Introduction

Our purpose in life is to know our God, and share the message of salvation through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It’s very important for us to draw near to Him daily with praise, and worship and reading of the Word. Obeying His Word is key to an abundant life, and salvation is a gift that cannot be earned. Many Christians are perplexed, anxious, and distracted. We need to understand what is happening and why, whilst keeping our focus on fellowship with the Father. This composition includes current events, Biblical prophecy, and real world infrastructure intersecting in 2024. The writing connects what is happening in our world with what is written in the Bible with a purpose to comfort with increased comprehension.

One particularly intriguing aspect of biblical prophecy is the mention of Gog and Magog, as described in Ezekiel 38. But what do these ancient scriptures mean for our modern world?

Gog, the leader of the invasion force, is identified as the chief prince of Meshek and Tubal, from the land of Magog. While interpretations of "Rosh" vary, some scholars suggest a connection to modern-day Russia, while others propose alternative meanings.

The invasion force described in Ezekiel 38 includes various nations, potentially forming a coalition against Israel. Meshek and Tubal are often associated with regions in modern-day Turkey, suggesting a multi-national alliance.

But how do we know if these events signify the final war? Scripture indicates that all nations will gather against Israel, a prophecy echoed in Zechariah and Joel. The mention of Jerusalem as an immovable rock and the gathering of nations for battle points towards an eschatological conflict.

Additionally, Psalm 83 describes a coalition of nations seeking to destroy Israel, with some scholars suggesting a connection to the Six-Day War of 1967. The modern equivalents of ancient peoples listed in the psalm shed light on potential geopolitical dynamics.

Looking towards the future, interpretations of Daniel 9:27 suggest the possibility of a peace treaty involving Israel and other nations. While the Abraham Accords represent significant diplomatic breakthroughs, they may not fulfill the specific criteria outlined in prophecy.

Furthermore, organizations like the Temple Institute advocate for the rebuilding of the Jewish Temple, which holds deep religious and prophetic significance. However, the geopolitical implications of such actions remain contentious.

In decoding current events through biblical prophecy, Christians can gain a deeper understanding of the world around them and the potential fulfillment of ancient scriptures. As we navigate the complexities of the modern era, may we seek wisdom and discernment through the timeless truths of God's Word.

Gog and Magog

Gog: This is the leader of the invasion force, identified as the chief prince of Meshek and Tubal, from the land of Magog in Ezekiel 38:2:

“Son of man, set your face against Gog, of the land of Magog, the prince of Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal, and prophesy against him (NKJV)

"Son of man, set thy face against Gog, the land of Magog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal, and prophesy against him (KJV)

"Son of man, turn and face Gog of the land of Magog, the prince who rules over the nations of Meshech and Tubal, and prophesy against him (NLT)

In Hebrew, "רֹאשׁ" (rosh) generally means "head" or "chief." It can refer to the physical head of a person or animal, the top or beginning of something, or a leader or ruler. In the context of Ezekiel 38:2, the term "נְשִׂיא רֹאשׁ" (nesi rosh) is translated as "prince of Rosh.”

The identification of "Rosh" in Ezekiel 38:2 with Russia has been proposed by various scholars and commentators throughout history. One of the earliest known proponents of this interpretation was the medieval Jewish commentator, Rashi (1040–1105), who suggested that "Rosh" referred to the people of Russia.

In the original Hebrew text of Ezekiel 38:2, the term translated as "prince of Rosh" in some English translations is "נְשִׂיא רֹאשׁ" (nesi rosh). The meaning of "Rosh" in this context is debated among scholars. Some argue that "Rosh" is a proper noun referring to a people or region, while others suggest it may simply mean "chief" or "head." The identity of the prince of Rosh is not definitively clear from the text alone and has been subject to various interpretations.

In addition to its potential usage in Ezekiel 38:2, where it's debated whether "Rosh" refers to a specific region or people, the Hebrew word "רֹאשׁ" (rosh) appears numerous times throughout the Bible with various meanings. Here are some examples:

1. Physical Head: In many instances, "rosh" is used in a literal sense to refer to the physical head of a person or animal. For example, in Genesis 3:15, God tells the serpent, "And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her Seed; He shall bruise your head (rosh), and you shall bruise His heel."

2. Top or Beginning: "Rosh" can also denote the top or beginning of something. For instance, in Genesis 10:10, it says, "And the beginning (rosh) of his kingdom was Babel, Erech, Accad, and Calneh, in the land of Shinar."

3. **Leader or Chief: **"Rosh" is sometimes used figuratively to refer to a leader, ruler, or chief. In Numbers 13:2, it says, "Send men to spy out the land of Canaan, which I am giving to the children of Israel; from each tribe of their fathers you shall send a man, every one a leader (rosh) among them."

4. **Other Meanings: **"Rosh" can also have other meanings depending on the context. For example, it can refer to the top or summit of a mountain (Genesis 22:2) or the first or chief part of something (Exodus 12:2).

Overall, "rosh" is a versatile Hebrew word used in various contexts throughout the Bible, and its precise meaning depends on the specific passage and its surrounding context.

"Rosh" in Ezekiel 38:2 has been a subject of scholarly debate. Here are a few points to consider:

1. Proper Noun Interpretation: Some scholars argue that "Rosh" is a proper noun referring to a specific people or region. In this interpretation, "Rosh" could potentially correspond to a historical or geographical entity, though its exact identity is uncertain.

2. Toponym Interpretation: Others suggest that "Rosh" may be a toponym, meaning a place name. This view proposes that "Rosh" could represent a geographical location, possibly in the vicinity of Meshech and Tubal, the regions mentioned in the same verse.

3. **Generic Term: **Alternatively, some scholars propose that "Rosh" may simply mean "chief" or "head." In this interpretation, the phrase could refer to a leader or ruler without specifying a particular region or people.

4. Lack of Clarity: Despite various interpretations, the precise meaning of "Rosh" remains uncertain due to a lack of clear historical or geographical references in the biblical text. As a result, the identity of the prince of Rosh remains speculative and open to debate.

Composition of Christians Russia and Turkey

• Christianity in Russia is the most widely professed religion in the country. The largest tradition is the Russian Orthodox Church. According to official sources, there are 170 eparchies of the Russian Orthodox Church, 145 of which are grouped in metropolitanates. The Russian Orthodox believe in many prophecies about the end times. There is an anchor of Orthodox Christians in Jerusalem.

• In modern day Turkey, as much as 90% of the population follows Sunni Islam. Most Turkish Sunni Muslims belong to the Hanafi school of jurisprudence. The remaining 0.2% are Christians and adherents of other officially recognized religions like Judaism. Hamas’ financial hub is based in Türkiye. Most top Hamas officials have been granted Turkish citizenship. Bank accounts based in Türkiye are used to launder Hamas money.

Gog and Magog are often interpreted as symbolic entities representing nations. Meshek and Tubal are believed to correspond to regions in modern-day Turkey. So, if we interpret it in a modern context, Gog's invasion force could potentially come from a coalition of nations, rather than a single country.

1. Magog: This is the land from which Gog comes.

2. Meshek: This is a region often associated with parts of modern-day Turkey.

3. Tubal: Also associated with regions in modern-day Turkey.

4. Persia: This is the ancient name for modern-day Iran.

5. Cush: This is often identified with regions in Africa, possibly Ethiopia or Sudan.

6. Put: This is another African region, often associated with Libya.

7. Gomer: This is commonly linked with parts of modern-day Turkey.

8. Beth Togarmah: Another region often associated with parts of modern-day Turkey.

How do we know it’s the final war? Consider the Scripture affirming that no nation will stand with Israel:

Zechariah 12:2-3: “I will make Jerusalem like a cup of poison to the nearby nations. The people of Judah will be caught in the siege, and Jerusalem will be attacked. On that day, I will make Jerusalem an immovable rock. All the nations will gather against it to try to move it, but they will only hurt themselves."

Joel 3:2: “I will gather all the nations to fight against Jerusalem. The valley of Jehoshaphat will be the battleground. There I will judge them for harming my people, Israel, and for dividing up my land."

Zechariah 14:2: “I will gather all the nations to fight against Jerusalem. The city will be taken, the houses looted, and the women raped. Half the population will be taken into captivity, and the rest will be left among the ruins of the city."

Babylon

Babylon is historically known as an ancient city, the capital of Babylonia in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq). However, in the context of the Book of Revelation, it's often interpreted symbolically, representing not just a city but a system of power and corruption opposed to God's kingdom. It's described in chapters 17 and 18, where Babylon is portrayed as a great city representing worldly power, wealth, and corruption. Its fall signifies the ultimate judgment of God upon those who oppose Him, and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.

Some scholars believe the USA is Babylon literally. People marvel and question how all nations will turn from Israel. Perhaps the USA will no longer exist, and prophetically we are the corrupted world power described in Revelation. The future for Babylon is to fall.

Revelation 18:2 reads: "He gave a mighty shout: 'Babylon is fallen—that great city is fallen! She has become a home for demons. She is a hideout for every foul spirit, a hideout for every foul vulture and every foul and dreadful animal.'"

I am watching lawlessness abound and censorship of books, symbols and phrases by Western governments. HR 6090 was passed by the US Congress as a step to ban the Bible May 2024. According to our representatives as a large majority, we as citizens cannot say what is historically written throughout the New Testament. Also we are being informed, “words and ideas are highly effective weapons,” in the recruitment of the Psychological Operations of US Army Special Operations Recruiting. God told us He would send a strong delusion in response to people not wanting to hear the truth: 2 Thessalonians 2:

9 “This man will come to do the work of Satan with counterfeit power and signs and miracles. 10 He will use every kind of evil deception to fool those on their way to destruction, because they refuse to love and accept the truth that would save them. 11 So God will cause them to be greatly deceived, and they will believe these lies. 12 Then they will be condemned for enjoying evil rather than believing the truth."

What is happening was prophesied, foretold and written about throughout the Bible. It doesn’t take long to read the New Testament. Just read it through the lens of what the end times will look like, and current events will make sense. One example from the Old Testament are the words of Amos.

Amos was a prophet in ancient Israel during the 8th century BCE, known for his strong condemnation of social injustice and moral corruption. He lived during a period of relative prosperity in the northern kingdom of Israel, but also a time of moral decline and religious apostasy. Amos, believed to be a shepherd and fig tree farmer, was called by God to deliver a message of warning and judgment to the people.

His prophecies primarily targeted the wealthy elite, priests, and rulers, condemning their exploitation of the poor, their indulgence in luxury, and their hypocrisy in religious observance. Amos famously declared that true worship involves justice and righteousness, not just ritualistic observance.

Amos' prophecies include vivid imagery of impending doom and devastation, warning of foreign invasion and exile as consequences of Israel's sins. Despite the bleakness of his message, Amos also held out hope for restoration and renewal if the people would repent and turn back to God.

Amos' messages were preserved and eventually compiled into the Book of Amos in the Hebrew Bible, forming a crucial part of the prophetic tradition in Judaism and Christianity. His teachings continue to resonate today, serving as a reminder of the importance of social justice, ethical conduct, and genuine devotion to God. He foretold the Bible being banned:

Amos 8:11-12 reads: "The time is surely coming," says the Sovereign Lord, "when I will send a famine on the land—not a famine of bread or water but of hearing the words of the Lord. People will stagger from sea to sea and wander from border to border searching for the word of the Lord, but they will not find it."

There was even a movie made, The Book of Eli, portraying an apocalyptic future where people had a famine of books including the Bible. We watch the main character on a journey. It’s a well made movie with depth of meaning to understand how evil abounds with misuse of the Bible. The movie portrays how society can become deprived without the morality taught in the Bible.

So we can see more and more clearly following the news daily how we are in the very end of the end times. There is good news. There is a future on this earth, and what we are doing today matters, not only for souls but for our future time in the Millennial reign of Jesus. Will our works stand to be refined like gold and continue or burn away? Jesus told us to build our foundations on the rock. Jesus referenced building on rock versus sand in one of his parables. In Matthew 7:24-27, he talks about the wise man who builds his house on rock, which symbolizes a strong foundation in faith, while the foolish man builds his house on sand, representing a weak foundation. This metaphor emphasizes the importance of building our lives on the solid foundation of faith in God rather than on temporary and unstable things.

How will this future unfold?

Jesus the Messiah will return to fight for Jerusalem in this final war:

Zechariah 14:4 “On that day his feet will stand on the Mount of Olives, east of Jerusalem. And the Mount of Olives will split apart, making a wide valley running from east to west. Half the mountain will move toward the north and half toward the south."

In the context of Zechariah 14:4, "he" refers to the Lord or the Messiah. The verse is part of a prophecy about the future day when the Lord will come to Jerusalem to establish His reign and bring about judgment and restoration. This verse specifically describes the moment when the Lord's feet will stand on the Mount of Olives, symbolizing His presence and authority over the land.

The Millennial Reign

The Millennial Reign of Jesus, also known as the Millennial Kingdom or the Thousand-Year Reign, refers to a future period of peace and righteousness on Earth where Jesus Christ reigns for a thousand years, as described in the Book of Revelation in the Bible. This period is believed to follow the Second Coming of Christ and precede the final judgment.

Revelation 20:4-6:

"Then I saw thrones, and the people sitting on them had been given the authority to judge. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their testimony about Jesus and for proclaiming the word of God. They had not worshiped the beast or his statue, nor accepted his mark on their forehead or their hands. They all came to life again, and they reigned with Christ for a thousand years. This is the first resurrection. (The rest of the dead did not come back to life until the thousand years had ended.) Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection. For them the second death holds no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with him a thousand years."

Notice the same description between Old and New Testament writings:

“On that day the sources of light will no longer shine, yet there will be continuous day!”- Zechariah 14:6-7 describes the same event as Revelation 21:23 “And the city has no need of sun or moon, for the glory of God illuminates the city, and the Lamb is its light.”

The end of Zechariah 14 describes events preceding the Millennial Reign of Jesus. Zechariah 14:9: "And the Lord will be king over all the earth. On that day there will be one Lord—his name alone will be worshipped."

This verse indicates the establishment of Jesus' reign over the entire earth during the Millennial period, reflecting the theme of universal peace and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty.

There is a judgement of the nations that will occur to determine what nations will continue to exist during the millennial reign of Jesus on the earth. Jesus will judge the nations according to how they treated Israel.

Matthew 25:31-46

"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered in his presence, and he will separate the people as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will place the sheep at his right hand and the goats at his left."

The Feast of Tabernacles, also known as Sukkot, is celebrated by Jewish people to commemorate the forty years of wandering in the desert after the exodus from Egypt. It hasn't been completely fulfilled, as it also points to the future ingathering of all nations to worship the Lord in Jerusalem during the Messianic era, as prophesied in Zechariah 14:16-19.

"16 In the end, the enemies of Jerusalem who survive the plague will go up to Jerusalem each year to worship the King, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, and to celebrate the Festival of Shelters. 17 Any nation in the world that refuses to come to Jerusalem to worship the King, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, will have no rain. 18 If the people of Egypt refuse to attend the festival, the Lord will punish them with the same plague that he sends on the other nations who refuse to go. 19 Egypt and the other nations will all be punished if they don’t go to celebrate the Festival of Shelters."

In Revelation 20:1-3, it describes the binding of Satan during the millennial reign of Christ.

"Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven with the key to the bottomless pit and a heavy chain in his hand. He seized the dragon—that old serpent, who is the devil, Satan—and bound him in chains for a thousand years. The angel threw him into the bottomless pit, which he then shut and locked so Satan could not deceive the nations anymore until the thousand years were finished. Afterward he must be released for a little while."

During the millennial reign of Christ, Satan will be bound and thrown into the bottomless pit, preventing him from deceiving the nations for a thousand years. This period of binding signifies a time of peace and righteousness on earth under the reign of Christ. However, after the thousand years are completed, Satan will be released for a short time before being ultimately defeated.

After Satan is released following the thousand-year reign of Christ, he will deceive the nations once again. However, his rebellion will be swiftly dealt with by God. Here's the corresponding scripture in Revelation 20:7-10

"7 When the thousand years come to an end, Satan will be let out of his prison. 8 He will go out to deceive the nations—called Gog and Magog—in every corner of the earth. He will gather them together for battle—a mighty army, as numberless as sand along the seashore. 9 And I saw them as they went up on the broad plain of the earth and surrounded God’s people and the beloved city. But fire from heaven came down on the attacking armies and consumed them. 10 Then the devil, who had deceived them, was thrown into the fiery lake of burning sulfur, joining the beast and the false prophet. There they will be tormented day and night forever and ever."

In Revelation 20:8, the mention of Gog and Magog refers to symbolic names used to represent forces of evil and rebellion against God. While there are similarities to the Gog and Magog mentioned in Ezekiel 38-39, they are not necessarily the same event.

In Ezekiel 38-39, Gog is described as a ruler of a coalition of nations that will attack Israel in the latter days. This prophecy speaks of a specific historical event involving nations from the north, including Magog.

In Revelation 20, however, the mention of Gog and Magog is likely symbolic rather than a literal reference to the same nations mentioned in Ezekiel. Here, they represent all nations gathered together in rebellion against God at the end of the Millennium.

So, while there are parallels between the two passages, Revelation 20:8 is likely using the names symbolically to convey the idea of a final rebellion against God's authority rather than referring to the specific nations mentioned in Ezekiel.

The relation to the White Throne Judgment is that Satan's ultimate fate is sealed during this time. After his final rebellion, he is cast into the lake of fire, which is also where those whose names are not found in the Book of Life are thrown during the White Throne Judgment. It signifies the culmination of God's judgment on sin and evil, as well as the establishment of His eternal kingdom of righteousness.

The White Throne Judgment is described in Revelation 20:11-15. It occurs after the thousand-year reign of Christ, commonly referred to as the Millennium. There is a second resurrection of the dead after these 1000 years of Jesus Christ.

Revelation 20:11-15

"11 And I saw a great white throne and the one sitting on it. The earth and sky fled from his presence, but they found no place to hide. 12 I saw the dead, both great and small, standing before God’s throne. And the books were opened, including the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to what they had done, as recorded in the books. 13 The sea gave up its dead, and death and the grave gave up their dead. And all were judged according to their deeds. 14 Then death and the grave were thrown into the lake of fire. This lake of fire is the second death. 15 And anyone whose name was not found recorded in the Book of Life was thrown into the lake of fire."

The descent of the new Jerusalem described in Revelation 21 is associated with events after the white throne judgment mentioned in Revelation 20. The new Jerusalem is the eternal dwelling place of the redeemed, coming down from heaven after the final judgment. The "marriage supper of the Lamb" is often associated with a future event described in the Book of Revelation, specifically in Revelation 19:6-9.

"Then I heard again what sounded like the shout of a vast crowd or the roar of mighty ocean waves or the crash of loud thunder: 'Praise the Lord! For the Lord our God, the Almighty, reigns. Let us be glad and rejoice, and let us give honor to him. For the time has come for the wedding feast of the Lamb, and his bride has prepared herself. She has been given the finest of pure white linen to wear.' For the fine linen represents the good deeds of God’s holy people.

And the angel said to me, 'Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb.' And he added, 'These are true words that come from God.'"

This event is seen as a celebration of the union between Christ (the Lamb) and his bride (the Church). The timing of the marriage supper of the Lamb is typically understood to occur after the return of Christ and the defeat of evil forces, but before the establishment of the new heaven and new earth. It's considered a joyous celebration in the presence of God, marking the culmination of God's redemptive plan for humanity.

Revelation 21:2-4

"I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven like a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, 'Look, God’s home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them. He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.'"

Revelation 21:9-10

“Then one of the seven angels who held the seven bowls containing the seven last plagues came and said to me, 'Come with me! I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb.' So he took me in the Spirit to a great, high mountain, and he showed me the holy city, Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God."

Life in heaven as the bride of Christ is often described in terms of:

1. Intimacy: Believers are seen as being in a close and intimate relationship with Christ, akin to the bond between a husband and wife. This relationship is characterized by love, trust, and communion.

2. Union: The imagery of the bride and groom signifies a union that is inseparable and eternal. In heaven, believers are united with Christ in a way that transcends earthly limitations and imperfections.

3. Celebration: The marriage imagery suggests a joyous celebration of the union between Christ and his Church. Life in heaven is often portrayed as a state of everlasting joy, fulfillment, and celebration in the presence of God.

4. Perfection: As the bride of Christ, believers are depicted as being perfected and made holy through their union with him. In heaven, they experience the fullness of God's love and grace, free from sin, suffering, and death.

Overall, life in heaven as the bride of Christ is a profound and beautiful expression of the eternal relationship between Christ and his redeemed people, characterized by love, intimacy, and eternal union.

Imminent to occur prior to the 7 year tribulation leading to Jesus’ Millennial reign on Earth is the Rapturo or Harpazo

The event commonly referred to as the "snatching away" is often associated with the concept of the Rapture in Christian theology. The term "rapture" is derived from the Latin word "rapturo," meaning "caught up" or "snatched away," and it describes the belief that believers will be taken from the earth to be with Jesus Christ prior to or during the end times.

The primary passage describing the Rapture is found in 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17:

"For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord."

The original Greek word in 1 Thessalonians 4:17 that is translated as "caught up" or "snatched away" in English translations is "ἁρπαγησόμεθα" (harpagēsometha), which is derived from the verb "ἁρπάζω" (harpazō). This verb carries the connotation of seizing or snatching something suddenly and forcefully.

In the context of 1 Thessalonians 4:17, it describes the sudden and dramatic gathering of believers to meet the Lord in the air during the Rapture. The image conveyed is one of swift and decisive action, as believers are taken from the earth to be with Christ in an instant.

This passage describes a future event in which Jesus Christ returns from heaven, accompanied by the sound of a trumpet and the voice of an archangel. Believers who have died are raised from the dead, and those who are still alive at the time of Christ's return are transformed and caught up to meet him in the air. This event is often understood as the Rapture, when believers are taken from the earth to be with Christ.

Imagine all the Christians suddenly being taken. Worldwide composition of religions include:

• Christianity: Approximately 31.2% of the world's population identifies as Christian.

• Islam: Around 24.1% of the world's population adheres to Islam.

• Secular/Atheist/Agnostic: Approximately 16% identify as unaffiliated or non-religious.

• Hinduism: Roughly 15.1% of the global population practices Hinduism.

• Buddhism: Around 6.9% of the world's population follows Buddhism.

• Other religions: The remaining percentage is divided among various other religious affiliations such as Sikhism, Judaism, Bahá'í, indigenous religions, etc.

So about 30% of the world population goes missing. As of the last available data, approximately 65% to 75% of Americans identify as Christian, according to various surveys and studies conducted by organizations like the Pew Research Center and Gallup. This percentage includes a diverse range of Christian denominations, such as Protestantism, Catholicism, Mormonism, Orthodox Christianity, and others. Some who profess they are Christian call themselves a non-practicing Christian, so the percentage maybe lower than these statistics. Imagine what the USA will be like without all the Christians. This would explain why the USA would not support Israel, as many of the lobbying groups for Israel would be gone.

The Rapture is distinct from the Second Coming of Christ, although the two events are often related in eschatological discussions. The Rapture is seen as a separate event that precedes the Second Coming and is focused on the gathering of believers to be with Christ. In contrast, the Second Coming refers to Jesus Christ's final and visible return to earth, accompanied by his angels, to establish his kingdom and judge the world. *There is a 7 year period of tribulation in between the two events.*

Peace and Safety then Sudden Destruction (in context)

In these verses, Paul is addressing the Thessalonian Christians about the Lord's return. He emphasizes that they already have knowledge about this event and do not need further explanation. He compares the unexpectedness of the Lord's return to a thief in the night, highlighting that it will catch people off guard, especially those who are spiritually asleep or unaware.

Paul contrasts believers, who are "children of the light," with those in darkness, urging them to remain alert and clearheaded. He encourages them to live in faith and love, being protected by the assurance of their salvation.

Furthermore, he reassures them that God's intention is not to pour out anger on them but to save them through Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the importance of encouraging and building each other up in faith, reminding them of the hope they have in Christ's return and eternal life with Him.

The passage of Scripture is referring to the harpazo, rapturo, rapture of the church. Just read in context!

1 Thessalonians 4:15-18

15 We tell you this directly from the Lord: We who are still living when the Lord returns will not meet him ahead of those who have died. 16 **For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the Christians who have died will rise from their graves. 17 Then, together with them, we who are still alive and remain on the earth will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. **Then we will be with the Lord forever. 18 So encourage each other with these words."

Next chapter begins with 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11

"1 Now concerning how and when all this will happen, dear brothers and sisters, we don’t really need to write you. 2 For you know quite well that the day of the Lord’s return will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night. 3 When people are saying, **'Everything is peaceful and secure,' then disaster will fall on them **as suddenly as a pregnant woman’s labor pains begin. And there will be no escape.

4 But you aren’t in the dark about these things, dear brothers and sisters, and you won’t be surprised when the day of the Lord comes like a thief. 5 For you are all children of the light and of the day; we don’t belong to darkness and night. 6 So be on your guard, not asleep like the others. Stay alert and be clearheaded. 7 Night is the time when people sleep and drinkers get drunk. 8 But let us who live in the light be clearheaded, protected by the armor of faith and love, and wearing as our helmet the confidence of our salvation.

9** For God chose to save us through our Lord Jesus Christ, not to pour out his anger on us**. 10 Christ died for us so that, whether we are dead or alive when he returns, we can live with him forever. 11 So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.

Once the rapture occurs, there will be destruction. The tribulation period of 7 years will begin with the wrath of God being poured out. God will save us not to pour out His anger on us through snatching us away as stated in verse 9. Also, with millions disappearing, there will be disruption, calamity, confusion and trauma. How will our governing bodies know who was taken and who is left on earth? [With the Antichrist no longer being restrained by the Church, he will be revealed as the world leader. A census with ID will need to be taken that will eventually lead to worship of this Antichrist as God to be able to buy or sell.] Conspiracy theories will abound, including left behind Christians who were living a lie. Will they save face saying it was some event other than the rapture? Stories of UFO’s taking the ‘religious nuts’ will abound with a plan for their re-education.

The Second Coming of Christ

One of the key passages describing the Second Coming of Christ is found in the New Testament in the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 24, verses 29-31:

"Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other."

This passage, often referred to as the "Olivet Discourse," contains Jesus' teachings about the signs of the end times and his return. In these verses, Jesus describes the cosmic signs that will accompany his coming, including the darkening of the sun and moon and the falling of stars. Then, the Son of Man (a title Jesus often used to refer to himself) will appear in the sky, coming on the clouds with power and great glory. He will send his angels with a trumpet call to gather his elect from all corners of the earth.

This passage emphasizes the visible and triumphant return of Jesus Christ to earth, heralded by cosmic phenomena and accompanied by his angels. It portrays the Second Coming as a climactic event that will mark the establishment of Christ's kingdom and the judgment of the world.

As it was in the days of Noah, so shall it be with the coming of the son of man.

Matthew 24:37-39

37 "When the Son of Man returns, it will be like it was in Noah’s day. 38 In those days before the flood, the people were enjoying banquets and parties and weddings right up to the time Noah entered his boat. 39 People didn’t realize what was going to happen until the flood came and swept them all away. That is the way it will be when the Son of Man comes.

In the biblical account of the days of Noah, there is a reference to the nephilim, who were believed to be giants or beings of great strength and stature. The Book of Genesis mentions them briefly, indicating that they were the offspring of the "sons of God" and the "daughters of men" (Genesis 6:1-4).

"When the human population began to grow rapidly on the earth, 2 the sons of God saw the beautiful women of the human race and took any they wanted as their wives. 3 Then the Lord said, “My Spirit will not put up with humans for such a long time, for they are only mortal flesh. In the future, their normal lifespan will be no more than 120 years.” 4 In those days, and even afterward, giants lived on the earth, for whenever the sons of God had intercourse with women, they gave birth to children who became the heroes and famous warriors of ancient times."

As we read in Genesis, angels fornicated with women and giants were on the earth. The angels are called nephilim. God destroyed the earth with a flood to cleanse the earth. He vowed through a rainbow never to flood the earth again. God's decision to cleanse the earth with a flood is found in Genesis 6:5-8, where it describes the wickedness and corruption that had spread among humanity. God decided to send a flood to wipe out all living creatures, but he instructed Noah to build an ark to save himself, his family, and pairs of all living creatures. This account is found in Genesis chapters 6 through 9.

Jesus told us ….as it was in the days of Noah so shall it be with the coming of the son of man. We are seeing modification of DNA. This is as it was in the days of Noah, as giants were born due to crossbreeding of angels and human women. Humans are currently modifying DNA through various techniques, primarily in the field of genetic engineering. Some common methods include:

1. CRISPR-Cas9: This is a powerful tool that allows scientists to precisely edit DNA by cutting out or modifying specific sequences. It's being used in research, agriculture, and potentially for treating genetic disorders.

2. Gene Therapy: In this approach, genetic material is introduced into a patient's cells to treat or prevent disease. This can involve replacing faulty genes with healthy ones, inactivating harmful genes, or introducing entirely new genes.

3. Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs): In agriculture, scientists are modifying the DNA of plants and animals to enhance traits such as resistance to pests or diseases, tolerance to environmental stresses, or improved nutritional content.

4. Synthetic Biology: This field involves designing and constructing new biological parts, devices, and systems, or redesigning existing ones for useful purposes. It often involves modifying DNA sequences to create novel biological functions.

In the passage describing the signs of the end times and the Second Coming found in Matthew 24:29-31, Jesus alludes to several Old Testament prophecies. One significant reference is to the prophet Daniel's vision of the Son of Man in Daniel 7:13-14:

Daniel 7:13-14 (ESV):

"I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man, and he came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before him. And to him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom one that shall not be destroyed."

In Daniel's vision, the Son of Man is portrayed as coming with the clouds of heaven to receive authority and dominion from the Ancient of Days (God). This imagery of the Son of Man coming on the clouds with power and glory is echoed in Jesus' description of his own return in Matthew 24:30.

Additionally, the mention of the trumpet call and the gathering of the elect in Matthew 24:31 resonates with Old Testament imagery associated with the Day of the Lord and the sounding of the trumpet. For example, in passages like Isaiah 27:13 and Joel 2:1, the blowing of the trumpet heralds God's judgment and the gathering of his people.

By referencing these Old Testament prophecies, Jesus affirms his identity as the fulfillment of Messianic expectations and the culmination of God's redemptive plan for humanity. He portrays himself as the Son of Man who will come in power and glory to establish his kingdom and bring about the ultimate triumph of God's purposes in the world.

While the timing and details of the Rapture and the Second Coming are subjects of debate among Christians, both events are central to Christian eschatology and represent the culmination of God's redemptive plan for humanity. The Rapture emphasizes the hope of believers being united with Christ, while the Second Coming underscores the ultimate victory and sovereignty of Jesus Christ over all creation.

It is to be noted the “Church” is no longer seen in Revelation after chapter 3. The Bride of Christ will be raptured prior to the 7 year tribulation period described in Revelation, as the 7 year tribulation period is a time of the wrath of God and He will not pour out His wrath on His Children. The saints we read about in Revelation are the ones resurrected during the first resurrection of the dead described in Revelation 20:4-6. They were beheaded for their faith in Jesus resisting the Antichrist and his reign.

Daniel 11:32

"With flattery he will corrupt those who have violated the covenant, but the people who know their God will be strong and will resist him.”

Read the book of Daniel and notice how it’s structured. God began with stories of consecration and faith conveying a clear message. In order to withstand the lawless one and not be engulfed with deception, we must know our God as Daniel did. The message isn’t to follow Daniel’s diet, but his faith. To know if we are thrown in the lion’s den, God is there. If we are thrown in the fiery furnace, God is there. If we are beheaded for our faith, God is there. According to Revelation, those saved during the tribulation will be beheaded for their faith, as they resist the mark and worship of the beast. They will be immediately received into heaven.

There will be a mark signifying allegiance to this Antichrist that the tribulation saints will resist because they know their God, and who know God through reading His Word. Good news for those who miss the rapture. There continues to be salvation available to all who accept Jesus as Lord and Savior.

Revelation 13:13-18

"He did astounding miracles, even making fire flash down to earth from the sky while everyone was watching. And with all the miracles he was allowed to perform on behalf of the first beast, he deceived all the people who belong to this world. He ordered the people to make a great statue of the first beast, who was fatally wounded and then came back to life. He was then permitted to give life to this statue so that it could speak. Then the statue of the beast commanded that anyone refusing to worship it must die.

He required everyone—small and great, rich and poor, free and slave—to be given a mark on the right hand or on the forehead. And no one could buy or sell anything without that mark, which was either the name of the beast or the number representing his name. Wisdom is needed here. Let the one with understanding solve the meaning of the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man. His number is 666."

It is not clear what the mark is, or who will embody the Antichrist. With the advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the normalization of euthanasia, we can realistically see the implementation of such a world system. It is believed the restrainer for the system to be implemented fully, with the rise of the Antichrist and one world government, is the Bride of Christ, the Church on the earth. Once the believers are raptured, there will no longer be a restrainer.

2 Thessalonians 2:6-7

"And you know what is holding him back, for he can be revealed only when his time comes. For this lawlessness is already at work secretly, and it will remain secret until the one who is holding it back steps out of the way."

The warning against taking the mark of the beast is found in Revelation 14:9-11

"Then a third angel followed them, shouting, 'Anyone who worships the beast and his statue or who accepts his mark on the forehead or on the hand must drink the wine of God’s anger. It has been poured full strength into God’s cup of wrath. And they will be tormented with fire and burning sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and the Lamb. The smoke of their torment will rise forever and ever, and they will have no relief day or night, for they have worshiped the beast and his statue and have accepted the mark of his name."

The Mark of the Beast will result in boils as described in the Book of Revelation, Chapter 16, verses 2 and 11:

Verse 2: "The first angel went and poured out his bowl on the land, and ugly, festering sores broke out on the people who had the mark of the beast and worshiped its image."

Verse 11: "And they cursed the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, but they refused to repent of what they had done."

Fulfillment of the times of the Gentiles

In Romans 11, Paul uses the metaphor of an olive tree to explain the relationship between Jews and Gentiles in God's plan of salvation. He speaks of branches being broken off and others being grafted in, illustrating the inclusion of Gentiles into God's covenant promises alongside Jews. The fulfillment is the realization of God's promise to bless all nations through Abraham, Genesis 12:3 - "I will bless those who bless you and curse those who treat you with contempt. All the families on earth will be blessed through you."

"I want you to understand this mystery, dear brothers and sisters, so that you will not feel proud about yourselves. Some of the people of Israel have hard hearts, but** this will last only until the full number of Gentiles comes to Christ. And so all Israel will be saved. As the Scriptures say, The one who rescues will come from Jerusalem, and he will turn Israel away from ungodliness. And this is my covenant with them, that I will take away their sins. Many of the people of Israel are now enemies of the Good News, and this benefits you Gentiles.** Yet they are still the people he loves because he chose their ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.For God’s gifts and his call can never be withdrawn.” Romans 11: 25-29

It is believed once the Christians are raptured, the time for Israel to accept Jesus as Messiah will come according to what is written in Romans 11. This will introduce the tribulation period described in Revelation, and also the time of the 7 year treaty the Antichrist brokers as spoken of in Daniel 9. Think of the current conflicts and wars happening worldwide; Ukraine and Russia, North and South Korea, China and Taiwan, Israel and Iran. He will bring a peace treaty and it will be false, a lie.

There will be 144,000 saved Jews who will evangelize and share Jesus as Messiah. They are described as a group of people chosen by God, specifically from the tribes of Israel, who are sealed with the mark of God on their foreheads. These individuals are depicted as being protected during a time of great tribulation on earth.

Revelation 7:4-8

"Then I heard how many were marked with the seal of God—144,000 were sealed from all the tribes of Israel:

From Judah 12,000 were sealed, from Reuben 12,000, from Gad 12,000, from Asher 12,000, from Naphtali 12,000, from Manasseh 12,000, from Simeon 12,000, from Levi 12,000, from Issachar 12,000, from Zebulun 12,000, from Joseph 12,000, from Benjamin 12,000."

The book of Revelation provides additional details about the 144,000 in Revelation 14:1-5

"Then I saw the Lamb standing on Mount Zion, and with him were 144,000 who had his name and his Father’s name written on their foreheads. And I heard a sound from heaven like the roar of mighty ocean waves or the rolling of loud thunder. It was like the sound of many harpists playing together. This great choir sang a wonderful new song in front of the throne of God and before the four living beings and the twenty-four elders. No one could learn this song except the 144,000 who had been redeemed from the earth. They have kept themselves as pure as virgins, following the Lamb wherever he goes. They have been purchased from among the people on the earth as a special offering to God and to the Lamb. They have told no lies; they are without blame."

Psalm 83 and the 6 Day War in 1967

The war described in Psalm 83 could have been fulfilled with the 1967 war, as the modern nations described in the Psalm are listed, being Jordan, Egypt, Lebanon, and Syria.

Psalm 83:4-8: “Come," they say, "let us wipe out Israel as a nation. Let's destroy the memory of its existence." Yes, this was their unanimous decision. They signed a treaty as allies against you—the tents of Edom and the Ishmaelites, Moab and the Hagrites, Gebal, Ammon, and Amalek, Philistia with the people of Tyre. Even Assyria has joined them to strengthen the descendants of Lot.

Identifying modern nations corresponding to the ancient peoples mentioned in biblical texts can be challenging due to changes in geography, demographics, and cultural identities over time. However, here are some historical insights and potential modern equivalents based on scholarly interpretations:

1. Edom: Edom was an ancient kingdom located south of Judah, in the region of modern-day southern Israel and Jordan. The descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother, inhabited this area. Today, the region may correspond partially to southern Jordan and parts of southern Israel.

2. Ishmaelites: The Ishmaelites were descendants of Ishmael, Abraham's son through Hagar. They were a nomadic people known for their involvement in trade and commerce in the ancient Near East. Today, their descendants are believed to be primarily among the Arab populations of the Middle East.

3. Moab: Moab was an ancient kingdom located east of the Dead Sea, in what is now modern-day Jordan. The region corresponding to ancient Moab is largely within the borders of present-day Jordan.

4. Hagrites: The Hagrites were a nomadic people who lived in the region east of the Jordan River during biblical times. Their exact identity and modern descendants are uncertain, but they may have been part of the wider Arab tribal groups of the Arabian Peninsula.

5. Gebal: Gebal, also known as Byblos, was an ancient city-state located on the coast of present-day Lebanon. Byblos was known for its maritime trade and cultural influence. Today, Byblos is a modern city in Lebanon.

6. Ammon: Ammon was an ancient kingdom located east of the Jordan River, in what is now modern-day Jordan. The region corresponding to ancient Ammon is largely within the borders of present-day Jordan.

7. Amalek: The Amalekites were a nomadic people who inhabited the region of the Negev desert in ancient times. They were enemies of the Israelites and are often mentioned in the Bible in conflict with them. The modern descendants of the Amalekites are uncertain.

8. Philistia: Philistia was an ancient region located along the southern coast of modern-day Israel and the Gaza Strip. The Philistines were one of the primary adversaries of the Israelites in the biblical narrative. Today, the term "Philistia" is not used to denote a specific geopolitical entity.

9. Tyre: Tyre was an ancient Phoenician city-state located on the coast of present-day Lebanon. It was a major center of trade and maritime power in the ancient Mediterranean world. Today, Tyre is a modern city in Lebanon.

10. Assyria: Assyria was a powerful ancient empire centered in the region of modern-day Iraq, with its capital at various times in cities such as Ashur, Nineveh, and Assur. While the ancient Assyrian Empire no longer exists, modern-day Assyrians are an ethnic group primarily located in Iraq, Syria, Turkey, and Iran. They are often considered the descendants of the ancient Assyrians.

The Six-Day War, which took place in June 1967, involved several nations in the Middle East.

1. Israel: Israel launched a preemptive strike against its neighboring Arab states, including Egypt, Jordan, and Syria. Israeli forces successfully carried out coordinated military operations on multiple fronts.

2. Egypt: Egypt, under the leadership of President Gamal Abdel Nasser, played a central role in the conflict. Israeli forces launched a surprise attack on Egyptian airfields, crippling the Egyptian Air Force and gaining air superiority.

3. Jordan: Jordan, then ruled by King Hussein, joined the conflict by shelling Israeli positions in Jerusalem and the West Bank. Israeli forces ultimately captured East Jerusalem and the West Bank, including the Old City and its holy sites.

4. Syria: Syria, led by President Amin al-Hafiz, also participated in the war by shelling Israeli positions from the Golan Heights. Israeli forces launched a counterattack and captured the Golan Heights during the conflict.

Other Arab states provided various levels of support to Egypt, Jordan, and Syria, including troops, equipment, and political backing. These included Iraq, Algeria, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, and others.

The Six-Day War resulted in a decisive victory for Israel, with significant territorial gains, including the Israel captured East Jerusalem including the Old City, Sinai Peninsula, Gaza Strip, West Bank, and Golan Heights. The war had far-reaching consequences for the region, shaping the geopolitical landscape and contributing to ongoing conflicts and tensions in the Middle East.

Peace Treaty

The reference to Daniel and the peace treaty likely pertains to interpretations of biblical prophecy, particularly in relation to the end times or eschatology. Daniel 9:27, speaks of a "covenant" being confirmed for one week (interpreted by some as a period of seven years) by a "ruler" or "prince."

There is a spirit of Antichrist defined in the Bible: 2 John 1:7: "I say this because many deceivers have gone out into the world. They deny that Jesus Christ came in a real body. Such a person is a deceiver and an antichrist." Many acknowledge ‘Christ consciousness,’ as respecting Jesus, however they deny Jesus came in the flesh.

There is a figure described as the "little horn" in Daniel 7 and the "prince who is to come" in Daniel 9, both of whom are often associated with the Antichrist in Christian eschatology.

Daniel 7:8 describes the little horn as having "eyes like the eyes of a man, and a mouth speaking pompous words." This figure is seen as a symbol of a powerful and arrogant ruler who opposes God's people.

In Daniel 9:26-27, there is a mention of a "prince who is to come" who will make a covenant but will later break it. This figure is associated with the end-times and is often interpreted as the Antichrist.

The description of these figures in Daniel aligns with other passages in the Bible that speak about an individual who opposes God and His people, promotes evil, and exalts himself above all that is called God.

2 Thessalonians 2:3-4: "Don’t let anyone deceive you in any way, for that day will not come until there is a great rebellion against God and the man of lawlessness is revealed—the one who brings destruction. He will exalt himself and defy everything that people call god and every object of worship. He will even sit in the temple of God, claiming that he himself is God."

Revelation 13:5-6: "Then the beast was allowed to speak great blasphemies against God. And he was given authority to do whatever he wanted for forty-two months. And he spoke terrible words of blasphemy against God, slandering his name and his dwelling—that is, those who dwell in heaven."

This Antichrist ruler negotiates a peace treaty:

Daniel 9:27

"The ruler will make a treaty with the people for a period of one set of seven, but after half this time, he will put an end to the sacrifices and offerings. And as a climax to all his terrible deeds, he will set up a sacrilegious object that causes desecration, until the fate decreed for this defiler is finally poured out on him."

This is a reference to a future peace treaty or agreement, involving Israel and other nations. There is also a reference to the Jewish Temple and sacrifices which we will explore. It is reported Israel has the red heifer ready for the sacrifice. Also, Jesus told the Jews when they see this abomination of desolation at the 3.5 year mark to flee. This is interpreted when the Antichrist sits in the Jewish Temple decreeing himself as god.

Matthew 24

**15 **“The day is coming when you will see what Daniel the prophet spoke about—the sacrilegious object that causes desecration standing in the Holy Place.” (Reader, pay attention!) **16 **“Then those in Judea must flee to the hills. **17 **A person out on the deck of a roof must not go down into the house to pack. **18 **A person out in the field must not return even to get a coat. **19 **How terrible it will be for pregnant women and for nursing mothers in those days. **20 **And pray that your flight will not be in winter or on the Sabbath. **21 **For there will be greater anguish than at any time since the world began. And it will never be so great again. **22 **In fact, unless that time of calamity is shortened, not a single person will survive. But it will be shortened for the sake of God’s chosen ones.

Daniel’s Peace Treaty & The Abraham Accords

The Abraham Accords are a series of agreements aimed at normalizing diplomatic and economic relations between Israel and several Arab states. The accords were brokered by the United States and announced in August and September 2020. They represent a significant shift in regional geopolitics and mark historic breakthroughs in Arab-Israeli relations. Key elements of the Abraham Accords include:

1. Normalization of Relations: The primary objective of the Abraham Accords is to establish formal diplomatic ties between Israel and participating Arab states. This includes the exchange of ambassadors, the opening of embassies, and the development of bilateral cooperation in various fields.

2. Peace Treaties: As part of the accords, Israel signed peace agreements with two Arab states: the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain. These agreements marked the first time in decades that Arab countries had normalized relations with Israel without the resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict being a precondition.

3. Economic Cooperation: The Abraham Accords also aim to promote economic cooperation and trade between Israel and the participating Arab states. This includes initiatives to enhance business, investment, tourism, and technological collaboration.

4. Regional Stability: Proponents of the Abraham Accords argue that the agreements contribute to regional stability by fostering greater cooperation and dialogue between Israel and its Arab neighbors. They also view the accords as a step toward addressing common security challenges and promoting peace and prosperity in the Middle East.

The Abraham Accords have been widely praised by international leaders and have garnered significant support from the United States and other countries. However, they have also faced criticism, particularly from Palestinians and their allies, who argue that the accords undermine efforts to achieve a comprehensive peace agreement that addresses the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Overall, the Abraham Accords represent a landmark development in Arab-Israeli relations and have the potential to reshape the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. The Abraham Accords involved agreements between Israel and two Arab states:

1. United Arab Emirates (UAE): The UAE signed a peace agreement with Israel in August 2020 as part of the Abraham Accords. This agreement marked the first normalization of relations between Israel and an Arab Gulf state.

2. Bahrain: Bahrain signed a peace agreement with Israel in September 2020 as part of the Abraham Accords. Like the UAE, Bahrain's agreement with Israel represented a historic step toward normalization of diplomatic ties between Israel and an Arab country.

These agreements were brokered by the United States under the administration of President Donald Trump and were announced in a series of events held in Washington, D.C. They are named after Abraham, who is revered as a prophet in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, symbolizing the potential for cooperation and reconciliation among the Abrahamic faiths.

The Abraham Accords are not explicitly identified as the peace treaty mentioned in Daniel 9:27. In Daniel 9:27, the passage refers to a covenant or treaty that will be confirmed by a future ruler for a period of one 'seven' (interpreted by some as a period of seven years).

Some interpretations of Daniel 9:27 suggest that it could be connected to a future peace treaty or agreement involving Israel and other nations. Proponents of this view often look for contemporary events or developments, such as diplomatic initiatives or peace agreements, that they believe may fulfill the prophecy.

Interpreting biblical prophecy, particularly in passages like Daniel 9:27, involves understanding the historical context and considering various theological perspectives.

In Daniel 9:27, the reference to sacrifices and offerings being ended halfway through the period of the "one set of seven" (commonly interpreted as seven years) has led many interpreters to anticipate a future restoration of temple sacrifices in Jerusalem. This expectation has fueled speculation about the possibility of a rebuilt Jewish temple in Jerusalem, as temple sacrifices were a central aspect of Jewish worship in ancient times.

While there is currently no temple in Jerusalem where sacrifices are offered, some groups within Judaism, particularly those associated with the religious and political movement known as religious Zionism, advocate for the rebuilding of the temple. Additionally, some Christian eschatological interpretations anticipate a future temple in Jerusalem as part of end-times events.

However, it's important to note that the prospect of a rebuilt temple and the resumption of sacrifices in Jerusalem remain highly contentious and politically sensitive issues. The site where the ancient Jewish temples stood, now occupied by the Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque, is one of the holiest sites in Islam. Any attempts to change the status quo or build a new temple could potentially spark significant conflict and controversy in the region.

The Temple Institute

The Temple Institute is an organization based in Jerusalem, Israel, dedicated to the goal of rebuilding the Jewish Temple on the Temple Mount in accordance with biblical and Jewish religious traditions. The institute was founded in 1987 by Rabbi Yisrael Ariel and Rabbi Yehuda Glick, among others, with the aim of promoting awareness and education about the history and significance of the Jewish Temple and its potential reconstruction.

The Temple Institute engages in various activities and initiatives related to the rebuilding of the temple:

1. Research and Education: The institute conducts research into the history, architecture, and rituals of the Jewish Temple, drawing on biblical texts, rabbinic literature, and archaeological findings. It provides educational resources, including lectures, seminars, and publications, to educate Jews and non-Jews alike about the importance of the temple in Jewish tradition.

2. Temple Vessels and Garments: One of the notable projects of the Temple Institute is the creation of replica vessels and priestly garments used in the temple service. These include items such as the menorah (candelabrum), the golden incense altar, and the priestly vestments. These replicas are intended to be used in the future temple once it is rebuilt.

3. Architectural Plans: The Temple Institute has developed architectural plans and designs for the reconstruction of the temple based on biblical descriptions and traditional interpretations. These plans include detailed blueprints and models of the temple complex, its courtyards, and its various chambers.

4. Preparatory Activities: The institute also engages in practical preparations for the rebuilding of the temple, including training priests (kohanim) and Levites in the rituals and procedures of temple service. It conducts reenactments of temple ceremonies and sacrifices to demonstrate how they might be performed in the future.

The Temple Institute's activities and goals are deeply rooted in religious and ideological beliefs about the centrality of the temple in Jewish life and its significance in prophecy and redemption. However, its efforts are not without controversy, as the prospect of rebuilding the temple and its potential implications for the status quo in Jerusalem are subject to intense debate and disagreement among Jews, Christians, Muslims, and political stakeholders in the region.

The Two Witnesses

The period mentioned in Revelation 11:3-12, where the two witnesses prophesy for 1,260 days, is often interpreted as the first 3.5 years of a 7-year period known as the Tribulation. They will preach Jesus as Messiah and that the temple with sacrifice is not necessary as Jesus is the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.

"And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will be clothed in burlap and will prophesy during those 1,260 days.”

These two prophets are the two olive trees and the two lampstands that stand before the Lord of all the earth. If anyone tries to harm them, fire flashes from their mouths and consumes their enemies. This is how anyone who tries to harm them must die. They have power to shut the sky so that no rain will fall for as long as they prophesy. And they have the power to turn the rivers and oceans into blood, and to strike the earth with every kind of plague as often as they wish.

When they complete their testimony, the beast that comes up out of the bottomless pit will declare war against them, and he will conquer them and kill them. And their bodies will lie in the main street of Jerusalem, the city that is figuratively called “Sodom” and “Egypt,” the city where their Lord was crucified. And for three and a half days, all peoples, tribes, languages, and nations will stare at their bodies. No one will be allowed to bury them. All the people who belong to this world will gloat over them and give presents to each other to celebrate the death of the two prophets who had tormented them.

But after three and a half days, the breath of life from God entered them, and they stood up! And terror struck all who were staring at them. Then a loud voice from heaven called to the two prophets, “Come up here!” And they rose to heaven in a cloud as their enemies watched."

Watching The Nations and 10 Kings

The Bible describes ten kings, without a kingdom, receiving a kingdom in association with the beast in one hour. There is a ruling body in the earth today with unelected officials driving policy. Members are politicians from world nations, corporations, media and public figures. This forum of leaders meets to guide policy and they have sustainable goals. Interesting these leaders don’t yet have a nation to lead. With the rise of the Antichrist, these leaders will receive their kingdom *with one purpose, giving back their authority to the Antichrist. *We cannot yet see 10 kingdoms, and the speculation is perhaps we won’t see these 10 kingdoms until an event occurs paving the way for the Antichrist and his system to be revealed fully and established. Only then will these 10 kings arise in an hour receiving their kingdoms with a unified purpose of the Antichrist, the world leader. This would look like the earth being divided into 10 zones with a king for each.

One current united worldwide body is the World Economic Forum and its foundation's stated mission is "improving the state of the world by engaging business, political, academic, and other leaders of society to shape global, regional, and industry agendas". The Global Goals and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development seek to end poverty and hunger, realise the human rights of all, achieve gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls, and ensure the lasting protection of the planet and its natural resources. The themes of globalization, international cooperation, and potential power structures speak to prophecy fulfillment in the end times.

In the book of Daniel, chapter 7, there is a vision of four beasts representing four kingdoms. In verse 7, Daniel describes the fourth beast:

"After this I saw in the night visions, and behold, a fourth beast, terrifying and dreadful and exceedingly strong. It had great iron teeth; it devoured and broke in pieces and stamped what was left with its feet. It was different from all the beasts that were before it, and it had ten horns."

These ten horns represent ten kings or kingdoms that arise from this fourth beast. Revelation, chapter 17, verses 12-13 tells us the ten horns are ten kings who for one hour will receive authority as kings.

"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 have one purpose and will give their power and authority to the beast."

“The Sustainable Development Goals are the blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all. They address the global challenges we face, including those related to poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace and justice.

The 17 Goals are all interconnected, and in order to leave no one behind, it is important that we achieve them all by 2030.” ~United Nations

Symbol of the Global Goals

No poverty, Zero hunger, Good health and well-being, Quality education, Gender equality, Clean water and sanitation, Affordable and clean energy, Decent work and economic growth, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Reduced inequalities, Sustainable cities and communities, Responsible consumption and production, Climate action, Life below water, Life on land, Peace, justice, strong institutions, and Partnerships for the goals.

Could this be our new world religion uniting the people of the earth for the greater good to work together? Would the mark signal allegiance to a better earth, Mother Earth? Research shows among world religions across cultures and nations, those who live close to their religious beliefs have common virtues. This unites humanity with common concepts. Religious divide after all fuels conflict and wars amongst people and nations; therefore let’s abolish traditional religions, uniting for the greater good focusing on these 17 goals. This could be what the peace treaty is about; to end all religions with all people uniting around these goals, focusing on what unites us, the virtues. This could end the current conflicts and wars among nations, but temporarily. What would make this peace treaty false, is the Antichrist decreeing he is god when he sits in the temple. The agreement, after all, is there is no god, we are our own gods. Just something different to consider among the current worldwide landscape. Truly, the nations, divided into 10 zones, agreeing to work towards these 17 goals is notable and unifying. Of course, neither people nor the 10 kings would see a problem giving authority to this Antichrist to lead the initiative worldwide. His endgame is not notable. It is worldwide dominance and to be worshipped. If he played with a full deck of cards no one would agree to give him power. He will reveal his true colors and demand worship. Not all will follow him. And there will be worldwide revival with Christians being martyred for their faith and allegiance to Jesus Christ; the Way, Truth, and Life.

Antichrist Demanding Worship

In summary: The Bible foretells a scenario where ten kings, initially without kingdoms, will suddenly receive authority in connection with a powerful entity known as the beast. This is reminiscent of a global ruling body comprised of influential figures from various sectors, like politics, business, and media, such as the World Economic Forum. These leaders aim to shape policies and pursue sustainable goals, yet they lack individual nations to govern. Speculation suggests that these ten kings may only emerge after a significant event sets the stage for the rise of the Antichrist, who will ultimately receive their allegiance. This prophecy aligns with biblical visions in Daniel and Revelation, which depict ten horns symbolizing kings or kingdoms arising from a powerful entity.

2 Corinthians 11:14 states: "But I am not surprised! Even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light." It's a warning about how deceitful appearances can be, urging vigilance against deception.

In a nutshell; the church will be raptured, removing all restraint of the Antichrist and his world system. Sudden destruction will come in the form of the tribulation. The Antichrist will bring about a peace treaty that is false. The nations will meet globally to stabilize the world in a unified manner calling for a global census. There will eventually be 10 kingdoms and 10 kings handing over their authority to the Antichrist. People will be presented with a world census and system to be able to buy and sell, like a world identification system. Without this ID, they will not be able to participate in society. With everything happening, we have seen people will slowly buy into concepts with social norms pressuring others to comply for the “greater good.” Admittedly the Global Goals include great concepts for a better world, so it will be natural to accept the system. However, the mark will evolve as the endgame culminating with an eternal decision to worship the Antichrist eventually. Remember it is written an angel will warn people not to take the mark. People will comprehend what they are agreeing to. The mark will begin with a world ID to take the census of who is left after the rapture, then a social credit score, as depicted by Time magazine and implemented by China currently.

The end game is worship of the Antichrist, denying Jesus and all other religions. Satan wants to dethrone God and he will embody this Antichrist world figure.

Isaiah 14:12-15

*"How you have fallen from heaven, morning star, son of the dawn! You have been cast down to the earth, you who once laid low the nations! You said in your heart, **'I will ascend to the heavens; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly, on the utmost heights of Mount Zaphon. I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.' *But you are brought down to the realm of the dead, to the depths of the pit."

Most people will comply not only to eat, but to have Wi-Fi, and access the internet. The 144,000 will preach the gospel and the Jews will accept Jesus as messiah. The temple will be rebuilt with sacrifice, and this will not be of Jesus. Two witnesses will speak against this temple and sacrifice the first 3.5 years of the tribulation. The Antichrist will kill them, and God will take them up to heaven once they arise from death. Antichrist at the middle of the 7 year period, will end the sacrifice and sit in the temple announcing he is god. In the end of the 7 years, Israel will be surrounded by enemies (Zechariah 14), and Jesus will return on the Mount of Olives to fight for Israel. This will begin the millennial reign of Jesus on the earth with resurrection of the tribulation saints who were martyred for Jesus. Once the 1000 years are over, all will arise from the dead and there will be a final judgement and the Lake of Fire eternally for all who don’t accept the salvation and Lordship of Jesus.

Next Steps:

1. Continue Study and Reflection: Christians can deepen their understanding of biblical prophecy and its relevance to current events by further study and reflection on relevant scriptures.

2. Engage in Discourse: Engaging in discussions with fellow believers and scholars can provide insights and perspectives on interpreting biblical prophecy in today's world.

3. Pray for Wisdom and Discernment: Seeking wisdom and discernment through prayer can guide Christians in understanding and navigating the complexities of the modern era in light of biblical teachings.

To delve deeper into the topic of decoding current events through biblical prophecy, here are some sources that you can explore:

1. Books:

   • "The Ezekiel Option" by Joel C. Rosenberg: This book explores the intersection of biblical prophecy and modern geopolitics, focusing on the Middle East.

   • "The Late Great Planet Earth" by Hal Lindsey: This classic work examines biblical prophecy and its implications for contemporary events, including discussions on Gog and Magog.

2. Scholarly Articles:

   • "Gog and Magog: The History of a Symbol" by Daniel J. Lasker (published in the journal Numen): This article delves into the historical and symbolic significance of Gog and Magog in Jewish and Christian traditions.

   • "The Abraham Accords: A New Paradigm for Arab-Israeli Relations?" by Dov Waxman (published in Foreign Affairs): This article analyzes the implications of the Abraham Accords on the Middle East peace process and regional geopolitics.

3. Websites and Organizations:

   • The Temple Institute, Explore the official website of The Temple Institute to learn more about their mission, activities, and views on the rebuilding of the Jewish Temple.

   • The Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs: This research institute provides analysis and commentary on Middle East politics, including topics related to biblical prophecy and contemporary events.

4. Academic Journals:

   • Journal of Biblical Literature: This scholarly journal publishes articles on a wide range of topics related to biblical studies, including prophecy, eschatology, and historical contexts.

   • Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society: Explore articles in this journal that examine biblical prophecy from evangelical perspectives, offering insights into interpretations and applications of prophecy in modern times.

By exploring these sources, you can conduct your own study and gain a deeper understanding of how biblical prophecy intersects with current events, including the interpretation of Gog and Magog and the implications of peace treaties like the Abraham Accords. We need to read the Bible and read the Scripture within context. God is not the author of confusion; its people and our thoughts, ideas and opinions. We hear one person saying something and repeat it as fact, without studying it on our own. Ideas and misconceptions spread like wildfire. We are social beings and look for someone to follow. Let’s follow Jesus and read His Word prayerfully. He is the Word made flesh.

I wrote this with trepidation, as we are warned not to alter anything stated in Revelation. I encourage all of us to study, pray, and study more what the Word of God says. The carnal mind cannot understand the Word of God. We study with our spiritual being infused with the Holy Spirit. Only He can reveal these mysteries to us and it’s like finding a great treasure.

I read the whole Bible the Fall of 2023, and it had been a while since I read it through. Now I read books and pray to understand. Ezekiel & Revelation, Daniel & Colossians, Isaiah & Hebrews are recent highlights. Today I’m reading Thessalonians; both books and have you read Peter’s writings lately? He had a lot to say about the end times as well as Paul.

I encourage you to read the whole Bible and listen to hear what it says. There are consequences to our actions. Think about bad decisions you have made in your life and the natural consequences you faced. He is the same God throughout the Bible, and we live under a new covenant where salvation is a gift, as Jesus became the lamb of God taking away the sin of the world, John 1:29, therefore that sacrifice of the red heifer is not needed. How we live matters to Him. I believe the great deception talked about in the Bible is that we can live in sin. We have a race set before us to run, and how we finish the race matters.

In 2 Timothy 3, Paul is warning Timothy about the difficult times that will come in the last days. He describes people's behaviors and attitudes during these times, highlighting the prevalence of selfishness, greed, pride, disobedience, and lack of self-control. Paul urges Timothy to remain faithful to the teachings he has received and to continue in the Scriptures, which are able to make one wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

"They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!" 2Timothy 3:5

• We are made the righteousness of God through Christ Jesus when we are born again.

"For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ." - 2 Corinthians 5:21

• Throughout the Bible, holy living is magnified, and Paul speaks to not trample what Jesus has provided for us with a sinful life.

"Well then, should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of his wonderful grace? Of course not! Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it?" - Romans 6:1-2

• Jesus when he healed people told them to go and sin no more.

"Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, 'Where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?' 'No, Lord,' she said. And Jesus said, 'Neither do I. Go and sin no more.'" - John 8:10-11

• Jesus will tell people who preached the good news of the gospel and lived in sin, ‘Depart from me you workers of iniquity, I never knew you.’

Matthew 7

**21 **“Not everyone who calls out to me, ‘Lord! Lord!’ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter. **22 **On judgment day many will say to me, ‘Lord! Lord! We prophesied in your name and cast out demons in your name and performed many miracles in your name.’ **23 **But I will reply, ‘I never knew you. Get away from me, you who break God’s laws.’

More about my why:

I’ve heard pastors say they won’t preach on the end times because of several reasons. One is that the congregation gets confused. Another is that we should be focused on preaching the gospel and getting souls saved to fulfill the Great Commission. Both are valid points. I have had conversations with people who have been traumatized with being told they had taken the mark with the jab. The same messengers sold supplements to counteract the jab; not that supplements would help with any spiritual connotations. This disheartened me to a place of a deep dive to understand how Biblical prophecy ties into current events circa 2021 when the jab came out. These people were misguided by ministers, and members of the medical community to believe this was the mark, and there is lingering trauma for them. Anytime someone is selling you something, beware. Fear leveraged for profit is evil. Knowledge is power. We have not seen the mark yet, nor are we in the tribulation. The infrastructure is built for a mark, Worldcoin. This could easily be implemented to count a worldwide census, verify humanity, and for a unified monetary method.

2 Thessalonians 2:

"1 Now, dear brothers and sisters, let us clarify some things about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and how we will be gathered to meet him. 2 Don’t be so easily shaken or alarmed by those who say that the day of the Lord has already begun. Don’t believe them, even if they claim to have had a spiritual vision, a revelation, or a letter supposedly from us. 3 Don’t be fooled by what they say. For that day will not come until there is a great rebellion against God and the man of lawlessness is revealed—the one who brings destruction. 4 He will exalt himself and defy everything that people call god and every object of worship. He will even sit in the temple of God, claiming that he himself is God. 5 Don’t you remember that I told you about all this when I was with you? 6 And you know what is holding him back, for he can be revealed only when his time comes. 7 For this lawlessness is already at work secretly, and it will remain secret until the one who is holding it back steps out of the way. 8 Then the man of lawlessness will be revealed, but the Lord Jesus will slay him with the breath of his mouth and destroy him by the splendor of his coming.

9 This man will come to do the work of Satan with counterfeit power and signs and miracles. 10 He will use every kind of evil deception to fool those on their way to destruction, because they refuse to love and accept the truth that would save them. 11 So God will cause them to be greatly deceived, and they will believe these lies. 12 Then they will be condemned for enjoying evil rather than believing the truth."

My writings will continue to focus on mental health and spiritual wholeness with obedience to Jesus and His Word. Thank you for being here and stay tuned as the best is yet to come!

Share this article in PDF Form: