, taught the world would end in 381.

400

Hippolytus “calculated that 5,500 years separated Adam and Christ and

that there would be 6,000 years (six full ‘days’) until the seventh the day of

rest.” His calculations in 234 indicated the world would end in 434.

400

Rabbi Dosa (2-3rd Century) said the Messiah would come at the end of

400 years. This was based on a wrongful interpretation of Gen. 15:13.

435

Rabbi Judah ha-Nasi (135-220) believed the Messiah would come 365

years after the destruction of the Temple (an event that happened in the

year 70).

470

Rabbi Hanina (3rd Century) taught that the Messiah would come 400

years after Temple Destruction. (470).

500

A priest and theologian in mid-third century predicted Christ would

return in the year 500. He based this prediction on the dimensions of

Noah’s ark.

950

Based on a loose acrostic of the words of Christ (in Latin), Paulin Blanc

predicted that the end of the world would be in 950.

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DATE THE PREDICTED EVENT

1000

Paris pastors taught that the Antichrist would come in the year 1000 (and

that great judgment would follow). Widespread panic ensued when within

a few years, the German army of Emperor Otto I lost a key battle because

of a solar eclipse that the soldiers mistook as a sign of the end of the

world, a supernova appeared in 1006, and the Muslim caliph, Al-Hakim,

destroyed the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem in 1009 A.D.

1000

During December 999, many were on their best behavior, church

attendance increased, worldly goods were sold and given to the poor,

swarms of pilgrims headed east to meet the Lord in Jerusalem, buildings

went unrepaired, crops were left unplanted, and criminals were set free

from jails.

1000

Otto returns to Aachen and exhumes Charlemagne’s body on the day

of Pentecost of the year 1000, in the hope of forestalling the end of

the world.

1003 Saint-Benoît-sur-Loire writes that the Antichrist will appear in 1003.

1005 A terrible famine in Europe was said to launch the Tribulation period.

1010

Brythﬁrd commentaries note that the 1000 years of the Apocalypse are

complete (a misreading of the duration of Tribulation and Millennial

periods). In this, he supports Augustine’s allegorical interpretation of

Revelation.

1026

Richard of St. Vaast leads a great pilgrimage to Jerusalem, with the

expectation of meeting the returning Christ.

1033

This year was feared to mark the beginning of the Tribulation period

because it marked 1000 years since Christ’s cruciﬁxion.

1040

An eclipse and massive earthquake lead to penitential processions in

Jouarre-Rebais and many predictions that Jesus would return in 1040

or 1050.

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DATE THE PREDICTED EVENT

1135

The Calabrian monk, Joachim of Fiore (1135-1202) is a key ﬁgure in

medieval apocalypticism. He wrote, “Exposition on Revelation” and

prophecy books entitled, “Book of Figures” and “Age of the Spirit.” His

writings inﬂuenced a broad range of medieval happenings, including

the founding of the Franciscan Order, and the belief that they would

be the spiritual elite described in Joachim’s “Age of the Spirit.” Using

Joachim’s hints, writers concluded that the “Age of Grace” would end and

the “Age of the Spirit” would begin in 1260. This prophecy, mixed with

German social unrest, created a myth surrounding Frederick II (1220 to

1250). Many believed that Frederick was the “Emperor of the Last Days”

who would usher in the new Millennium. The myth gained force when

Frederick seized Jerusalem in 1229. When he died in 1250, a new myth

started that Frederick would return from the dead.

1186

The

“Letter of Toledo”

(an open letter from astrologers to the Pope)

warned that most the of earth was about to be destroyed and advised

individuals to hide in caves.

1415

The Taborites, founded in 1415, looked back to Joachim for their prophetic

beliefs. They believed that once their persecutors were defeated, Christ

would return and rule the world from Mount Tabor, a mountain south of

Prague. Their communal activities eventually turned violent, prompted by

writings with phrases such as, "Accursed be the man who withholds his

sword from shedding the blood of the enemies of Christ.”

1420

The Taborites of Czechoslovakia predicted, “every city would be

annihilated by ﬁre” in 1420, and that only ﬁve mountain strongholds

would survive the coming Tribulation period.

1524

Muntzer, a leader of German peasants, announced that Jesus Christ

would return after he and his men destroyed the “high and mighty.” This

belief sparked a very lopsided battle between the ill-equipped poor and

well-armed government troops. Outnumbered, Muntzer rallied his men

by claiming he received a vision from God promising he would catch the

cannon balls of the enemy in the sleeves of his cloak. Muntzer and his

followers were annihilated...by cannon ﬁre.

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153

DATE THE PREDICTED EVENT

1533

Michael Stiefel (1486-1567) wrote that the return and judgment of Christ

would take place at 8:00 AM, October 19, 1533.

1534

Churches in Munster, Strasbourg, and Amsterdam claim that they are

the New Jerusalem and preach (on Easter Sunday, April 5, 1534) that the

return of Christ is imminent.

1572

Benedictus Aretius of Berne (1505-1547) calculated 1260 years added to

the year Constantine made Christianity the ocial religion of the Roman

Empire (312+1260 = 1572) should be the year of Christ’s return.

1621

Sir Henry Finch’s book,

The Calling of the Jews

suggests that the end

of the world would come in 1621.

1650

The Fifth Monarchy Men looked for Jesus to establish a theocracy. To

make ready His coming, they took up arms and tried to seize England

by force. The restoration of the British monarchy led to the death of the

movement in 1660.

1666

The bubonic plague took more than 100,000 lives in 1666. In the same

year, the Great Fire of London destroyed most of the city. The fact that

the year ended with the Beast’s number (666) led to a belief that the

Tribulation had begun and that the second coming of Christ would be in

the year, 1673.

1809

Fortune-teller Mary Bateman claimed to have a ‘magic chicken’ that laid

eggs with end time messages on them. One reported message claimed

that Christ was coming in 1809. The uproar she created ended when she

was caught forcing an egg into the hen’s oviduct.

1814

Spiritualist Joanna Southcott made the startling claim that she, by virgin

birth, would produce a second Jesus Christ. Her abdomen began to swell

and so did the crowds of people around her. The time for the birth came

and passed - she died soon after. An autopsy revealed it was a tumor.

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DATE THE PREDICTED EVENT

1836

Evangelist John Wesley wrote that “the time, times and half a time” of

Revelation 12:14 was a reference to 10/18/1836 (the date of Jesus’ return).

1843-

1844

From his studies, William Miller determined that the second coming would

happen sometime between 1843-1844. A spectacular meteor shower in

1833 lent credibility to his claim. Many slept in open graves anticipating

the return of Christ. The build-up of anticipation continued until March

21, 1844, when Miller’s one-year timetable ran out. Some followers set

another date of Oct 22, 1844. This too failed.

1874

In 1874, the doctrine of an “invisible return of Christ’ was advanced

by Charles Russell, founder of the Jehovah Witness Church. The 1874

date later changed to 1914 (coinciding with WWI, Inﬂuenza and several

seismic anomalies). Charles Russell also presented conﬂicting prophecies

including an anticipated Rapture date of 1910, and the end of the World in

1914 (also 1918, 1925, 1941 and 1994).

1881 “Mother Shipton” (Cir. 1520), claimed the world would end in 1881.

1910

The return of Haley’s comet was, for many, an indication of the Lord’s

second coming.

1953

David Davidson wrote a book titled “The Great Pyramid, Its Divine

Message.” In it, he predicted that the world would end in August of 1953.

1957

In January 1957, the Watchtower magazine printed that “Sometime

between April 16 and 23, 1957, Armageddon will sweep the world! Millions

of persons will perish in its ﬂames, and the land will be scorched.”

1960

Piazzi Smyth, a Scottish astronomer, wrote a book (circa 1860) titled, Our

Inheritance in the Great Pyramid. This work is responsible for spreading

the mysticism of pyramidology throughout the world. He concluded from

his research that the Millennium would start before the end of 1960.

1967

When the Jews reclaimed the city of Jerusalem in the summer of 1967,

prophecy watchers declared that the “Time of the Gentiles” had come to

an end, and looked for a rapture in the fall of that year.

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155

DATE THE PREDICTED EVENT

1970’s

Moses David founded the religious group, The Children of God. He

predicted that the comet referenced in Revelation 8 would hit the earth,

probably in the mid-1970’s and destroy all life in the United States.

1979

Walter M. Simmons wrote in his booklet, The Day of the Lord (1978),

that the ﬁnal warning sign announcing the end of the world happened

on June 28, 1967. Using a peculiar numerical system, he added 12

years, 75 days to June 28, 1967, and announced the world would end on

September 10, 1979.

1981

Hal Lindsey boldly declared that “The Rapture” would occur before Dec.

31, 1981. In part, he determined the date of Jesus’ promised return by

linking the “Jupiter Eect,” a planetary alignment that occurs every 179

years to the date of the rebirth of Israel. He predicted that “1982 would

be marked by large-scale earthquakes and nuclear plant meltdowns.”

1981

Bill Maupin and The Lighthouse Gospel Tract Foundation ﬁrst established

(and printed) a Rapture date of June 28, 1981, and later changed it to May

14, 1988 (to coincide with the date of the founding of the State of Israel).

1982

A group called the Tara Centers placed full-page advertisements in

many major newspapers the weekend of April 24-25, 1982 announcing:

“The Christ is Now Here!” and predicted that he was to make himself

known “within the next two months.” After the date passed, they said

that the delay was because the “consciousness of the human race was

not ready...”

1984

In 1983, Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, Guru of the Rajneesh movement

predicted massive destruction would come in 1984. Cataclysmic events

were said to include as large ﬂoods and earthquakes, destructive

volcanos, nuclear wars, etc. He predicted that Tokyo, New York, San

Francisco, Los Angeles, and Bombay would disappear.

1986

Moses David of The Children of God faith group predicted that the Battle

of Armageddon would take place in 1986. Preceding that event would be

a war in which Russia defeats Israel and the United States and establishes

of a worldwide Communist dictatorship.

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DATE THE PREDICTED EVENT

1988

The book 88 Reasons Why the Rapture is in 1988 provoked considerable

unrest in the Christian community.

1988

J R Church’s book: Hidden Prophecies in the Psalms intimated that the

Tribulation would begin in 1988.

1989

Edgar Whisenant’s book,

89 Reasons the Rapture will be in 1989

argued

that the Lord would return for true believers on September 11, 12 or 13 of

1989 (during the Feast of Trumpets)

1995

David Koresh of the Branch Davidian group in Waco Texas changed

the name of their commune (1992) from Mt. Carmel to Ranch Apocalypse,

because of his belief that the battle of Armageddon would start at the

Branch Davidian compound. He calculated that the end would occur

in 1995.

1991

A group in Australia predicted Jesus would return via Sydney Harbor at

9:00am on March 31, 1991.

1991

Nation of Islam Leader Louis Farrakhan proclaimed the Gulf War would to

be "the War of Armageddon ...”

1991

Menachem Schneerson, a Russian born Rabbi, predicted that the Messiah

would come by Sept 9, 1991.

1992

A Korean group called Mission For The Coming Days predicted Oct 28,

1992, as the time for the Rapture.

1992

The Hyoo-go (Rapture) Movement placed a full-page ad in USA Today on

Oct. 20, 1991. They predicted the Tribulation would begin on Oct. 28th,

1992 stating: “50 million people will die in earthquakes, 50 million from

collapsed buildings, 1.4 billion from World War III and 1.4 billion from a

separate Armageddon.”

1993

Many suggested that the Rapture would take place in 1993, thinking that

the year 2000 was the end of a 6000-year (6 days for God) cycle and that

God would rest after 7 years of tribulation (1993 + 7 = 2000).

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157

DATE THE PREDICTED EVENT

1994

In the book, “1994 the Year of Destiny,” F. M. Riley foretold of God’s plan

to rapture His people by the fall of 1994.

1994

Harold Camping in his book, “Are You Ready?” predicted the Lord’s

return in September 1994. Camping arrived at his conclusions based

on numerology (such as ﬁnding signiﬁcance in the number of ﬁsh the

disciples caught when they were ﬁshing after the resurrection).

1994

When on the Trinity Broadcasting Network, John Hinkle said that God told

him: “The most cataclysmic experience that the world has ever known

since the resurrection is going to happen…on Thursday, June the ninth.”

When nothing notable happened on June 9th, TBN’s Paul Crouch said,

“Maybe something was happening invisibly.”

1996

California psychic Sheldon Nidle predicted the end would come when

16 million alien ships (and a host of angels) converge on the Earth on

Dec. 17, 1996. Nidle explained the passing of the date by claiming the

angles placed us in a holographic projection to preserve us and give us a

second chance.

1996

The book, “The Return of Jupiter: End of the world in the light of the

Bible” predicted disasters originating in the Paciﬁc Ocean beginning

in 1996.

1996

Since 1658, many Christians have accepted the calculations of James

Ussher, an Irish Archbishop, who estimated that the ﬁrst day of creation

occurred on October 23rd, 4004 B.C. This led many to mark the time

interval between the creation of the world and the birth of Christ to be

precisely 4000 years, and that the end would come after 6000 years (6

days for God), which would be 1996 AD.

1997

When Rabin and Arafat signed their peace pact on the White House lawn

on Sept 13, 1993, some saw the events as the begin of the tribulation—

the beginning of 7 Hebrew (360 days) years of trials, ending in the spring

of the year 2000.

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DATE THE PREDICTED EVENT

1997

Stan Johnson of the Prophecy Club predicted a 90 percent chance that

the Tribulation would start Sept 12, 1997. He based his conclusion on

several end-time signs. The date of September 12 was chosen by Johnson

because “it will be Jesus’ 2000th birthday and it will also be the Day of

Atonement.”

1997 or

early

1998

The July 29th, 1997 issue of the Weekly World News carried a statement

by a spokesperson of the International Association of Psychics. It

stated that 92% of their 120,000 members had the same “end time”

vision. Spokesperson Madame Vredeau predicted: “A rise in religious

belief. Prophets and saints will appear and lead the faithful to safety.

The oceans will shrink. Deserts will expand. Crops will fail; there will

be massive starvation, widespread emotional and mental collapse, an

increase in crime and violence, changing weather patterns, demons

will appear in broad daylight, war, pestilence, and a worldwide plague.

Mankind will disappear around the year 2001.”

1997-

1999

Russian scientist Vladimir Sobolyovhas of the Rerikh Academy

analyzed predictions by Russian “saints, psychics, and seers” such as

Nostradamus. He announced his conclusions in September 1997 that:

“The earth’s axis will suddenly tilt about 30 degrees before 1999.”

He predicted the submerging of Scandinavian countries and Britain in

what he termed the Armageddon Flood. He predicted that aliens would

intervene and lead the world into the fourth dimension. He argued

that these aliens are on earth, but in hiding. Sobolyovhas wrote: “If we

completely believed in them, we would get lazy. So they are clever.

They stay hidden in the fourth dimension and only show themselves from

time to time.’’

1997

The Sacerdotal Knights of National Security reported that: “A space

alien captured at a UFO landing site in eastern Missouri cracked under

interrogation by the CIA and admitted that an extraterrestrial army would

attack and destroy the Earth on November 27, 1997…”

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DATE THE PREDICTED EVENT

1997

Dan Millar, of Surrey, BC, Canada and Bob Wadsworth of the Biblical

Astronomy newsletter predicted the arrival of the Antichrist on April

10th, 1997. Miller suggested that “we watch news from the Vatican and

Jerusalem on that day because he expects some sort of coup by the

Antichrist. He expected the Antichrist come to power in the Vatican as

Pope Peter II. He determined this, in part, by studying the intersection

by two comets near the star Algol in the constellation Perseus. Comets

Hyakutake and Hale-Bopp intersected the star on the same date on two

consecutive years (Hyakutake in 1996 and Hale-Bopp in 1997). Plotting

the two comets’ trajectories over the period APR-1 to APR-30 on the two

years forms an almost perfect cross. They intersect between the eyes of

the Medusa head that Perseus is holding in his left hand. “Algol” means

“Demon Star” in Arabic.

1997

The Vortex of the Star of David religious sect of Luskville, Quebec was

quoted as predicting the end of the world on Saturday, March 8th (1997).

1998

Because 666 times three equals 1998 some people pointed to that year

as being a prophetically signiﬁcant.

1998

A Taiwanese cult operating out of Garland Texas predicted Christ would

return on Mar 31. The group’s leader, Heng-ming Chen, announced God

would return, and then invite the cult members aboard a UFO.

1998

Marilyn Agee predicted an apocalyptic end for humanity on May 31, 1998,

in her book

The End of the Age.

She argued this date will conclude a

6000-year cycle (from the time of Adam to Pentecost, 1998). Agee looked

for the Rapture to take place on Pentecost.

1998

Psychic Edgar Cayce predicted that a secret, underground chamber

would be discovered between the paws of the Great Sphinx pyramid in

Egypt. He predicted that inside this chamber there would be documents

revealing the history of Atlantis and that this discovery would trigger the

Second Coming of Christ.

1998

The House of Yahweh, Abilene predicted that an end-of-world scenario

would unfold in October 1998. They predicted that 80% of the world's

population would die by 2001 as a result of nuclear warfare.

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DATE THE PREDICTED EVENT

1999

TV newscaster-turned-psychic Charles Criswell King (in 1968) said that the

world as we know it will cease to exist on August 18, 1999.

1999

Hon-Ming Chen founder of God’s Salvation Church in Texas predicted that

a nuclear war would destroy most of Earth in 1999. He identiﬁed a nine-

year-old boy as the “Jesus of the East,” stating that he is a reincarnation

of Jesus Christ. The group believed that if they could link him up with

the “Jesus of the West,” then 100 million lives will be spared. The second

Jesus was thought to live in Vancouver BC.

1999

According to the May 27th, 1997 issue of Sun Magazine, the Antichrist is

alive today and living in the Middle East. The article predicted he would

make himself known on August 11, 1999.

1999

Sun Magazine listed a prediction of “Bible expert” Dotson Meade. He

predicts that “something will happen in December, ’99, that brings about

the war which will end the world as we know it...There will be a vicious

cycle of storms and earthquakes that lead to the ﬁnal battle the world

has awaited.”

2000

In the Cookson Hills of eastern Oklahoma lies the fortress-town of Elohim

City, where about 100 heavily armed inhabitants worked, prayed and

conducted paramilitary drills in the 1990’s. A former Mennonite preacher

named Robert Millar, 73 envisioned a white Christian nation in North

America, led Elohim City in anticipation of an Asiatic invasion of the

United States. Millar, inspired by fundamentalist Christianity, KKK-style

racism, and astrology, believes that Christ has been revealing himself

for the last two millennia. He also predicted that a series of disasters

would strike, “probably soon after the year 2000, during which time

the unworthy and wicked would be cleansed from the Earth.” Convicted

Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeigh phoned friends in Elohim City

before the blast.

2000

Michael Drosnin, the author of “The Bible Code,” claimed to ﬁnd a

hidden message in the Pentateuch (the ﬁrst ﬁve books of the Bible) that

predicted World War III would start in 2000 (or perhaps 2006).

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DATE THE PREDICTED EVENT

2000

According to a November 1997 edition of Weekly World News, the CIA

caught a space alien who crash-landed in June (1997) in a New Mexico

desert. The report noted that “He is a species that is considerably more

developed, both mentally and spiritually, than earthlings. He is the

only survivor of the destruction of his world - a planet some 200 light

years from Earth. He reports that God is “furious with His creations

everywhere.” Apparently none of the species he created turned out well.

So, God is systematically working his way across the galaxies, setting

ﬁres to the planets and exploding them one by one. Earth will be next!”

2001

Sun Magazine reported in its October 14th, 1997 issue that Noah’s Ark

was discovered, undamaged, on a slope near Mount Ararat in Turkey.

Inside were “a group of 6 copper-gold-silver scrolls, each 12” square.

Scroll 2 reveals that the sun will superheat the earth, melting both polar

ice caps and creating a world-wide ﬂood. Scroll 3 revealed that the world

would be destroyed on January 31st, 2001.”

2012

The Mayan calendar notes many divisions of time: months of 20 days,

years of 360 days, a Katun of 7200 days and a Baktun of 144,000 days.

Their calendar started on August 13th, 3114 B.C. with the “birth of Venus.”

Some expected the world to end when their long-count calendar expired

(12/21/2012).

2014

Harold Camping led tens of thousands to anticipate the rapture (spending

hundreds of thousands of dollars in a warning/advertising campaign).

2015

Many were told to expect a rapture in September 2015 due to: a recent

completion of a lunar tetrad (each blood moon falling on the days of

key Hebrew Festivals), a solar eclipse, computations by Galileo, and

associations with Jubilee and Shemittah cycles.

2017

Many were told to expect a rapture due to: a recent solar eclipse and a

rare celestial alignment noted in Revelation 12.

2047

According to The Church of !BLAIR!, the human race will “probably be

terminated at 3:28 AM (Soho, England time) September 14th, 2047.”

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The most impor

tant aspect of Bible prophecy does not center on when

something will happen, but that the prophesied event will happen. Prophecy

will come about as foretold, but in God’s way and in His time. Our calling is to

have faith and believe that God will fulﬁll His promises (not to know

when

His

promises will be fulﬁlled).

Eschatology is a weighty and solemn subject, but it is possible to have peace

in the midst of uncertainty. The Apostle Paul wrote of a “peace that surpasses

understanding” (Phil. 4:6-7). The ﬁrst step toward experiencing this peace is to

accept Jesus into your heart as Lord and Savior and put your faith in Him.

The timing of some key future events may be unknown, but we can know that

in the end, Jesus will return and in the epic struggle of good versus evil, Good

will prevail. Until that time there will be unrest. There will be wars and rumors of

wars and “troubles.” Are you ready? Will you commit to be ALL IN for Him? Are

you committed to making serving Him, growing in Him and witnessing for Him

the priority of your life? The many free resources in the Rapture Kit are designed

to help you on your spiritual journey.

God bless you as you strive to grow in Him!

“So, you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will

come at an hour when you do not expect him. Who then is the

faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge

of the servants in his household to give them their food at the

proper time? It will be good for that servant whose master ﬁnds

him doing so when he returns.” (Matthew 24:44-46)

COMING SOON

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163

● Bible Prophecy Part 1: This video teaching provides a general overview

of the wonder and structure of Bible Prophecy.

● Bible Prophecy Part 2: This

video teaching profiles the precision of Bible

Prophecy, and gives special consideration to an amazing set of

prophecies found in Ezekiel 4.

● Bible Prophecy Part 3: This video teaching profiles the prophecies that

have been fulfilled in the last 70 years, and notes what the recent

concentration of fulfilled prophecies could indicate.

● Bible Prophecy Part 4: This video teaching profiles the Rapture and

provides Scriptural support for the view that a Rapture will take place

prior to the rise of the Antichrist and Tribulation period.

● Bible Prophecy Part 5: This video teaching profiles the Antichrist and

notes his nature, his goals, and the characteristics that will define his

reign.

APPENDIX

LINKS TO FOLLOWUP VIDEO TEACHINGS

NOTE: These video teachings are including in the

Rapture Kit and located in the folder Section 05 -

Discipleship Study Materials folder under The

Wonders of Bible Prophecy (7 Parts).

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● Bible Prophecy Part 6: This video teaching profiles the Millennium and

the Millennial Reign of Christ. The Millennium will follow the seven-year

Tribulation period. During this time Christ will reign on earth, and the world

will be restored to Eden-like conditions. The Millennium is referenced

more than a thousand times in Scripture—this teaching presents an

overview of the Who, What, Where, When and Why of this important

coming event.

● Bible Prophecy Part 7: This video teaching profiles the Psalm 83 War and

what are likely to be among the next prophecies to be fulfilled in the

prophetic time-line.

● What it means to be a Watchman: This video teaching presents the

biblical foundation for the term Watchman and the calling to be a

Watchman. Drawing primarily from Ezekiel’s 33, this teaching notes the

particular heart, focus, and work of a watchman. The I Am A Watchman

ministry team believes that at this a crucial time in history, God is calling

both men and women to serve as spiritual watchmen. This video is

located in the What it Means to be a Watchman folder.

● How to be saved / The gift of salvation This teaching video profiles the

need to be saved, what God through Christ has done to make salvation

possible, and what individuals must do to receive God’s precious gift.

God’s greatest desire is that His people know Him and enter into

relationship with Him. This video is located in The Gift of Salvation - How

to be Saved folder.

APPENDIX

LINKS TO FOLLOWUP VIDEO TEACHINGS

iamawatchman.com Gary Ray

165

ABOUT THE

I AM A WATCHMAN MINISTRY

The I Am A Wa

tchman ministry has been established to help individuals know

the love of Jesus, enter into relationship with Jesus, live for Jesus, tell others

about Jesus, and to prepare for the imminent return of Jesus. In informal

language, the Watchman ministry strives to help individuals ﬁnish well (which

is to live a life of meaning and purpose, and at the coming judgment hear the

Lord say, “Well done my good and faithful servant”).

In more theological terms, the I Am A Watchman ministry’s focus is to help

prepare the bride of Christ to meet the coming Bridegroom. This language

comes from Matt. 25:1-46, Rev. 19:7-9, Rev. 21:2, John 14:1-3, and Rev. 21:9-11.

The phrase is a word picture that imagines believers in Christ as the bride,

who stand in readiness and purity, waiting for the Groom, who has promised to

return, reward, and take his bride away.

The wise will strive to live well so they can ﬁnish well. The astute w ill strive

to be aware of what God has done and what prophecy notes He will do in

the days to come. In support of these goals, the I Am A Watchman ministry

is happy to make available at no cost a wealth of discipleship, prophecy, and

spiritual growth resources for those who desire to learn, and those who are

called to lead.

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