The Great Setup Today: Israel, The US, Russia, and the Nations

Introduction

The end times are upon us, and Israel stands at the center of it all. As we navigate the challenges facing our world today, we must look to Israel to understand the fulfillment of biblical prophecy. Israel’s role in the end times is both profound and foundational, and the growing global dynamics around Israel, America, and Russia present a powerful backdrop for prophetic fulfillment. By understanding Israel’s place in prophecy, along with the geopolitical shifts in America and Russia, we can see how the pieces of the end-times puzzle are coming together.

Israel’s Central Role in End-Times Prophecy

The Bible indicates that Israel will play a primary part in God’s plan for the final days. Several factors reveal that Israel will endure into the end times and play a primary part in God’s plan for the final days. First, the seven-year Tribulation described in Revelation includes a time when Israel already exists as a nation and builds a future temple. For nearly 1,900 years, Israel did not exist as a nation, yet in 1948 the modern nation of Israel was born in a single day. This event marks a significant precursor to God’s plans for the future.

Key Prophetic Events Involving Israel

1. Re-establishment of Israel:

The modern nation of Israel was established in 1948, fulfilling prophecies about the return of the Jewish people to their land. This event is seen as a significant precursor to God’s plans for the future.

2. The October 7, 2023 Hamas Attack: A Prophetic Foreshadowing?

On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a coordinated attack on Israel, marking one of the most violent escalations between Israel and Hamas in recent history. Thousands of rockets were fired from Gaza, and militants breached Israeli defenses, leading to mass casualties and the abduction of Israeli civilians. This attack not only represents a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict in the region but also serves as a prophetic warning within the context of end-times events.

Biblically, the attacks on Israel and the nations’ continual hostility towards it fit into the framework of the prophetic scripture, such as Ezekiel 38-39, which speaks of the nations coming against Israel in the “latter days.” The Bible has consistently foretold that Israel would face immense opposition in the end times, and this direct, violent attack from Hamas is just one example of the rising global tension surrounding the nation of Israel.

As the surrounding nations, particularly those with Muslim majorities, continue to threaten Israel’s existence, it is increasingly clear that Israel remains a focal point in God’s redemptive plan. Jesus Himself warned of such wars and conflicts in Matthew 24:6-8, noting that these signs, including “wars and rumors of wars,” would indicate the approaching return of the Messiah. The attack on Israel by Hamas, along with ongoing threats from Iran and other radical groups, shows that Israel continues to be under siege, aligning with the scriptural predictions of widespread opposition leading up to the end of days.

3. The Rise of Antisemitism: A Sign of Spiritual Deception

Alongside the violence inflicted by groups like Hamas, another critical aspect of the current global landscape is the increasing rise of antisemitism. We are seeing this in various forms across the world, from political and social discourse to acts of violence and terrorism. Antisemitism has reached unprecedented levels in Europe and other parts of the world, often being inflamed by geopolitical issues and global tensions.

Antisemitism in the context of the end times is deeply significant for several reasons:

1. Biblical Prophecy:

From Genesis 12:3, God promises to bless those who bless Israel and curse those who curse it. This spiritual dynamic plays out in history and is especially relevant today. The growing antisemitism seen globally suggests a spiritual atmosphere of resistance to God’s chosen people and points to the demonic forces at work in the world.

2. Satanic Opposition to Israel:

Israel’s central role in God’s plan of redemption has always made it a target of spiritual forces. The Bible speaks of the serpent (Satan) being enraged by the woman (Israel) in Revelation 12, with Satan’s hatred for Israel being a key feature of the last days.

3. The Antichrist’s Rise:

Antisemitism could also be a precursor to the rise of the Antichrist, who, according to Scripture, will deceive many nations and seek to destroy God’s people, especially the Jews. As hostility toward Israel intensifies, we can see how the stage is being set for the Antichrist’s rule, who will initially make a false peace but ultimately betray Israel (Daniel 9:27).

3. Construction of the Third Temple:

Prophecies indicate that a Jewish temple will exist in Jerusalem during the end times. Currently, the Temple Institute in Jerusalem has plans that could make the construction of this facility take place quickly once given access to the location that is currently under Muslim control.

4. 144,000 Jewish Evangelists:

Revelation 7 mentions 144,000 Jews who will serve as evangelists during the last days. Additionally, the Two Witnesses will preach in Jerusalem for the first half of the Tribulation, die, then resurrect into the sky.

4. Ezekiel 38 War:

Ezekiel 38 predicts a w/ar of nations that will align and attack Israel in the last days. God Himself will provide a supernatural victory for Israel. Though many debate when this event will take place, it appears to occur sometime after the Rapture and prior to the midpoint of the Tribulation.

5. Armageddon and Christ’s Return:

At the end of the Tribulation, all prophecy will be fulfilled, and Israel as a nation will have come to accept Jesus as their Messiah. The people of God will war against the nations at the end of the Tribulation at Armageddon. God will win, and Jesus is predicted to return and reign for 1,000 years from His throne in Jerusalem.

Israel’s Rebirth and the Ongoing Struggle

The modern state of Israel was miraculously reborn in 1948, a significant fulfillment of biblical prophecy, which speaks of the regathering of Israel in the last days (Ezekiel 37:21-22). Yet, even with this fulfillment, the nation continues to face violent opposition, as seen in the October 7 attack and the broader hostility from Iran, Hezbollah, and other factions in the Middle East

The rise of Islamism, particularly the actions of Hamas, and other radical factions calling for Israel’s destruction, fits into this prophetic narrative. Despite Israel’s military might, the enemy continues to seek Israel’s downfall. But, according to Zechariah 12:9, God promises that He will intervene on Israel’s behalf, and in the end, Israel will be victorious, acknowledging Jesus as the Messiah.

In the end times, Israel will find itself not only under siege militarily but also spiritually. Jesus prophesied in Matthew 24:30-31 that He will return to deliver Israel from its enemies, fulfilling His promise to His people.

A Call for Vigilance and Faith

The events surrounding Israel, especially the ongoing war with Hamas and the rise of antisemitism, should serve as a reminder for believers to keep their eyes on Israel as the clock ticks toward the return of Christ. As we see the increasing threats to Israel’s existence, we are witnessing the foreshadowing of what is to come. Israel is the key to understanding biblical prophecy, and its present struggles are a sign of the deep spiritual battle taking place in the world.

Current Events and Their Prophetic Significance

The rise of Israel as a nation, the preparations for the third temple, and the growing tension in the Middle East highlight the prophetic significance of Israel today. However, while we see signs pointing toward the end times, we must be cautious. Not every headline is a fulfillment of prophecy. The truth remains that Jesus could return at any moment, and we are called to be vigilant, watching for His return.

Jesus warned in Matthew 24:6-7:

“You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains.”

As we watch the developments in Israel, it’s crucial that we keep our eyes focused on God’s ultimate plan. Israel’s role is central, but we must recognize that God is sovereign and will bring all things to fulfillment in His timing.

America’s Role in End-Times Prophecy

The United States has played a significant role in global politics, especially regarding its support for Israel. While America is not explicitly mentioned in biblical prophecy, its influence on the world stage and its stance on Israel will shape the prophetic landscape.

America’s Support for Israel

Since the establishment of Israel in 1948, America has been a critical ally to the Jewish state. The Bible teaches that nations are judged by how they treat Israel (Genesis 12:3; Zechariah 12:9). The U.S.’s historical support for Israel is seen as fulfilling the blessings outlined in Genesis 12:3: “I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse.”

America’s Role in the End-Times

1. Global Influence:

As a global superpower, America has influenced international politics, economics, and military alliances. This influence has been particularly significant in the Middle East, where America has supported Israel and worked to maintain stability. However, as global power dynamics shift, the role of the U.S. in end-times prophecy is becoming more complex.

2. Spiritual Decline:

America was founded on Judeo-Christian principles, but over the past several decades, the country has experienced significant moral and spiritual decline. This departure from biblical values is a key indicator of the times we live in. The spiritual decline of America mirrors the warnings in 1 Timothy 4:1-3 about the apostasy that will occur in the last days.

1 Timothy 4:1–3 ESV

1 Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, 2 through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared, 3 who forbid marriage and require abstinence from foods that God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth.

3. Economic and Political Decline:

Revelation 18:1-17 depicts the fall of “Babylon,” a powerful economic and political entity that some scholars believe symbolizes the United States. The passage speaks of the collapse of the global economy, with merchants weeping over the destruction of their wealth. This collapse could be a precursor to the rise of the Antichrist’s one-world system.

Revelation 18:1–17 ESV

1 After this I saw another angel coming down from heaven, having great authority, and the earth was made bright with his glory. 2 And he called out with a mighty voice, “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She has become a dwelling place for demons, a haunt for every unclean spirit, a haunt for every unclean bird, a haunt for every unclean and detestable beast. 3 For all nations have drunk the wine of the passion of her sexual immorality, and the kings of the earth have committed immorality with her, and the merchants of the earth have grown rich from the power of her luxurious living.” 4 Then I heard another voice from heaven saying, “Come out of her, my people, lest you take part in her sins, lest you share in her plagues; 5 for her sins are heaped high as heaven, and God has remembered her iniquities. 6 Pay her back as she herself has paid back others, and repay her double for her deeds; mix a double portion for her in the cup she mixed. 7 As she glorified herself and lived in luxury, so give her a like measure of torment and mourning, since in her heart she says, ‘I sit as a queen, I am no widow, and mourning I shall never see.’ 8 For this reason her plagues will come in a single day, death and mourning and famine, and she will be burned up with fire; for mighty is the Lord God who has judged her.” 9 And the kings of the earth, who committed sexual immorality and lived in luxury with her, will weep and wail over her when they see the smoke of her burning. 10 They will stand far off, in fear of her torment, and say, “Alas! Alas! You great city, you mighty city, Babylon! For in a single hour your judgment has come.” 11 And the merchants of the earth weep and mourn for her, since no one buys their cargo anymore, 12 cargo of gold, silver, jewels, pearls, fine linen, purple cloth, silk, scarlet cloth, all kinds of scented wood, all kinds of articles of ivory, all kinds of articles of costly wood, bronze, iron and marble, 13 cinnamon, spice, incense, myrrh, frankincense, wine, oil, fine flour, wheat, cattle and sheep, horses and chariots, and slaves, that is, human souls. 14 “The fruit for which your soul longed has gone from you, and all your delicacies and your splendors are lost to you, never to be found again!” 15 The merchants of these wares, who gained wealth from her, will stand far off, in fear of her torment, weeping and mourning aloud, 16 “Alas, alas, for the great city that was clothed in fine linen, in purple and scarlet, adorned with gold, with jewels, and with pearls! 17 For in a single hour all this wealth has been laid waste.” And all shipmasters and seafaring men, sailors and all whose trade is on the sea, stood far off

America’s Spiritual Condition and Potential Judgment

Signs of America’s Spiritual Decline

The Bible speaks of moral decay, apostasy, and the rise of false ideologies in the last days. This spiritual decline is not just a societal shift but a direct rebellion against God’s truth. We see a growing cultural acceptance of secularism, relativism, and the moral redefinition of marriage, family, and sexuality. These are a direct contrast to the biblical values that once underpinned the nation. America’s moral and spiritual decline is evidenced by:

1. Widespread Apostasy:

There has been a marked increase in the rejection of Christianity by the younger generation, with many turning to secular ideologies, spiritualism, and atheism. The rise of “deconstruction” movements within the church, where individuals publicly renounce their faith, highlights the growing apostasy within the American church.

• 2 Timothy 4:3-4 warns: “For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.”

2. Rejection of Biblical Authority:

America once prided itself on being a nation founded on biblical principles. Today, however, the Word of God is increasingly ignored in both public and private spheres. Laws and policies that directly contradict biblical teachings, such as the legalization of same-sex marriage and the decriminalization of abortion, reflect the nation’s spiritual disobedience.

• Romans 1:21-32 describes how people, having rejected the truth of God, become spiritually blind, given over to their sinful desires, and are filled with all manner of unrighteousness. This passage captures the moral decay that leads to God’s judgment.

3. Growing Secularism and Materialism:

The rise of secular humanism, where self-reliance and material success are worshiped above God, is indicative of America’s spiritual decline. Idolatry today is less about bowing to physical idols and more about the worship of money, power, fame, and self. The pursuit of wealth and success has overtaken devotion to God.

• 1 John 2:15-17 warns: “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.”

4. Moral Confusion and Cultural Division:

America’s moral compass has become increasingly fractured, with competing ideologies vying for influence. The rise of “wokeness,” identity politics, and the redefinition of gender roles point to a world in which truth is subjective, and morality is fluid.

• Isaiah 5:20 says, “Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!” This verse aptly describes the state of moral confusion in modern-day America, where traditional values are often scorned in favor of new, progressive ideologies.

America’s Potential Judgment

Judgment for a nation does not come suddenly or without warning. Historically, when a nation turns away from God and rejects His ways, it experiences a gradual but inevitable decline that is both spiritual and physical. Scripture offers numerous examples of nations that were once blessed but eventually faced divine judgment due to their disobedience, and America’s trajectory today mirrors many of these patterns.

1. Divine Judgment Is Inescapable

The Bible teaches that judgment is a certainty for nations that continually reject God’s commands. This is not limited to individuals but applies to nations as well. Jeremiah 18:7-10 speaks to this principle: “If at any time I declare that a nation or kingdom is to be uprooted, torn down, and destroyed, and if that nation I warned repents of its evil, then I will relent and not inflict on it the disaster I had planned.”

If a nation like America persists in rejecting God, it will not escape judgment, even though God is merciful. There is still hope for repentance, but that window is closing.

2. The Importance of Israel’s Treatment in Prophecy

As we saw earlier, God’s judgment on the nations is often linked to their treatment of Israel. America has historically been a staunch ally of Israel, but the signs suggest that this relationship may be shifting. If America turns its back on Israel, it could face God’s judgment, as Genesis 12:3 says, “I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse.” A nation’s treatment of Israel is a litmus test of its alignment with God’s will, and America’s waning support for Israel could have prophetic consequences.

3. The Fall of Babylon: America as Babylon in Prophecy?

In Revelation 18, we see a vivid portrayal of the fall of Babylon, a symbol of a great, wealthy, and powerful city that is destroyed in an instant. Many prophecy scholars speculate that Babylon in Revelation represents modern-day America, particularly because of its economic dominance, global influence, and moral decline. The description of Babylon in Revelation 18 mirrors the state of America today—an empire built on prosperity, yet filled with moral corruption, sin, and excess.

• Revelation 18:16-17: “Woe, woe to the great city, dressed in fine linen, purple and scarlet, and glittering with gold, precious stones, and pearls! In one hour such great wealth has been brought to ruin!”

The fall of Babylon is a direct result of its rejection of God and its indulgence in the sins of pride, idolatry, and greed. In much the same way, America is rapidly moving down a path of spiritual ruin, and if the nation does not repent and return to God, it may experience a similar fate.

4. God’s Warnings Through Natural Disasters and Social Struggles

Throughout history, God has used various forms of judgment to warn nations and individuals of their spiritual condition. In America, we have seen an increase in natural disasters, social unrest, economic instability, and moral crises. These events could be seen as God’s warning signs, pointing to the need for national repentance and spiritual renewal. Amos 4:6-12 outlines how God uses judgment through famine, drought, and other calamities to call people to repentance. It is not beyond the realm of possibility that America could face divine judgment in the form of such events as it continues to turn away from God.

The Path Forward: Repentance and Restoration

While the signs of judgment are clear, God is merciful and patient. The opportunity for repentance remains open as long as there is breath in the land. Believers in America are called to pray for their nation, repent on behalf of their country, and advocate for a return to biblical values. 2 Chronicles 7:14 provides hope: “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”

This is the path to restoration for America: repentance, humility, and a return to God’s Word. Christians must take a stand for truth, proclaim the Gospel boldly, and live according to biblical principles in the face of increasing pressure to conform to secular ideologies.

Conclusion: Hope Amid Judgment

Even in the face of judgment, there is hope for those who turn back to God. The decline of America should not cause fear among believers, but rather inspire them to remain faithful, share the Gospel, and be the light in a darkening world. Just as God delivered Israel in the past, He will continue to be faithful to His people, even in the darkest days. Let us remain vigilant, prayerful, and steadfast, as we await the return of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Russia’s Role in End-Times Prophecy

Russia’s geopolitical moves, particularly its invasion of Ukraine and increasing ties with Iran, are playing a significant role in the unfolding of end-times prophecy. The Russia-Ukraine conflict has raised concerns about nuclear escalation, and it could be a catalyst for the events described in Ezekiel 38-39.

Russia in Ezekiel 38-39

Ezekiel 38-39 describes a coalition of nations, led by Gog of Magog (Russia), that will invade Israel in the latter days. The motivations for this invasion include the desire for spoil, plunder, and control of Israel’s resources, which aligns with Russia’s current energy needs and military ambitions.

Russia’s alliances with countries like Iran, Turkey, and Sudan are directly in line with Ezekiel’s description of the nations that will come against Israel. The energy crisis in Europe and Russia’s aggressive foreign policy in Ukraine are pushing Russia closer to fulfilling this prophecy.

The Nuclear Threat and Ezekiel 38-39

Putin’s red lines over Ukraine’s long-range missiles and the threat of nuclear escalation are particularly concerning. In Ezekiel 38:12, the invaders are described as coming to plunder Israel “like a storm.” The possibility of nuclear conflict could push the world to the brink of war, setting the stage for God’s intervention, as foretold in Ezekiel 39.

Application for Guinea-Bissau:

1. Recognize the Signs of the Times:

Even though Guinea-Bissau may not be directly involved in the political dynamics of Israel, Russia, and America, the global shifts affecting these countries have profound implications for the entire world. Believers in Guinea-Bissau must be aware of the signs of the times and watch for the fulfillment of prophecy.

2. Stand Firm in Faith Amid Global Pressure:

As America and other nations face spiritual and moral decline, the Church in Guinea-Bissau is called to stand firm in its faith. In times of crisis and moral decay, the church must remain grounded in Scripture and be a beacon of truth.

3. Be Salt and Light in the World:

As global events unfold, the Church in Guinea-Bissau has a unique opportunity to lead by example. They are called to be salt and light in a world growing darker. Their role is to stand firm in the Gospel and continue proclaiming the hope of Christ’s return.

4. Look to the Return of Christ with Hope:

Despite the global turmoil and challenges, believers in Guinea-Bissau should be encouraged that Christ is coming back soon. The Rapture is a source of great hope and encouragement, reminding us that no matter the signs we see around us, God is in control and His promises will be fulfilled.

5. Exercise Your Spiritual Authority Given to You by Jesus Over the Demonic Powers of This World

As we witness the increasing spiritual darkness and the rise of global ideologies contrary to the Gospel, it is crucial for believers in Guinea-Bissau, and across the world, to remember the authority they have in Christ. In the midst of these prophetic fulfillments and global shifts, Christians must rise up and exercise the spiritual authority given to them by Jesus.

Spiritual Authority Over the Enemy

Jesus made it clear that His followers are not powerless in the face of the enemy. In Luke 10:19, Jesus said, “Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you.” This authority is not just theoretical; it is a real power that Christians can exercise in their daily lives to combat the forces of darkness.

In Matthew 16:19, Jesus tells us, “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”This passage speaks to the authority that believers have to bind and loose—essentially to prevent the works of darkness and release God’s will and power on earth. The gates of hell cannot prevail against the Church (Matthew 16:18), and believers are called to stand firm in this victory.

Recognizing the Spiritual Battle

It’s important for believers to recognize the spiritual battle they are in. Ephesians 6:12 makes it clear: “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.”

As the world becomes more secular and hostile to the Gospel, the spiritual forces of evil are growing bolder, and it is essential for believers to be vigilant and active in using their spiritual authority. This includes praying against the works of darkness, standing against demonic strongholds, and using the authority given to us by Christ to break the chains of sin and deception in our communities.

Practical Application for Guinea-Bissau

1. Pray with Authority:

Encourage the believers in Guinea-Bissau to pray boldly, knowing that God has given them authority over the powers of darkness. As they pray for their families, communities, and nation, they should exercise their spiritual authority by declaring the Word of God and calling on His power to break strongholds and bring transformation.

2. Guard Against Spiritual Complacency:

With the rise of false teachings and the pressure of worldly ideologies, believers must remain spiritually vigilant. This means not only guarding their hearts and minds but actively engaging in spiritual warfare. Encourage them to be steadfast in their faith, continue in prayer, and resist the enemy’s temptations.

3. Stand in Victory:

Remind the believers that they are not fighting for victory—they are fighting from victory. Jesus has already defeated the powers of darkness through His death and resurrection. The authority believers have in Christ is a victory that already exists. Their role is to stand firm and enforce that victory in the world around them.

4. Preach the Gospel with Boldness:

The more the enemy intensifies his attacks, the more the Church must respond with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Christians in Guinea-Bissau should take every opportunity to boldly share their faith, knowing that the enemy will attempt to stop them but that they have the spiritual authority to push back the darkness.

Conclusion: Stand Firm in Your Authority

As we approach the end times, we must remember that the authority given to us by Jesus is not just a privilege, but a responsibility. We are called to live as conquerors in Christ, actively standing against the enemy’s schemes and advancing the Kingdom of God. In the midst of a spiritually declining world, Christians in Guinea-Bissau and around the globe are called to rise up and exercise the power they have been given to overcome the works of darkness and be a light in a world growing darker by the day.

As we see prophecy unfolding around us, we are not helpless. We are equipped with divine authority to face the spiritual battles that come our way. Let’s stand firm, knowing that we have the victory in Christ, and boldly step into the role God has called us to, advancing His Kingdom with power and purpose.