It is important to note the lesson title graphic (minus the text) includes a transparent image of the flag of Israel. Adopted shortly after Israel became a nation in 1948, the flag consists of a white field with two horizontal blue stripes, and the Star of David (Shield of David) in the center. The blue stripes were inspired by the stripes on the tallit (or prayer shawl). The Star of David is a symbol of both Jewish identity and Judaism. Introduction God’s first and everlasting love is His chosen people: the Israelites. However, they turned away from Him because of their preference for sin, did not listen to the prophets He sent, and rejected His Son, Jesus Christ—a rejection that continues today. However, when Jesus returns and destroys Israel’s enemies is when Israel will realize Jesus is the Messiah, and will worship Him as Lord. However, to open the eyes, influence the minds, and change the hearts of the Israelites towards Jesus Christ will require a series of unprecedented events that will culminate in the destruction of Israel’s sovereignty. Israel’s demise was prophesized by Daniel, and will occur during the second half of the Tribulation: The Great Tribulation. “And there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation, even to that time.” Daniel 9:1 “Then I heard the man clothed in linen, who was above the waters of the river, when he held up his right hand and his left hand to heaven, and swore by Him who lives forever, that it shall be for a time, times, and half a time; and when the power of the holy people has been completely shattered, all these things shall be finished.” Daniel 12:7 • The man clothed in linen and above the waters of the river is most likely an angel. • Both hands held up to heaven reveals God is the source of the prophetic truth. • Time (1 year), times (2 times a time), and half a time (1/2 year) biblically equates to 3 ½ years. • The “holy people” are Israelites. • The shattering of power reveals Israel’s inability to maintain its sovereignty against its enemies. • “All things shall be finished” represents this period of time will occur during the end of the second half of the 7- year Tribulation. From an individual and personal perspective, God desires our hope, belief, faith and trust—which occurs when we are no longer able to have hope, belief, faith and trust in ourselves. When we are stripped of our self-centered pride; when we are unable to rely upon our intellect and skills to get us through life’s challenges; when that what we possess is no longer able to support our needs; and when everything we have depended upon has failed us—is when we have no option but to let go and place our hope, belief, faith and trust in God…and let Him take control. For this is what will occur to the nation of Israel during the Great Tribulation as the Antichrist attacks and destroys them. During the last days God will bring the nation of Israel to her knees. Enemy nations—led by the Antichrist will overcome and destroy—and Israel will not be able to withstand the onslaught. When spiritual darkness completely surrounds and permeates Israel, when their ability to defend their nation no longer exists, when everything seems bleak, and when the only option is to let go and place their hope, belief, faith and trust in God…is when God’s promised Messiah…Jesus Christ…will return and destroy all nations that have come against Israel. Here is a spiritually insightful and thought-provoking question to consider. If Israel—based upon their own military power and strength—is able to defeat their enemies during the last days: • In whom would the faith of the Israelites reside? • Who would receive the recognition and glory? • Would they believe Jesus Christ is the Messiah? “It shall be in that day that I will seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem. And I will pour on the house of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and supplication; then they will look on Me whom they pierced. Yes, they will mourn for Him as one mourns for his only son, and grieve for Him as one grieves for a firstborn.” Zechariah 12:9-10 But what is more compelling about our Savior and Lord, Jesus will not look upon Israel with anger because He was rejected, convicted, and hung on a cross to die. Nor will He seek retribution or punishment. But rather, after He destroys Israel’s enemies, He will respond in a manner that reflects His heart—which is opposite from our human response when we are wronged—for He will pour out His grace and declare the need for Israel to repent from sin and turn to Him. As such, the eyes of Israel will be opened to the truth; they will realize Jesus is the Messiah and the fulfillment of God’s promises; and they will deeply mourn for what was done and what they had missed. Jesus said, “For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” John 3:17 Here is a spiritual truth that opens eyes to God’s love and grace. It was not the Jews, nor the Romans, nor Satan who killed Jesus. It was you…and it was me…and it was because of all who believe. Jesus Christ made a decision to willingly offer His body as a sacrificial lamb—as an atonement for our sins—so that each of us has an opportunity to spiritually come alive while we are living in these flawed and mortal bodies, and live for eternity in His presence. Jesus said regarding Himself: • “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:28 • “As the Father knows Me, even so I know the Father; and I lay down My life for the sheep. And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd. Therefore, My Father loves Me, because I lay down My life that I may take it again. No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This command I have received from My Father.” John 10:15-17 • “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16 Fully aware of what was before Him—an undeserved horrific punishment of being scourged and crucified on the cross—Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.” Luke 22:42 The words of Jesus were everlasting and true when He walked on earth, and remain so today. Jesus declared, “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me has everlasting life. I am the bread of life. Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and are dead. This is the bread which comes down from heaven, that one may eat of it and not die. I am the living bread which came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread that I shall give is My flesh, which I shall give for the life of the world.” John 6: 47-51 Israel’s Rejection of Jesus The Israelite’s perception of Jesus was (and is) based upon the physical and not spiritual—for they believe the Messiah would be a warrior who would lead the Israelites in defeating their enemies and would bring peace to their nation. The religious leaders rejected Jesus because He: • Was lowly and unassuming. • Associated with sinners and tax collectors. • Rebuked religious strongholds. • Declared the truth: “I and My Father are one.” John 10:30 Israel did not realize there are things far worse than physical enemies—for we all have spiritual enemies who seek to separate us from the love of God via deceptional lies that leverage the lusts of our flesh—with the intent of creating a blind and willful bondage to sin and spiritual death. These enemies can only be overcome by the power of God’s grace and the forgiveness of our sins through the sacrificial death of His Son. The forgiveness of sins by sacrificing animals was replaced by the New Covenant: God’s perfect sacrificial Lamb, His Son, Jesus Christ. “Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah—not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt, My covenant which they broke, though I was a husband to them, says the Lord. But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put My law in their minds, and write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. No more shall every man teach his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ for they all shall know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them, says the Lord. For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more.” Jeremiah 31:31-34 Jesus revealed to His apostles (during the Passover meal before His crucified death) that He is the New Covenant. “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.” Luke 22:20 Israel’s rejection of (and blindness towards) God’s New Covenant was prophesied and part of God’s plan. “The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. This was the Lord’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes.” Psalms 118:22-23 “He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” John 1:10-13 “God has given them a spirit of stupor, eyes that they should not see and ears that they should not hear, to this very day.” Romans 11:8 The Israelite’s rejection and blindness towards Jesus opened the door of salvation to both Jews and Gentiles. “Now if their fall is riches for the world, and their failure riches for the Gentiles, how much more their fullness!” Romans 11:12 Fullness and Times of the Gentiles There are two biblical references that reveal the influence of Gentiles upon the nation of Israel during the last days of the Great Tribulation: fulness of the Gentiles and times of the Gentiles. • Fullness of the Gentiles reveals: o It may be possible God plans to save a specific number of Gentiles (i.e. fullness has come in). o Salvation for Gentiles may continue up to the last days of the Great Tribulation. o When the fullness of the Gentiles is fulfilled: ▪ The blindness of Israel towards Jesus will be removed. ▪ Israelites will be saved because they will believe in “The Deliverer who comes out of Zion.” • Times of the Gentiles relates to the destruction of Israel by non-saved, Antichrist-inspired, and demon-driven Gentiles during the last days. Fullness of the Gentiles “For I do not desire, brethren, that you should be ignorant of this mystery, lest you should be wise in your own opinion, blindness in part has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in . And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: ‘The Deliverer will come out of Zion, and He will turn away ungodliness from Jacob; for this is My covenant with them, when I take away their sins.” Romans 11:25-27 Declaration of the Gospel The Gospel of Jesus Christ will be declared throughout the Tribulation, and the Holy Spirit will continue to save souls during the last days. “Then I saw another angel flying in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach to those who dwell on the earth—to every nation, tribe, tongue, and people—saying with a loud voice, ‘Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come; and worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water.’” Revelation 14:6 The preaching of the gospel will occur by Holy Spirit inspired believers, and God’s Two Witnesses who will be given power to reinforce the validity of their prophetic proclamations, and an ability to destroy those who attempt to stop them. For all will hear the gospel, many will be saved, and none will have an excuse of not knowing the truth. “And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, That I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your young men shall see visions, your old men shall dream dreams. And on My menservants and on My maidservants, I will pour out My Spirit in those days; and they shall prophesy. I will show wonders in heaven above and signs in the earth beneath: blood and fire and vapor of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the coming of the great and awesome day of the Lord. And it shall come to pass that whoever calls on the name of the Lord Shall be saved.” Acts 2:17-21 “And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy one thousand two hundred and sixty days, clothed in sackcloth. And if anyone wants to harm them, fire proceeds from their mouth and devours their enemies. And if anyone wants to harm them, he must be killed in this manner. These have power to shut heaven, so that no rain falls in the days of their prophecy; and they have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to strike the earth with all plagues, as often as they desire.” Revelation 11:3, 5-6 However, it is important to realize Satan will be given authority and power, and some who believe in Jesus will die for their testimony. “When He opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the testimony which they held. And they cried with a loud voice, saying, ‘How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?’ Then a white robe was given to each of them; and it was said to them that they should rest a little while longer, until both the number of their fellow servants and their brethren, who would be killed as they were, was completed.” Revelation 6:9-11 The fifth seal reveals martyrs for Jesus Christ under the altar in Heaven. These are those who will stand firm in the word of God and maintain their testimony. They will place their faith and trust in Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord; they will preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ; they will make a stand against the Antichrist; and they will warn anyone who will listen. These are those who will not worship the Beast or its image, and will not receive his mark. In addition, these are those who Jesus warned: for they will be hated by all nations because of their testimony and will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death. “Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.” Matthew 24:9-14 When you consider the progressive social decline in our world today—combined with the growing antagonism towards anyone voicing their personal religious beliefs—you can envision what it will be like for the those who will stand in the face of a fiery storm of verbal abuse, ostracization and much worse. “And I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was committed to them. Then I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. And they lived and reigned with Christ for a thousand years.” Revelation 20:4 However, those who persecute and those who murder will know the Gospel of Jesus Christ, including the consequences for their decisions to reject the truth. The following reveals what will happen after the 6th seal is loosed and a global massive earthquake occurs. “And the kings of the earth, the great men, the rich men, the commanders, the mighty men, every slave and every free man, hid themselves in the caves and in the rocks of the mountains, and said to the mountains and rocks, ‘Fall on us and hide us from the face of Him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb!’ For the great day of His wrath has come, and who is able to stand?” Revelation 6:15-17 Times of the Gentiles Jesus said, “But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation is near. Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, let those who are in the midst of her depart, and let not those who are in the country enter her. For these are the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days! For there will be great distress in the land and wrath upon this people. And they will fall by the edge of the sword, and be led away captive into all nations. And Jerusalem will be trampled by Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled .” Luke 21:20-24 During the last days Israel will be surrounded by enemies. They will be attacked by the Antichrist and his military who will destroy their prosperity, shatter their power, and trample (tread upon, crush) the Holy City Jerusalem. For this is the times of the Gentiles. “And he was given a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies, and he was given authority to continue for forty-two months. Then he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme His name, His tabernacle, and those who dwell in heaven. It was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them. And authority was given him over every tribe, tongue, and nation.” Revelation 13:5-7 “And in the latter time of their kingdom, when the transgressors have reached their fullness, a king shall arise, having fierce features, who understands sinister schemes. His power shall be mighty, but not by his own power; he shall destroy fearfully, and shall prosper and thrive; he shall destroy the mighty, and also the holy people. Through his cunning he shall cause deceit to prosper under his rule; and he shall exalt himself in his heart. He shall destroy many in their prosperity. He shall even rise against the Prince of princes; but he shall be broken without human means.” Daniel 8:23-25 “Then I heard the man clothed in linen, who was above the waters of the river, when he held up his right hand and his left hand to heaven, and swore by Him who lives forever, that it shall be for a time, times, and half a time; and when the power of the holy people has been completely shattered, all these things shall be finished.” Daniel 12:7 The Tribulation The word tribulation is defined as distress, suffering, hardship, and pain. But the severity of living during this period will progressively exceed these descriptive terms—and will be a period of time unlike any that has ever existed—nor will it occur again. Throughout time Satan’s full power has been restricted. However, his constraints will be increasingly removed during the Tribulation—which will enable him to completely unleash his anger, hatred, and revenge in seeking to cause desolation upon all inhabitants of the world. But what’s even more important to Satan, is he will execute his greatest deceptive lie of all time: to stand in the holy place (the rebuilt Temple) proclaiming himself to be god (via the Antichrist). Satan’s long-awaited and vain attempt to declare to the world that he is god will commence the midpoint of the 7-year Tribulation. However, during his vain attempt, God’s wrath will increasingly pour out upon the earth. These final 3 ½ years will conclude with the return of Jesus Christ when the armies of Satan are defeated in the Battle of Armageddon. The Seven Seals, Trumpets and Bowls depicted in Revelation provide additional insight into the calamitous events and judgment that will occur during the Tribulation. Note how each seal, trumpet and bowl are progressively worse. • The Seven Seals (Revelation 6:1-17; 8:1-6) Seal 1: Antichrist (Beast) is released Seal 2: Warfare Seal 3: Famine Seal 4: Plague, more famine and more warfare Seal 5: Believers in Jesus Christ will be killed Seal 6: Defines a massive global earthquake Seal 7: Describes a short time of silence before the seven trumpets are sounded • The Seven Trumpets (Revelation 8:7-13; 9:1-16; 11:15-19) Trumpet 1: 1/3 of earth, trees and all grass burned Trumpet 2: 1/3 of the ocean, sea life and ships destroyed Trumpet 3: 1/3 of all fresh water destroyed. Trumpet 4: 1/3 of the sun, moon, and stars no longer shine Trumpet 5: Agony for all who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads. Trumpet 6: Death of 1/3 mankind Trumpet 7: God takes control • The Seven Bowls (Revelation 16:1-21) Bowl 1: Causes festering sores on all who accepted the mark Bowl 2: Changes the ocean into blood Bowl 3: Changes all drinkable water into blood Bowl 4: Causes people to be seared by the sun Bowl 5: Judgment is poured out on the throne of the Beast Bowl 6: The Euphrates River is dried up Bowl 7: God’s final wrath The Tribulation will begin when a covenant (agreement, promise, pledge) is made between the Antichrist and the nation of Israel that will allow the resumption of sacrifices and offerings—which requires the rebuilding of the Jewish Temple on the Temple Mount. However, the covenant is a lie and will be broken. “Then he shall confirm a covenant with many for one week; But in the middle of the week He shall bring an end to sacrifice and offering.” Daniel 9:27 “And from the time that the daily sacrifice is taken away, an d the abomination of desolation is set up, there shall be one thousand two hundred and ninety days.” Daniel 12:11 The covenant is spiritually significant: it is a fulfillment of prophecy; it is an indicator of the beginning of the Tribulation; and it is an indisputable sign of the last days. In addition, the covenant will initiate the rebuilding of the Temple for sacrifices and offerings—which may take less than 3 ½ years to complete. 3 ½ years after the covenant is made the beast (the abomination that causes desolation) will break the covenant, desecrate (damage, defile) the Temple and will stand in the Temple proclaiming to be God. This second half of the Tribulation (called the Great Tribulation) will be a time of great distress that will transcend all of time (past and future). Jesus Christ will return at the end of the Tribulation. The nation of Israel will enter into the 7-year Tribulation with wondrous hope and jubilance because a covenant will be made by the Antichrist to rebuild the Temple (which was destroyed in 70 AD). However, the covenant to resume sacrifices and offerings will be an evil and clandestine lie. After 3 ½ years have passed, the Antichrist will reveal his true motivational intent behind the covenant when he ceases the sacrifices and offerings, stands in the Temple proclaiming to be God, and begins to attack God’s chosen. “Now, brethren, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, we ask you, not to be soon shaken in mind or troubled, either by spirit or by word or by letter, as if from us, as though the day of Christ had come. Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition, who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.” 2 Thessalonians 2:1-4 Satan wants the Temple rebuilt—for this will give him the one and only place on earth worthy of standing in and declaring he is God. The Antichrist is not interested in fulfilling the spiritual needs of the Israelites—he is only interested in fulfilling his delusional and darkened need to be god—which caused him to be cast out of heaven in the first place. But once he stands in the Temple and makes his lying declaration is when the Great Tribulation begins. Here are links to obtain more information regarding the status of rebuilding the Temple. https://www.jewishvoice.org/read/article/update-building-third-temple https://www.templeinstitute.org/ The Great Tribulation The second half of the Tribulation is referred to as the Great Tribulation—because all will experience a degree of darkness, destruction, hatred, and death that is unparalled throughout time—all driven by Satan’s masterful ability to deceive and lie. For he is more skilled at lying than any other created being. Jesus said regarding Satan: “He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.” John 8:44 Jesus also said, “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy.” I John 10:10 To gain a greater insight into the influence of Satan’s lies and his murderous intent, take time to deeply think about the following statement. Every war, every battle, every skirmish, every murder, every argument, every caustic word spoken, and every sin—began as a lie and culminated in spiritual death (separation from God) and/or physical death. “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:12 However, it is important to understand Satan and his minions are dependent upon humans to manipulate and influence other humans. As such, those who live in darkness are used to do their bidding. What’s more, it is possible for an evil spirit to indwell within and spiritually possess someone—for the Antichrist will be the physical manifestation of Satan. • “The dragon gave him his power, his throne, and great authority.” Revelation 13:2 • “The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved.” 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10 In addition, as darkness seeks to destroy light, Satan’s minions will increasingly use those who reject Jesus Christ as a means to deceive and destroy the faithful. For they will: • Propagate skepticism by questioning Christ’s return. • Claim divine inspiration as they spread false teachings that contradicts God’s word. • Declare they are the Christ. • Reinforce their declarative lies by signs and wonders. “Knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts, and saying, ‘Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.’” 2 Peter 3:3-4 Jesus warned, “Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many. Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘There!’ do not believe it. For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. See, I have told you beforehand. Therefore if they say to you, ‘Look, He is in the desert!’ do not go out; or ‘Look, He is in the inner rooms!’ do not believe it. For as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.” Matthew 24:4-5, 23-27 The Apostle Paul provided spiritual insight as to how an unrestrained Satan will cause many to perish: to die physically and/or spiritually. “Do you not remember that when I was still with you I told you these things? And now you know what is restraining, that he may be revealed in his own time. For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only He who now restrains will do so until He is taken out of the way. And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth and destroy with the brightness of His coming. The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” 2 Thessalonians 2:5-12 Jesus said, “Therefore when you see the ‘abomination of desolation,’ spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place” (whoever reads, let him understand), “then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. Let him who is on the housetop not go down to take anything out of his house. And let him who is in the field not go back to get his clothes. But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days! And pray that your flight may not be in winter or on the Sabbath. For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be. And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened.” Matthew 24:15-22 “And he was given a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies, and he was given authority to continue for forty-two months. Then he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme His name, His tabernacle, and those who dwell in heaven. It was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them. And authority was given him over every tribe, tongue, and nation. All who dwell on the earth will worship him, whose names have not been written in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.” Revelation 13:5-8 “He shall speak pompous words against the Most High, shall persecute the saints of the Most High, and shall intend to change times and law. Then the saints shall be given into his hand for a time and times and half a time.” Daniel 7:25 “It was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them. And authority was given him over every tribe, tongue, and nation.” Revelation 13:7 Although the Antichrist will gain global control and will have an influence upon all nations, as each day of the 7-year Tribulation occurs, the primary focus will continually transition to (and center upon) events that will occur around and in the nation of Israel—because God will prepare the heart of Israel to accept and believe in His Son, the promised Messiah: Jesus Christ. “And the Lord your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your descendants, to love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, that you may live.” Deuteronomy 30:6 However, as previously mentioned, this preparation requires the demise of Israel’s military strength and power.  Israel Defense Forces The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) was formed to preserve the State of Israel, to protect its independence, and to foil attempts by its enemies to disrupt daily normal life. Israel is now the most powerful state in the Middle East given its military training, equipment, technologies, and nuclear weapons. Unless exempt, all males and females 18 years and older must serve in the IDF. Presently the IDF has approximately 170,000 active military and 465,000 reserve military personnel. In addition, all Israelis between the ages of 18 and 40 are eligible for military duty in the event of a war. When you consider the 2022 estimation of Israel’s population is 9 million, approximately 1/3 of Israelis are theoretically eligible to defend their nation (or 3 million). Sources: https://www.idf.il/en/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Israel_Defense_Forces https://www.worldometers.info/world-population/israel-population/ The Antichrist will attack and persecute God’s faithful during the Great Tribulation—including Israelites and Christians—and will successfully overcome anyone and anything that stands against him. “He shall speak pompous words against the Most High, shall persecute the saints of the Most High, and shall intend to change times and law. Then the saints shall be given into his hand for a time and times and half a time. ” Daniel 7:25 “And he was given a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies, and he was given authority to continue for forty-two months . Then he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme His name, His tabernacle, and those who dwell in heaven. It was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them. And authority was given him over every tribe, tongue, and nation .” Revelation 13:5-7 “And in the latter time of their kingdom, when the transgressors have reached their fullness, a king shall arise, having fierce features, who understands sinister schemes. His power shall be mighty, but not by his own power; he shall destroy fearfully, and shall prosper and thrive; he shall destroy the mighty, and also the holy people. Through his cunning he shall cause deceit to prosper under his rule; and he shall exalt himself in his heart. He shall destroy many in their prosperity. He shall even rise against the Prince of princes; but he shall be broken without human means .” Daniel 8:23-25 Note how the Antichrist will rise (make a stand against) the Prince of princes (Jesus Christ). But he will be broken (destroyed) without human means (without Israel’s military capabilities). Jesus Will Defeat Israel’s Enemies and Begin His Millennial Reign “The lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth and destroy with the brightness of His coming.” 2 Thessalonians 2:8 “Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war. His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns. He had a name written that no one knew except Himself. He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God. And the armies in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, followed Him on white horses. Now out of His mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should strike the nations. And He Himself will rule them with a rod of iron. He Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.” Revelation 19:11-16 “And I saw the beast, the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against Him who sat on the horse and against His army. Then the beast was captured, and with him the false prophet who worked signs in his presence, by which he deceived those who received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped his image. These two were cast alive into the lake of fire burning with brimstone. And the rest were killed with the sword which proceeded from the mouth of Him who sat on the horse.” Revelation 19:19-21 “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 Earth will not be influenced by Satan during the 1,000-year reign of Jesus Christ. But what’s more, this will be the period of time when God will fulfill His remaining promises to the nation of Israel, including: • The Abrahamic Covenant: land, posterity, a ruler, and spiritual blessings (Genesis 12:1-3) • The Palestinian Covenant: restoration and occupation of the land (Deuteronomy 30:1-10) • The Davidic Covenant: a King from David’s line who will rule forever, and rest from all their enemies (2 Samuel 7:10-13) “Again the word of the Lord of hosts came, saying, ‘Thus says the Lord of hosts: ‘I am zealous for Zion with great zeal; with great fervor I am zealous for her.’ Thus says the Lord: ‘I will return to Zion, and dwell in the midst of Jerusalem. Jerusalem shall be called the City of Truth, The Mountain of the Lord of hosts, The Holy Mountain.’ Thus says the Lord of hosts: ‘Old men and old women shall again sit in the streets of Jerusalem, each one with his staff in his hand because of great age. The streets of the city shall be full of boys and girls playing in its streets.’ Thus says the Lord of hosts: ‘If it is marvelous in the eyes of the remnant of this people in these days, will it also be marvelous in My eyes?’” Zechariah 8:1-6 “Thus says the Lord of hosts: ‘In those days ten men from every language of the nations shall grasp the sleeve of a Jewish man, saying, ‘Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.’’” Zechariah 8:23   A Remenant Will Enter the Millennium Reign of Christ Although the final days of the Great Tribulation will experience unimaginable devastation, a number of Jews and Gentiles will still be alive, and will become a “seed generation” when Jesus begins His millennial reign. Other than those who will manage to make it through the Great Tribulation, three different means to increase the remnant of Jews and Gentiles are described in the Bible: the 144,000 (Jews), Wings of a great eagle (Jews), and the Sheep and Goats judgment (Gentiles). The 144,000 “After these things I saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, on the sea, or on any tree. Then I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God. And he cried with a loud voice to the four angels to whom it was granted to harm the earth and the sea, saying, ‘Do not harm the earth, the sea, or the trees till we have sealed the servants of our God on their foreheads.’ And I heard the number of those who were sealed. One hundred and forty-four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel were sealed.” Revelation 7:1-4 12,000 thousand men from each of the 12 tribes of Israel (144,000 total) will be marked with name of God written on their foreheads—which spiritually represents His property. While it is not known if God’s seal is physically visible or not. It is quite certain it is spiritually visible. For those with the seal of God will be protected in some manner, will not die, will make it through the Tribulation, and will be with Jesus when He begins His millennium reign (being with Jesus when He stands on Mount Zion.” Some believe these men will be sealed when they accept Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord, and will share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with Israelites during the last days. This belief is supported by the scriptures below: • “These are the ones who follow the Lamb wherever He goes.” • “These were redeemed.” • These are the “firstfruits to God and to the Lamb.” • “They were without fault before the throne of God.” “Then I looked, and behold, a Lamb standing on Mount Zion, and with Him one hundred and forty-four thousand, having His Father’s name written on their foreheads. And I heard a voice from heaven, like the voice of many waters, and like the voice of loud thunder. And I heard the sound of harpists playing their harps. They sang as it were a new song before the throne, before the four living creatures, and the elders; and no one could learn that song except the hundred and forty-four thousand who were redeemed from the earth. These are the ones who were not defiled with women, for they are virgins. These are the ones who follow the Lamb wherever He goes. These were redeemed from among men, being firstfruits to God and to the Lamb. And in their mouth was found no deceit, for they are without fault before the throne of God.” Revelation 14:1-5 Wings of a Great Eagle Jesus said, “Therefore when you see the ‘abomination of desolation,’ spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place” (whoever reads, let him understand), “then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. Let him who is on the housetop not go down to take anything out of his house. And let him who is in the field not go back to get his clothes.” Matthew 24:15-18 A number of Israelites will heed the warnings of Jesus and will be protected during the final 3½ years of the Tribulation. These are they who will flee into the wilderness and are unsuccessfully attacked by Satan. Note: in Revelation, “woman” refers to Israel and Israelites. “And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent. And the serpent cast out of his mouth water as a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away of the flood. And the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed up the flood which the dragon cast out of his mouth. And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.” Revelation 12:14-17 Note how Satan will turn away and attack the remnant of her seed (Jews) who keep God’s commandments and have accepted Jesus as their Lord. Some believe the wilderness area where Israelites will flee is Petra (in southern Jordan)—which has protective structures (pal aces, temples, tombs, storerooms and stables) carved into canyon walls. Sheep and Goats In the beginning of Matthew chapter 24, the disciples asked Jesus about the sign of His coming and the last days. For the remainder of Matthew 24 and most of Matthew 25 Jesus described what would happen and our need to prepare. At the end of Matthew 25 Jesus described what would occur after the 7-Year Tribulation: He would judge Gentiles who make it through the Tribulation based upon what they did or did not do to help His faithful during the Tribulation. “When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’ Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’” “Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.’ Then they also will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to You?’ Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’ And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.” Mattew 25:31-46 The brethren of Christ—those who hold onto their faith, reject the mark of the beast, and do not worship the Antichrist—will be persecuted and will experience the dire consequences described by Jesus: great difficulty in obtaining food, clothing, shelter, and health care…plus imprisonment. During WWII, sympathetic persons within Nazi-occupied territories assisted persecuted Jews—at a potential cost of their own imprisonment and death. Likewise, during the last days there will be Gentiles who will do the same. Those who provide food, drink, shelter, clothing, health assistance, and give comfort to the imprisoned faithful will receive an eternal reward. This promise by Jesus will likely create a motivating influence to assist Israelites during the darkest days. Whether by altruism or self-centered desires, these persons: • May be comprised of wealthier individuals who: 1 . May or may not accept Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord. 2 . Have the means to survive during the last days without having to accept the mark and worship the Antichrist. • May come from countries and nations that subverted the Antichrist and his mark. So…to all upon earth who seek to improve their chance of survival during the Tribulation and thereafter, consider the promises God made to Abram—for He will bless those who bless the nation of Israel. “Now the Lord had said to Abram: ‘Get out of your country, from your family and from your father’s house, to a land that I will show you. I will make you a great nation; I will bless you and make your name great; and you shall be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you; and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.’” Genesis 12:1-3 Prepare for Perilous Times Ahead The first time Jesus walked on earth He spoke absolute truth and provided a means to for all to be forgiven and overcome sin. The next time He physically touches earth He will have fulfilled the desires of Israel and God’s promises. However, as time moves forward, we will witness a continual increase of spiritual darkness and deceptional lies as we get closer to the Tribulation. Consider how we have become “numb” to current news events—which a short time ago shocked us. Also consider how social norms continually move farther away from God’s will. This cycle of darkness will grow exponentially as the unsaved masses blindly accept, support, and fulfill Satan’s desire to divide, destroy and cause death during the Tribulation. Jesus provided us with insight into this unimaginable darkness. “Now brother will deliver up brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents and cause them to be put to death. And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved. When they persecute you in this city, flee to another. For assuredly, I say to you, you will not have gone through the cities of Israel before the Son of Man comes.” Matthew 10:21-23 Jesus warned us to spiritually prepare. “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.” Matthew 7:24-27 Jesus said, “But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly. For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man.” Luke 21:34-36 If you do not know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord…now is the time to accept the greatest gift God has given to those who are willing to receive. If you reject Jesus or seek to delay a decision, take time to introspectively consider and answer the following question. Is your rationale to reject or delay based upon deceitful lies? “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23 “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” Ephesians 2:8 Jesus declared: • “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed.” Luke 4:18 • “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” John 14:6 To accept Jesus as your Savior and Lord, pray from your heart the following simple prayer of salvation. Heavenly Father, I am a sinner. Thank You, Jesus, for dying for my sins so that I may be forgiven. Jesus, I give my life to You. I ask You to change me from within and make me into the person You want me to be. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen. If you prayed the prayer of salvation, I highly recommend first reading “3 Types of Death 1 Source of Life,” followed by “What is a Born- Again Christian.” Both are available for free and may be read/downloaded on UniqueBibleStudies.com . If you desire to learn more about the last days, I suggest reading the lessons below ( which are also available for free and may be read/downloaded on UniqueBib leStudies.com). “May you grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen.” 2 Peter 3:18 All for His Glory! Harold D. Thomas Can you think of at least one person who may benefit from reading this lesson? If yes…PASS IT ON!!! All for His Glory! Harold D. Thomas Bible Study Thought-Provoking Questions The purpose of the learning exercise and questions is to facilitate a deeper understanding of the Bible, this Bible study topic and ourselves. The questions may be answered by each reader, or used by a Bible study group leader or church pastor. The following questions should be answered or discussed after reading “The Great Tribulation and the Sovereignty of Israel.” The following questions are answered based upon individual opinions. As such, no answers are provided. O When we are individually faced with a trial or tribulation, and we depend upon our own personal skills and capabilities to get us through… • What are the spiritual consequences to our: o Faith? o Praise and worship? • How does this correlate from an individual perspective to the nation of Israel? O The lesson content states God will bring the nation of Israel to her knees during the Great Tribulation. • Do you agree or disagree? Explain. • If you believe this will happen, why would God do this? O Identify 10 words or less that summarize the Fulness of the Gentiles, and 10 words or less that summarize the Times of the Gentiles. O Zechariah 12:9-10 states, “They will look on Me whom they pierced. Yes, they will mourn for Him as one mourns for his only son, and grieve for Him as one grieves for a firstborn.” Zechariah 12:9-10 • What is the Old Testament prophetic purpose and relevance of the words: o “look on Me whom they pierced?” (Reference John 1:18; 3:18; 1 John 4:9) o “his only son,” and “firstborn.” (Reference Psalm 89:27-29; Colossians 1:15, 18; Revelation 1:5) • Who is “they” and why will they mourn and grieve? O How important is it for persons and nations to love upon and support the nation of Israel? Explain. O Can you identify at least 3 new things you learned from this lesson? • What does this new information mean to you? • Will this information have an effect upon what you do in the future? You may download a PDF version of the questions by clicking on this button. C an you think of someone who may benefit from this lesson? If yes, PASS IT ON!