Category: Politics

May contain information regarding world politics as it affects God’s people around the globe.

2015 October The Rise of the Final Superpower State- Israel

The Rise of the Final Superpower State- Israel

“For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed. ” – Malachi 3:6

By Mike Wingfield

The tiny nation of Israel is divinely destined to become the final superpower state. At its humble beginning in 1948, there were only 600,000 Jews living in the Promised Land when the world witnessed the revival of an ancient nation, reborn to join the nations of the world in the 20th and 21st centuries. Since its inception, this tiny nation, about the size of New Jersey, has defied conventional wisdom. Not only has it survived 67 years, but it has thrived, and confronted the entire world. God’s Word, as declared in His infallible book, the Bible, will come to pass. The power and presence of this little nation, like David facing Goliath, is destined to demonstrate to the world that there is a God in heaven.

It is not an accident that the entire world, including the Vatican and the U.S. administration, is currently collaborating on the demise of the modern nation of Israel. This is not a surprise to the Almighty! Long ago, the Psalmist declared that the leaders of the world would unite in their opposition to God’s Messiah and His eternal plans. (Psalm 2:1-3) According to the Bible, the final global attempt to wrestle the land of Israel and the city of Jerusalem from the Jewish people will take place at the end of the Tribulation Period at the Battle of Armageddon. At Armageddon, the Lord will return from heaven in all of His power and divine majesty to bring a final and lasting retribution against the evil global agenda to destroy Israel. (Zechariah 14:2-3) “For it is the day of the LORD’s vengeance, and the year of recompenses for the controversy of Zion.” (Isaiah 34:8) The divinely stated reason for God’s reckoning at Armageddon against the New World Order of the Antichrist is found in Joel 3:2. There, the Bible clearly states that the world’s final conflict at the end of this age will take place because the world will attempt to divide the Land of God and scatter the Jewish people throughout the nations. It is very apparent that we are witnessing the global policies that are attempting to invoke an order to remove the Jewish people from the West Bank (Judea and Samaria- the very heartland of the Promised Land), and the Biblical city of Jerusalem, to create another radical Islamic state — the State of Palestine. Everyone knows that the ultimate goal of all of the Muslims of the Middle East, including the Palestinians, is the complete annihilation of the Jewish nation.

Why is the world so focused upon the removal of the Jewish people from their ancient homeland, while supporting the creation of another Islamic terrorist state? The answer is found in Psalm 83. In this text, the Bible states that the “enemies of God” constantly scream out their hatred for God and “have taken crafty counsel against [the] people [of God].” (verses 2-3) “They have said, Come and let us cut them off from being a nation; that the name of Israel may be no more in remembrance. For they have consulted together with one consent: they are confederated against [God].” (verses 4-5) The evidence is abundantly clear. Our world is filled with antichrists who oppose the purposes of God for His chosen people in the Holy Land and the holy city of Jerusalem.

Amazingly, many in the professing church deny the literal interpretation of the re-gathering of the Jews to their land and the restoration of the nation of Israel as a reality in the last days. The false doctrine of replacement theology has permeated most of the teachings of the churches in America and around the world. The open rejection of the modern nation of Israel and the alignment of the professing churches with the godless governments and media of the world that support the destruction of Israel, is a demonstration of the apostasy of the church in these last days. They deny the full context of the Scriptures that clearly and repeatedly declares that the same God that scattered Israel will re-gather Israel at the end of this age. “Hear the word of the LORD, O ye nations, and declare it in the isles afar off, and say, He that scattered Israel will gather him, and keep him, as a shepherd doth his flock.” (Jeremiah 31:10)

We are now entering a very challenging period of time for the nation of Israel. Jesus described the nature of the end of this age to His Jewish disciples when He said: “And ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.” (Matthew 24:6) There has never been a nation that will face the constant barrage of hatred, ongoing threats, and attempts of annihilation like Israel will face during the Tribulation Period. The Lord revealed to the great prophet Daniel: “… and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.” (Daniel 12:1) Notice that in both of these texts, the Lord told His people to not be troubled, and promised their ultimate deliverance. The Bible is filled with many promises that the newly re-gathered nation of Israel will not be destroyed in the last days. (Isaiah 29:1-8; 41:8-13; Jeremiah 30:1-11; Ezekiel 38:18-23; Amos 9:14-15; Zechariah 12:1-9; 14:1-3, 12-15; Malachi 3:6) I want to remind us all that these words are the infallible declarations of unconditional promises given to the Jewish people by the unchanging Almighty God of the entire universe. His purposes will come to pass. (Isaiah 14:24, 26-27) He is totally sovereign over all of His creation. No one, including all of the powers of hell, can stop Him! (Daniel 4:34-35) Compared to the great Holy One of Israel, “the nations are as a drop of a bucket, and are counted as the small dust of the balance …. all nations before him are as nothing; and they are counted to him less than nothing, and vanity. … the inhabitants [of the earth] are as grasshoppers, … [He] bringeth the princes to nothing; he maketh the judges of the earth as vanity.” (Isaiah 40:15, 17, 22-23)

According to a multitude of Biblical passages, the nation of Israel is destined to become the final superpower state at the end of this age. As we consider the Biblical evidence that supports this truth, we must constantly remind ourselves that the future of the nation of Israel is not because of who they are, or the resources they possess. God’s future plan for Israel is bound up in His own glory. (Isaiah 46:9-13) While speaking about the Jewish people, the Lord said: “This people have I formed for myself; they shall show forth my praise.” (Isaiah 43:21) God has revealed that Israel’s final restoration is for “mine holy name’s sake … [that] the heathen shall know that I am the LORD.” (Ezekiel 36:22-23) Therefore, it must be concluded that the greatness of Israel as the final superpower state is bound up in the greatness of God’s Messiah, God’s eternal Son, Jesus Christ.

Israel will become the global superpower, ruling the world with justice and mercy

According to the Scriptures, at the end of the most deadly and destructive time in human history – the Tribulation Period – the Lord Jesus will supernaturally return to earth from heaven and destroy the global political systems at Armageddon. (Daniel 2:42-45; Joel 3:1-17; Zechariah 14:1-15; Revelation 19:11-20:6) After this occurs, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords will reign over all the earth for 1,000 years from Jerusalem, Israel. “And the LORD shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one LORD, and his name one.” (Zechariah 14:9) All nations, including the redeemed from current nations who are calling for Israel’s demise, will respect and submit to the rule of Israel’s Messiah. (Isaiah 60:6-12; Zechariah 14:16-19)

The Lord has decreed that His Son will rule over the nations as the sovereign dictator from His “holy hill of Zion.” (Psalm 2:6-9) The perfection and power of Israel’s global influence will reside in the nature and authority of her divine Messiah. Jesus the Messiah will be the king, legislator, and judge. (Isaiah 33:22) There will be no need for checks and balances on His government, because the King will be perfect. The government in all of its aspects will be guided by the perfect law of God, “for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.” (Isaiah 2:3) For the first time in human history, justice, mercy, truth, and peace will prevail over all the earth. “Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even forever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.” (Isaiah 9:7)

The application of God’s Word in all governmental aspects will be directed by resurrected and glorified saints, who have perfect wisdom. Within the living nation of Israel, the Messiah’s administration will include the resurrected King David as his co-regent. (Isaiah 55:3-4) Serving under King David will be the 12 apostles. (Matthew 19:28) Faithful church saints in their glorified bodies will rule over the living Gentiles in the global kingdom. (2 Timothy 2:12) Through this godly administration, justice and peace will be enforced throughout all of the nations.

Israel will become the global spiritual leader

The world has forgotten that peace, security, and prosperity are the divine rewards for those nations who worship and obey God. “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD.” (Psalm 33:12) Those who have the knowledge of God and fear Him possess wisdom for living. (Proverbs 9:10) The Bible promises that those who delight in the Lord and His Word “shall prosper.” (Psalm 1:3) In both the past and in the future, the Scriptures promised Israel that if they obeyed the Lord He would prosper them. (Joshua 1:7; Deuteronomy 28:1-14; 30:8-10)

Currently, there is a major spiritual awakening taking place in Israel. There are already more than 20,000 Messianic believers worshiping in more than 200 churches in Israel. As Israel faces growing international isolation and the threat of an Iranian nuclear attack, many Israelis are turning to the Bible for answers. In fact, Jewish Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has revived a tradition started by Israel’s first Prime Minister David Ben Gurion and is hosting a “Bible Study” at his official Jerusalem residence. Furthermore, an increasing number of Israelis are considering the possibility that Jesus Christ is the Messiah and Savior of the world. However, all of this is only a small development in light of what is about to take place.

By the end of the Tribulation Period, the entire global Jewish population will be saved. (Zechariah 12:10-13:9; Romans 11:26) The Jewish remnant will be saved while scattered among the Gentile nations. (Deuteronomy 30:1-6) There is no doubt the Lord will use the 144,000 Jewish evangelists that are saved at the beginning of the Tribulation, trained, and sent forth into the nations from Jerusalem during the first half of the Tribulation Period to evangelize the global Jewish population. (Revelation 7)

All Jews and Gentiles who enter the Millennial Kingdom will be saved. (Matthew 25:31-40) However, as the kingdom age progresses, it will be necessary for those children who are born with a depraved heart to receive the gospel and be saved. At the forefront of the global evangelism and education will be the nation of Israel.

The proclamation of the Word of God will be centered in Jerusalem. (Isaiah 2:3) The nations of the world will drink from the spiritual wells of salvation that will gush forth from the throne of the Messiah in Jerusalem. (Isaiah 12:1-6) Throughout the Kingdom Age, the redeemed of the Lord in Jerusalem will make the nations thirsty for His salvation. (Isaiah 52:7-10) The glorious light of God’s redemption will finally shine forth from Jerusalem and Israel will be a light unto the Gentiles. (Isaiah 60:1, 3) The walls of Jerusalem will be called “Salvation” and the gates will named “Praise.” (Isaiah 60:18)

The world will worship the One and only true God for 1,000 years. Other idols and gods will not be tolerated. The Lord has declared that the Gentile nations “shall come up with acceptance on mine altar, and I will glorify the house of my glory.” (Isaiah 60:7) Finally, the temple in Jerusalem will become a house of prayer for all nations. The prophet Micah wrote: “But in the last days it shall come to pass, that the mountain of the house of the LORD shall be established in the top of the mountains, and it shall be exalted above the hills, and people shall flow unto it. And many nations shall come, and say, Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, and to the house of the God of Jacob: and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for the law shall go forth of Zion, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.” (Micah 4:1-2)

The global worship of the God of Jacob, with its center at the Temple Mount in Jerusalem has been the decreed aim of God from the beginning of time. (Genesis 22:14; Deuteronomy 12:5-14) It is not a surprise that Satan has chosen the same piece of property as the center of his hellish kingdom against God. (Isaiah 14:13) Since 693 AD, the Dome of the Rock has stood on the spot that God has chosen as the center of His future kingdom on earth. The conflict that pits the god of Ishmael (Islam) against the God of Isaac continues to battle for this little 35-acre plot in Jerusalem. Finally, when Satan is cast into the bottomless pit at the beginning of the kingdom, this conflict will be over. (Revelation 20:2-3) However, when Satan is released to deceive the Gentile kingdoms one more time, notice where the rebellion takes place — Jerusalem. (Revelation 20:9) It is no surprise that those who are in league with Satan are demanding that Israel give up East Jerusalem to the Palestinians for the creation of another radical Islamic nation. The battle for the Temple Mount is really heating up. As this newsletter was being written, there were several days of violent riots on the Temple Mount. Muslims have attacked Jews and Christians who are just visiting the area. As a result, the world, including the U.S. administration, is demanding that Israel forbid Jews from entering the Temple Mount. The global appeasement on behalf of Islam certainly tells us whose side the world is on. The world preaches a message of tolerance, until it applies to Jews and Christians!

Everyone knows that the future of a nation is invested in the education of its children. The Word of God will once again become the curriculum for the education of all children in the global kingdom. “All thy children shall be taught of the LORD…” (Isaiah 54:13) Consequently, “the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.” (Isaiah 11:9)

I would like to remind all of us that the New England Primer, which was filled with Scripture, was used to teach the children of America to read for the first 200 years. One of the things that made America great in its founding years was the Biblical education of its children. They were given a godly moral foundation along with academic factual knowledge. In the last 50 years America has removed God, the Bible, and prayer from public education, and we are now reaping the results of a moral collapse.

Notice that when the global inhabitants of the kingdom are in submission to Jesus, it will result in no more war or violence. The nations will not “learn war anymore.” (Isaiah 2:4) “Violence shall no more be heard in thy land, wasting nor destruction within thy borders.” (Isaiah 60:18)

The present godless culture does not connect the dots when attempting to find a solution to the growing problems with hatred, lawlessness, rebellion, and violence. The problem is not with guns or a flag, but the real problem is the human heart! Jesus declared that murder and theft are the result of the wicked human heart. (Matthew 15:19) Only Jesus can change the human heart. Our social ills will get much worse as our culture moves further away from God and His laws of morality. There will be no change or hope until King Jesus comes to establish His kingdom of peace.

Israel will be a powerfully united nation

As one examines the nations, it is obvious that our world is in a state of confusion and lawlessness. The nations are radically divided spiritually, politically, economically, morally, and racially. America is rapidly becoming a divided nation. We are politically divided. The political partisanship within our leadership and the nation in general has blinded us. Too many Americans are busy defending their political party, rather than defending and protecting the nation. Like sheep being led to the slaughter, we are becoming a godless socialist state. We are economically divided. There is a very sharp divide between working America and those who have an entitlement mentality. We are morally divided. Those who support and those who oppose abortion and same-sex marriage are passionately opposed to each other. We are racially divided. A spirit of hate and revenge is brewing across the nation along racial lines. It is only a matter of time before America will be in a state of revolution. The evil powers that are in control are waiting for such an opportunity to seize the moment to declare martial law and take complete control of America. We must remember that Jesus said that a nation divided against itself cannot stand. (Matthew 12:25)

Recent years in Israel have illustrated that the Jewish nation also suffers from division when the security of the nation seems to be strong. However, it is very evident from the last political election in Israel that the global isolation and international threats against Jews in general and Israel in particular, are binding the Jewish people together. The growing hatred for the Jewish people and Israel is accomplishing two things: First, it is fueling the return of the Jewish exiles to their ancient homeland. Long ago, the prophet Isaiah wrote: “Fear not: for I am with thee: I will bring thy seed from the east, and gather thee from the west; I will say to the north, Give up; and to the south, Keep not back: bring my sons from far, and my daughters from the ends of the earth.” (Isaiah 43:5-6) Ultimately, at the beginning of the millennial kingdom, every Jew will come back home to live in Israel. (Ezekiel 39:25-28)

The global rejection of the Jewish people will also help to create spiritual and political unity within Israel that will continue to exist throughout the entire millennial kingdom. (Ezekiel 37:15-24) The Lord has promised: “And I will make them one nation in the land upon the mountains of Israel: and one king shall be king to them all … And David my servant shall be king over them; and they all shall have one shepherd: they shall also walk in my judgments, and observe my statutes, and do them.” (Ezekiel 37:22, 24)

Israel will become the most prosperous nation in history

I have been taking tour groups to Israel for 30 years and I have been continually amazed at the prosperity and growth that is taking place in Israel. Israel has a growing high-tech economy. The Jewish state has proven itself as an innovative nation in the latest computer technology, agriculture advancements and techniques, and medical research and achievements. Israel is also a world leader in the creation and manufacture of military weaponry. On any given day, Israel has one of the strongest economies and currencies in the world. The recent discoveries of several large natural gas fields off the coast of Israel have given Israel the energy it needs to be energy independent and to develop as a world-class economic leader in the 21st century.

According to Ezekiel 38:12-13, it will be the wealth and food in Israel that will tempt Russia, Iran, Turkey, and other nations to attack Israel. However, all of this current wealth is only the prelude to what will unfold in Israel during the millennial kingdom.

Israel is currently spending about 14 percent, about $15 billion, of its annual budget on defense. One can only imagine what would take place if these funds could be directed toward agriculture. This is exactly what will take place in the kingdom. Isaiah predicted that during the kingdom Israelis will “beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning-hooks.” (Isaiah 2:4)

The land of Israel will become a lush garden, “like the Garden of Eden.” (Ezekiel 36:35) “He shall cause them that come of Jacob to take root: Israel shall blossom and bud and fill the face of the world with fruit.” (Isaiah 27:6) The millennial Israel will experience miraculous expansion and growth of infrastructure and construction of cities and highways. (Psalm 102:16; Isaiah 19:23-24; Ezekiel 36:33, 35; Amos 9:14)

The collective wealth in the final global superpower will surpass anything ever accomplished in all of human history. The business that Israel will conduct with the Gentile nations will cause the Jewish state to become the economic giant of the ages. The transfer of wealth from the Gentile nations to Israel will be staggering. (Isaiah 60:6, 16) The Lord has promised: “For brass I will bring gold, and for iron I will bring silver, and for wood brass, and for stones iron.” (Isaiah 60:17)

My friend, it should be crystal clear that we are living in a world in rebellion against God. We are watching the final conflict that is leading the nations of the world to Armageddon. At the heart of that conflict is Israel and its land. God has supernaturally called His chosen people back home to Israel and has caused them to thrive. We are witnessing the final drama that is leading to the beginning of the Tribulation Period. It is only a matter of time!

In light of all of this, we must be ready for the shout that will take us out!

As the Free-World Collapses

For those who study history and follow the trends in current events, it is abundantly clear that the free world and its flag-ship nation, the United States, are in the final stages of collapse. It is obvious that the enemies of the free-world are acting like sharks that smell blood and are preparing for the attack. Russia, Iran, North Korea, China, and various groups within the Islamic world are poised to take over the world when the United States officially falls from its superpower status. The United States and Europe are politically divided, morally corrupt, economically bankrupt, and spiritually pagan. To this we must add that both the U.S. and Europe are operating in the spirit of political appeasement and military retreat. All of these are signs of weakness.

Russia is making its move in Europe and the Middle East to flex its military muscle, almost daring anyone to stop them. No one has hindered them from taking eastern Ukraine. Now, Russia and Iran have agreed to come to the military aid of their friends in Syria. A DEBKAfile report on September 13, revealed that Russia and Iran agreed at the end of July to send a massive military buildup of marines, air force units, warships and missiles to northern Syria. “Russian forces are streaming to Latakia, and Moscow has declared the area from Tartous, Syria up to Cyprus closed to shipping and air traffic from Sept. 15 to Oct. 7 in view of a ‘military exercise including test firings of guided missiles’ from Russian warships.” (DEBKAfile, September 13, 201) For those of us who study the prophetic Scriptures, this has set off a major alarm. According to Ezekiel 38, Russia and Iran, along with other allies from Turkey, Libya, and Sudan, will invade Israel in the last days. These troops are now occupying the same area from which they will invade Israel!

The same DEBKAfile reported that Russian President Vladimir Putin called Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu in July and offered to help militarily guard the newly discovered gas fields in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Israel. Obviously, it was his plan to cash in on the billions that will be made from the exports of the natural gas now operated by Israel. It is worth noting that Putin never revealed to Netanyahu his plans for the military buildup with the Iranians in Syria. Netanyahu never responded to Putin’s offer. Once again, all of this is very important in relationship to Ezekiel 38, which indicates that one of the major reasons for the Russian/Iranian invasion of Israel is to plunder Israel of its wealth. (Ezekiel 38:12-13)

In addition to these concerns, on September 15th USA Today reported: “North Korea … has restarted operations at its atomic bomb fuel production plants, …. it is fully ready to use nuclear weapons against the United States.”

Europe is facing another immediate threat to its survival as a part of the free world. It has been known for decades that Europe is suffering from a serious demographic time bomb. Native Europeans are not having enough children to sustain control of their future political destiny. Many have observed that the growing Islamic immigration and natural birth rates of Muslims in Europe will finally overwhelm the continent in the coming decades. However, the steady stream of Muslim refugees that are currently fleeing the war-torn Middle East is speeding up this threat. Millions of Muslims are fleeing Libya, Syria, and Iraq. Hundreds of thousands are trying to enter Europe. No one can estimate at this point the impact this mass exodus of Muslims will have economically and demographically upon their host countries.

Radical Muslim leaders are praying that this will speed up the demise of Europe by flooding Europe with Muslims, making it a part of the Islamic world. John McTernan, the founder of Defend and Proclaim the Faith ministries and an expert in Biblical prophecy, recently commented about a fiery sermon that a top Imam, Sheikh Muhammad Ayed, gave at the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem: “Speaking at the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, Ayed stated that European countries were not rolling out the red carpet for migrants because they were compassionate, but because Europe was in dire need of a new source of labor. ‘Europe has become old and decrepit and needs human reinforcement….they are not motivated by compassion for the Levant, its people and its refugees,’ said Ayed, adding, ‘Soon, we will trample them underfoot, Allah willing.’

‘Throughout Europe, all the hearts are enthused with hatred toward Muslims. They wish that we were dead, but they have lost their fertility, so they look for fertility in our midst,’ he added. ‘We will give them fertility! We will breed children with them, because we shall conquer their countries!’ Ayed stated that ‘whether you like it or not,’ Americans, Italians, Germans, and the French will be forced to take the ‘refugees’. ‘We shall soon collect them in the name of the coming Caliphate. We will say to you: these are our sons. Send them, or we will send our armies to you,’ concluded Ayed.” (http://defendproclaimthefaith.org/blog/?p=35400, September 18, 2015)

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2015 – August – The Moral Demise of America

The Moral Demise of America

“If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?” – Psalm 11:3

By Mike Wingfield

America’s future is like a run-away train careening down a steep mountain track without any means to stop or slow down its momentum. The ultimate crash is inevitable. The train will be destroyed, and all passengers will suffer death or severe injury. It is only a matter of time!

On June 26, just a few days before Americans celebrated their declaration of independence, the U.S. Supreme Court voted to make it a law that all same-sex marriages would be recognized as legally acceptable in all 50 states. As disciples of Jesus Christ who firmly believe the Bible is our final authority in all matters pertaining to life, we are deeply saddened by the Supreme Court’s deadly and foolish decision.

Most Americans, including Christians, do not understand the gravity of this recent decision by the Supreme Court. It is true that our nation has been sliding down the slippery slope of gross immorality for many decades. However, this recent decision by the highest court in the land has come after weeks of deliberate debate and thoughtful consideration. This nation has legally and willfully committed itself to stand in opposition to the eternal commandments of the Holy God of the Bible.

The Lord has ordained that civil government promote His moral laws, in effect, punishing those who practice evil. (Romans 13:1-7) In essence, human government is to operate as the “minister of God” to restrain evil within a society. (See 1 Timothy 2:2) Therefore, with this decision to legally recognize same-sex marriage in America, our nation is removing all moral restraints to a sinful lifestyle that God calls an abomination. The consequences will be deadly and destructive to this nation!

In order to understand the truth that supports these statements, let us look at five Biblical considerations:

The Divine Decree of Good and Evil

Anyone who has read the Bible knows that it is filled with many divine moral commandments. All Biblical moral statements flow out of the character and nature of our holy God. When something is pleasing to God, He declares it to be good. When something is offensive to Him, He declares it to be evil.

The very eternal and infinite essence of the nature of God is summed up in the word “holy.” He declares that His name is holy. (Psalm 111:9) To say He is holy is to proclaim that He is morally perfect and pure. His holiness also declares that He is infinitely set apart from all of His creation. He is set apart in time, space, and matter. (Isaiah 57:15) Only God is perfectly and eternally holy. And, He cannot change! He has declared: “For I am the LORD, I change not.” (Malachi 3:6)

God is holy, or good. Everything He has done is good. At the end of each creative day in the beginning, He said what He had done was “good.” (Genesis 1:4, 10, 12, 18, 21, 25, 31) 1 John 1:5 declares: “God is light [holy or good], and in him is no darkness [sin or evil] at all.” James 1:13 says that “God cannot be tempted with evil.” God cannot sin. “…far be it from God, that he should do wickedness; and from the Almighty, that he should commit iniquity.” (Job 34:10)

All of God’s Word, the written revelation we call the Bible, is eternally true, perfect, and pure. (Psalm 19:7-9; Matthew 5:18) God’s Word cannot be changed, or altered by anyone. (Proverbs 30:5-6; John 10:35) Those who tamper with changing or altering God’s Word will face divine judgment. (Revelation 22:18-19) The Bible has complete and final authority in all matters. (Psalm 119:89; Isaiah 55:11; 2 Timothy 3:16-17)

Therefore, it is defiant, open rebellion to suppress, change, or discredit the Word of God. Read Psalm 2:1-3. This is exactly what is happening in America at this very hour. The highest court in our land has just declared acceptable what God says is an abomination and wicked! Now, read Psalm 2:4-12 to see what God says He will do when nations rebel against Him and reject His commandments.

The Need for Restraint from Evil

All sin and wickedness are deadly. (Romans 6:23) All sin seems normal and natural to the wicked human heart. (Proverbs 14:12) Evil resides in the inner man of every person from the days of their childhood. In Genesis 8:21, God affirmed: “for the imagination of man’s heart is evil from his youth.”

Human beings are not spiritually good. They are evil. In Romans 3, the Holy Spirit takes all of humanity into the courtroom of God and proclaims that “all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23) While examining the evidence that leads to this verdict, the Scriptures expose the evil human heart with these words: “There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one. Their throat is an open sepulcher; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips: Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness: Their feet are swift to shed blood: Destruction and misery are in their ways: And the way of peace have they not known: There is no fear of God before their eyes.” (Romans 3:10-18) Jeremiah 17:9 declares, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?”

Contrary to modern thinking, we are not the product of our environment. According to the Bible, we were all conceived and born with a deadly sin nature that is bent toward rebellion against God and all of His moral standards. (Psalm 51:5; 58:3) Jesus, who knows everything about us, revealed our evil nature when He said: “For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornication, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: These are the things which defile a man.” (Matthew 15:19-20) Sin is always lurking within the soul of man. Without a divine moral restraint, our daily lifestyle would be filled with evil thoughts, actions, and words.

We must realize that the greatest danger to mankind is man himself. The first death was the result of Cain murdering his brother. (Genesis 4:8) The pages of history are filled with bloody conflicts that range from the personal to the global. On any given day, we all face the possibility of being killed by another person. In 14 centuries, Islamic jihadists have murdered 270 million innocent people. (www.freerepublic.com/focus/news/3010498/posts) It is estimated that 100 million people were killed by Communists in the 20th century. The death toll during World War I was 17 million. In World War II, 60 million were killed. Needless to say, these statistics do not give us a complete picture of all of the brutality, violence, destruction, and misery produced by war and terrorism.

In America, there seems to be no safe haven from violence. People are being killed in their mother’s womb, in their home, at school, on the road, at work, or at a shopping mall. In the latest issue of the American Hunter, Wayne La Pierre, the Executive Vice President of the National Rifle Association, comments: “Violence in the nation’s inner cities is spiraling out of control, smothering the lives of innocent citizens, who live in constant fear of the thugs who rule their street and neighborhoods.” (Wayne La Pierre, American Hunter, August 2015, p. 12)

We know that the Lord is looking down from His heaven and He sees all of the good and evil every day. (Proverbs 15:3) I am sure that His heart is grieved as He sees the hatred, violence, rape, terrorism, and bullying that is pervading every facet of our culture in most of the nations, and especially here in America. If we stop to think about all of this, we can conclude that man’s most threating enemy is not natural disasters or diseases; it is man himself.

The Divine Means of Restraint

The Lord hates violence, murder, and war. The second most important commandment in the Bible is: “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” (Matthew 22:39) The Lord has instructed us: “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” (Romans 12:18)

Consequently, the Bible teaches that the Lord has established several means of restraint to keep evil at a minimum in a society. On a personal level, the Lord has given every person a conscience to instruct and warn them concerning the consequences of evil choices. (Romans 2:14-15) We are instructed to feed our conscience the Word of God so that it will instruct us to fear God and to hate evil. (Psalm 119:11, 30, 38, 105, 133) At the same time we are commanded to guard our conscience from evil influences. (Proverbs 4:23-27) The Bible teaches that this is vital to our protection from evil, and to the promotion of a godly walk with God. (Proverbs 4:23; 1 Timothy 1:5) According to the Bible, when a person does not heed their conscience, it will defile, weaken, and silence his inner spiritual warning system. After constantly suppressing the Word of God and the persistent warning of his conscience, a person reaches a point where his conscience stops functioning. (Romans 1:18-28; 2 Timothy 4:3) It is at this point that the Spirit of God stops striving with him (Genesis 6:3), and God gives him over to his own sinful desires. In essence, this person is open to demonic possession (1 Timothy 4:1-3) and inverts reality, calling evil good, and good evil. Love is replaced with hate. Gentleness is superseded by brutality. Obedience is traded for lawlessness. Moral purity is substituted with sexual immorality. The love for life is supplanted with a bizarre and unnatural attraction of death. At the final end of this road of death, God becomes Satan and Satan becomes a god.

To help promote a godly conscience, God has chosen to place humans, unlike animals, under the guardian protection of their parents for many years. The role of the parent is to prepare their children to live independently of them. Parents must prepare their children for adulthood to function in the world in which they live. At the heart of all of this God has ordained that parents are to shape the conscience of their children. (Proverbs 4-6) This is vital to the child’s future, both now and in eternity. According to God’s divine plan, parents are to promote a godly conscience by modeling and teaching their child the Word of God on a daily basis. (Deuteronomy 6:1-9) They are to protect their child from evil influences that defile their child’s conscience. Godly parents will always protect their children by overseeing their education, choice of friends, books they read, programs they watch, music they hear, games they play, and the church they attend.

The Lord has also chosen the church to be a very vital restraining influence in a society. Godly believers, living out the holy Word of God, act as salt and light in their world of darkness and decadence. (Matthew 5:13-16) As light, we impact the consciences of those around us, reminding them of the holiness of God. As salt, we act as a restraining influence as we promote and model God’s moral standards. Consequently, the church is to be set apart from the world in its message and in the lifestyles of its members, reflecting the holy standards of God. When the church begins to follow or copy the world’s godless lifestyle, it ceases to restrain that society from evil.

As professing churches in America ordain homosexuals for leadership in the church, they are defying God’s moral laws and in effect defiling the conscience of America concerning sexual immorality. The Bible teaches that those who lead the church are to watch over the souls of those in their flock, because they will give an account to the Lord on the judgment day. (Hebrews 13:17) Leaders in the church are to meet strict godly requirements because as shepherds they lead their flock by their personal example. (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9; 1 Peter 5:1-6) It is my personal opinion that this lies at the core of America’s departure from the Lord.

God has also called human government to be a tool for helping to shape a godly moral conscience in a culture. (Romans 13:1-5; 1 Timothy 2:1-2; 1 Peter 2:13-14) All human governments have been ordained by God to promote God’s moral laws as a “minister of God to [their society] for good.” (Romans 13:4) Governments are to protect their citizens from evil by executing “wrath upon him that doeth evil.” (Romans 13:4) When governments reverse good and evil and punish the righteous and reward the wicked, they cease to be a restraining influence on evil and begin to promote a lifestyle that destroys the collective conscience of their citizens. When this happens, that society will become lawless, violent, brutal, sensual, wicked, deceitful, arrogant, and filled with hate. (Romans 1:29-31)

The Wickedness of Sexual Immorality

The Lord has created us as sexual creatures. He looks with approval upon sex within the marriage covenant of a man and woman. (Hebrews 13:4) He performed the first marriage between Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. (Genesis 1:27-28; 2:21-23) God instituted the divine pattern of marriage with the words: “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” (Genesis 2:24) During His earthly ministry, Jesus taught about marriage by quoting from the first two chapters in Genesis. (Matthew 19:4-6) God’s design and purposes for marriage have not changed since the beginning of time. And, they never will!

The Lord has given us our sexuality within marriage for procreation (Genesis 1:28) and pleasure. (Proverbs 5:15-19) His revelation consistently condemns all sexual activity outside the covenant of a marriage of a man and woman. The seventh commandment declares, “Thou shalt not commit adultery.” (Exodus 20:14) The moral law that God gave to Israel clearly forbade all sexual activity outside of marriage, and declared it to be wicked, and an offense to God. (Leviticus 20:10-21)

The Lord explicitly declared that same-sex activity was an abomination in His eyes. (Leviticus 18:22; 20:13) The Hebrew words translated “abomination” communicate that the activity mentioned is a stench in the nostrils of God. It is something He passionately detests. The Bible also states that homosexuality is “wicked.” (Genesis 13:13; 18:23, 25; 19:7; 2 Peter 2:7) The Hebrew word translated wicked speaks of moral confusion that “confounds all right and wrong, just and unjust, truth and falsehood, good and evil; or to think and act as if there were no difference of persons, things, or actions.” (William Wilson, Old Testament Word Studies, p. 481) According to the Bible, those who commit acts of wickedness are always in opposition to God and are headed for divine judgment. (Psalm 10:4, 6, 11; Psalm 11:5-6) Please notice that when God indicted the generation of Noah’s day that would be destroyed in the global flood, He said: “And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” (Genesis 6:5)

Homosexuality is the ultimate expression of self-love. Its aim is sexual self-gratification. Self-love is one of the defining sins of the last days. Its promotion will set in motion a perilous time of lawlessness when people will reject the authority of God. (2 Timothy 3:1-9)

In Romans 1, homosexuality (see verses 26-27) is viewed as the final mark of a culture that is suppressing the word of God (verse 18), and has reached a point where their collective conscience “was darkened.” (verse 21) In divine judgment, the Lord repeatedly declares that He has given this culture over to their depraved way of thinking to destroy themselves as they enjoy their destructive sins. (verses 24-32) In essence, this culture is void of a godly conscience and is in a mode of self-destruction.

When a culture has reached this spiritual point of no return, it makes the ministry of the church very difficult. Without a conscience, the Spirit of God cannot strive with man (Genesis 6:3) to bring him to repentance. True godly salvation always begins with guilt and shame over one’s sin against the very God that loves him and died for him. This is the initial work of the Holy Spirit in the heart of the sinner. Jesus reminded His disciples that when the Holy Spirit would come, He would, “reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment.” (John 16:8) So, “If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?” (Psalm 11:3) The true church must depend upon the work of the Holy Spirit in the conscience of man, to prepare the heart of man to receive the Word of God. (Matthew 13:1-23) The aim of this effectual Word of God is a change in the heart of man, transforming him into the image of Christ. (James 1:21-25)

This is the Prelude to Persecution

When a culture reaches the point when its collective conscience is seared, it will promote evil, and reject that which is righteous or good. As previously mentioned, this makes the ministry of the church very difficult. Psalm 11:3 says, “If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?” Notice that in the context of Psalm 11, when a society reaches the point of no return, the wicked will attack the righteous. “For, lo, the wicked bend their bow, they make ready their arrow upon the string, that they may [in the darkness of their heart] shoot at the upright in heart.” (Psalm 11:2)

When the consciences of men have been darkened, they hate the light that exposes their sin. Jesus said: “And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For everyone that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.” (John 3:19-20) Notice that Jesus said that those who are living in darkness will reject and hate the light. Several years later, as Jesus was about to die and leave His disciples, He warned them of the world’s violent rejection that would be aimed at them. (John 15:18-16:4) In this text, Jesus warned His disciples that the world would hate them and eventually kill them because, as light, they would expose the sins of men.

The Bible teaches that hatred in the heart of a man will usually lead to murder. (1 John 3:15) This especially happens in a culture that has reached the spiritual point of no return, when reality has been inverted, and good becomes evil and evil becomes good.

Friends, some very dark days lie ahead for America and the true church in America. Every restraining influence the Lord has created is being weakened and destroyed. Our marriages and homes are collapsing. Our churches are adopting the wicked American culture as their standard. Our government has now willfully determined to promote wickedness in America. We can expect more lawlessness, perversion of God’s laws, hatred and violence, and the promotion of all forms of sexual sins.

According to the prophetic Word of God, these days are setting the stage for the most horrific time ever on planet earth. (Matthew 24:6-22) As people who thirst after righteousness, peace, and moral purity we don’t have much hope for this present generation or our world in general. As the perilous times close in on us, we can take refuge in the promises of God. He has promised to those who keep His Word: “I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.” (Revelation 3:10) Jesus is coming at any hour to take us out of this godless world and into His glorious presence. When He takes the true light and salt out of this world, there will be no restraining influence left to obstruct evil. (2 Thessalonians 2:6-7) “And then shall that Wicked [lawless one- the Antichrist] be revealed.” (2 Thessalonians 2:8) The Antichrist will promote lawlessness. He will promote hate, violence, murder, deception, and the worship of Satan. (2 Thessalonians 2:9-10)

After seven long years of lawlessness, wickedness, and violence, the Lord will return to establish His kingdom upon this earth. There has never been a purer and more powerful restraining influence in this world than the Messiah, who will reign over the nations of the world from His throne in Jerusalem. His law will go forth from Jerusalem. (Isaiah 2:3) There will be no more violence or war. (Isaiah 2:4; 60:18) “The earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD as the waters cover the sea.” (Isaiah 11:9) Jesus will not tolerate any lawlessness because He will rule the world with the sharp sword of His Word, and “a rod of iron.” (Revelation 19:15) Finally, the light and glory of the Lord will shine forth over all the earth. (Isaiah 60:1)

As we long for our king, let us cry out: “Even so, come, Lord Jesus.” (Revelation 22:20) “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.” (Matthew 6:10) Until then, remember: “Behold, the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy.” (Psalm 33:18) May our Lord give us great wisdom as we wait with great hope for His return! Be ready for the shout that will take us out!

If you are not saved, now is the time to call out in repentance and ask the Lord to save you, before it is too late!

The Deadly Iranian Deal

The Western powers, led by the U.S. administration, have concluded their negotiations with Iran concerning its nuclear program. Anyone who understands the publically stated goals of the apocalyptic radical Iranian Shiite leadership knows that this final agreement is a grave mistake. This plan demonstrates that the Obama administration has accepted Iran as the new regional leader in the Middle East. An article by Efraim Inbar, a professor of political studies at Bar-Ilan University, and the director of the Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies, and a fellow at the Middle East Forum, states: “The American decision to accept Iran as a nuclear-threshold state, and Obama’s statements in favor of a ‘responsible Iranian role’ in the region, accompanied by an inflated American threat perception of ISIS – signal a most significant change in American Middle East foreign policy. This accord marks an end to Iran’s regional isolation. Instead, America seems to be siding with the Shiites against Sunnis. This move changes dramatically the regional balance of power, instilling even greater uncertainty in regional politics.” (www.meforum.org/5381/israel-iran-war, July 15, 2015)

This agreement ignores the Iranian role in terrorist activities against Israel and the Sunni Muslims in the region. It makes no demands for Iran to change its course as a terrorist state and treats it as a normal state in the most dangerous region in the world.

In essence, Iran is allowed to continue with its nuclear program without any significant restrictions. “US Secretary of State John Kerry has in fact admitted that Iran might be just three months away from a nuclear bomb within the framework of the nuclear agreement. In doing so, the US has totally ignored UN Security Council Resolution 1696 of July 2006, which demanded that Iran suspend enrichment activities, as well as American demands for the dismantlement of the nuclear facilities.” (www.besacenter.org/perspectives-papers/six-strikes-against-the-nuclear-deal-with-iran/, July 15, 2015)

Within a few days after this agreement, large crowds gathered in Tehran chanting “Death to America,” and “Death to Israel.” In spite of this stated aggression, on Monday, July 21, the UN Security Council unanimously passed a resolution to accept the Iranian accord.

“Israeli Ambassador to the UN, Ron Prosor, highlighted [the] UN decision as ‘a very sad day’ because the international community ‘awarded a great prize to the most dangerous country in the world. … In future years, the consequences of this mistake will become clear to all. But for Israel, tomorrow is already too late.” (www.breakingisraelnews.com/45621/irans-deputy-fm-p51-knew-keep-arming-allies-middle-east/#cubyIOejPBtWg7Qv.99)

This deal has demonstrated the political weakness and spiritual foolishness of the United States to the entire world. It has set in motion a dangerous proliferation of nuclear weapons in the most dangerous region in the world. The only hope for the region and the world against this deadly decision is an Israeli intervention to temporarily halt Iran’s march toward acquiring a nuclear weapon. Israel cannot afford to wait much longer because they know they are Iran’s primary target. Pray for the Lord to give great wisdom to the Israeli leadership, which seems to be united in their assessment of this Iranian threat.

This agreement with Iran by the United States and other Western powers has radically altered the future of our world. As many of you know, I have been writing about these developments for a number of years. I personally believe that this situation has the potential to drastically change the course of events in the Middle East and the entire world. It could likely set in motion a series of events that could suddenly and uniquely set the stage for the end-time events, and especially the Gog and Magog invasion of Israel mentioned in Ezekiel 38-39

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June/July 2015 – ISIS- Is this the Prelude to the End?

ISIS- Is this the Prelude to the End?

“And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea…” Revelation 13:1

By Mike Wingfield

When the governments of this world use the authority of God, and combine it with the power of Satan, the result is always deadly. No one has any right to rule over man outside the authority of God. (Romans 13:1) God alone has authority over His creation. From the beginning of time until the time of the flood, God gave man authority over all of His creation, with the exception of mankind. (Genesis 1:26-28) However, due to a time of deadly violence that erupted in the generations before the flood (Genesis 6:11-13), God instituted human government immediately after the flood. (Genesis 9:5-6) God has ordained that governmental leadership act on His behalf to protect and defend human life, and to promote peace. (Romans 13:3-4; 1 Timothy 2:2) God has ordained that those who operate under the authority of human government promote what He calls “good,” and “execute wrath” upon those who practice what He calls “evil.” (Romans 13:4)

However, when those who are acting on behalf of an organized human government promote violence and murder of innocent human beings, they are acting like their spiritual father, Satan, whom Jesus said was “a murderer from the beginning.” (John 8:44) When these governments espouse a culture of random violence and destruction of all those who oppose their wicked and godless ways, they are acting like beasts that have no conscience.

Long ago, the Holy Spirit directed Daniel to write about the evil kingdoms of this world and depicted them as beasts that devour mankind for their own political ambitions. (Daniel 7:1-26) Because of the revelation of these beastly governments, Daniel was disturbed. (Daniel 7:15, 28)

About 700 years later, the Lord revealed to the Apostle John that the final kingdom of this world, the kingdom of the Antichrist, will appear on the scene as a beast that “shall ascend out of the bottomless pit.” (Revelation 17:8) The beastly government of the Antichrist will receive its power and authority directly from Satan. (Revelation 13:1-2) Instead of the people fearing this beastly government, John wrote that “all the world wondered after the beast. And they worshipped the dragon [Satan] which gave power unto the beast.” (Revelation 13:3-4)

In light of all of this, it has been most alarming for me to observe the sudden appearance of the radical Islamic State, also called ISIS (“The Islamic State of Iraq and al-sham”) or ISIL (“the Islamic State of the Levant”). ISIS is more than a terrorist entity. ISIS is a highly organized government that controls large swaths of land in Syria and Iraq, with Raqqa, Syria as its capital. Their leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, has declared himself to be the caliph (Islamic dictator), establishing a caliphate (a system of Islamic government based upon the Koran) over all the global Sunni Muslims, which accounts for about 80 percent of all Muslims. ISIS is the richest terrorist group in the world, with a reported income of more than $1 million per day. Their jihadi militia has stunned the entire world with its brutal blitzkrieg and savagery across the Middle East. They have shown no mercy to anyone who has opposed their apocalyptic view of Islam, which is a blueprint copy of the religion founded by Mohammed.

ISIS has captured the attention of the entire world. It is using the global media to spread images of its brutality and savagery. Hangings, shootings, decapitations, crucifixions, burnings, and other bizarre forms of torture and death are their trademark.

After many years of focusing on the prophetic Word of God, one of the things I have attempted to do is get a Biblical grasp of the nature of the kingdom of the Antichrist. With this in mind, it has occurred to me that when we observe the nature, activities and methods of ISIS, they appear to be a small-scale duplication of the atrocities that will be carried out by the Antichrist during the 7-year Tribulation Period. Without repeating the Biblical evidence, I remind you that in previous newsletters I have repeatedly written about my conviction that the Antichrist will be a Muslim. In all probability, he will be the same as the long-awaited Mahdi that the Muslim world expects to appear at any moment. Muslims also believe that their messiah will be accompanied by Isa (Jesus), or al- Masih (the messiah). They teach that Isa will help their messiah promote Islam, break crosses, and kill Jews and Christians. It is obvious that their Isa will be the false prophet mentioned in Revelation 13:11-15. With all of this in mind, let me share with you 14 amazing parallels between ISIS and the coming kingdom of the Antichrist.

  • Their Sudden Appearance

According to the Bible, Satan’s antichrist will suddenly appear on the scene after the church has been raptured to heaven. As the Apostle Paul responded to the church of the Thessalonians in the first century, he had to deal with a false rumor “that the day of Christ is at hand.” (2 Thessalonians 2:2) These believers were disturbed because they thought they were in the Tribulation Period. Paul’s answer to them in the following verses offers Biblical evidence that this was impossible. “Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day [the beginning of the Tribulation Period] shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition.” (2 Thessalonians 2:3) Paul was simply telling the church that the Tribulation Period cannot begin until the Antichrist is revealed. As a matter of fact, it will be the action of the Antichrist with his confirmation of a peace treaty with Israel that will begin the Tribulation Period. (Daniel 9:27) Apparently, for all believers who are focused upon the Word of God, it will be this action that will reveal to them that he is the Antichrist. Before this time, no one will be able to identify the Antichrist. In other words, the Antichrist will suddenly arrive on the stage of human history, riding on a white horse. (Revelation 6:2)

Many years ago, it occurred to me that this is an exact counterfeit duplication of the beginning of our Lord’s earthly ministry as recorded in the gospels. Jesus was born and raised in obscurity. He performed no miracles and did not preach until after He suddenly appeared at the age of 30 to be baptized by John the Baptist. When John saw Jesus coming, he announced to the crowds that had come to hear him preach: “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” (John 1:29) When Jesus was baptized, the Holy Spirit came upon Jesus, “descending from heaven like a dove.” (John 1:32) John reported that the Holy Spirit used the appearance of the dove to give him evidence that Jesus was the Son of God. (John 1:33-34)

The sudden appearance of ISIS on the stage of human history is remarkably similar. Late last summer, ABC news reported: “Born from an especially brutal al Qaeda faction, the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) has grown from relative obscurity in recent years to overshadow its extremist patrons. It now terrorizes large swaths of Syria and Iraq, and has become the target of the largest U.S. military operation in Iraq in years …” (ABC News, August 21, 2014)

  • Their Home Base in Iraq

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The prophetic Scriptures indicate the Islamic kingdom of the Antichrist will be centered in Iraq. The modern nation of Iraq was known in the Bible as “Babylon.” With this in mind, notice Isaiah 14. In this text, the Antichrist, with all of his violence and destruction, (verses 15-20) is shown as being in league with Lucifer. (verses 12-14) We learn from the book of Revelation that at the mid-point of the Tribulation Period, the Antichrist will be killed and descend into hell. (Revelation 13:3, 12, 14; 17:8) It seems to me, that Isaiah 14 gives us amazing insight into the reception of the Antichrist when he joins many in hell that he had murdered during the first half of the Tribulation Period. After his brief time in hell, the Antichrist will be resurrected back to life and be indwelt by Satan, after he is finally banished from heaven. (Revelation12:9-12) Notice that in this text, the Antichrist is called “the king of Babylon,” (verse 4) and “the Assyrian” [northern Iraq]. (see verse 25) Both of these titles reflect that the Antichrist will rule the world from Iraq.

In addition to Isaiah 14, Revelation 17-18 attaches the Antichrist and his kingdom, depicted as the beast with seven heads and 10 horns, with the religious harlot known as “Mystery Babylon the Great.” (Revelation 17:5) The great city mentioned in this text is identified as “that great city Babylon” (18:10, 21) It is shocking to realize that Islam teaches that their Mahdi will rule the world from Babylon, Iraq for 7 years.

In light of all of this, it is amazing to note that ISIS, based upon their Islamic teaching, has purposefully declared that Iraq is their home base for their jihad warfare against the world. At this time, they control most of the northwestern area of Iraq, which is the area dominated by the Sunni Muslims.

  • Their Territorial and Global Goals

When the Antichrist arrives on the scene at the beginning of the Tribulation Period, he will have a crown [political authority] given unto him, and he will go forth “conquering, and to conquer.” (Revelation 6:2) We have to examine Daniel 7 to understand what this means. In Daniel 7, the prophet reveals his divine dream of the final kingdom of the world that will precede the Kingdom of God. This final kingdom is described symbolically as a beast with ten horns. (see verse 8) In verse 23, the Spirit of God gives us the interpretation of this symbolism. The 10 horns represent 10 kings (or political power structures) that will be in control of “the whole earth.” (verse 23) This is confirmed by John’s revelation in Revelation 17:12-13. After these 10 horns appear, they are followed by a “little horn,” which is the Antichrist. (Daniel 7:8, 24) Then, the little horn will take control of three of these 10 horns by force. (Daniel 7:8, 24) It is apparent that the Antichrist wages war against the remaining 7 horns until he subdues them by the mid-point of the Tribulation Period. It will be at this point in time that power will be given him “over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.” (Revelation 13:7)

Thus, the Scriptures indicate that the Antichrist will ride onto the stage of human history and begin to make war with a one-world government joined together in 10 political divisions. At the beginning, he will take control of three of these divisions. Using this as a regional political power base, he will make war with the rest of the world until he has conquered all nations.

As you examine the revealed strategies of ISIS, this is exactly what they have determined to accomplish. They have published their map showing their regional goal as including all of the “Levant.” This area covers western Asia, the Middle Eastern area unto the Mediterranean Sea, and northern Africa. In other words, this area covers the present Muslim nations in the region, plus Israel. The ultimate prizes in their regional ambitions are Israel and Saudi Arabia. From this power base, ISIS hopes to conqueror the entire world and establish a global Caliphate (a global Islamic Empire). This is an exact duplicate of the strategies of the Antichrist as mentioned above.

  • Their Method of Destruction

The wars of the Antichrist will bring great global destruction. The forces of the Antichrist will “devour the whole earth, and shall tread it down, and break it in pieces.” (Daniel 7:23) The Bible describes what the Antichrist will do to the cities of the nations while he is carrying out jihad to take control of the nations. He “made the earth to tremble, that did shake kingdoms; That made the world as a wilderness, and destroyed the cities thereof.” (Isaiah 14:17) His might will appear to be supernatural, making destruction his trademark. (Daniel 8:24)

Once again, this is exactly what ISIS is presently doing throughout the Middle East. ISIS uses savage force and brutality to conquer territories. ISIS has shocked the entire Islamic world by declaring “that they will destroy the Kaaba in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, which is Islam’s most holy site.” (http://www.huffingtonpost.com) The ultimate goal of ISIS is to destroy western civilization as we know it. They want to literally take us back to a primitive way of life that existed in the 7th century when Islam was born.

  • Their Leaders Declare a Global Dictatorship

As mentioned above, the ultimate goal of the Antichrist is to take control of the nations for Allah, declaring a global Caliphate. The goal of Islam is to develop a massive army and declare jihad on all infidels (non-Muslims). The goal is to expand the rule of Islam until it covers the entire earth. Then, their Caliph (dictator who will rule by Shariah law) will be the ruler of the world.

When the Antichrist and the False Prophet have finally gained complete control of all nations, they will rule over the world for 42 months (the last half of the Tribulation Period). (Revelation 13:15) At that point in time, the Antichrist will break his covenant with Israel. (Daniel 9:27). He will demand that all of the world worship him, and set up a program whereby he can control the economic affairs of every person on earth. (Revelation13:12-18) Those who refuse to submit to him will be killed. (Revelation 13:5)

In a similar fashion, the leader of ISIS, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, declared himself the Caliph of the Islamic world on June 24, 2014. All those who live in the areas controlled by ISIS that do not submit, are brutally murdered. ISIS is taking control of the economic systems of Iraq and Syria. They are seizing banks, oil fields, and airports. Baghdadi has made it clear that their ambitions include all nations.

  • Their Dedication to a God of War

More than 2,500 years ago, the ancient prophet of Daniel wrote that the Antichrist “in his estate shall … honor the God of forces …. Thus shall he do in the most strong holds with a strange god, whom he shall acknowledge and increase with glory: and he shall cause them to rule over many …” (Daniel 11:38-39) The military successes of the Antichrist will be so powerful, that the world will be asking, “Who is able to make war with him?” (Revelation 13:4) Like his god, he will be a murderer (John 8:44) and destroyer. (Revelation 9:11)

The Islamic State, ISIS, has become the most brutal military force in modern history, in some ways surpassing the savagery of the Nazis. The army of ISIS is not invincible, but it always seems to survive to fight another day. ISIS is increasing its ranks with more radical jihadists from other terrorist groups, plus fresh recruits from around the world, including the United States.

  • Their Global Jihadi Army

Ultimately, those who support the Antichrist and his Islamic kingdom will come from all the nations of the world. When the final battle comes against Israel at Armageddon, “all nations” will join his military effort. (Joel 3:2, Zechariah 14:2)

Some sources indicate that the ISIS army now numbers over 30,000, coming from about 90 different countries. What makes this force so powerful is their willingness to die for their cause. While these numbers are relatively small, it is worth noting that it is a global army that is growing larger each day with recruits from around the world.

  • Their Killing of all Non-Muslims

According to Revelation 6:1-8, the Islamic jihad forces of the Antichrist will be responsible for the death of one-fourth of the world’s population during the opening months of the Tribulation Period. As a result of their jihadist efforts, they will “take peace from the earth,” (Revelation 6:4), and bring about a global economic collapse (Revelation 6:5-6). They will kill by decapitation with the sword. (Revelation 6:8; 20:4) Their global jihad campaign will bring famine and diseases that will kill millions. (Revelation 6:8)

In just a short period of time, ISIS has slaughtered about 20,000 people. Their gruesome slaughter of men, women, and children seems to bring them some level of pleasure. It is reported that some recruits are joining ISIS because they want to experience beheading someone. Both the armies of the Antichrist and ISIS bear the marks of demonically controlled men, who act like beasts who kill for pleasure without any guilt or remorse.

  • They have no Respect for Women

The Antichrist will not have any respect for, nor show any honor to women. (Daniel 11:37) This is another one of the facts that leads us to believe that the Antichrist will be a Muslim. A study of the teachings of Mohammed demonstrates that women were considered of less importance than men. Women are considered inferior to men, and have fewer rights. A Muslim can have many wives, and if one of his wives disappoints him, he can beat her.

When the forces of the Antichrist attack Jerusalem in the final hours of the Armageddon campaign, “the women [will be] ravished.” (Zechariah 14:2)

According to many sources, ISIS fighters treat the women they capture with no respect. They gang rape, torture, abuse, enslave, kill, and in some cases, bury women alive. Young girls are married to abusive ISIS warriors who sexually abuse them and pass them on to others for further abuse until they die. Many smaller children are sold as sex slaves. Reading some of these accounts would enrage anyone who has a conscience.

  • The Use of the Media to Spread Terror

When the forces of the Antichrist have finally overcome God’s two witnesses in Revelation 11, they will use the media to show the world the dead bodies of these two men lying in the streets of Jerusalem for three and one-half days. (Revelation 11:7-9) Taking advantage of the moment, the Antichrist will display the bodies of these two who opposed him. He will demonstrate to the world what happens to those who reject his declared divinity and authority. Therefore, he uses the media to showcase to the world his power over the two men who defied anyone from harming them for 1,260 days. (Revelation 11:5)

ISIS is the first modern-day Islamic terrorist group to extensively display their horrific atrocities to the world via the global media. Those who have followed these developments have reported that ISIS’ use of the media is very professional. ISIS considers the media to be a very important means of spreading their terror around the world. It seems to be working. Iraqi armed forces that greatly outnumber ISIS forces and have greater firepower, are filled with terror when ISIS warriors are only a few miles from them. The Iraqis take off their uniforms, lay down their weapons, leave their tanks and other armored vehicles, and run away.

  • They Rejoice over the Violent Death of Opponents

When the world of the Antichrist sees the rotting corpses of the two witnessing in the streets of Jerusalem during the Tribulation Period, they will rejoice. “And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one to another.” (Revelation11:10) When the word reaches the Islamic world about the deaths of those who have been killed by Islamic terrorists, the Islamic world rejoices. In many cases, they dance in the streets while some shower the crowds with candy. Here is one report given after two Muslims carried out the Boston Marathon bombing of 2013. “The dust hadn’t even settled on the ground at the site of the devastating explosions at the Boston Marathon finish line before Islamists started celebrating that so many people in America had been killed and injured. There were reports from Gaza that people explicitly allied with Hamas, Hezbollah, and Islamic Jihad joined with ordinary citizens to dance in the streets, cheer, and pass out candy.” (www.mrconservative.com/2013/04/12) {story moved taking you to home page}

Many photos that show the grim murdering of Iraqis by ISIS, display the sheer joy these beastly warriors express upon the bloody death of their victims. It is very clear that these warriors have a seared conscience and feel no remorse. (1 Timothy 4:2) It is their desire to fill the earth with their violence – just as it was in the days of Noah. (Genesis 6:11-13)

  • They Kill in the Name of their God

According to Revelation 13:12-18, the followers of the Antichrist will worship their god and his earthly messiah, the Antichrist. This worship will include an image and the number of the name of the Antichrist and his god. This number, which represents his name, is worn by all of the followers of this religion. It is worn on the forehead or on the hand. Walid Shoebat, a born-again believer who was a former Muslim terrorist, states: “It is the pride of Muslims to mark their right arms and foreheads with the mark of Islam.” ISIS warriors, like all Muslims who wage jihad in the name of Allah, wear a headband and or armband.

PICTURE Photo copied with permission from www.israeltoday.co.il

The Antichrist and ISIS kill in the name of their god. Jesus gave the following warning to His disciples: “the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.” (John 16:2)

  • They Execute Opponents by Decapitation

The trademark means of execution by the Antichrist during the Tribulation Period will be beheadings. (Revelation 20:4) Without question, this is a means of execution that has been used by Islamic jihadists since the days of Mohammed. In an article by Jihad Watch, a jihadi cleric Hussein bin Mahmoud, a prominent writer on jihadi forums, is repeatedly quoted concerning the connection between beheading and Islam. Mahmoud quotes Qur’an 47:4, which states: “When you meet the unbelievers, strike the necks…” He comments: Chopping off the heads of infidels is an act whose permissibility the [Muslim] ummah agrees on. Beheading a harbi infidel is a blessed act for which a Muslim is rewarded. … Islam is a religion of power, fighting, jihad, beheading and bloodshed, not a religion of turning the left cheek to whoever slapped you on the right cheek. On the contrary, it is a religion of breaking the hand that is stretched out to humiliate the Muslim. [Any Muslim] who fights for his property, blood or honor is a martyr.” (www.jihadwatch.org/2014/08/muslim-cleric-justifies-islamic-state-beheadings-islam-is-a-religion-of-beheading)

ISIS is currently mimicking the methods of execution, including beheading, that were practiced by Mohammed and all of those who immediately followed him.

  • They force their Religion upon all Mankind

According to Revelation 13:12-18, the Antichrist will force all the inhabitants of earth to worship him and his god of war. Those who do not submit will be killed.

Many stories have surfaced in the last few years about ISIS commanding their captives to convert or be killed. Because of this fear, it is reported that more than 2 million Iraqis have fled their homes and are refugees in northern Iraq and Jordan.

Please understand that I am not saying that ISIS is the beginning of the kingdom of the Antichrist. However, the appearance of such a government that is so much like the government of the Antichrist, certainly illustrates that we are living in the final days of the Church Age. Keep listening for the shout that will take us out!

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