Somewhat concealed in the 17th chapter of the book of Revelation is a mystery that lists numerically all the kingdoms that have had controlling authority over Israel from Pharaoh in Egypt (1876-1446 B.C.), when Israel (Jacob) led his family down to Egypt because of the famine (Gen. 46:1—47:12), until the coming of Antichrist, who will usurp authority over all the nations and kingdoms of the world (Dan. 7:19-25; Rev. 13:1-18, 17:10-14). 

Are we beginning to see the formation of a worldwide government that was revealed to John on the island of Patmos when he wrote down “The Revelation of Jesus Christ” almost 2000 years ago? (Rev. 1:1, 19, 17:10-11). Did John’s vision about eight kings mention the “seventh” and “eighth” historical kingdoms that would exist at “the time of the end” when the final gentile kingdom would be in existence; just before Christ returned to establish his millennial kingdom? (Dan. 2:44-45, 7:14, 18, 22, 27, 12:4-10; Rev. 17:7-14, 19:11-21).

 “Here is the mind which has wisdom: The seven heads are seven mountains on which the woman sits.  There are also seven kings. Five have fallen, one is, and the other has not yet come. And when he comes, he must continue a short time. The beast that was, and is not, is himself also the eighth, and is of the seven, and is going to perdition.

 “The ten horns which you saw are ten kings who have received no kingdom as yet, but they receive authority for one hour as kings with the beast. These are of one mind, and they will give their power and authority to the beast.  These will make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and those who are with Him are called, chosen, and faithful” (Rev. 17:9-14).

There are eight major kings (and kingdoms) alluded to in the book of Revelation that have in the past ruled over the Middle East and specifically the nation of Israel (also Judah) when they were in their land; or, they will have dominion over Israel and their territory in the future (Rev. 17:10-11).  Those kingdoms are (1) Egypt, (2) Assyria, (3) Babylon, (4) Medo-Persia, (5) Greece, (6) Rome and two future kingdoms (seventh and eighth) (Rev. 17:10-13). The words “king” and “kingdom” are used interchangeably since the two terms are interconnected. 

Rome, under the leadership of Pompey, gained control of Jerusalem in 63 B.C., and the Roman Empire was still in control of Jerusalem over a hundred and fifty years later during the time when John penned the book of Revelation on Patmos (c. 95 A.D.). [1]  The western leg of the Roman Empire with its capital in Rome, collapsed around 476 A.D., and the eastern leg with its capital in Constantinople (now Istanbul, Turkey), survived till 1453 A.D. [2]  

After the Roman Empire ended (sixth kingdom), a long period of time transpired that will not end until the two, future “end time” kingdoms (seventh and eighth) begin to make their appearance on the world scene (Rev. 13:1-18, 17:10-14).  Another way of looking at this:  We are living during the time period between the legs of iron (sixth kingdom) and feet and toes composed of iron and  clay (seventh kingdom) that made up the “Great Image” (statue) in  King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, which the Prophet Daniel interpreted for the king in 603 B.C. (Dan. 2:1-49). 

The coming global government which appears to be forming in the world today (seventh kingdom), will once again result in Israel’s being subjected to global influence by their adversaries (Rev. 17:10-13). These two coming kingdoms (seventh and eighth) will be worldwide in scope, and they will both be active in the “end times” (Dan. 12:4-10; Rev. 17:10-11).  

According to the Scriptures (Rev. 13:1-2, 17:10-11), the development of a global government system (seventh), will need to be operational at some point in the future; because, soon after it becomes functional, it will provide a platform for the Antichrist and False Prophet to rise to power (eighth kingdom) (Rev. 17:10-11). 

The Mystery of the Eight Kingdoms  

 An interesting clue from “The Revelation” that was given by Jesus through His angel to the Apostle John, in chapter 17 of the book of Revelation, reveals the two final kings and kingdoms (seventh and eighth) that will usher in a global government system that will one day rule the whole world (Dan. 7:23-24; Rev. 7-8, 11-12,-17). 

“There are also seven kings. Five have fallen, one is, and the other has not yet come. And when he comes, he must continue a short time. The beast that was, and is not, is himself also the eighth, and is of the seven, and is going to perdition” (Rev. 17:10-11).

The “five fallen” are (1) Egypt, (2) Assyria, (3) Babylon, (4) Medo-Persia and the (5) Grecian empires. The “one is” was the (6) Roman Empire present during John’s vision. The other “that has not yet come” will be short lived and is the (7) current global government (New World Order) we may see beginning to form today (10 horns, 10 kings, 10 regions, etc).  The “beast that was, and is not…and is” will be the future (8) Antichrist’s kingdom that will take control of the seventh kingdom (New World Order) that will be merged (Dan. 7:4-7) to form the “composite beast” described in Rev. 13:1-2 that has “seven heads and 10 horns” (Rev. 17:8, 11).

Who are the Eight Kings? 

The five kings or kingdoms (five have fallen) — The five kings or kingdoms that were “fallen” when John received his vision around 95 A.D. are Egypt (Pharaoh?), Assyria (Ashurbanipal?), Babylon (Nebuchadnezzar), Medo-Persia (Cyrus) and the Grecian Empires (Alexander the Great) (1876-1446, 740-301 B.C.). [3] 

The sixth king or kingdom (one is) — The sixth king (kingdom), that was present during John’s life span (Domitian) when he was writing the book of Revelation, was the Roman Empire, which included parts of Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East (189 B.C.-476 A.D.—Western leg; 1453 A.D. —Eastern leg) [4] 

The seventh king or kingdom (and the other has not yet come [while John was alive]. And when he comes [still future today], he must continue a short time.) — The seventh king or kingdom appears to be the world government we see beginning to form today (New World Order, The Great Reset, Fourth Industrial Revolution, etc.). 

If that is the case, we may be seeing the initial formation of the 10 regions (10 horns, also 10 kings) (European Union (EU), North American Union, etc.) that will rule for a short time and have limited authority in the world before Antichrist rises to consolidate his power.  

The identity of the 10 horns (10 kings) is still not certain, since other competing groups have formed.  BRICS, a geo-political group, made up of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is also meeting regularly, and other countries are expected to join their consortium in the future.

The eighth king or kingdom (The beast that was, and is not, is himself also the eighth, and is of the seven, and is going to perdition) The eighth king (little horn, Antichrist, etc.) who starts out as a prince (Ezek. 21:25, Dan. 9:26, 11:22), will rise in authority and power to become a king (Dan. 8:23-25). After defeating three of the 10 kings, he will take control of the seventh kingdom (Dan. 7:8, 20, 24; Rev. 13:1-8, 17:8, 11).

“The ten horns which you saw are ten kings who have received no kingdom as yet, but they receive authority for one hour as kings with the beast [Antichrist]. These [10 kings] are of one mind, and they will give their power and authority to the beast” [Antichrist] (Rev. 17:12-13).

The 10 horns (10 kings), which we may see forming today,  that do not have kingdoms, will be given some regional authority that is global in nature, and they may become active shortly before the 7-year tribulation begins, but especially after the tribulation begins. 

After the 10 kings (without kingdoms) give “their power and authority to the beast” (Antichrist), sometime during the first half (3 and ½ years) of the 7-year Tribulation, “they (10 kings) receive authority for one hour as kings with the beast” (Rev. 17:12). One hour with the beast, whether literal or symbolic, is probably a short period of time. 

After the 10 kings have destroyed the world’s religious system, described as a woman riding on the back of a beast (seventh global government) (Rev. 17:15-16), Antichrist takes control of the world’s religious and political system from the 10 kings (10 horns)  and quickly consolidates all 10 regions of the globe into his worldwide kingdom (Rev. 17:12-13). The time when these events take place is probably around the middle of the 7-year Tribulation.

From that time forward, Antichrist (the beast, eighth king and kingdom) will serve as the main global, political and religious leader for the last three and ½ years, and he will rule and subject the whole earth to a period of tyranny where “no one may buy or sell except one who has the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name” (Rev. 13:16-17).  The Antichrist (first human beast) will demand worship from everyone in the world and will be assisted by the False Prophet (second human beast) who will force everyone to worship the first beast or the image of the beast or be killed (Rev. 13:8, 11-15).

The Quest for a World Leader   

Are we close to seeing the implementation of the two final “end times” kingdoms (seventh and eighth) that will usher in a one world government system and a one world ruler who historically has been referred to as the “man of sin” and the “Antichrist?” (2 Thess. 2:3; 1 John 2:18).

Paul-Henri Spaak (1899 – 1972), a former Belgian Prime Minister who was one of the principal architects and founding fathers of the European Union (EU), when faced with serious economic problems that had mushroomed within the EU, made the following, chillingly “prophetic” remark about the need for a new European leader:

“We do not want another committee, we have too many already.  What we want is a man of sufficient stature to hold the allegiance of all people, and to lift us out of the economic morass into which we are sinking. Send us such man, and be he god or devil, we will receive him.” [5]

Paul-Henri  Spaak’s prognostication about the future will one day eerily come true; however, it will not be what he expected; but rather, it will result in a Pandora’s box full of war, enslavement, subjugation and worship of the “man of sin” and the devil, that Mr. Spaak longed for (2 Thess. 2:1-12; Rev. 13:3-17). 

As problems in the world intensify in number and frequency and become more complex (Psalm 2:1-12; Luke 21:34-36), like birth pangs on a woman with child (Matt. 24:6-8; 1 Thess. 5:1-3), the world will not seek after God (Jesus Christ); but rather, they will choose the devil’s man of the hour (little horn, man of sin, beast, Antichrist, etc.).  The “dragon” will “give him his power, and his seal, and great authority” (Rev. 12:3, 9, 13:2).  

The pervasive use of artificial intelligence (AI), digital currencies (CBDC), digital passports, global IDs and other technologies that are being developed today, will allow the infamous world leader, who is probably alive today, to create a virtual digital prison from which no one will be able to escape.  The fate and consequences of those who choose to follow the beast (Antichrist) and False Prophet can be found in John’s apocalyptic book (Rev. 14:9-13).

Many prophecies that will take place during “the day of the Lord” are beginning to assemble themselves on the world stage and cast their shadows backward into today’s news headlines.  As the day of our redemption draws near, each of us should be asking ourselves: Am I “watching” for the Lord’s return, and will I “be ready” when He returns “in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump” (Luke 21:34-36, 1 Cor. 15:52, Rev. 3:3)?

“Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near” (Luke 21:28).

♦♦♦

(Unless otherwise indicated, all Scriptures are from the New King James Version—NKJV)

Endnotes:

[1] Debate on the Date of the Book of Revelation, Dr. Mark Hitchcock and Mr. Hank Hanegraaff, December 10, 2007, https://www.pre-trib.org/item/14-debate-on-the-date-of-the-book-of-revelation) 

[2] A Survey of Old Testament Introduction, Gleason L. Archer, The Moody Bible Institute of Chicago, c. 2007, page 140. 

[3] Ibid. 

[4] Ibid.

[5] EU architect would welcome God or the Devil, https://www.christianstogether.net/Articles/319656/Christians_Together_in/Christian_Life/Christians_and_Politics/EU_architect_would.aspx

By Jan Markell

It is true—the headlines, photos, and videos coming out of the current Mideast conflict are not seeker-sensitive. They won’t make church attendees feel good. Talking about the sensitive situation won’t fit into any church-growth strategy. It won’t encourage anyone to become purpose-driven. It could even create divisiveness.

So, I should not have been so thrown when I began to get e-mails from across the country stating variations of the following:

    Jan, I was very dismayed that the church we attended did not even make mention of what was going on in Israel on Sunday, October 8. Nor did the topic arise on Wednesday night—though there were several mentions of the Houston Astros game . . . . .

No One Can Say They Didn’t Know

Has there not been wall-to-wall coverage on all media outlets, day and night, for days? Can anybody claim they didn’t know? There were demonstrations demanding that we should “gas the Jews.” The scenario could expand to a Mideast war. Some are saying World War III is at hand. We have evil at a new level on display.

And yet the silence of some shepherds is deafening!

Evangelical Foolishness

I checked the website of the largest evangelical organization—the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE). Wouldn’t they have a banner headline calling on us to pray for the peace of Jerusalem? Actually, their banner was all about racial justice.

Scrolling down, they have a blurb in an article written that Israel should not act out of revenge and that they should support the dignity of all people affected. Note to the NAE: Terrorists have no dignity. They are evil. They are demonized.

Know What You Believe!

Are pastors, churches, and denominations silent because of their theology? Perhaps it doesn’t fit with the current scenario? Perhaps they believe the church is the new Israel (Replacement Theology). Perhaps they are Amillennial, and Israel is a bit inconvenient. This belief encompasses many Protestants and all Catholics.

Outfits like Bethel Church in Redding, CA, believe in Dominionism—that is, that the church will save the world and then they establish the thousand-year reign of Christ on earth. The literal restoration of Jerusalem is not important. The church supersedes the calling of Israel to be a light to the nations!

Silence in the Face of Evil is Evil!

But there is still human disaster and suffering at play here! Bonhoeffer said, “silence in the face of evil is itself evil: God will not hold us guiltless. Not to speak is to speak. Not to act is to act.”  How can you be silent?

If every church in North America were to meet for special prayer, could an unspeakable disaster be averted?

Can we set aside theology and pray—from the pulpit—for the salvation of the Jews and Muslims? Don’t these esteemed church leaders know that is the only path to true peace? Many Jews and Muslims are secular and, thus, are open to the gospel.

You’re Grafted In!

May I remind all pastors and evangelical leaders that because of the Jews, we have our Bible, the prophets, the apostles, and our Messiah. In fact, “salvation is of the Jews.” (John 4:22) Gentiles are “grafted in” to the Jewish olive tree. (Romans 11:11-31)

This is an appeal to pastors to not keep silent. Help your flock understand that Christians are often the greatest friend Israel has. At the very least, instruct them on how to “pray for the peace of Jerusalem.” (Psalm 122:6). Do you know there is then promised a blessing: They shall prosper who love thee?

That sounds like church growth could happen as a blessing from God!

How odd of God to choose the Jews,

But not so odd as those who choose

The Jewish God, but spurn the Jews.

All of us were heartbroken at the images coming out of Maui in early August. Everyone said it was like the end of the world. It was apocalyptic. The scenes remind us of images from WWII when dozens of cities looked like Lahaina, Maui.

But this wasn’t a war time ordeal. This was a peaceful day in paradise that was interrupted by the unthinkable. A wildfire of suspicious origin violently ended the lives of hundreds, and potentially thousands, of people whose day started like any other and ended in a hellish ordeal. We see why the Bible says, “Today is the day of salvation.” (2 Corinthians 6:2) Life can end abruptly and unexpectedly. No one is promised a tomorrow.

The word “apocalyptic” is being used all over the world as the planet groans, awaiting the liberation of Jesus Christ when He will set it free.

Elsewhere in Europe, a month of rain fell on parts of Slovenia in a single day. China experienced devastating floods. Crops throughout the region were completely wiped out, and the property damage that has been done is off the charts. Devastating heat has tormented millions of people around the world. Hail pounded Germany. Fires in Portugal created an “apocalyptic inferno.”

This, and much more, as we are in a run-up to the Rapture—the ultimate apocalyptic event.

The website says, “The Maui gay community is substantial and accepting. There are numerous LGBT and gay-friendly businesses on the island, exclusive Maui gay resorts and plenty to see, do and experience on this magical island. Maui Gay Pride is a staple event taking place each year around the first weekend in October.”

The promotion continues, “In 2011, when Hawaii Governor Neil Abercrombie signed legislation legalizing gay marriage in Hawaii, he sealed the State’s fate as one of the top gay destinations in the world. We welcome you to plan your Maui gay vacation or wedding today!”

And interestingly enough, about the only structure in Lahaina not destroyed was a church, though it was not a gospel preaching church.

During the seven-year Tribulation, every city and nation will look like Maui. Can you imagine? I cannot. The city of Lahaina is a preview of things to come. The earth will reel from earthquakes, meteor showers and asteroids, stars falling from heaven, and the moving of mountains. One- third of the trees will burn up.

The sun will go dark and the moon will turn to blood.

Mankind will hide in caves and rocks and plead, “Fall on us and hide us from the face of Him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! For the great day of His wrath has come, and who is able to stand?” (Rev. 6:12-17).

When things are at their worst, Christ will suddenly appear on planet Earth during His second coming or “no flesh would be saved.” (Matthew 24:22)

God is warning the unbelieving world about what is coming. Billions perish during that unprecedented time, and modern-day disasters are a pale foretelling of things to come.

If you have Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of your life, none of this is of concern. Believers escape the wrath to come in the Tribulation. (Rev. 3:10) But all of us have loved ones who know little about God’s plan of the ages. They have never been told about eternal life. They are unaware that God’s wrath is not destined for true believers—unless you tell them. And, unless you outline the plan of salvation to them.

Do so today.

By Michael Hile

During the last week of His life, Jesus delivered a detailed prophecy to His disciples about the end times. It has come to be known as “The Olivet Discourse,” since it was delivered on the Mount of Olives after Jesus and His disciples had left the Temple Mount and crossed over the Kidron Valley.  This discourse can be found in three of the Gospels: Matthew 24:3-25:46; Mark 13:3-37 and Luke 21:5-36.

Jesus ended this comprehensive speech about end time signs with a parable that prophetically indicated the timing of His Second Coming (Matthew 24:32-35):

32)  Now learn the parable from the fig tree: when its branch has already become tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near;

33)  so, you too, when you see all these things, recognize that He is near, right at the door.

34)  Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place. 

A Frequent Symbol

This was not the first time Jesus had used the symbolism of a fig tree to make a point. Earlier that year while teaching in the Perean province on the eastern side of the Jordan River, Jesus had given His disciples another parable about a fig tree (Luke 13:6-9):

6)  And He began telling this parable: “A man had a fig tree which had been planted in his vineyard; and he came looking for fruit on it and did not find any.

7)  “And he said to the vineyard-keeper, ‘Behold, for three years I have come looking for fruit on this fig tree without finding any. Cut it down! Why does it even use up the ground?’

8)  “And he answered and said to him, ‘Let it alone, sir, for this year too, until I dig around it and put in fertilizer;

9)  and if it bears fruit next year, fine; but if not, cut it down.’”

This parable was a warning that if the Jewish people did not accept Jesus as Messiah, the wrath of God would be poured out on them, and their state would cease to exist.  On the day Jesus made his entrance into Jerusalem (Sunday), he warned the Pharisees and Jewish people there would be no peace, because they did not recognize the signs of His coming (Luke 19:41-44):

41)  When He approached Jerusalem, He saw the city and wept over it,

42)   saying, “If you had known in this day, even you, the things which make for peace! But now they have been hidden from your eyes.

43)  For the days will come upon you when your enemies will throw up a barricade against you, and surround you and hem you in on every side,

44)  and they will level you to the ground and your children within you, and they will not leave in you one stone upon another, because you did not recognize the time of your visitation.”

The day before His Olivet Discourse (Monday), Jesus gave His disciples another fig tree parable. This happened as they were walking from Bethany to Jerusalem by way of the Mount of Olives when they encountered a barren fig tree (Mark 11:12-14, 19-22):

12)  On the next day, when they had left Bethany, He became hungry.

13)  Seeing at a distance a fig tree in leaf, He went to see if perhaps He would find anything on it; and when He came to it, He found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs.

14)  He said to it, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again!” And His disciples were listening . . .

19)  When evening came, they would go out of the city.

20)  As they were passing by in the morning, they saw the fig tree withered from the roots up.

21)  Being reminded, Peter said to Him, “Rabbi, look, the fig tree which You cursed has withered.”

22)  And Jesus answered saying to them, “Have faith in God.”

This was a classic symbolic prophecy. Like the fig tree, Israel had no fruit because the Jewish people had rejected Jesus as their Messiah. The curse Jesus placed on the tree was symbolic of the fact that the Jewish nation would experience the wrath of God and be set aside.

The next morning, as they returned to the Temple Mount (Tuesday), they saw that the tree had withered. Later that same day, after visiting the Temple, Jesus delivered His Olivet Discourse, and he reminded them of the fig tree. That’s when he told them to watch it, because one day it would come alive again, and when that happened, the generation that witnessed it would also witness His return to earth. This is why He had told them that morning to “have faith in God.” Their state would be destroyed due to their rejection of their Messiah, but one day it would be reestablished again.

Luke’s Version

Luke’s version of the fig tree parable, given on Mt. Olivet, provides us with additional insight as to the timing of the Lord’s return (Luke 21:29-32):

29)  Then He told them a parable: “Behold the fig tree and all the trees;

30)  as soon as they put forth leaves, you see it and know for yourselves that summer is now near.

31)  “So you also, when you see these things happening, recognize that the kingdom of God is near.

32)  “Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all things take place.”

As you can see, Luke adds something that does not appear in Matthew’s account. Luke says that in addition to watching for the fig tree to come alive, we are to watch for “all the trees.” This is evidently a prophecy about the birth of many Gentile nations in the end times, at the same time that Israel is reborn as a sovereign state. 

The Fig Tree                                                                                                                                                     

So, what about it? Has the fig tree come back to life?  The Jewish people, displaced from their homeland for centuries, began showing signs of life during the second half of the 19th century (1850-1900) when waves of Jews (aliyah) started coming back to the land of Israel. Theodor Herzl (1860-1904), the “Father of Zionism,” was the visionary behind the modern return of the Jewish people and reestablishment of a Jewish homeland.¹

Herzl organized the first world congress of Zionism that met in Basel, Switzerland, in August 1897 and became the first president of the World Zionist Organization.²  The goals of the organization were set forth in the Basel Program: “Zionism seeks to establish a home for the Jewish people in Palestine, secured under public law.”³

The Balfour Declaration on November 2, 1917 paved the way for the United Nations partition resolution for Palestine on November 29, 1947 and the subsequent formation of the state of Israel on May 14, 1948. The fig tree (Israel) came back to life during the first half of the 20th century (1900-1950), and Israel is now producing young figs (potential Jewish believers) that will be harvested at the end of the age (Zech. 13:8-9; Rom. 11:1-27; Rev. 12: 1-17).

“…As a terebinth tree or as an oak, whose stump remains when it is cut down. So the holy seed shall be its stump.” — Isaiah 6:13

For there is hope for a tree, if it be cut down, that it will sprout again, and that its shoots will not cease. Though its root grow old in the earth, and its stump die in the soil, yet at the scent of water it will bud and put out branches like a young plant. — Job 14:7-9

In days to come Jacob shall take root, Israel shall blossom and put forth shoots and fill the whole world with fruit. — Isaiah 27:6

And I will appoint a place for my people Israel and will plant them, so that they may dwell in their own place and be disturbed no more. — 2 Samuel 7:10

“Also I will restore the captivity of My people Israel, and they will rebuild the ruined cities and live in them; They will also plant vineyards and drink their wine, and make gardens and eat their fruit.  “I will also plant them on their land, and they will not again be rooted out from their land which I have given them,” says the Lord your God. — Amos 9:14-15 

The Other Trees

Trees are symbolic of nations, kingdoms and empires in several places in the Bible (Daniel 4:10-27; Ezekiel 17:22-24, 31:1-18; and Judges 9:1-21). In Luke’s version of the fig tree parable, many trees are pictured as coming to life around the same time as the fig tree (Luke 21:29-32). Jesus said to “watch the fig tree and all the trees.”  

When the branches become tender and begin producing leaves, which shows signs of life, you are to “know” that the generation that sees this take place will also be the generation that sees the kingdom of God established on earth.  The generation that witnesses “the fig tree (Israel) and all the trees (Gentile nations)” come to life, was specifically chosen by Jesus to be the generation that would “know” the kingdom of God was “near—at the doors!”

The parable of the fig tree did not say when “the fig tree and all the trees” put forth leaves, “we might know,” or “we should know,” that “the kingdom of God is near;” but rather, we were to definitely and emphatically “know” and “recognize” that “the kingdom of God is near.”

So, you too, when you see these things, happening, recognize that He is near, right at the door. Matthew 24:33 NASB

So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that he is near, at the very gates. Mark 13:29 ESV

So also, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near. Luke 21:31 NKJV

Jesus told His apostles before His ascension that it was not for them “to know the times or the seasons” when the kingdom of God would be established on earth (Acts 1:6-7). Rather, He reserved the understanding of this mystery about “the times and seasons” of His return for the generation that would see “the fig tree and all the trees” come back to life (Luke 21:29-32, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, 5:1-11).

The Proliferation of Nations

Since the formation, expansion, division, dissolving and reorganizing of nations is subject to wars, internal conflicts and changes in leadership and governing bodies, the number of independent, sovereign states in the world has been subject to constant change. Factors for determining statehood have included independence dates, dates of constitutions, symbolic foundation dates and, more recently, international recognition from the League of Nations and its successor, the United Nations. Dates of national formation vary slightly among varied sources, however the total number of independent, sovereign nations in the world today is considered to be 195-197 by several sources.⁴

Before the 20th century (1900), there were 44 countries that had achieved statehood. The 20th century (1900-2000) saw 147 new sovereign states added, with many splitting off from the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Portugal and the Soviet Union. The first half of the 20th century (1900-1950) saw 38 new states created while the second half (1950-2000) experienced an unprecedented addition of 109 new, sovereign states. Only 5 nations have been recognized as sovereign states in the 21st century (2000 to date).⁵

The number of new states in the world multiplied quickly after World War II (1945) and continued at a rapid pace for the next 50 years. This proliferation of new states during the second half of the 20th century (1950-2000) abruptly ended on October 1, 1994 after Palau was granted recognition as a state. Only five nations have become sovereign states since 1994, with the last, South Sudan, receiving statehood on July 9, 2011. 

Growth in Membership of the United Nations

Only independent, sovereign states can become members of the United Nations. There are currently 193 member states in the UN, with the last member, South Sudan, joining on July 14, 2011.⁶

There are currently 85 countries and territories not currently in the United Nations. ⁷   The Holy See (Vatican) accepted permanent observer state status on April 6, 1964, which was regarded as a diplomatic courtesy, to enable the Vatican to participate in the UN’s humanitarian activities and in the promotion of peace. 

On November 29, 2012, Palestine was granted the status of “Non-member observer state” but hasn’t yet been admitted to the UN as a full member. ⁸ As of 2019, there are two permanent non-member observer states in the General Assembly of the United Nations: the Holy See (Vatican) and Palestine. ⁹ 

The Overlooked Sign

Watching “all the trees,” as we now know, meant watching all the nations as they come alive in conjunction with the rebirth of Israel before the end of the age. The proliferation of new nations during the 20th century gave new meaning to Luke’s version of the parable of the fig tree when we were told: “watch . . . all the trees.”

“The fig tree” (Israel) officially came back to life in 1948, and “all the trees” (Gentile Nations) have come alive, some before and more after Israel became a nation in 1948. There were 75 states present in the world when Israel became a nation on May 14, 1948. After Israel’s rebirth as a nation, 120 nations have been recognized as independent, sovereign states. ¹⁰

The Pharisees and Sadducees were spiritually blind to the signs of Christ’s First Coming (Matthew 16:1-4). When they asked Him for a sign, Jesus acknowledged their ability to interpret the weather, based upon the appearance of the sky, but they failed to grasp “the signs of the times” described in the Old Testament (OT) that were predicted by the OT prophets.  How much more are many of the religious leaders of this generation blind to the “signs of the times” described in both the OT and NT that are heralding Jesus’ Second Coming!

After observing the coming to life of “the fig tree and all the trees” after World War II and during the second half of the 20^th century (1950-2000), we can be assured, beyond reasonable doubt, that the events that take place just before Jesus’ return are nearing fulfillment. This means His coming is “near, right at the door.”

According to Jesus’ words, when “the fig tree and all the trees” put forth leaves (come alive), we are to absolutely and confidently “know” the Kingdom of God is near, and the generation that is living at that time “will not pass away until all is fulfilled.” The preponderance of scriptural and global evidence is overwhelming that we are the generation Jesus was talking about.

Resources:

1) “Theodor (Binyamin Ze’ev) Herzl (1860-1904),” https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/theodor-binyamin-ze-rsquo-ev-herzl.

2) “Theodor Herzl: Austrian Zionist Leader,” David Ben-Gurion, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Theodor-Herzl.

3) “Zionism: World Zionist Organization (WZO),” https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/world-zionist-organization-wzo.

4) “Independent States in the World,” Bureau of Intelligence and Research, https://www.state.gov/independent-states-in-the-world/ 

5) “List of Sovereign States by Date of Formation,” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_sovereign_states_by_date_of_formation

6) “UN welcomes South Sudan as 193rd Member State,” https://news.un.org/en/story/2011/07/381552

7) “Countries Not in the United Nations 2023,” https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/countries-not-in-the-un

8) “United Nations General Assembly Observers,” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_General_Assembly_observers

9) Ibid.

10) “List of Sovereign States by Date of Formation.” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_sovereign_states_by_date_of_formation

By Jan Markell

Author and commentator Jonathan Brentner wrote a provocative article titled, “How Can You Not See It?” He was asking the question, how can you not see the fulfilling of Bible prophecy wherever you look?

Is it biblical illiteracy, indifference, or busyness, that keeps the majority from acknowledging the obvious? Time is running out. Predicted events are exploding. Things are in decline. Even nature is screaming that Jesus is coming soon! All of creation must be set free, not just humans.

Most reading this magazine have seen things in their lifetime that are, quite frankly, astounding:

• The re-birth and prospering of the nation of Israel
• The rise of artificial intelligence
• The preparation of the coming digital currency
• The use of a pandemic to hasten global government
• The rise of Mark of the Beast technology
• The rise of apostasy in the church the last 60 years
• The death of discernment
• Talk of a third temple in Israel
• The scoffing of Bible prophecy
• A cancel culture that cancels Christians
• The exponential rise of evil
• The rise of anti-Semitism

The list could go on with another twenty bullet points!

A headline on the Drudge Report said it all: “Global Economy Struggles Amid Inflation, Pandemic Aftershocks, and War.” The world’s a mess.

All Set for the Antichrist

As Jonathan Brentner states, “Twenty-five years ago, it would have been impossible for the Antichrist to control commerce in the world in the way that we read in Revelation 13:16-18. He would have needed a massive army of devotees to do so.

The Silence of the Shepherds

I personally believe that the root of today’s blindness to these facts is the silence of the church. Some 30 years ago, our seminaries dropped eschatology from their class line-up and pastors have not been trained in things to come. What a tragedy! At such a time as this, the shepherds are not equipped.

Many pastors state they don’t wish to take a “controversial” stand when it comes to last days’ eschatology. Is it pre-Tribulation, mid or post? Is it Amillennial, Premillennial, or Postmillennial? And will the addition of these topics really grow a church or just divide it?? It might be better to set such topics aside and deal with day-to-day needs of a congregation and its hurting people.

Desperately Needed Hope!

But they have robbed them of the “blessed hope”! (Titus 2:13) How can pastors not see the signs of the times, and as a result, provide those in their charge with the hope they desperately need in these perilous times?

As Jonathan Brentner summarizes in his article, “We are living on borrowed time. God is sovereign, but from our perspective we see His patience with a nation and world gone mad. He’s holding back the full explosion of evil and destruction that will happen at the beginning of the Day of the Lord.”

He concludes, “I know that the majority of those reading this article agree with me, and the intent of my question is to reinforce your valid beliefs. It takes a purposeful ignorance of biblical prophecy not to recognize that the world, and especially the U.S., rests on the edge of a cliff.”

You Have Eyes to See!

You can see the nearness of His return! Very few reading this would disagree. What a blessing that God has opened your eyes to this truth and to the lateness of the hour. You cannot be accused of being in ignorance! You devour all the issues and news of the day to keep up and to help you look up!

You are the righteous, eager remnant. May your numbers increase as we wind down the Church Age.

By Ed Wood

If you have visited here before, you may recognize the name. I had a brief spurt of activiy where I had written here extensively. In the following years, the creative well has unfortunately pretty much dried up, much to my chagrin.

I return now to tell you an unusual story. The fact that I’m telling it is even more unusual, considering my past reticence to disclose much of myself to anyone.

Probably best to start with some background material.

I am presently 70 years old. My childhood was turbulent, the details of which are really not that important. Suffice it to say it played a big part in the man I would become. About 20 years ago, I was betrayed by a very close friend and her family. That essentially closed the door toward my ever allowing anyone to get “too close” from then on.

The only exception was my mother. Last year, after being essentially housebound for a considerable time, her health deteriorated and she died at the age of 92. It was a painful death which concluded a lifetime of disappointment and hardship. That even her departure was an ordeal struck me as totally unfair.

Seven years ago, I myself nearly died of Stage 4 heart failure. My prime motivation to recover was to be around for Mom, which I thankfully accomplished at a level which could be easily considered miraculous.

Life went on after Mom’s passing.

Back on June 1^st of this year (2023), I was at he gym, stepping off of an elliptical machine . . . . my next memory is that of waking up in the hospital, getting ready to come home two days later. Memory is tenuous for a few more days, but has rapidly improved since then, as I write this about two weeks later.

And now on to the real miracle, or perhaps better expressed as a series of them. Based on what I’ve since been told, it took eight “hits” with a defib to get my heart restarted, during which time I was dead for  . . .  10 minutes! This I just learned from my primary care physician. That I have no sigificant impairment, either mental or physical (besides some broken ribs), takes my story beyond the realm of science. My medical people are, quite franky, amazed, at my recovery so far – something I was told usually takes months! So am I!

As amazing as that is, it pales in comparison to what I’m about to tell you next. When I collapsed, many people at the gym whom I only knew casually, have since stepped up and gone far above and beyond to help someone, who was before this, pretty much a stranger. In fact, some were directly responsible for keeping me from being a statistic.

Yet, as remarkable as this outpouring of compassion and love has been, there has been a marked change in myself – the ability to accept all of this wholeheartedly (sorry, pun unintended). This was totally unthinkable before and I consider this change the biggest miracle of all!

I must confess that I regret that I don’t remember what happened while I was “gone,” but considering my lack of memory of even Earth-events in the days which followed, it is not a surprise. My cardiologist has said that it may resolve itself as time goes by. It will certainly be amazing if it does.

Terry James has spoken of his experiences following a massive heart attack, even written an excellent book about it called “HeavenVision,” which you should get for yourself if you haven’t already. One of the “gym people” has had an “after death” experience and he and his wonderful wife have since taken me under their wings – another miracle!

Another result of this has been some very interesting conversations about my own faith and interest in Bible prophecy, the opportunity for which hadn’t existed before. I have found all those new friends in my life very accepting. Maybe they figure that I have some inside track, having been dead for 10 minutes. I don’t think I have, at least not on a conscious level. All things said and done, I am convinced that God brought me back for a reason, or maybe even several. Maybe this is part of it.

I think another was so I could experience a peace that I have never known and a release from a long-smoldering anger which circumstances have made part of my life for as long as I remember – something only now made clear by its absence.

However much time is left to me, whatever I have left to accomplish, is something I believe the coming days will reveal. I thank our gracious God for taking me down a path

I have never and would never tread otherwise – and I can hardly wait to see what’s next!!

May the Lord bless and keep you all!

Ed Wood!

by Jan Markell

Believe me, I would much rather write about the Lord’s soon return than gay pride—or rather, gay depravity. God introduced the rainbow in Genesis 9. It was a part of a promise He made. A whole twisted movement hijacked it.

In America, the month of June is set aside to celebrate the gay lifestyle. But let’s be honest: the Western culture demands the near-constant celebration of homosexuality every day and every month of every year. Throw in the now celebrated trans agenda, and the culture decline is astounding. We are racing backwards to the days of Noah. Trans nudity was even celebrated on the White House lawn this week and may have trampled all hopes for a turn-around in America.

What Must God Think of “Queer All Year”?

But June of 2023 saw dozens of major retailers betraying conservative and Christian customers as they catered to this cultural collapse. “Queer all year” was the theme of retail America. Target lost billions in sales due to boycotts and others followed in lock step, more committed to an agenda than to corporate profits. We would eventually learn these retail outfits would be subsidized by globalist schemers.

Here is just a sampling of items offered to eager customers:

• Homosexual and trans clothing for three-month- olds
• Cookie rainbow houses for small children
• Pet gear, pet toys, pet treats in rainbow colors
• Pet chew toys that are guaranteed to turn a dog or cat gay
• Rainbow jewelry in 14k gold
• Pride-themed eyewear
• Multi-colored pride cake mixes
• Baby “always-proud” bibs
• Special pride boxes of Pop-Tarts targeting youth on Instagram

Jesus Had Grace But Spoke Truth

Our Romans 1 culture celebrates this and as Christians, we must respond with grace, love, and kindness to every person trapped in the deadly blindness of the LGBTQ lifestyle. But, many once-solid churches and denominations are going along to get along and will not speak out about the biblical warnings. Jesus represented grace and truth.

There is no way to be kind and gracious while refusing to tell people the truth that the way of sin is the way of death (Luke 13:5). The path of sexual immorality that our culture insists is so wonderful, is actually a path to destruction.

God’s Throne and a Rainbow!

John sees a glorious throne of God surrounded by a rainbow (Revelation 4:3). That reminds us that the rainbow belongs to God, not a sinful sexual culture. God is so committed to the salvation of lost men and women that you can’t even gaze at His throne without seeing a shining symbol of redemption—the rainbow.

God, who created the rainbow and is, at this moment surrounded by one, will bring his people into a perfect and sinless world surrounded with glory, wonder, and rainbows. The rainbow is God’s. He is going to take it back. The truth is, he really never lost it. It is our job to point a confused culture to God and a pure life.

It’s All About ESG Scores!

Globalist outfits like Black Rock have promised corporations an impressive ESG (equity, social, governance) score if they will cooperate in today’s dark agendas. Impressive ESG scores compensate for customers abandoning them!

God Has Said “Enough”

What did you think the last days would look like since we’re in the midst of them? Man’s sinful activity is begging for God to send His son to rescue His Bride from the depravity. It is sooner than you think!

This is a disheartening article to write, to be honest. We see darkness rising, yet we are called to be salt and light to a decaying world—even if the world pushes back. Let’s try to counter the enemy wherever we see his presence.

The world is imploding as we trend toward the Tribulation. The devil is trying to strengthen his grip on the world, the church, and on billions of people. Still, to see people literally worshipping the dark side takes one’s breath away.

The Grammys Lead The Way

Some of what I review in this article is not new news to you. This year the Grammys included a literal Satanic performance by Sam Smith and Kim Petras. The song was titled “Unholy”, and included Sam Smith in a red devil costume and hat with horns surrounded by performers—some in cages—wearing red costumes and dancing seductively. Flames surrounded them. The performance was intended to be Satanic. Viewers would think they were peering into hell.

The Super Bowl Lives Up To Its Reputation

The 2023 Super Bowl halftime lived up to its outrageous reputation. It opened with the filth merchant, Rihanna, descending from the sky, surrounded by what could be described as dancing fallen angels! This generated more complaints than the debacle at the Grammys.

Commonwealth Games Infect The World

The Commonwealth Games last July in Birmingham, England, had 72 nations participating. Then Prince Charles was an honorary guest. It included ritualistic Baal worship in plain sight! But before that, dancers placed fingers on their heads to represent Satanic horns as they were announcing the coming of the horned beast!

The ceremony was blatant Luciferian worship. A woman eventually climbed a gigantic bull and the crowd celebrated the woman riding the beast—right out of Revelation 17. I wish I were making this up, but I am not. This was seen by tens of millions of people around the world. Gotthard Base Tunnel Celebrates Goat Man

We can’t leave out the Gotthard Base Tunnel ceremony of 2016. This was attended by Europe’s most powerful leaders. The opening ceremony was a dark, disturbing, and weirdly Satanic ritual.

The Gotthard Tunnel is the world’s longest tunnel project in history. It goes through the Swiss Alps and took 17 years to complete. It is considered the symbol of European unification, but does this require honoring Satan??

During the eight-hour ceremony, eventually a goat man, or Baphomet, appears and is the star of the show! People bow down to him once again. At the end of the long ceremony, the goat man is declared “king of the world.” This, too, was televised to the world.

This Is What They Think Of God

Europe threw God out of their continent decades ago, and they now seem to delight in honoring dark images! By creating overtly dark and occultic ceremonies, the elite tell the world, “This is what we believe in, this is what we think of you, and this is what we think of God.” On the day when they will be held accountable, we may hear their mourning and their regret!

SatanCon 2023

The largest Satanic gathering in history will take place April 28-30 in Boston, MA. Attendees are promised a “weekend of blasphemy and remembrance.” Years ago, maybe a few fringe weirdos would get together for something like that. But this year’s “SatanCon” was completely sold out six weeks in advance. This event reflects the tremendous evil that is rapidly growing all around us. Hundreds, if not thousands, will gather to celebrate darkness and Satan.

The Spirit Of The Antichrist Is Fueling This

This unbelieving element is racing towards the kingdom of the Antichrist. It is the spirit of the Antichrist that inspires these glorifications of darkness. You would not like to be present when they are cast into eternal darkness and the eternal lake of fire. Finally, they will no longer be celebrating. They will no longer be mocking. They will be wailing and begging for a second chance.

I haven’t even described the Fox TV production in 2016 and 2017 titled Lucifer, that painted him as a really good guy! Or, rapper Lil Nas X grossing out some of his closest fans by sliding down a pole to hell to give Satan a lap dance. I haven’t described another cable production titled Little Demon. I haven’t described the after-school Satan clubs designed to counter Child Evangelism Bible classes in the schools! And so much more.

Lift Up A Standard Against This!

But even as the shadow of darkness blankets our landscape, there are an ever-increasing number of embassies of the kingdom of light. We read in the Bible that there will be unspeakable darkness and a great falling away in the last days before Christ returns, but most of us probably never thought we would live to see a day quite like this.

The Bible says that “when darkness comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against it” (Isaiah 59:19). The Lord will cause our lives to impact the rampant evil surrounding us! This may be one of the very reasons God has allowed us to be born for such a time as this.

I’m trusting that you will push back against the darkness with me! Satan gets some glory now, but remember his ultimate destination: An eternal lake of fire for him and all his angels and cohorts, where their diabolical celebrations will come to an ignominious end.

The Lord Jesus has put it in my heart to share this to give people peace in these dark days. We read and listen to every news, story, and video from around the world and see the fabric of society coming undone. In the last few weeks, we have seen the Silicon Valley Bank collapse, the major unrest within Israel, inflation, the fear of Iran acquiring nuclear weapons, and the Ukraine-Russia war getting ever worse even as this article is written.

As Terry James has mentioned in his writings, the fear of World War III is present in the minds of believers. Even those who prep with haste for the coming end seem to believe the bank failures are the sign of the impending collapse of the economy. But as this fear grows, the Lord Jesus Christ has reminded me with the slightest of nudges to share something important:

For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark. (Matthew 24:38)

When you walk or drive and visit parks, malls, stores, and theaters, do you not see how calm people are—the normal life that people continue to project around you? Every day I walk to a park called Magic Island, and I see families and children playing, barbecuing, fishing, marrying, and swimming as if tomorrow will come again. No matter if the news yells “war” or “economic crisis,” people continue on without a thought of it.

Please read Matthew 24:38 one more time:

For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage.”

It was peaceful until the end—right up until the Flood came and God rescued Noah. I know the events around us weigh heavy on our souls, but have you also seen the hand of Jesus Christ at work? No matter how earth-shaking an event may, be the world continues. Even though Silicon Bank has collapsed, the economy is once more returning to a sense of normalcy. Even though experts say Iran will have nuclear capabilities in days just ahead, and Russia and the West are close to conflict, it’s still peaceful in the minds of many. I was reminded of this Scripture:

And He is before all things, and by Him all things consist. (Colossians 1:17)

The Lord Jesus’ hand holds everything together. Peace will still reign—up until the Rapture of the Church. There can be no worldwide, catastrophic chaos before that glorious event. People will still be going about their routine daily life before the trumpet sounds. These are not my thoughts, but the Words of the Lord Jesus Christ telling everyone from His Holy Book, the Bible, about what is to come.

We’re almost there. These signs show us that here, at the tip of this age, normalcy continues…but the foundation that keeps this false sense of normal is almost gone.

In closing:

Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? (Matthew 6:25–27)

Trust in the Lord Jesus that He has everything in hand. He has you in His hands and knows what you’re facing. The end is near, and the most amazing event is about to happen. Just remember:

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. (Matthew 6:33)

God Bless

Zachary

America is in a most precarious position while leaders in government take the nation in a direction directly opposite from godliness.  That wicked direction is much like Paul outlines following Romans 1: 28. Rabbi Jonathan Cahn presents a message we sense is commissioned by Heaven.

Please listen to that Message.