RUSSIAN-ARAB INVASION OF ISRAEL
(Subjects in this Section)
1-THE
FOUR HORSES OF THE APOCALYPSE
2-ISRAEL IS GOD’S LAND AND
GOD’S PEOPLE
3-ISRAEL
IS DEWLLING SAFELY BY GOD’S PROTECTION, BUT RUSSIA DOES NOT KNOW IT
4-RUSSIA AND ITS ALLIES INVADE
ISRAEL
5-A
THOUGHT COMES INTO THE MIND OF THE LEADERSHIP OF RUSSIA TO INVADE
ISRAEL
6-"GOD"
BRINGS RUSSIA FORTH AGAINST ISRAEL
7-GOD IS AGAINST RUSSIA AND
ITS ALLIES
8-WHO INVADES ISRAEL?
9-GOG IS TOLD TO PREPARE
AND BE A GUARD
10-THE
FORCES INVADING ISRAEL ARE A GREAT MILITARY ARMADA
11-WHY DOES RUSSIA INVADE ISRAEL?
12-THE SECOND SEAL: THE INVASION
13-THE INVASION COMES FAST
14-THE INVASION
INVOLVES THE LAND, SEA, AND AIR
15-THE INVASION
APPEARS TO COME FROM EVERY DIRECTION
16-THE INVASION CONTINUES
17-WHEN GOG
ATTACKS ISRAEL, GOD’S FURY SHALL RISE UP
18-GOD WANTS ISRAEL TO
TURN AND TRUST HIM
19-THE
RUSSIAN MILITARY AND ITS ALLIES BEING DESTROYED BY GOD
20-THE BIBLE WARNS ABOUT JERUSALEM
21-NEWS SHALL BOTHER RUSSIA
22-THERE WILL BE A GREAT EARTHQUAKE
23-A SWORD AGAINST GOG
24-GOG SHALL COME TO HIS END
25-ONE-SIXTH WILL BE LEFT
26-THE
LAND OF RUSSIA AND THE UNITED STATES BEING DESTROYED BY NUCLEAR
WEAPONS:
ONE-FOURTH OF THE WORLD’S POPULATION DIES
27-FIRE SENT UPON THE ISLES
28-FIRE SENT UPON THE COUNTRY
OF RUSSIA
29-THE TRUMPETS PREPARE TO SOUND
30-THE FIRST TRUMPET
31-NUCLEAR WEAPONS TODAY
32-THE SECOND TRUMPET
33-MILITARY SURVEILLANCE
34-THE THIRD TRUMPET
35-THE FOURTH TRUMPET
36-SUMMARY
OF THE FIRST FOUR TRUMPETS: WHAT TAKES PLACE
37-THE RESULTS
38-THE THIRD SEAL: MASSIVE
FAMINE
39-THE
FOURTH SEAL: ONE-FOURTH OF THE WORLD’S POPULATION DIES
40-IT IS COME, IT IS DONE
41-WHAT
IS THE REASON GOD BRINGS RUSSIA AND ITS ALLIES AGAINST ISRAEL? GOD
WILL
MAGNIFY HIMSELF SO THE WORLD WILL KNOW THAT HE IS THE LORD
42-THE TIMING OF
THE RUSSIAN INVASION OF ISRAEL
43-AFTER THE WAR IS OVER
44-THE MULTITUDE
OF DEAD BODIES OF THE ARMIES WILL BE EATEN BY THE BIRDS
AND
WILD ANIMALS
45-THE WEAPONS ARE BURNED
46-ISRAEL
WILL GET THE PLUNDER OF THOSE THAT PLUNDERED THEM
47-THE DEAD BURIED
The
book sealed with seven seals, which has been in the possession of the Father,
seems to indicate that, from "the beginning," it has been held for
a precise moment in time to be brought forth.
The first four seals are represented by horses. They appear
to come forth swiftly. Horses can approach and run at a rapid rate and cover
much territory. They can represent speed. The riders direct the horses.
Each horse is portrayed with a specific
color. The color reflects what event is forthcoming.
MY PEOPLE-Ezek 38:14
MY PEOPLE OF ISRAEL-Ezek 38:16
HIS LAND-Joel 2:18
HIS PEOPLE-Joel 2:18
Israel
is dwelling safely, not because of the covenant with the Antichrist, but because
of God’s protection. Russia, however, does not know this.
It is written, ISRAEL…THEY SHALL DWELL (or are living) SAFELY
ALL OF THEM-Ezek 38:8. THEREFORE, SON OF MAN, PROPHESY AND SAY UNTO GOG, THUS
SAITH THE LORD GOD; IN THAT DAY WHEN MY PEOPLE OF ISRAEL DWELLETH (or are living)
SAFELY (or securely), SHALT THOU NOT KNOW IT (or take notice of it)?-Ezek 38:14.
(A main commentary)
Israel
now expects there will be peace, because of the covenant or treaty with the
Antichrist. A thought comes into the mind of the Russian leader to invade Israel.
It is God that brings Russia and its allies forth to invade. Even though God
brings them, He is against them and will ultimately destroy them to fulfill
His purpose.
The leader of Russia (Gog) assembles what may be the largest
military armada ever put together in the history of the world. This enormous
military force (of millions of troops) is backed up with a vast navy and air
force, having missiles, advanced technology, spy satellites, and other sophisticated
Russian weaponry. As the second seal is broken, war appears to come unexpectedly
upon Israel. Russia and its many allies attack Israel. They come fast as a whirlwind
and as a cloud to cover the land. They come with many ships by the Mediterranean
Sea and possibly the Red Sea. They appear to come from the north and also from
the northeast, through Jordan. They appear to come from the southwest, from
Africa. They come from the air with an airborne invasion. In other words, the
invasion seems to come from nearly every direction, including the ground, the
sea, and the air.
They invade Israel for the purpose of coming against the
Jews and to obtain food, various goods, and riches, including silver and gold.
The little nation of Israel appears to be overwhelmed. One
moment they are dwelling safely. The next moment Israel is surrounded on nearly
every side by the biggest invasion force ever assembled in the history of the
world. Russia and its allies sweep through many nations; however, the chief
of Amman shall escape. Egypt appears to fall to Russia. Russia may double-cross
Libya and Ethiopia and be on their doorsteps.
Israel’s situation is hopeless. They begin to turn to God
with all their heart, with fasting, with weeping, and mourning. They cry out,
"Spare thy people, O Lord."
Then the Lord comes to their rescue. He is jealous for His
land and pities His people.
The
second seal (the Russian invasion of Israel) closely follows the
first seal (the Antichrist coming forth). The Rapture occurs, followed by the
Antichrist coming forth, followed by the confirmation of a covenant between
Israel and the Antichrist, followed by the Russian invasion of Israel. This
invasion appears to occur shortly after the beginning of the Tribulation.\
The invasion of Israel by Russia begins with a thought.
It is written, THUS SAITH THE LORD GOD; IT SHALL ALSO COME
TO PASS (on that day), THAT AT THE SAME TIME SHALL THINGS (or thoughts will)
COME INTO THY MIND, AND THOU SHALT THINK (or devise) AN EVIL THOUGHT (or plan,
or scheme): AND THOU SHALT SAY, I WILL GO UP TO (invade) THE LAND OF UNWALLED
VILLAGES (which is Israel); I WILL GO TO (attack) THEM THAT ARE AT REST (a peaceful
and unsuspecting people-NIV), THAT DWELL (or live) SAFELY, ALL OF THEM DWELLING
WITHOUT WALLS, AND HAVING NEITHER BARS NOR GATES-Ezek 38:10,11.
God
turns Russia back, in some manner, and then brings them forth to invade Israel.
It is written, AND THE WORD OF THE LORD CAME UNTO ME, SAYING,
SON OF MAN, SET THY FACE AGAINST GOG, (of) THE LAND OF MAGOG (which is modern-day
Russia), THE CHIEF PRINCE OF (Rosh-which is Russia) MESHECH AND TUBAL, AND PROPHESY…AND
SAY, THUS SAITH THE LORD GOD; BEHOLD…O GOG, THE CHIEF PRINCE OF MESHECH AND
TUBAL-Ezek 38:1-3.
Note, "Gog" is portrayed as being in the land of
Magog. Magog was the second son of Japheth-ref Gen 10. He settled in the land
that is now known as Russia.
"Gog" is also presented as the chief prince or
(leader) of Meshech and Tubal. Some have suggested that "Gog" is a
wicked angel or a spirit over Meshech and Tubal. Note that both Meshech and
Tubal are described as being under the same leader. Some consider that Meshech
is a reference to Moscow and that Tubal may refer to Tobolsk. Both of these
are in the land of Magog (or Russia). It is interesting to note that Moscow
is almost directly north of Israel. This area is at the "far or remotest
north parts"-ref Ezek 39:1,2.
It is written, AND I WILL TURN THEE (Gog) BACK (or
turn you around), AND PUT HOOKS INTO THY JAWS, AND I WILL BRING THEE FORTH-Ezek
38:4. Note, God brings Russia forth. AND I WILL BRING THEE (Gog and many
nations with them) AGAINST MY LAND (Israel)-Ezek 38:16. I WOULD BRING
THEE (Gog) AGAINST THEM (Israel)-Ezek 38:17.
AND I WILL TURN THEE BACK (or turn you around and
drag you along-NIV) (or drive you on)…AND WILL CAUSE THEE TO COME UP…AND WILL
BRING (or send) THEE UPON (or against) THE MOUNTAINS OF ISRAEL-Ezek 39:2.
God
uses Russia to accomplish His purpose. Nevertheless, He is against Russia.
It is written, SON OF MAN, SET THY FACE AGAINST GOG, (of)
THE LAND OF MAGOG (which is modern day Russia), THE CHIEF PRINCE OF (Rosh) MESHECH
AND TUBAL, AND PROPHESY AGAINST HIM, AND SAY, THUS SAITH THE LORD GOD; BEHOLD,
I AM AGAINST THEE, O GOG, THE CHIEF PRINCE OF MESHECH AND TUBAL-Ezek 38:2,3.
THEREFORE, THOU SON OF MAN, PROPHESY AGAINST GOG, AND SAY,
THUS SAITH THE LORD GOD; BEHOLD, I AM AGAINST THEE, O GOG, THE CHIEF PRINCE
OF (Rosh) MESHECH AND TUBAL-Ezek 39:1.
Russia
appears to be the instigator of the invasion
of Israel.
It is written, GOG, (of) THE LAND OF MAGOG (which is modern-day
Russia), THE CHIEF PRINCE OF (Rosh-which is Russia) MESHECH AND TUBAL-Ezek 38:2.
Gog is the leader. Magog is the land. Gog dwells in the land
of Magog, which is described as THY PLACE OUT OF THE NORTH PARTS-Ezek 38:15.
O GOG, THE CHIEF PRINCE (which can mean ruler, king, or leader) OF (Rosh, which
is Russia) MESHECH AND TUBAL…I WILL TURN THEE BACK (or turn you around and drag
you along-NIV, or drive you on)…AND WILL CAUSE THEE TO COME UP FROM THE (far
or remotest) NORTH PARTS, AND WILL BRING (or send) THEE UPON (or against) THE
MOUNTAINS OF ISRAEL-Ezek 39:1,2.
Listing the names of other countries that may be included
with Russia when they invade Israel can be difficult. This is because the borders
and names of some countries change from time to time. Also, there is somewhat
of a debate as to exactly which present-day countries would be included within
the ancient borders of Gomer, Togarmah of the north quarters, and others.
Based upon Ezek 38:2,3,5,6, other members of the invasion
force allied with Russia may be:
MAGOG is modern-day Russia and should also include Kazakhstan (the area north of the Caspian Sea). Some believe it could also include Turkey.
MESHECH can include the southern part of Russia by the Black Sea, as well as Georgia and Armenia. Some believe Turkey could also be included.
TUBAL is a part of Russia between the Black and Caspian seas. It also includes the Ukraine and Kazakhstan and possibly Georgia and Azerbaijan.
PERSIA is modern-day Iran. Some consider that Iraq may be included.
ETHIOPIA (or Cush). Some consider that other surrounding areas, such as the Sudan or Eritrea, could also be included.
AND LIBYA (or Phut).
GOMER may include the Ukraine. Some believe it may also include the area SE of the Black Sea, such as Georgia. Many believe that it will also include Germany (of which the major part was not of the Old Roman Empire) as well as Poland. Some may include Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Slovakia, and Romania.
AND ALL HIS BANDS (or troops) could include some or all of the areas (or nations) listed under Gomer and some others.
THE HOUSE OF TOGARMAH OF THE (far or remote parts of the) NORTH QUARTERS may include Armenia. Many believe this will be Turkey, however, this may be incorrect, as the Scriptures indicate it is Togarmah "from the far or remote parts" of the north quarters. The area being referred to here could be an area north of the Black Sea or an area covering Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia. It is uncertain.
AND ALL HIS BANDS (or troops) could include some or all of the people listed under the house of Togarmah of the north quarters and possibly some others.
AND MANY PEOPLE (or nations) WITH THEE. This may indicate that there will be yet other nations allied with Russia that are unlisted. It may be noted that Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan are not mentioned.
Noah
had three sons, Japheth, Shem, and Ham. Israel came from the lineage of
Shem.
The sons of Japheth were Gomer, Magog, Madai,
Javan, Tubal, Meshech, and Tiras. Togarmah was the third son of Gomer.
Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal were called Scythians. They were
considered nomads and wandered in the areas north of the Black and Caspian seas.
They were known as the wildest barbarians.
The
leader of Russia is being told to be ready, prepare, and be a guard or be ready
to protect the great military armada that is assembled for the invasion of Israel.
It is written, BE THOU PREPARED (or get ready), AND PREPARE
FOR THYSELF, THOU, AND ALL THY COMPANY THAT ARE ASSEMBLED (or gathered) UNTO
THEE, AND BE THOU A GUARD UNTO (or for) THEM-Ezek 38:7.
It
may be said, this great military armada will be the largest ever assembled in
the history of the world. The military might of Russia, united with some European,
Arab, and African nations, will be overwhelming. This combined military force,
of millions of heavily armed troops—attacking the tiny nation of Israel—appears
to be a mismatch of unparalleled proportions. The number of troops attacking
Israel could be almost as many as the entire population of the nation of Israel.
God’s Word calls this "a mighty army."
It is written, ALL THINE (whole) ARMY, HORSES AND HORSEMEN,
ALL OF THEM CLOTHED (or splendidly attired) WITH ALL SORTS OF ARMOR (fully armed),
EVEN A GREAT COMPANY WITH BUCKLERS (or large) AND (small) SHIELDS, ALL OF THEM
HANDLING SWORDS-Ezek 38:4. THOU, AND ALL THY BANDS (or troops), AND MANY PEOPLE
(or nations) WITH THEE-Ezek 38:9. Note: 1-armor, 2-bucklers, and 3-shields are
for defense. Also note: 1-swords are for offense. Swords are in plural form.
THOU, AND MANY PEOPLE WITH THEE, ALL OF THEM RIDING UPON
HORSES (perhaps denoting all riding in vehicles), A GREAT COMPANY, AND A MIGHTY
ARMY-Ezek 38:15.
Army
Horsemen
All sorts of armor
A great company, many people
Small and large shields
All having weapons
All riding upon horses (or perhaps vehicles)
A mighty army
The
Scriptures give several reasons why they attack Israel. These are 1-to come
against (or to attack) the people, 2-things relating to food, 3-various goods,
and 4-riches.
In considering these four items, certain things may be revealed
about Russia prior to the invasion. 1-It is possible this is telling us that
they are hostile toward Israel for some specific reason. 2-It may be indicating
that Russia’s food situation, prior to their invasion, will not be good. 3-There
may be various goods (which Israel has) that Russia wants and needs. 4-They
may have learned about certain silver and gold reserves that Israel has, which
are not known by most people. This could also indicate that the Russian money
will not be a stable currency at the time prior to their invasion of Israel.
It is written, they invade TO TAKE A SPOIL (or plunder),
AND TO TAKE (or seize) A PREY (or loot); TO TURN THINE HAND UPON THE DESOLATE
(or waste) PLACES (or ruins) THAT ARE NOW INHABITED (or resettled-which is Israel),
AND UPON THE PEOPLE THAT ARE GATHERED OUT OF THE NATIONS (which is Israel),
WHICH HAVE GOTTEN (or are rich in) CATTLE (or livestock) AND GOODS, THAT DWELL
IN THE MIDST (or center) OF THE LAND (or world). SHEBA, AND DEDAN, AND THE MERCHANTS
OF TARSHISH, WITH ALL THE YOUNG LIONS (or all its villages) THEREOF, SHALL SAY
UNTO THEE, ART THOU COME TO TAKE (or capture) A SPOIL (or plunder)? HAST THOU
GATHERED (or assembled) THY COMPANY TO TAKE (or seize) A PREY (or to loot)?
TO CARRY AWAY SILVER AND GOLD, TO TAKE AWAY CATTLE (or livestock) AND GOODS,
TO TAKE (or seize, or capture) A GREAT SPOIL (or much plunder)?-Ezek 38:12,13.
To take a great spoil or plunder
To take or seize a prey or loot
To turn thine hand upon the places that are now inhabited
To turn thine hand upon the people of Israel
To take away cattle
To take away goods
To carry away silver
To carry away gold
Note,
Sheba and Dedan is generally considered to be Saudi
Arabia. Tarshish is much debated. Some believe this represents south
Turkey, others believe Spain. There are also other opinions.
God had warned Israel, IF YE FORSAKE THE LORD, AND SERVE
STRANGE GODS, THEN HE WILL TURN AND DO YOU HURT, AND CONSUME YOU, AFTER THAT
HE HATH DONE YOU GOOD-Jos 24:20.
Russia
and part of the great army, assembled with it to attack Israel, come from their
place out of the north parts. It is a huge army with many people, all riding
in vehicles.
Part of the surprise invasion is an airborne assault with
so many paratroopers that they are like a cloud to cover the land. They are
shown to be upon the mountains of Israel, or, we may say, they take the high
ground. Also, upon certain mountains, Israel has some very sophisticated listening
and detection equipment. This is the beginning of what may be classified as
World War III, even though only one-third of the world should be directly involved.
Many will be slaughtered.
It is written, AFTER MANY DAYS (or a long time into the future)
THOU (which is modern-day Russia) SHALT BE VISITED (or summoned, or called to
arms): IN THE LATTER (or future) YEARS THOU SHALT COME (or invade) INTO THE
LAND…OF ISRAEL-Ezek 38:8.
AND THOU (which is modern-day Russia) SHALT COME FROM THY
PLACE OUT OF THE NORTH PARTS, THOU, AND MANY PEOPLE WITH THEE, ALL OF THEM RIDING
UPON HORSES, A GREAT COMPANY, AND A MIGHTY ARMY: AND THOU SHALT COME UP (or
advance) AGAINST MY PEOPLE OF ISRAEL, AS A CLOUD TO COVER THE LAND; IT SHALL
BE IN THE LATTER DAYS (or days to come, or last days)-Ezek 38:15,16. GOG SHALL
COME AGAINST (or attacks) THE LAND OF ISRAEL-Ezek 38:18.
AND I WILL TURN THEE BACK (or turn you around and drag you
along-NIV, or drive you on)…AND WILL CAUSE THEE TO COME UP FROM THE (far or
remotest) NORTH PARTS, AND WILL BRING (or send) THEE UPON (or against) THE MOUNTAINS
OF ISRAEL-Ezek 39:2. Though Israel may be pictured biblically as the center
of the earth, the invading forces are portrayed as coming "up" to
Israel, rather than "down" from the north.
The second seal. It is written, AND THERE WENT
OUT ANOTHER HORSE. John sees another horse THAT WAS RED (a fiery red one): AND
POWER WAS GIVEN TO HIM THAT SAT THEREON (its rider) TO TAKE PEACE FROM THE EARTH.
The second horse is red and represents war. Note, it says "take peace from
the earth." Thus, this war may be classified as World War III.
AND THAT THEY SHOULD KILL ONE ANOTHER (or slaughter each
other).
AND THERE WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM A GREAT (or large) SWORD-Rev
6:4. The person or nation that is designated to cause this war will be given
a great or large sword. This indicates that this nation will be a great military
power, capable of mass destruction throughout the earth.
There are only two nations in the world that have the military
capability to fulfill this prophecy. They are the USA and Russia. In this case,
it is Russia and its allies that invade Israel.
God will cause Russia and its allies to come
Russia shall come into the land of Israel
Russia shall come out of and from the north
Many people will be with Russia
All riding upon horses (or vehicles)
A great company
A mighty army
They shall come and attack God’s people, Israel
They shall come upon the mountains of Israel
They shall come as a cloud to cover the land (perhaps, an airborne invasion)
Peace shall be taken from the earth
They will slaughter each other
The invasion force shall have a great sword, indicating they will be very strong
Often-times
a storm can come upon us very quickly. One moment the sky appears to be clear.
Then, one hour later, the weather is stormy, and the rain is coming down with
thunder and lightning. This appears to be the illustration God gives us of the
invasion of Israel.
It is written, THOU SHALT ASCEND (or go up) AND COME (advancing)
LIKE A STORM, THOU SHALT BE LIKE A CLOUD TO COVER THE LAND, THOU, AND ALL THY
BANDS (or troops), AND MANY PEOPLE (or nations) WITH THEE-Ezek 38:9.
THE KING OF THE NORTH (Gog or Magog - Russia) SHALL COME
AGAINST HIM (Israel) LIKE A WHIRLWIND-Dan 11:40.
THOU SHALT…COME LIKE A STORM
He will come LIKE A WHIRLWIND
The
invasion appears to come by land, sea, and air.
It is written, THOU SHALT ASCEND (or go up) AND COME (advancing)
LIKE A STORM-Ezek 38:9. This indicates a land invasion.
THOU SHALT BE LIKE A CLOUD TO COVER THE LAND-Ezek 38:9. THOU
SHALT COME UP (or advance) AGAINST MY PEOPLE OF ISRAEL, AS A CLOUD TO COVER
THE LAND-Ezek 38:16. This indicates a possible airborne invasion.
Russia comes with MANY SHIPS-Dan 11:40; THE SHIPS-Rev 8:9.
This indicates the invasion will also be by the sea.
Ethiopia
is involved in the invasion. Since they are located in Africa, south of Israel,
we could surmise that in some way they will invade from the south or southwest.
Russia and Iran could attack from the northeast, coming by
way of Iraq and through Jordan. Some believe Iraq may also be involved in this
invasion.
Russia and its allies could also come by the way between
the Black and Caspian seas, through Turkey and Syria. This would be from the
north. Some believe Turkey will be allied with Russia in this invasion. Others
also believe Syria will be involved in this invasion. An airborne drop into
Lebanon could enable Russia to attack northern Israel by land. This could be
reinforced by Russian ships dropping troops into Lebanon.
Libya could come by the Mediterranean Sea or through Egypt
from the west or southwest.
Russia, with its many ships, could also be expected to attack
from the Mediterranean Sea. This would be from the west.
As already mentioned, an airborne invasion also seems to
be involved. The airborne invasion, using Russia’s advanced air force, could
neutralize much of Israel’s early warning detection systems located on various
hills and mountains. A specialized aerial bombing could also neutralize much
of Israel’s early warning devices, along with certain Russian military satellites.
Russia, through use of its sophisticated satellite photography,
could know almost minute by minute how Israel’s troops and air force were being
deployed. They could also tune in electronically to much of Israel’s communications
or even jam it.
This is only speculation based on the location of some of
the hostile, attacking countries. Such an invasion could be devastating with
millions of troops advancing, quickly and simultaneously, from four directions
including the air. The tiny country of Israel would appear to have no chance.
Israel’s forces could be spread so thin that they could simply be overwhelmed.
One
or more African nations shall engage Israel in battle. Russia will come like
a whirlwind with many vehicles, perhaps tanks and artillery. They shall also
come with many ships and possibly submarines.
Russia shall also invade other countries and shall sweep
through them like a flood. Many shall be overthrown. Russia shall enter into
Israel. The chief of Jordan shall escape out of his hand. Russia shall come
against many countries. Egypt shall not escape. Russia may double-cross Libya
and Ethiopia and be at their steps.
It is written, Dan 11:40-AND AT THE TIME OF THE END. In this
case, the Tribulation period is being referred to. SHALL THE KING OF THE SOUTH
(possibly Libya or Ethiopia-ref Ezek 38:5). Others would include Egypt or say
it is Egypt. The king of the south shall PUSH AT HIM (or engage him in battle),
or push at Israel-ref Ezek 38:4,8. AND THE KING OF THE NORTH (Gog or Magog -
Russia)-ref Ezek 38:3,4,15. SHALL COME AGAINST HIM (Israel) LIKE A WHIRLWIND-ref
Ezek 38:9. WITH CHARIOTS, AND WITH HORSEMEN (or cavalry), AND WITH MANY SHIPS.
This description fits Russia-ref Ezek 38:3,4,16; note "ships"-ref
Rev 8:9.
AND HE (Gog or Russia and its allies) SHALL ENTER INTO THE
(or invade many) COUNTRIES-ref Ezek 38:13. AND SHALL OVERFLOW AND PASS OVER
(or sweep through them like a flood-NIV)-ref Ezek 38:9.
Dan 11:41-HE (Gog or Russia) SHALL ENTER ALSO INTO (or invade)
THE GLORIOUS (or beautiful) LAND (Israel)-ref Ezek 38:15,16. AND MANY COUNTRIES
SHALL BE OVERTHROWN (or fall)-ref Ezek 38:13; Isa 10:7. BUT THESE SHALL ESCAPE
(or be delivered) OUT OF (or from) HIS (Russia’s) HAND, EVEN EDOM, AND MOAB
(present-day Jordan), AND THE CHIEF (or king, or ruler) OF THE CHILDREN OF AMMON.
Amman, today, is the capital of Jordan.
Dan 11:42-HE (Gog or Russia) SHALL STRETCH FORTH HIS HAND
(or extend his power) ALSO UPON THE (or many) COUNTRIES: AND THE LAND OF EGYPT
SHALL NOT ESCAPE.
Dan 11:43-BUT HE (Gog or Russia) SHALL HAVE (or gain) POWER
OVER THE TREASURES OF GOLD AND OF SILVER, AND OVER ALL THE PRECIOUS THINGS (or
riches) OF EGYPT-ref Ezek 38:13. AND THE LIBYANS AND THE ETHIOPIANS SHALL BE
AT HIS STEPS (or in submission).
African nations shall come against Israel
Russia shall come like a whirlwind from the north
Russia shall come with chariots (possibly tanks)
AND WITH HORSEMEN (or cavalry)
AND WITH MANY SHIPS
Russia SHALL ENTER INTO THE COUNTRIES
Russia will sweep through them like a flood
Russia shall enter into Israel
MANY COUNTRIES SHALL BE OVERTHROWN
Jordan and the chief of Jordan shall escape
Russia will come against many countries
Egypt shall not escape
Russia will have control of the gold, and silver, and precious things of Egypt
Russia will be at Libya’s steps
Russia will be at Ethiopia’s steps
Once
Russia has attacked Israel, God will be very angry. He will be jealous for His
land.
It is written, AND IT SHALL COME TO PASS (or this is what
will happen-NIV) AT THE SAME TIME (or on that day) WHEN GOG SHALL COME AGAINST
(or attacks) THE LAND OF ISRAEL, SAITH THE LORD GOD, THAT MY FURY (or hot anger)
SHALL COME UP (or be aroused) IN MY FACE. FOR IN MY JEALOUSY (or zeal) AND IN
THE FIRE (or blazing) OF MY WRATH HAVE I SPOKEN (or declare)-Ezek 38:18,19.
When Russia shall come against Israel:
MY FURY SHALL COME UP
MY JEALOUSY
THE FIRE OF MY WRATH
Israel
had turned from God. The Lord then brings the greatest military armada, in the
history of the world, upon little Israel. Israel has no chance. God wants Israel
to turn and trust Him for deliverance. When they finally are willing to turn
to God and to cry out to Him for help, then the Lord will deliver them. This
same message may also cover many times in the past for Israel.
It is written, THEREFORE ALSO NOW, SAITH THE LORD, TURN YE
EVEN TO ME WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH FASTING, AND WITH WEEPING, AND WITH
MOURNING: AND REND YOUR HEART, AND NOT YOUR GARMENTS, AND TURN UNTO THE LORD
YOUR GOD: FOR HE IS GRACIOUS AND MERCIFUL, SLOW TO ANGER, AND OF GREAT KINDNESS,
AND REPENTETH HIM OF THE EVIL-Joel 2:12,13.
WHO KNOWETH IF HE WILL RETURN AND REPENT, AND LEAVE A BLESSING
BEHIND HIM; EVEN A MEAT OFFERING AND A DRINK OFFERING UNTO THE LORD YOUR GOD?
BLOW THE TRUMPET IN ZION, SANCTIFY A FAST, CALL A SOLEMN ASSEMBLY: GATHER THE
PEOPLE, SANCTIFY THE CONGREGATION, ASSEMBLE THE ELDERS, GATHER THE CHILDREN,
AND THOSE THAT SUCK THE BREASTS: LET THE BRIDEGROOM GO FORTH OF HIS CHAMBER,
AND THE BRIDE OUT OF HER CLOSET. LET THE PRIESTS, THE MINISTERS OF THE LORD,
WEEP BETWEEN THE PORCH AND THE ALTAR, AND LET THEM SAY, SPARE THY PEOPLE, O
LORD, AND GIVE NOT THINE HERITAGE TO REPROACH, THAT THE HEATHEN SHOULD RULE
OVER THEM: WHEREFORE SHOULD THEY SAY AMONG THE PEOPLE, WHERE IS THEIR GOD? THEN
WILL THE LORD BE JEALOUS FOR HIS LAND, AND PITY HIS PEOPLE-Joel 2:14-18.
TURN…TO ME WITH ALL YOUR HEART
TURN UNTO THE LORD YOUR GOD
WITH FASTING, SANCTIFY A FAST
WITH WEEPING
WITH MOURNING
REND YOUR HEART
BLOW THE TRUMPET IN ZION
CALL A SOLEMN ASSEMBLY
GATHER THE PEOPLE, SANCTIFY THE CONGREGATION
ASSEMBLE THE ELDERS, GATHER THE CHILDREN
AND THOSE THAT SUCK THE BREASTS
LET THE BRIDEGROOM GO FORTH OF HIS CHAMBER
Let the BRIDE OUT OF HER CLOSET
LET THE PRIESTS, and THE MINISTERS OF THE LORD, WEEP
LET THEM SAY, SPARE THY PEOPLE, O LORD
GIVE NOT THINE HERITAGE TO REPROACH
THAT THE HEATHEN SHOULD RULE OVER THEM
WHEREFORE SHOULD THEY SAY AMONG THE PEOPLE, WHERE IS THEIR GOD?
THEN WILL THE LORD BE JEALOUS FOR HIS LAND
AND PITY HIS PEOPLE
From
this point on, the end of the brief war takes two directions. One is the destruction
of the Russian invasion force and its allies in Israel. This is done supernaturally
by God.
The other is the destruction of the land or nation of Russia
and events related to it. These, in turn, result in the death of one-fourth
of the world’s population. Both events appear to happen at about the same time.
(A main commentary)
God
comes to Israel’s rescue.
The leader of Russia hears news that disturbs him coming
from the east and from the north. The war now seems to be divided on two fronts.
One is Russia’s war against other nations that may come to
try to stop him. The other is the continuing battle against Israel.
A great earthquake occurs in Israel. Men shake, because of
the presence of the Lord. God begins to fight. Mountains are thrown down and
cliffs crumble. The Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem may crumble at this
time.
God begins to destroy the great military forces that attacked
Israel. He does it in such a way that both Jews and Gentiles will recognize
there is a God, and His name is Jesus. The invading soldiers turn against each
other and begin killing each other. Plagues strike the troops and they begin
dropping dead. Torrential rains come, and gigantic hailstones fall from the
sky. Fire and sulfur begin to rain from the sky. The weapons and ammunition
of the invading troops fall from their hands. Most in this great military force
die upon the mountains and open fields of Israel. Only one soldier in six is
left alive. The invasion forces are devastated. God’s Word tells us, FOR ISRAEL
HATH NOT BEEN FORSAKEN, NOR JUDAH OF HIS GOD, OF THE LORD OF HOSTS; THOUGH THEIR
LAND WAS FILLED WITH SIN AGAINST THE HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL-Jere 51:5. This verse
has been fulfilled in the past, but also appears to apply to the latter days.
It is written, BEHOLD, I WILL MAKE JERUSALEM A CUP OF TREMBLING UNTO ALL THE PEOPLE ROUND ABOUT (or a cup that sends all the surrounding peoples reeling-NIV), WHEN THEY SHALL BE IN THE SIEGE BOTH AGAINST JUDAH AND AGAINST JERUSALEM-Zech 12:2. This verse applies to the time approaching the Battle of Armageddon; however, it also appears to apply to the Russian invasion of Israel.
During
the Russian invasion of Israel, Russia apparently hears news (possibly from
China and possibly from the EEC or perhaps the North Atlantic Treaty Organization)
that troubles him. The USA is a part of NATO as of the writing of this book.
It may be that Russia and its allies do not expect the USA or EEC to oppose
them.
It is written, Dan 11:44-BUT TIDINGS (or reports) OUT OF
THE EAST (which may be the kings of the east) AND OUT OF THE NORTH (which may
be the EEC or NATO) SHALL TROUBLE (or alarm) HIM (Gog or Magog - Russia).
God’s
fury comes up as a result of the great military armada coming against Israel.
An earthquake occurs in the land of Israel at the presence of Almighty God.
It may well be, at this time, the Dome of the Rock will crumble,
which would clear the way for the building of the Tribulation temple. One might
wonder, if this earthquake is actually the beginning of the destruction of these
massive forces that came against Israel. One could envision Russian tanks and
artillery being swallowed up. Clearly, men will be terrified and utterly shaken.
It is written, SURELY IN THAT DAY THERE SHALL BE A GREAT
SHAKING (or earthquake) IN THE LAND OF ISRAEL; SO THAT THE FISHES OF THE SEA,
AND THE FOWLS (or birds) OF THE HEAVEN (or air), AND THE BEASTS OF THE FIELD,
AND ALL CREEPING THINGS THAT CREEP UPON THE EARTH (or ground), AND ALL THE MEN
THAT ARE UPON THE FACE OF THE EARTH, SHALL SHAKE (or tremble) AT MY PRESENCE,
AND THE MOUNTAINS SHALL BE THROWN DOWN (or overturned), AND THE STEEP PLACES
(or cliffs, or steep pathways) SHALL FALL (or crumble, or collapse), AND EVERY
WALL SHALL FALL TO THE GROUND-Ezek 38:19,20.
A great earthquake in Israel
The fishes of the sea shall shake
The birds of the air shall shake
The beasts of the field shall shake
All creeping things shall shake
Men shall shake at God’s presence
The mountains shall be thrown down
The cliffs shall crumble
Every wall shall fall
The
end of this great invasion force is at hand. God destroys them in such a fashion
that the world will recognize there really is a God in heaven and that His name
is Jesus. We have noted as a result of the earthquake that men will be afraid.
Then the invading soldiers will turn against each other and
begin killing each other. God did this in Judges 7:22. All of a sudden, a plague
hits the troops, and they begin dropping dead. God did this in 2 Ki 19:35 and
Isa 37:36; 185,000 Assyrians died in one night. Great torrential rains and huge
hailstones fall upon the invading armies. God also cast down hailstones from
heaven in Jos 10:11.
Fire and burning sulfur begin to rain from the sky, perhaps
much like it did upon Sodom and Gomorrah. The weapons and ammunition of the
invading troops will drop out of their hands. Masses of troops will die upon
the mountains and the open fields of Israel.
It will be done by God, for He has spoken it. The world will
know that there is a God in heaven.
It is written, AND I WILL CALL FOR (or summon) A SWORD AGAINST
HIM (against Gog or Magog - Russia) THROUGHOUT ALL MY MOUNTAINS, SAITH THE LORD
GOD: EVERY MAN'S SWORD SHALL BE AGAINST HIS BROTHER. AND I WILL PLEAD (or execute
judgment) AGAINST HIM WITH PESTILENCE (or with plague) AND WITH BLOOD (or bloodshed);
AND I WILL RAIN (or pour down) UPON HIM, AND UPON HIS BANDS (or troops), AND
UPON THE MANY PEOPLE (or nations) THAT ARE WITH HIM, AN OVERFLOWING RAIN (or
torrential rain, or torrents of rain), AND GREAT HAILSTONES, FIRE, AND BRIMSTONE
(or burning sulfur)-Ezek 38:21,22.
AND I WILL SMITE (or strike) THY BOW OUT OF THY LEFT HAND,
AND WILL CAUSE THINE ARROWS TO FALL (or drop) OUT OF THY RIGHT HAND. THOU SHALT
FALL UPON THE MOUNTAINS OF ISRAEL, THOU, AND ALL THY BANDS (or troops), AND
THE PEOPLE (or nations) THAT IS WITH THEE. THOU SHALT FALL UPON THE OPEN FIELD:
FOR I HAVE SPOKEN IT, SAITH (or declares) THE LORD GOD-Ezek 39:3-5.
God calls for a weapon against Russia
Every man’s sword is against his brother
Plagues or pestilences strike the troops
Torrential rains come against Russia and its allies
Great hailstones fall
Fire and brimstone fall from heaven
Their weapons drop from their hands
Their ammunition drops out of their hands
They fall upon the mountains of Israel
They fall upon the open field, because God has spoken it
Russia
appears to put its headquarters in the holy mountain, and then his end comes.
It is written, Dan 11:45-AND HE (Gog or Magog - Russia) SHALL
PLANT THE TABERNACLES OF HIS PALACE (or royal tents, or headquarters) BETWEEN
THE SEAS (between the Mediterranean Sea and the Dead Sea) IN THE GLORIOUS HOLY
MOUNTAIN; YET HE (Gog or Russia) SHALL COME TO HIS END, AND NONE SHALL HELP
HIM-ref Ezek 38:21,22; 39:2-6.
Joel 2:20-BUT I WILL REMOVE FAR OFF FROM YOU THE NORTHERN ARMY,
AND WILL DRIVE HIM INTO A LAND BARREN AND DESOLATE, WITH HIS FACE TOWARD THE
EAST SEA, AND HIS HINDER PART TOWARD THE UTMOST SEA, AND HIS STINK SHALL COME
UP, AND HIS ILL SAVOR SHALL COME UP, BECAUSE HE HATH DONE GREAT THINGS.
The meaning of both these verses is much debated. In Joel
2:20, the "northern army" has been thought to represent locusts, Assyria,
Babylon, and others.
A
huge military force had attacked Israel. Millions of troops were probably involved.
Nevertheless, after God unleashes His wrath upon them, only one in six is left
alive. Out of every six soldiers, five are now dead, yet their destruction may
take only a few hours.
It is written, AND I WILL TURN THEE BACK (or turn you around
and drag you along-NIV, or drive you on), AND LEAVE BUT THE SIXTH PART OF THEE-Ezek
39:2.
(A main commentary)
Russia
hears of tidings; he then goes forth in a rage to destroy many. The Revelation
seems to depict one-fourth of the world’s population being killed as a result
of this war. This mass destruction appears to last only eight hours and has
all the earmarks of a nuclear exchange. Deadly gas may also be included. Neutron
weapons could be involved.
There are only two nations in the world that are capable
of causing such mass destruction. They are the United States and Russia.
During Russia’s invasion of Israel, something seems to trigger
them to attempt to destroy the United States with nuclear weapons. It may be
something that they hear. It appears that Russia sends a combination of its
ICBM’s (intercontinental ballistic missiles) and submarine missiles raining
down upon the USA. They may also send missiles against any other nation considered
a threat. Russia may think that the surprise attack will destroy the United
States and that no retaliation will come forth against them.
Nevertheless, the United States appears to retaliate against
the land of Russia with nuclear weapons. Both nations may be almost totally
annihilated. As a result of this nuclear exchange, a third part of the trees
of the earth are burned up. This appears to be the size of the total land area
of the nations of the earth that are involved in this war.
Also, all green grass, all over the world, is burned up.
This indicates that the farm crops, all over the world, are destroyed, possibly
from radioactive fallout. Mass starvation follows.
Then a third part of the sea creatures die. This would cause
further starvation. A third of the world’s ships are destroyed. This may include
the ships of the USA, Russia, and other countries involved in this war. Then
something strikes the earth, and a third of the fountains and rivers become
poisoned or bitter with wormwood. This may indicate that the waters become radioactive.
Many men die from these waters.
The nuclear exchange may last only eight hours. During this
eight hours, the light of the sun, moon, and stars over one-third of the earth
does not shine.
Massive famine occurs all over the earth. Multitudes of people
starve to death. Countries that currently have food shortages, or that depend
a great deal on farming, may be the hardest hit.
As a result of this devastating nuclear exchange, one out
of every four people on planet Earth die. The population of the world, as of
the writing of this book, is between five and six billion people. Consider,
over one billion people will die; of this staggering number—every single one
will perish to hell.
Consider the nations and their populations that are listed
as being involved in this war. Consider that the EEC often seems to be alluded
to during the Tribulation. Israel is the focal point during the Tribulation.
In light of these things, there seems to be one inescapable conclusion: much
of the over one billion people that die come from the USA and Russia. It is
very likely that much of the population of Russia will be killed, as well as
much of the population of the United States. The USA will be punished for its
sin. In the United States and Russia, those that do not repent, before the Tribulation,
may not have another chance to repent thereafter, as many of them could be dead.
The nations of Iran, and possibly Iraq, Libya, Ethiopia, and all the nations
that are involved with Russia during this invasion, will likely suffer great
destruction and loss of life.
From this point on, the EEC and Israel become the focal point
in the world. The United States and Russia appear to be out of
the picture during the rest of the Tribulation, after having rained mass destruction
upon each other.
The Lord says, "IT IS COME, AND IT IS DONE"-Ezek
39:8.
As a result of God’s supernatural destruction of the greatest
war machine ever assembled to date, many people throughout the world will understand
that there is a God. Many will begin to understand that Jesus is the only way
to be saved. He will be known in the eyes of many nations. The heathen and those
that dwell in the isles shall know that Jesus is the Lord. The house of Israel
shall know that Jesus is the Lord from that day and forward.
The
leader of Russia can be expected to go forth in fury to destroy many. This may
be the beginning of the destruction of the United States and perhaps some other
countries. God shows that He will send fire on them that dwell safely in the
isles. The fire may be nuclear, multihead missiles coming down from the sky
that will bring a fiery destruction. Again, this may be indicating that Russia
will be used by God to bring judgment upon the United States, for its turning
away from Jesus and its great wickedness, after the born-again Christians have
been removed in the Rapture. The time it takes for the nuclear missiles to strike
the United States, launched from Russia, could be as little as fifteen minutes.
The time for the nuclear missiles from Russian submarines to strike the United
States could be 8 minutes or less.
It is written, THEREFORE HE (Gog or Magog - Russia) SHALL
GO FORTH WITH GREAT FURY (or in a great rage) TO DESTROY, AND UTTERLY TO MAKE
AWAY (or annihilate) MANY-Dan 11:44.
AND I WILL SEND A FIRE ON…THEM THAT DWELL CARELESSLY (or
in safety) IN THE ISLES (or coastlands)-Ezek 39:6.
Nevertheless,
the United States can be expected to retaliate against Russia with its own nuclear
missiles, just prior to its destruction.
It is written, AND I WILL SEND A FIRE ON MAGOG (which is
the land of Russia)-Ezek 39:6.
It
is written, AND I SAW THE SEVEN ANGELS WHICH STOOD BEFORE GOD; AND TO THEM WERE
GIVEN SEVEN TRUMPETS. AND THE SEVEN ANGELS WHICH HAD THE SEVEN TRUMPETS PREPARED
THEMSELVES TO SOUND. AND THE ANGEL TOOK THE CENSER, AND FILLED IT WITH FIRE
OF THE ALTAR, AND CAST IT INTO THE EARTH: AND THERE WERE VOICES, AND THUNDERINGS,
AND LIGHTNINGS, AND AN EARTHQUAKE. AND THE SEVEN ANGELS WHICH HAD THE SEVEN
TRUMPETS (or shofars) PREPARED THEMSELVES TO SOUND (them)-Rev 8:2,5,6.
As the following items are studied, they need to be looked
at from the perspective that John saw them. How would John describe jet airplanes?
How would he describe a tank? How would he describe a nuclear attack with missiles
raining down upon the earth?
Seal two was the red horse, representing war.
As a result, a worldwide famine followed, which was seal three.
Hence, one-fourth of the world’s population died, which was seal four—representing
death. The trumpets help us to understand these things in more
detail.
Until the nuclear age began, the first four
trumpet judgments would appear to have been impossible to understand. But now,
with the introduction of such weapons as missiles, lasers, the atom bomb, the
hydrogen bomb, the neutron bomb, and others, these scriptures come to life with
new meaning. The first four trumpets appear to sound, one right after the other,
in rapid succession. They could all sound in the same day.
THE
FIRST ANGEL SOUNDED (his shofar or trumpet), AND THERE FOLLOWED (or came) HAIL
(which may be hailstones or missiles raining down upon the earth) AND FIRE MINGLED
(or mixed) WITH BLOOD. The hail and fire may well represent a nuclear exchange
between Russia and the United States. The blood may represent a very great number
of people being killed. This nuclear exchange may be the result of the Russian-Arab
invasion of Israel. We may be reminded of the great fireball and heat that results
from a nuclear explosion and the multitudes of fires that would occur. The blood
could be a result of this. Hail and fire are also mentioned in Ex 9:23.
The hail and fire mixed with blood WERE CAST (or hurled down)
UPON THE EARTH: (and a third of the earth was burned up-NASB) AND THE THIRD
PART OF TREES WAS BURNT UP. As a result of such a nuclear exchange, one-third
of all the trees on planet Earth are burned up or destroyed. This may also indicate
that one-third of the world’s land mass will be directly involved in the war.
If one would consider all the nations involved in this conflict (as listed in
Ezekiel chapter 38) and add in the United States and the nations of the EEC,
the result would appear to be one-third of the land surface of the earth. This,
in itself, is an incredible prophecy.
The verse continues, AND ALL GREEN GRASS WAS BURNT UP-Rev
8:7. As a consequence of the nuclear exchange and the resulting radioactive
fallout, all green grass is burned up or destroyed over the entire earth. Consider,
all farm crops worldwide being burned up and destroyed. There would be famine
and starvation such as the world could not imagine. Places like Africa, China,
and India would see countless people starve. The entire world would be hard
hit. Food prices would soar. It would take a day’s wages to buy a day’s worth
of food. There is also a similarity between this verse and Ezek 38:22; ref Rev
6:3,4, the red horse—war.
Hail and fire mingled with blood
Cast upon the earth
A third part of the trees are burned up
All green grass is burned up
Few
people today understand the power of the nuclear weapons that exist. Consider
the nuclear bombs that were dropped in World War II. They were each rated at
20,000 pounds of TNT. Some of today’s bombs are rated at 50 million pounds of
TNT. This is approximately 2500 times more powerful. Can one conceive a single
bomb now being equal to 2500 World War II nuclear bombs combined? Can a person
conceive that a single missile could carry many nuclear bombs at once and that
each individual bomb can be pinpointed to its own specific target as it makes
its descent to the earth? Can we understand that both Russia and the United
States have enough of these weapons left that either country could destroy all
life on the earth several times? Can we understand what would happen, if the
United States and Russia unleashed this destructive force against the other
in what may be called World War III?
When such a bomb explodes, immediately there is a flash of
light that is so intense, a person’s eyes can be instantly destroyed.
The heat of the blast is so intense, a person can be instantly
fried like an egg. The resulting blast is such that virtually
nothing will be left standing within a certain proximity, depending on the size
of the bomb. Next there is the reverse blast coming back in toward
the center.
There is also the unseen radioactivity. This
is the silent killer. As a result, nothing within a certain range of the bomb
will live. As the cloud from the bomb rises high into the atmosphere, it is
full of radioactive fallout that rains down upon the earth as the winds blow
the cloud this way or that. This can continue for a long period of time, resulting
in radioactive poisoning of the crops or any living thing that is in its path.
It may be said, the crops will be burnt up. Entire areas of land can be so poisoned
from the radioactivity that no person can safely dwell or plant crops there
for many years to come.
The first four trumpets appear to be showing us the results
of such a nuclear exchange.
We can surmise that both Russia and the United
States may nearly destroy each other; for this reason, there appears
to be an absence of Scripture concerning the United States during most of the
Tribulation.
Trumpets number one through four appear to be dealing with
the war and aftereffects of the war of Ezekiel chapters 38 and 39, as well as
seal two, three, and four of Rev 6:3-8. This is the Russian-Arab invasion of
Israel.
It
is written, AND THE SECOND ANGEL SOUNDED (his shofar or trumpet). John then
saw, AS IT WERE (or what looked like) A GREAT (or huge) MOUNTAIN BURNING WITH
FIRE (or all ablaze) WAS CAST (or hurled) INTO THE SEA. Missiles coming through
the atmosphere might fit this description of what John saw. As a result of this
huge object being hurled into the sea, three things are described.
1-AND THE THIRD PART OF THE SEA BECAME (or turned into) BLOOD-Rev
8:8.
2-AND THE THIRD PART OF THE CREATURES WHICH WERE IN THE SEA,
AND HAD LIFE, DIED;
3-AND THE THIRD PART OF THE SHIPS WERE DESTROYED-Rev 8:9.
From this, it appears, not only will the war take place on one-third of the
land surface of the world, but also one-third of the seas or oceans will also
become involved. One-third of the world’s ships may number several thousand.
One unconfirmed source has put the total number of ships in the world at approximately
45,000. There would also be a huge number of casualties from this.
Again, we should try to understand what John saw in the context
of what he would have perceived in his day. John saw something large that appeared
to be burning. It was cast into the sea. This appears to tell us that it came
from above the sea, from the sky. As a result of this huge burning object being
hurled into the sea, one-third of the sea became blood, one-third of the sea
creatures died, and one-third of the ships were destroyed. In view of today’s
technology, this seems to indicate some sort of huge weapon or accumulation
of weapons, such as missiles armed with nuclear warheads, entering the atmosphere.
The purpose may be to destroy ships. This could be Russian military forces seeking
to destroy the U.S. vessels, including submarines, and the United States responding
by destroying Russia’s ships. The end result appears to be that one-third of
the world’s ships were destroyed, but in the same manner, one-third of the sea
life also died. The sea became blood.
As a great mountain burning with fire
Cast into the sea
One-third of the sea became blood
One-third of the creatures in the sea died
One-third of the ships were destroyed
Both Russia and the United States have surveillance and listening devices in the oceans to detect and track enemy vessels, including ships and submarines. They sometimes follow each other. Satellites with super sensitive cameras and other devices are also taking pictures from space of things both on land and sea; they can photograph very small objects on the earth from hundreds of miles in space. They also have listening devices that are so sophisticated that they can tune into and record masses of phone calls from places around the world.
It
is written, AND THE THIRD ANGEL SOUNDED (his shofar, or trumpet), AND THERE
FELL A GREAT STAR FROM HEAVEN (or sky), BURNING AS IT WERE A LAMP (or a torch).
This could be some form of military device or missile entering the atmosphere.
Such a device could appear as a "great star burning as a lamp." Its
appearance could be as a giant shooting star. John noted that IT FELL (from
the sky or heaven) UPON THE THIRD PART OF THE RIVERS, AND UPON THE FOUNTAINS
(or springs) OF WATERS-Rev 8:10.\
AND THE NAME OF THE STAR IS CALLED WORMWOOD (or bitterness):
AND THE THIRD PART OF THE WATERS BECAME WORMWOOD (or bitter): AND MANY MEN (or
people) DIED OF THE WATERS, BECAUSE THEY WERE MADE BITTER-Rev 8:11.
As a result of the object that John saw falling from the
sky, one-third of the rivers and springs of waters become deadly or poisoned.
Some might consider that this object, as it was coming down from the sky, could
split into many pieces or objects, such as a multiple warhead missile (an intercontinental
ballistic missile whose several warheads can be scattered). Some form of specially
designed biological or radioactive devices, or even radioactive fallout from
nuclear explosions, could cause the rivers and fountains to become poisoned,
resulting in many deaths.
Wormwood is mentioned in the Scriptures twice in the New
Testament and also seven times in the Old Testament ("apsinthos" in
Greek).
The word "wormwood" has been highly researched
by Bible scholars. One problem we have is that certain things, which exist today,
were unknown to the people at the time this was written. No word existed in
their language to accurately describe what this or that was. In the case of
the name "wormwood," as it is used here, many believe it is referring
to radioactivity. Should this great object falling from the sky cause the rivers
and springs to become radioactive, then they could be deadly to people that
drink them; indeed, many could die from the waters, as they had become poisoned
(or radioactive).
Again, these things seem to help explain in more detail,
what we call, World War III.
A great star fell from heaven
Burning as it were a lamp
It fell upon the third part of the rivers
It fell upon the third part of the fountains of water
The name of the star was Wormwood
The third part of the waters became wormwood, or bitter, or poisoned
Many people died
AND
THE FOURTH ANGEL SOUNDED (his shofar or trumpet), AND THE THIRD PART OF THE
SUN WAS SMITTEN (or struck), AND THE THIRD PART OF THE MOON, AND THE THIRD PART
OF THE STARS. The terms sun, moon, and stars would indicate all over the earth.
For when the sun is shining in one place, on the opposite side of the earth
the moon and stars should be shining. The term "one-third" is explained
next. SO AS THE THIRD PART OF THEM WAS DARKENED, AND THE DAY SHONE NOT (or was
without light) FOR A THIRD PART OF IT, AND THE NIGHT LIKEWISE-Rev 8:12. This
is showing us that one-third of the day was darkened. One-third of the night
was darkened. Consider, the day is approximately twelve hours long. The night
is approximately twelve hours long. One-third of the day would equal four hours.
One-third of the night would equal four hours. Put them together and they would
equal eight hours. It may be that the nuclear exchange between Russia and the
United States will last eight hours. As a result of these eight hours, seal
four, which is death, will claim over one billion lives-ref Rev 6:7,8. Death
will claim one-fourth of the world’s population. The mass of nuclear and other
kinds of devastating explosions (for perhaps eight hours) and the resulting
very thick cloud cover may cause the sun, moon, and stars to all be darkened
for eight hours.
This may also denote the total surface area of the earth
that will be covered by these dense clouds, blocking the light of the sun, moon,
and stars as a result of the war.
One-third of the sun smitten
One-third of the moon smitten
One-third of the
stars smitten
(So that)
The third part of them was darkened
The day was without light for a third part of it
The night was without light for a third part of it
Hail mixed with blood cast upon the earth (trumpet 1)
Fire mixed with blood cast upon the earth (trumpet 1)
Looked like a great mountain burning with fire cast into the sea (trumpet 2)
Great star (Wormwood), burning as a lamp, fell upon the third part of rivers and fountains of waters (trumpet 3)
One-third of the trees burned up (trumpet 1)
All green grass burned up (trumpet 1)
One-third of the sea became blood (trumpet 2)
One-third of the sea creatures died (trumpet 2)
One-third of the ships were destroyed (trumpet 2)
One-third of the rivers became wormwood (trumpet 3)
One-third of the fountains of waters became wormwood (trumpet 3)
Many people died
One-third of the sun smitten (trumpet 4)
One-third of the moon smitten (trumpet 4)
One-third of the
stars smitten (trumpet 4)
(so that)
One-third of them was darkened (trumpet 4)
One-third of the day was without light (trumpet 4)
One-third of the night was without light (trumpet 4)
AND
WHEN HE (the Lamb, Jesus) HAD OPENED (or broke) THE THIRD SEAL, I HEARD THE
THIRD BEAST (or living being, which had the face of a man) SAY, COME AND SEE.
AND I BEHELD, AND LO A BLACK HORSE (before me); AND HE THAT SAT ON HIM (its
rider) HAD A PAIR OF BALANCES (or scales) IN HIS HAND-Rev 6:5.
AND I HEARD (what sounded like) A VOICE IN THE MIDST OF THE
FOUR BEASTS (or living beings) SAY, A MEASURE (or two pounds, or a quart) OF
WHEAT (what may be considered a day’s food) FOR A PENNY (or a day’s wages),
AND THREE MEASURES (or six pounds, or three quarts) OF BARLEY FOR A PENNY (or
a day’s wages). We seem to have a picture of the existing food carefully being
measured out on a scale or set of balances. This appears to be showing the extreme
scarcity of food upon the earth.
AND SEE THOU HURT NOT (or do not damage) THE OIL AND THE
WINE-Rev 6:6. Some believe that this last part of the passage is indicating
there will not be enough money leftover to buy any oil or wine, or that even
the rich will be hindered from buying oil and wine. The exact meaning of this
passage is uncertain.
Already there is starvation in some places around the world.
However, seal two describes to us the results of a massive war, where famine
seems to exist all over the world. We might consider asking, what would be the
results of a massive war that used nuclear weapons? As radioactive fallout occurred,
farm crops all over the earth could be ruined. Do the Scriptures indicate that
this war will involve nuclear weapons? The answer appears to be, yes.
Famines are also mentioned during the Tribulation in Mt 24:7.
The worldwide famine follows the great war; thus, it can
be expected to commence at the beginning of the Tribulation.
AND
WHEN HE (the Lamb, Jesus) HAD OPENED (or broke) THE FOURTH SEAL, I HEARD THE
VOICE OF THE FOURTH BEAST (or living creature, which was like a flying eagle)
SAY, COME AND SEE-Rev 6:7. Some have wondered that since the emblem of the USA
is the eagle with outstretched wings—could this mean trouble for the United
States?
AND I LOOKED, AND BEHOLD (in front of me) A PALE (or pallid,
sickly-looking) HORSE. The word used here could indicate a pale green, such
as a dead green or a dying green. AND HIS NAME THAT SAT ON HIM WAS DEATH (its
rider was named death-NIV). There has just been a great war. Famines resulted.
Death AND HELL (or sh’ol, or Hades) FOLLOWED WITH HIM (or close behind him,
close behind death). What is being said here, if fully comprehended, is terrifying.
Hell followed the rider of death.
AND POWER (or authority) WAS GIVEN UNTO THEM (plural) OVER
THE FOURTH PART (or one-quarter) OF THE EARTH-Rev 6:8. This appears almost unbelievable.
As a result of the war, one-quarter of the earth will die. We might ask, "What
on earth could cause such a thing?" The answer is a war with nuclear weapons.
When Russia attacks Israel, will the United States stand by? We might consider
that the United States and Russia will end up being involved in a nuclear exchange.
Do other scriptures support this? It would seem that they do. This could explain
why the United States is clearly missing from world events, in the Scriptures,
during nearly the entire Tribulation.
Also, consider that hell followed with death, which involved
one-fourth of the earth’s population. The Scripture is indicating that every
single person that died went to hell. Well over one billion people perished
to hell. How could this be? Consider, if the Rapture had just happened, and
all born-again believers were gone, the only ones left on the earth would be
the unredeemed. Almost immediately, the great war and a nuclear exchange occur.
Over a billion people die and perish forever. They perish to hell.
Considering the nations that will be involved in the war,
according to the Scriptures, we might recognize that the majority of the causalities
will come from the Middle East, Russia, Europe, Africa, and from the United
States; however, the results will affect the entire world. Ezek chapters 38
and 39, and many other scriptures, tend to support this.
Power was given to the rider of the pale horse TO KILL. He
kills WITH (or by) SWORD (or war), AND WITH HUNGER (or famine), AND WITH DEATH
(or plagues, or pestilence), AND WITH THE (wild) BEASTS (or animals) OF THE
EARTH-Rev 6:8.
The fourth horse - death
One-fourth of the earth dies, over one billion people
They are killed by war
Through hunger
By plagues or pestilences
By wild animals
All perish to hell
It is written, BEHOLD, IT IS COME (or coming), AND IT IS (or shall be) DONE, SAITH THE LORD GOD; THIS IS THE DAY WHEREOF I HAVE SPOKEN-Ezek 39:8.
The
Rapture has just happened; then the Antichrist comes forward, assumes control
of the EEC, and signs a covenant with Israel. Because of the Rapture, there
are no born-again Christians left on the earth. All those that are left have
rejected Jesus Christ as their only hope of salvation. Many that claimed they
believed on Jesus Christ, refused to allow Him to reign over them. Many that
were left were only lukewarm.
God is now going to do something that will awaken this sinful
world (both Israel and the Gentiles) to the fact that there is a God and that
Jesus Christ is the only way to be saved.
The Lord then sets up a special situation. God brings the
greatest military invasion force in the history of the world against the little
nation of Israel. This huge army, from many nations, is so massive that even
God calls it a GREAT COMPANY, AND A MIGHTY ARMY-Ezek 38:15. Israel has no chance
of winning. God then intercedes supernaturally and destroys nearly all of this
enormous invasion force. God does this in such an incredible way that both the
people of Israel and the world will know that there is a God and that His name
is JESUS. From this point on, many people will be seeking God. The evangelism
of the world will begin to take place through 144,000 male, virgin Jews. Many
will get saved, but they will have to face horrible persecutions. Eventually,
many will be martyred for their faith in Jesus.
It is written, AND THOU SHALT COME UP (or advance) AGAINST
MY PEOPLE OF ISRAEL…IT SHALL BE IN THE LATTER DAYS (or days to come, or last
days), AND I WILL BRING THEE AGAINST MY LAND, THAT (or in order) THE HEATHEN
(or nations) MAY KNOW ME, WHEN I SHALL BE SANCTIFIED (or show Myself holy) IN
(or through) THEE, O GOG, BEFORE THEIR EYES-Ezek 38:16.
THUS WILL I MAGNIFY MYSELF (or show My greatness), AND SANCTIFY
MYSELF; AND I WILL BE KNOWN (or make Myself known) IN THE EYES OF MANY NATIONS,
AND (then) THEY SHALL KNOW THAT I AM THE LORD-Ezek 38:23.
MAGOG, AND…THEM THAT DWELL CARELESSLY (or in safety) IN THE
ISLES…THEY SHALL KNOW THAT I AM THE LORD-Ezek 39:6.
SO WILL I MAKE MY HOLY NAME KNOWN IN THE MIDST OF MY PEOPLE
ISRAEL; AND I WILL NOT LET THEM POLLUTE MY HOLY NAME (or let My holy name be
profaned-NIV) ANY MORE: AND THE HEATHEN (or nations) SHALL KNOW THAT I AM THE
LORD, THE HOLY ONE IN ISRAEL-Ezek 39:7.
AND I WILL SET (or display) MY GLORY AMONG THE HEATHEN (or
nations), AND ALL THE HEATHEN (or nations) SHALL SEE MY JUDGMENT (or punishment)
THAT I HAVE EXECUTED (or inflict), AND MY HAND THAT I HAVE LAID UPON THEM. SO
THE HOUSE OF ISRAEL SHALL KNOW THAT I AM THE LORD THEIR GOD FROM THAT DAY AND
FORWARD. AND THE HEATHEN (or nations) SHALL KNOW THAT THE HOUSE (or people)
OF ISRAEL WENT INTO CAPTIVITY (or exile) FOR THEIR INIQUITY (or sin): BECAUSE
THEY TRESPASSED (or acted treacherously, or were unfaithful) AGAINST ME, THEREFORE
HID I MY FACE FROM THEM, AND GAVE (or handed) THEM INTO THE HAND OF THEIR ENEMIES:
SO FELL THEY ALL BY THE SWORD. ACCORDING TO THEIR UNCLEANNESS AND ACCORDING
TO THEIR TRANSGRESSIONS (or offenses) HAVE I DONE UNTO THEM, AND HID MY FACE
FROM THEM-Ezek 39:21-24.
I WILL BRING (Gog) AGAINST MY LAND (because):
I will sanctify Myself
I shall be sanctified in Gog before their eyes
Thus, will I magnify Myself
I will be known (or make Myself known) in the eyes of many nations
That the heathen may know Me
The heathen shall know that I am the Lord
They shall know that I am the Lord
I will set My glory among the heathen
They shall see My judgment or punishment
The heathen shall know God is the Holy One in Israel
The heathen shall see My hand that I have laid upon them
The heathen shall know that Israel went into captivity for their iniquity
The heathen shall know Israel was unfaithful
The heathen shall know that I hid My face from them
The heathen shall know that I gave Israel into the hands of their enemies, so they fell by the sword
The heathen shall know that I have done unto them (Israel) according to their uncleanness and transgressions
The heathen shall know I hid My face from Israel
Magog shall know that I am the Lord
They that dwell safely
in the isles shall know that I am the Lord
I will make My name known in the midst of My people Israel
So that they will not pollute God’s holy name anymore
The house of Israel shall know that I am the Lord their God from that day and forward
Ezekiel chapter 38 and 39 show clearly why God brings Gog against Israel: so that many people, both Jew and Gentile, will know there is a God in heaven. Many will believe and get saved as a result of Gog being supernaturally destroyed. The destruction of Gog and his armies will be the beginning of a revival during the first half of the Tribulation, both among the Jews and Gentiles. These things reveal clearly why the invasion of Israel happens at the beginning of the Tribulation, soon after the Rapture occurs. The verses covering seal four (showing all who are killed perish to hell) could not be fulfilled, if this event were to happen further on in the first part of the Tribulation.
(A main commentary)
The
war seems to end as fast as it began, leaving perhaps millions of dead bodies
in Israel. The Lord speaks to the predatory birds and to the beasts of the field
to come to His sacrifice and eat the flesh of the dead who invaded Israel, both
of horses and of mighty men. They will eat the fat till they are full. They
will drink the blood till they are drunken with God’s sacrifice.
The multitude of weapons of the invading forces will be burned
for fuel seven years; Israel will not need to cut down any wood out of the forests.
They will now rob and spoil those that robbed and spoiled
them.
Israel will begin to bury the remains of the invading forces.
All appear to help. It will take seven months. The land shall be cleansed. Men
will be employed and the land shall be searched for remaining bones. Once a
person finds a bone, a sign is placed by it until it is buried. Gog and his
allies shall be buried in the valley of Hamon-gog. The city there shall be called
Hamonah.
The
war seems to end as fast as it began. After God has destroyed the massive array
of troops that invaded Israel, there will be, perhaps, millions of dead bodies.
God will give these to the predatory birds and wild animals to eat.
It is written, I WILL GIVE THEE (which is the great military
invasion force that invaded Israel) (as food) UNTO THE RAVENOUS (or predatory)
BIRDS OF EVERY SORT, AND TO THE BEASTS (or wild animals) OF THE FIELD TO BE
DEVOURED-Ezek 39:4.
AND, THOU SON OF MAN, THUS SAITH THE LORD GOD; SPEAK UNTO
EVERY (kind of) FEATHERED FOWL (or bird), AND TO EVERY BEAST OF THE FIELD (or
wild animals), ASSEMBLE YOURSELVES, AND COME; GATHER YOURSELVES ON EVERY SIDE
TO MY SACRIFICE THAT I DO SACRIFICE (or am preparing) FOR YOU, EVEN A GREAT
SACRIFICE UPON THE MOUNTAINS OF ISRAEL, THAT YE MAY (there) EAT FLESH, AND DRINK
BLOOD. YE SHALL EAT THE FLESH OF THE MIGHTY (men), AND DRINK THE BLOOD OF THE
PRINCES OF THE EARTH, (as if they were) OF RAMS, OF LAMBS, AND OF GOATS, OF
BULLOCKS (or bulls), ALL OF THEM FATLINGS (or fattened animals) OF BASHAN. AND
YE SHALL EAT FAT TILL YE BE FULL, AND DRINK BLOOD TILL YE BE DRUNKEN, OF MY
SACRIFICE WHICH I HAVE SACRIFICED (or am preparing) FOR YOU. THUS YE SHALL BE
FILLED AT MY TABLE WITH HORSES AND CHARIOTS (or charioteers, or riders), WITH
MIGHTY MEN, AND WITH ALL MEN OF WAR (or soldiers of every kind), SAITH THE LORD
GOD-Ezek 39:17-20.
The dead bodies of the vast military armada that invaded
Israel shall be given to:
The ravenous birds
The wild animals
Mighty men
Princes of the earth
Men of war
Horses
And chariots (or
charioteers, or riders)
The dead bodies are called:
God’s sacrifice for the birds and animals
The
weapons of the dead soldiers will be burned for fuel seven years; because of
this, Israel will not need to take wood out of the fields or forests.
It is written, AND THEY THAT DWELL IN THE CITIES (or towns)
OF ISRAEL SHALL GO FORTH, AND SHALL SET ON (or make) FIRE AND BURN THE WEAPONS
(for fuel), BOTH THE (small) SHIELDS AND THE BUCKLERS (or large shields), THE
BOWS AND THE ARROWS, AND THE HANDSTAVES (or war clubs), AND THE SPEARS, AND
THEY SHALL BURN THEM WITH FIRE (or make fires of them) SEVEN YEARS (for
fuel): SO THAT THEY SHALL TAKE (or need) NO WOOD OUT OF THE FIELD, NEITHER CUT
DOWN (or gather) ANY (firewood) OUT OF THE FORESTS; FOR THEY SHALL BURN THE
WEAPONS WITH FIRE (for fuel) (or make fires with the weapons-NASB)-Ezek 39:9,10.
As
the invading armies came to rob and steal from Israel; now Israel will seize
the plunder from them.
It is written, AND THEY SHALL (take the) SPOIL (of) THOSE
THAT SPOILED THEM, AND ROB THOSE THAT ROBBED THEM (or seize the plunder of those
who plundered them-NASB), SAITH THE LORD GOD-Ezek 39:10.
Gog
and his huge military force came to Israel to steal and destroy; however, God
destroyed them. Now their dead bodies shall be buried in Israel. There will
be so many dead bodies and bones, it will take seven months to bury them. All
the people of the land shall bury them. Men shall be employed. After seven months
the land shall be searched for remaining bones.
AND IT SHALL COME TO PASS IN THAT DAY, THAT I WILL GIVE UNTO
GOG A PLACE THERE OF GRAVES (a burial place) IN ISRAEL, (in) THE VALLEY OF THE
PASSENGERS (or those who pass by, or travel) ON THE EAST OF THE SEA (or those
who travel east toward the sea-NIV): AND IT SHALL STOP (or block off) THE NOSES
OF THE PASSENGERS (or passers-by, or travelers) (because Gog and all his hordes
will be buried there-NIV): AND THERE SHALL THEY BURY GOG AND ALL HIS MULTITUDE:
AND THEY SHALL CALL IT THE VALLEY OF HAMON-GOG. AND SEVEN MONTHS SHALL THE HOUSE
OF ISRAEL BE BURYING OF THEM, (in order) THAT THEY MAY CLEANSE THE LAND-Ezek
39:11,12. YEA, ALL THE PEOPLE OF THE LAND SHALL BURY THEM; AND IT SHALL BE TO
THEM A RENOWN (or a memorable day) (on) THE DAY THAT I SHALL BE GLORIFIED, SAITH
THE LORD GOD. AND THEY SHALL SEVER OUT (or set apart) MEN OF CONTINUAL EMPLOYMENT,
PASSING THROUGH THE LAND TO BURY WITH THE PASSENGERS THOSE THAT REMAIN (or left)
UPON THE FACE (or surface) OF THE EARTH (or ground), TO CLEANSE IT: AFTER THE
END OF SEVEN MONTHS SHALL THEY (begin their) SEARCH. (Men will be regularly
employed to cleanse the land. Some will go throughout the land and, in addition
to them, others will bury those that remain on the ground. At the end of the
seven months they will begin their search-NIV.)
AND THE PASSENGERS (those) THAT PASS THROUGH THE LAND, WHEN
ANY SEETH A MAN'S BONE, THEN SHALL HE SET UP A SIGN (or a marker) BY IT, TILL
THE BURIERS (or gravediggers) HAVE BURIED IT IN THE VALLEY OF HAMON-GOG. AND
ALSO THE NAME OF THE CITY (or town) SHALL BE (called) HAMONAH. THUS SHALL THEY
CLEANSE THE LAND-Ezek 39:13-16.
Gog and all his multitude shall be given a place in Israel of graves
On the east of the sea
It shall be called the valley of Hamon-gog
Seven months Israel shall bury the dead
To cleanse the land
All the people shall bury them
It will be a memorable
day, the day that God is glorified
After seven months:
They shall employ men to pass through the land
They shall search the land
They shall bury those that remain
When any sees a man’s bone, they shall place a marker by it until it is buried
The city there shall be called Hamonah
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