If you’re at all like me you’ve been closely following the situation in Israel/Gaza. And, like me, I’m sure you’re pondering what the prophetic implications of this war might be. One fulfillment is certain. Jesus listed “wars and rumors of wars” as one of the beginnings of birth pangs preceding Daniel’s 70th week. This clearly fits that description. But are there other prophetic implications?
While I don’t see any other fulfillment of a direct prophecy of scripture in this conflict, I do see portents of things to come. How nation-states are aligning in support of Israel or Hamas and the “Palestinians” is quite telling. The stage is being set for a multitude of last days events. Remember, a ten-nation confederacy must be formed that will be allied with the soon to be revealed antichrist. Also, a short-lived peace in this war-torn area will be achieved in a “covenant with many” allowing Israel to restart temple worship on the temple mount. Another prophecy to watch for is the Ram-Goat war of Daniel chapter 8, which will likely involve Turkey and Iran. Another is the dire certainty of WW3 described in Revelation chapter 9 starting in the area of the Euphrates River that will result in the horrific death of one third of the world’s population. Though this war will probably not happen till the second half of Daniel’s 70th week, the main players are exposing their potential alliances during this current conflict.
We know that at some point, virtually all nations on earth will abandon Israel, and align themselves with the chief deceiver, the antichrist. It seems that every nation on earth due to this war is brazenly exposing the antisemitic elements that exist in their countries. Unfortunately, before she is finally delivered, Israel will yet suffer a much greater loss of life then this war during the “great tribulation” as foretold by Jesus. Israel has suffered much in the past. Two crushing exiles, pogroms, the holocaust, worldwide antisemitism, etc., but the worst is yet to come. Israel needs to learn not to rely on any ally other than God to fight alongside her. We need to continue prayer for the peace of Jerusalem and all of Israel.
We must also remember that virtually all biblical prophecy is Israel/Jerusalem/middle east centric. Therefore, any significant news from this region of the world requires our attention. We’re quickly approaching the final events of this age and we need to be watching as prophecy is fulfilled and properly preparing as our Lord commanded.
Maranatha, Jim