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When_Gog’s_Armies_Meet_The_Almighty_In_The_Land_Of_Israel<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

PREFACE TO THE THIRD EDITION
\n<\/b><\/span><\/center><\/p>\n


\nHaving returned from the Holy Land in the summer of 1939 and having studied in a special manner the prophecies relating to the end time, I wrote the present volume, which issued from the press in 1940.<\/span><\/p>\n

These facts must be borne constantly in mind because the book was written from the standpoint of conditions in the Holy Land in 1940. Since then many and stupendous changes have taken place in the land. Progress and development are moving with incredible speed. This year, 1958, the State of Israel is celebrating its tenth anniversary of independence and statehood.<\/p>\n

Though the outlook of this book is from the standpoint of 1940, the exposition of the Word contained therein is as fresh and new as if it were written in 1958. My studies during these eighteen intervening years have only confirmed the interpretation of the Scriptures as given in the first edition. There is, however only one point to which I wish to call special attention now. While I have always recognized that there are two invasions of Palestine mentioned in Ezekiel, chapters 38 and 39, I did not make this point stand out as boldly as the facts now demand. In Ezekiel 38:1-39:16 is a prophecy of an invasion of the land of Israel by Russia and her associates, which occurs before the Tribulation. In Ezekiel 39:17-29 is another prophecy regarding the invasion of Palestine by the armies of the world, which, as we know from related passages, will occur at the end of the Tribulation. Also in these verses are flashes of glory of the reign of Messiah, which He establishes upon His coming to earth at the end of the tribulation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

David L. Cooper
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Los Angeles, California
\nAugust 1958<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

PREFACE TO THE SECOND EDITION
\n<\/b><\/span><\/center><\/p>\n


\nThis volume first appeared in February 1940. The large edition published has been completely exhausted. There is still a greater demand for this message than ever before since people are realizing more and more than ever the great importance of this particular prophecy. Thousands of people have read this volume. Book reviews have come from different portions of the world. I have received scores of letters from ministers and bible teachers regarding it. I am glad to report that with one or two exceptions the reception accorded its message has been most gracious and gratifying.<\/span><\/p>\n

I have studied this subject more than ever during the last three years. Many things have transpired during this period. At this writing I do not have to change any of the positions taken. This fact is due to my refusal to set dates and make out human schedules. On the contrary I have endeavored to expound the Word – just as it is.<\/p>\n

In this new edition I have added a fifth chapter which contains a chart showing the unfolding of the ages from the birth of Christ to eternity. Graphically the position, in point of time of the fulfillment of this position, is clearly seen. This new material makes its distinctive contribution. May God use this small volume in bringing a blessing to many thousands of His people.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

David L. Cooper <\/span><\/p>\n

April 15, 1943<\/span><\/p>\n

PREFACE
\n<\/b><\/span><\/center><\/p>\n


\n<\/b><\/span>The proper understanding of the prophecy of Ezekiel 38 and 39 is essential to the correct approach in studying the predictions relating to the end time. Since prophetic students are directing their attention in an especial manner to this marvelous prediction, I felt led of the Lord to write this small volume in an attempt to expound the truths of this startling oracle.<\/span><\/p>\n

These are great and momentous days. Epochal events are occurring. The international stage is constantly being reset. People are asking what may we expect next. The answer is to be found in the prophetic word alone, to which we shall do well to take heed as to a light shining in a dark place until the day dawn (II Pet. 1:19).<\/p>\n

Since all students have their own special and peculiar approach to any subject, naturally differences arise in their interpretation of the Prophetic word. This fact should not discourage anyone in his effort to learn what God says relative to the future.<\/p>\n

Let each one of us be considerate of those who differ from us, granting to the other that which we ask for ourselves; namely, that we desire the truth and nothing but the truth.<\/p>\n

May the Lord use this small volume to the blessing of many souls is my sincere prayer.<\/p>\n

Los Angeles, California
\nFebruary 15, 1940<\/p>\n

\n

CHAPTER I
\n<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n


\n<\/span>
WHO ARE THE ACTORS IN THIS
\n<\/b><\/span>
PROPHETIC DRAMA?
\n<\/b><\/span>

\n<\/span>
I. PROPHECY OF EZEKIEL, CHAPTERS 38 AND 39<\/center><\/center><\/center><\/center><\/center><\/p>\n

38 And the word of Jehovah came unto me saying, 2 Son of man, set thy face toward Gog, of the land of Magog, the prince of Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal, and prophesy against him, 3 and say, Thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Behold, I am against thee, O Gog, prince of Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal: 4 and I will turn thee about, and put hooks into thy jaws, and I will bring thee forth, and all thine army, horses and horsemen, all of them clothed in full armor, a great company with buckler and shield, all of them handling swords: 5 Persia, Cush, and Put with them, all of them with shield and helmet; 6 Gomer, and all his hordes; the house of Togarmah in the uttermost parts of the north, and all his hordes; even many people with thee.<\/p>\n

7 Be thou prepared, yea, prepare thyself, thou, and all thy companies that are assembled unto thee, and be thou a guard unto them. 8 After many days thou shalt be visited: in the latter years thou shalt come into the land that is brought back from the sword, that is gathered out of many peoples, upon the mountains of Israel, which have been a continual waste; but it is brought forth out of the peoples, and they shall dwell securely, all of them. 9 And thou shalt ascend, thou shalt come like a storm, thou shalt be like a cloud to cover the land, thou, and all thy hordes, and many peoples with thee.<\/p>\n

10 Thus saith the Lord Jehovah: It shall come to pass in that day, that things shall come into thy mind, and thou shalt devise an evil device: 11 and thou shalt say, I will go up to the land of unwalled villages; I will go to them that are at rest, that dwell securely, all of them dwelling without walls, and having neither bars nor gates; 12 to take the spoil and to take the prey; to turn thy hand against the waste places that are now<\/i> inhabited, and against the people that are gathered out of the nations, that have gotten cattle and goods, that dwell in the middle of the earth. 13 Sheba, and Dedan, and the merchants of Tarshish, with all the young lions thereof, shall say unto thee, Art thou come to take the spoil? hast thou assembled thy company to take the prey? To carry away silver and gold, to take away cattle and goods, to take great spoil?<\/p>\n

14 Therefore, son of man, prophesy, and say unto Gog, Thus saith the Lord Jehovah: In that day when my people Israel dwelleth securely, shalt thou not know it? 15 And thou shalt come from thy place out of the uttermost parts of the north, thou, and many peoples with thee, all of them riding upon horses, a great company and a mighty army; 16 and thou shalt come up against my people Israel, as a cloud to cover the land: it shall come to pass in the latter days, that I will bring thee against my land, that the nations may know me, when I shall be sanctified in thee, O Gog, before their eyes.<\/p>\n

17 Thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Art thou he of whom I spake in old time by my servants the prophets of Israel, that prophesied in those days for many years that I would bring thee against them? 18 And it shall come to pass in that day, when Gog shall come against the land of Israel, saith the Lord Jehovah, that my wrath shall come up into my nostrils. 19 For in my jealousy and in the fire of my wrath have I spoken, Surely in that day there shall be a great shaking in the land of Israel; 20 so that the fishes of the sea, and the birds of the heavens, and the beasts of the field, and all creeping things that creep upon the earth, and all the men that are on the face of the earth shall shake at my presence, and the mountains shall be thrown down, and the steep places shall fall, and every wall shall fall to the ground. 21 And I will call for a sword against him unto all my mountains, saith the Lord Jehovah: every man’s sword shall be against his brother. 22 And with pestilence and with blood will I enter into judgment with him; and I will rain upon him, and upon his hordes, and upon the many peoples that are with him, and overflowing shower, and great hailstones, fire, and brimstone. 23 And I will magnify myself, and sanctify myself, and I will make myself known in the eyes of many nations; and they shall know that I am Jehovah.<\/p>\n

39 <\/b> And thou, son of man, prophesy against Gog, and say, Thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Behold, I am against thee, O Gog, prince of Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal: 2 I will turn thee about, and lead thee on, and will cause thee to come up from the uttermost parts of the north; and I will bring thee upon the mountains of Israel; 3 and I will smite thy bow out of thy left hand, and cause thine arrows to fall out of thy right hand. 4 Thou shalt fall upon the mountains of Israel, thou, and all thy hordes, and the peoples that are with thee: I will give thee unto the ravenous birds of every sort, and to the beasts of the field to be devoured. 5 Thou shalt fall upon the open field; for I have spoken it, saith the Lord Jehovah. 6 And I will send a fire on Magog, and on them that dwell securely in the isles; and they shall know that I am Jehovah. 7 And my holy name will I make known in the midst of my people Israel; neither will I suffer my holy name to be profaned anymore: and the nations shall know that I am Jehovah, the Holy One in Israel. 8 Behold, it cometh, and it shall be done, saith the Lord Jehovah; this is the day whereof I have spoken. 9 And they that dwell in the cities of Israel shall go forth, and shall make fires of the weapons and burn them, both the shields and the bucklers, the bows and the arrows, and the handstaves, and the spears, and they shall make fires of them seven years; 10 so that they shall take no wood out of the field, neither cut down any of the forests; for they shall make fires of the weapons; and they shall plunder those that plundered them, and rob those that robbed them, saith the Lord Jehovah.<\/p>\n

11 And it shall come to pass in that day, that I will give unto Gog a place for burial in Israel, the valley of them that pass through on the east of the sea; and it shall stop them that pass through: and there shall they bury Gog and all his multitude; and they shall call it the valley of Hamon-Gog. 12 And seven months shall the house of Israel be burying them, that they may cleanse the land. 13 Yea, all the people of the land shall bury them; and it shall be to them a renown in the day that I shall be glorified, saith the Lord Jehovah. 14 And they shall set apart men of continual employment, that shall pass through the land and, with them that pass through, those that bury them that remain upon the face of the land, to cleanse it: after the end of seven months shall they search. 15 And they that pass through the land shall pass through; and when they seeth a man’s bone, then shall he set up a sign by it, till the buriers have buried it in the valley of Hamon-gog. 16 And Hamonah shall also be the name of a city. Thus shall they cleanse the land.<\/p>\n

17 And thou, son of man, thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Speak unto the birds of every sort, and to every beast of the field, Assemble yourselves, and come: gather yourselves on every side to my sacrifice that I do sacrifice for you, even a great sacrifice on the mountains of Israel, that ye may eat flesh and drink blood. 18 Ye shall eat the flesh of the mighty, and drink the blood of the princes of the earth, of rams, of lambs, and of goats, of bullocks, all of them fatlings of Bashan. 19 And ye shall eat fat till ye be full, and drink blood till ye be drunken, of my sacrifice which I have sacrificed for you. 20 And ye shall be filled at my table with horses and chariots, with mighty men, and with all men of war, saith the Lord Jehovah.<\/p>\n

21 And I will set my glory among the nations; and all the nations shall see my judgment that I have executed, and my hand that I have laid upon them. 22 So the house of Israel shall know that I am Jehovah their God, from that day and forward. 23 And the nations shall know that the house of Israel went into captivity for their iniquity; because they trespassed against me, and I hid my face from them: so I gave them into the hand of their adversaries, and they fell all of them by the sword. 24 According to their uncleanness and according to their transgressions did I unto them; and I hid my face from them.<\/p>\n

25 Therefore saith the Lord Jehovah: Now will I bring back the captivity of Jacob, and have mercy upon the whole house of Israel; and I will be jealous for my holy name. 26 And they shall bear their shame, and all their trespasses whereby they have trespassed against me, when they shall dwell securely in their land, and none shall make them afraid; 27 when I have brought them back from the peoples, and gathered them out of their enemies‘ lands, and am sanctified in them in the sight of many nations. 28 And they shall know that I am Jehovah their God, in that I caused them to go into captivity among the nations, and have gathered them into their own land; and I will leave none of them anymore there; 29 neither will I hide my face any more from them; for I have poured out my Spirit upon the house of Israel, saith the Lord Jehovah.<\/p>\n

[In order that the reader may receive the greatest possible amount of good from this study, he should reread the Scripture passage which has just been quoted. The only way to get the content in any passage of Scripture is to become familiar with the exact wording of every statement. If, therefore, the reader has an accurate knowledge of the facts set forth in these chapters at the outset of this study, he will get far more than he can possibly acquire otherwise.]<\/p>\n

A CAREFUL examination of these chapters reveals the fact that there are two groups of nations described in addition to the children of Israel. Hence in these chapters, we shall examine all the evidence and attempt to identify these peoples.<\/p>\n

II. THE NORTHEAST CONFEDERACY<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In Ezekiel 38:1-6 we read of what might properly be termed „The Northeastern Confederacy.“ This title may be somewhat new to the reader, but it seems to be more accurate than the usual designation, which is „The Great Northern Confederacy.“ The reason for this statement is that the nations which are mentioned occupy the land which forms a semicircle around Palestine. Although the title, „The Northeastern Confederacy,“ is not literally accurate, it is sufficiently definite for the countries mentioned in the prediction, since all but two of them lie to the north and east of Palestine. The two exceptions are Ethiopia and Put, the latter of which is usually identified as Somaliland, that is north and east of Ethiopia.<\/span><\/p>\n

As we attempt to identify and to locate the nations mentioned in this prophecy, let us always bear in mind the fact that the past, present, and future are one eternal present with the Lord, and that, if the prediction was not fulfilled in the past, it will yet be carried out literally.<\/p>\n

The proper approach to the study of the nations given in this prophecy is an examination of Genesis 10:1-7. A glance at these verses shows that the peoples mentioned here are the descendants of Japheth, with the exception of Cush and Put. In his prediction concerning Tyre, Ezekiel spoke of several of these nations and of their having commercial relations with her as the seaport of the world at that time.<\/p>\n

Who is Gog, of the land of Magog, the prince of Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal? This question has been a matter of great debate, and much confusion and uncertainty have arisen as a consequence. The late Doctor T. G. Pinches, in the article „Rosh“<\/i> in The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia,<\/i> gives us the following information.<\/p>\n

„The identification of Rosh is not without its difficulties. Gesenius regarded it as indicating the Russians, who are mentioned in Byzantine writers of the 10th<\/sup> cent. Under the name of Rhos. He adds that they are also noticed by Ibn Fosslan (same period), under the name of Rus, a people dwelling on the river Rha (Volga). Apart from the improbability that the dominion of Gog extended to this district, it would be needful to know at what date the Rus of the Volga arrived there.<\/p>\n

„Notwithstanding objections on account of its eastern position, in all probability Fried. Delitzsch’s identification of Rosh with the mat Rasi,<\/i> ‚Land of Rash‘ of the Assyr. inscriptions, is the best. Sargon of Assyria (c 710 B.C.) conquered the counties ‚from the land of Rasu on the border of Elam as far as the river of Egypt,‘ and this country is further described in his Khorsabad Inscription, 18, as ‚the land of Rasu, of the boundary of Elam, which is beside the Tigris.‘ Assyria having disappeared from among the nations when Ezekiel wrote his prophecies, Babylonia was the only power from which Gog of the land of Magog‘ would have had to reckon, but it may be doubted whether the Bab. king would have allowed him to exercise power in the district of Rasu, except as a very faithful vassal. It may here be noted that the Heb. spelling of Rosh presupposes an earlier pronunciation as Rash,<\/i> a form agreeing closely with that used by the Assyrians. See Fried. Delitzsch, Wo lag das Paradies? 325.“<\/i><\/p>\n

According to Dr Pinches, Fried. Delitzsch was the one who identified the subject of Ezekiel’s prophecy as „the land of Rasu on the border of Elam.“ Although there was such a country or province bordering on Elam, as is evident from the clay tablets unearthed, testimony of which led this noted archaeologist to identify this historic country with the subject of Ezekiel’s prophecy, the monumental evidence is not conclusive and does not justify such an identification; in fact, such an interpretation is impossible. The prophet stated that this prince and his land are in the uttermost parts of the north–north from Babylonia, where Ezekiel was when he issued the prophecy, and Palestine, his native home. (See 38:15 to 39:2). The country which meets the conditions of these statements can be none other than Russia, because she occupies the country which is north of both Babylonia and Palestine.<\/p>\n

Gog, the prince addressed, is of the land of Magog and is the prince of „Rosh, Meshsech, and Tubal.“ The great Hebraic scholar, Gesenius, identified Rosh as the modern Russia; Meshech as Moscow; and Tubal as Tobolsk. He saw in the Hebrew words the phonetic equivalent of these modern names in the Russian tongue. Since it is evident from Ezekiel 38:1-39:2 that the country of Gog is in the uttermost parts of the north, there can be little doubt concerning Gesenius’s identification of these cities.<\/p>\n

The next in the list of those allied with Russia is Persia. Ezekiel lived in the time of the Babylonian supremacy. At its overthrow the Medo-Persian Empire became the ruling power of the day. It, in turn, was succeeded by the Greek kingdom, which later was overthrown and swallowed up by imperialistic Rome. Notwithstanding the fact that Medo-Persia went down as a world power, this kingdom in its contracted and weakened form has continued through the centuries and has persisted even to the present time. In our day she is known as Iran.<\/p>\n

The third name associated with Russia is Cush. According to Genesis 10:6, Cush is listed as the first son of Ham. This name is mentioned in Ezekiel 30:4,5, but is there rendered Ethiopia.<\/i> The same word in the original appears in both passages. In Ezekiel 38:5 it should have been translated Ethiopia<\/i>, the same as in 30:4,5. This fact leaves little doubt but that these verses refer to the country which is known today as Ethiopia in East Africa.<\/p>\n

Put<\/i> is the next nation appearing in this list. Put, the father of the people inhabiting the country called by that name, was the third son of Ham as is indicated in Genesis 10:6. The authorized version of the Scriptures translates this Libya. This rendering is indeed faulty, since grave doubt exists with reference to it. A person cannot be absolutely dogmatic on this point, since the preponderance of evidence seems to favor one’s identifying this country as Somaliland east and north of Ethiopia.<\/p>\n

Gomer is next mentioned in the prophecy. According to Genesis 10:2,3 Gomer was the oldest son of Japheth and was the father of Ashkenaz, Riphath, and Togarmah. The same representation appears in I Chron. 1:5,6. Gomer has been identified as modern Germany. The evidence seems to favor this interpretation.<\/p>\n

Togarmah is the last one given in this company of nations. As seen in the preceding paragraph, Gomer was the father of Togarmah. By some scholars Togarmah has been identified as modern Armenia, which has been swallowed up by both Russia and Turkey.<\/p>\n

In addition to the groups that are mentioned by name there are numbers of others who are included in the expression, „and all his hordes.“ These multitudes are mentioned as „many peoples with thee.“ This expression possibly refers to other groups of smaller nations which become allied more or less closely with the countries mentioned. Of course, it refers to the multitude of the peoples, whose armies will be very large.<\/p>\n

A glance at this prophecy shows that Gog, the prince of Russia, plays the leading part in this great dramatic action. Ever since the rise of Hitlerism in Germany, there has been an outward antagonism between Russia and Germany. Many students, seeing this prediction, recognizing that it foretells a treaty between these countries, and knowing of the intense antagonism between them, could not see how this forecast could be fulfilled. On the other hand, those students who are thoroughly convinced that every prediction of God’s Word will be fulfilled literally have insisted (and still do) that eventually this hostile attitude, whether real or assumed, would vanish, an approach would be made, and a treaty would be concluded.<\/p>\n

Suddenly, as overnight, the entire world was amazed by the announcement coming from Moscow that a treaty of nonaggression had been signed between Russia and Germany. This epoch-making event was proclaimed to the world the latter part of the summer. These initial steps up to the present moment have been followed at intervals by successive advances. At this stage of the development (January 1940), no one knows to what extent the cooperation between these two nations has gone. It would be a matter of pure speculation for one to attempt to say. Though the relationship between Russia and Germany may not have progressed to the extent contemplated in Ezekiel’s prediction, and though there should be an apparent reversal of the present development, we may be certain that, since the Word of God will be fulfilled literally, the agreement and cooperation foretold in this passage will eventually take place. It is easier for heaven and earth to pass away than for one word which God has spoken to fail of realization.<\/p>\n

From Ezekiel’s prophetic declaration, it is evident that Russia plays the principle part in this great international drama. The head of this people is said to be „a guard unto them,“ or, as the marginal reading renders the word, a „commander.“ From this utterance it is evident that Russia will be the leader in this coalition of nations, and that Germany will be a secondary power. That is exactly what has occurred even during this short period of collaboration between these great countries. At the present time it is recognized generally that Germany is now playing a secondary role. In the terms of the proverbial saying, Russia, in the Polish campaign, used Germany to pull her chestnuts out of the fire. The latter did the fighting while the former stepped in and took the spoils. Whether or not the present state of affairs will continue until this prediction is completely fulfilled we do not know, but we are confident that, when the time comes for the fulfillment of this passage, God will make good every statement included in this oracle.<\/p>\n

There must be a shifting of the international scene and a realignment of certain nations in order that this prediction may be fulfilled. For instance, Turkey is bound to France and Great Britain by her present treaty obligations. This accord was brought about in order to check Germany in her drive toward the East and to counteract the march of Russia into Europe, especially in the Balkan States. Persia also is tied more or less closely to Great Britain by mutual interests and treaties. On the other hand, Ethiopia has been annexed to Italy. This was accomplished at the end of the Italo-Ethiopian war. While the entire country has not, according to reports, been conquered–only the principle cities–for all practical purposes one must admit that Ethiopia is part of the Italian Empire. At the present time there is great antagonism between Italy–deeply religious–on the one hand and Russia–the hotbed of atheism–on the other. In order that the prediction might be fulfilled, it appears that there must be a break between Ethiopia and Italy. If by the term Put<\/i> Somaliland is indicated, there must be some readjustment of its present political status before this can be accomplished.<\/p>\n

In our modern world we are accustomed to seeing great and mighty changes occurring overnight. The present setup of the international situation can very easily be shifted and that which is set forth in this passage be brought about. What it took centuries and even millenniums to accomplish in former generations may be brought about in a few weeks, or even a few days. We are living in a rapidly shifting world. The unexpected occurs.<\/p>\n

Almighty God is able to shift and to direct the movement of nations in order that His purposes might be brought to pass. A glance at history shows that throughout the past the invisible, unseen hand of the Lord has ever been present, directing the movement of all nations. God has never abdicated His throne in favor of anyone; neither will He do this. Satan, though very powerful, is subject to the command of the Almighty; he cannot do anything without first securing permission from Him as his Overlord and Master. Whenever the former is allowed to do a certain thing, limitations are always placed upon him. As proof of this, study the case of Job. Satan had to ask permission of God to tempt His faithful servant. When this concession was granted, certain restrictions and limitations were placed upon Satan, beyond which he could not go. What is true in this case is also correct in others. The Lord Omnipotent reigns.<\/p>\n

Jehovah bringeth the counsel of the nations to nought;
\nHe maketh the thoughts of the peoples to be of no effect.
\nThe counsel of Jehovah standeth fast forever,
\nThe thoughts of his heart to all generations (Ps. 33:10,11).<\/p>\n

As we shall see later, it is God’s plan to bring this confederation of nations into Palestine in order that His glory might be manifest to the Chosen People especially and that His purposes might be forwarded. We may expect, therefore, this development, as here foreseen, to come to pass or to spring into materialization at the proper time.<\/p>\n


\nIII. THE WESTERN DEMOCRACIES
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Opposed to this Northeastern Confederacy is a group of nations which might properly be termed „The Western Democracies.“ Yet this designation is not accurate in every particular, because it consists of „Sheba, Dedan, and the merchants of Tarshish, with all the young lions thereof.“ Who are Sheba and Dedan? According to Genesis 10:7, Raamah the son of Cush was the father of Sheba and Dedan. There were two other brothers bearing these names who were the sons of Jokshan, a son of Abraham by Keturah, his second wife (Gen. 25:3). From the historical testimony which has been brought to light, it appears that there were two tribes by these names in both the south of Arabia and in the northwestern section of that country. Some have seen a contradiction in the evidence. This is not a necessary conclusion at all. The sons of Raamah were Hamites. In Genesis 10:6,7 we see the sons and grandsons of Ham. The sons of Cush inhabited the country now known as Ethiopia. His younger brother was the ancestor of the Egyptians (Mizraim). Put’s descendants evidently inhabited the country of Somaliland; and the posterity of Canaan, the land of Palestine. Some of Cush’s descendants would naturally settle in southwestern Arabia.<\/span><\/p>\n

On the other hand, Sheba and Dedan, the grandsons of Abraham, normally would settle in the country of their nativity or thereabouts. Abraham journeyed from Ur of the Chaldees to Syria and finally, when his father died, entered Canaan. Jacob in fleeing from the wrath of his brother Esau went to Laban his uncle in Syria. It is altogether possible, and quite probable, that Sheba and Dedan would settle in the country with which their ancestors had had such close connections.<\/p>\n

In view of the facts stated in the last two paragraphs it is quite likely that the evidence found in modern Syria for the Sheba and Dedan communities in northwestern Arabia must relate to the descendants of Abraham by Keturah. On the other hand, Sheba and Dedan, the descendants of Ham through Raamah, would be those who settled in the countries south of Edom in the land bordering on the Red Sea, which is now under English control (1940).<\/p>\n

To what does the expression „the merchants of Tarshish“ refer? Some scholars have thought that Tarshish was an ancient name for Spain whereas others see in it a reference to England. When all the historical statements are examined thoroughly, it seems that the evidence is in favor of identifying Tarshish as England. This conclusion is confirmed by statements which speak of the ships of Tarshish in a number of prophetic utterances. Tarshish, therefore, appears to be the leading maritime power in the end of the age. England has held for decades and still retains the balance of sea power. We are thus led to conclude that Tarshish of this passage in all probability refers to England.<\/p>\n

But who are „the young lions thereof“? Since we are to take the common sense meaning of every passage if it makes good sense, we will apply this principle to the present case. These young lions in connection with Sheba, Dedan, and Tarshish issue a protest in regard to the invasion of Palestine by the hosts of the Northeastern Confederacy. Lions do not talk. This fact makes it evident that the expression is not to be taken literally. What, therefore, is its symbolic meaning? A glance at Daniel 7 shows that a beast when used symbolically always indicates a king or his kingdom. In this vision Daniel saw four beasts emerging from the troubled waters of the sea, but did not realize the significance of the things disclosed to him. The angel, therefore, came and interpreted the meaning of the revelation, saying „These great beasts, which are four, are four kings, that shall arise out of the earth“ (Dan. 7:17). According to the 23rd<\/sup> verse of this same chapter the fourth beast is „a fourth kingdom upon earth, which shall be diverse from all the kingdoms, and shall devour the whole earth, and shall tread it down, and break it in pieces.“ According to these statements a beast when used symbolically signifies a civil government. Since it is evident from the context of Ezekiel 38:13 that the young lions are used symbolically, we know that they refer to nations which will be working in close conjunction with Great Britain. What countries can, therefore, be indicated by this prophecy? The answer in all probability is that the democracies of the Western World are meant. This, of course, includes the United States of America, since she developed out of English colonization in the New World. Of course, all of those nations that are included in the British Empire or the Commonwealth of Nations are referred to in this passage. It is needless to say that it embraces all those countries which are more or less closely allied with England.<\/p>\n

From the facts which we have already noted, the nations foreseen by the prophet in this vision will be divided into two great groups. For want of better terms, we designate them, because of their positions geographically, as the Great Northeastern Confederacy and the Western Democracies.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

IV. ISRAEL IN THE LAND OF THE FATHERS
\n<\/span><\/center><\/p>\n

<\/b>„After many days thou shalt be visited: in the latter years thou shalt come into the land that is brought back from the sword, that is gathered out of many peoples, upon the mountains of Israel, which have been a continual waste; but it is brought forth out of the peoples, and they shall dwell securely, all of them“ (Ezek. 38:8).<\/span><\/p>\n

The mountains of Israel referred to in this quotation are none other than the hills of the land of Palestine. According to the last clause of verse 12 of this chapter, Palestine is „the navel“ or the middle of the earth. The Lord selected this country as the home for His People because of its pivotal position with reference to the civilization of the ancient world and because of the strategic location which it will have in the end of the age as well as in the Millennium. He, therefore, deeded it to His Chosen People in perpetuity. This is seen in Deuteronomy 32:8. Israel, therefore, was placed upon this, „the bridge of the nations,“ in order that she might hold aloft the torch of God’s Revelation to the heathen nations as they passed to and fro through the Land in their commercial relations and military operations. Across its borders many of the great conquerors of antiquity led their mighty armies. Its soil from time to time has been drenched with the lifeblood of the dying. The caravans, the silent ships of the desert, have, from times immemorial, borne the rich treasures of the ancient empires along its highways to the marts of the world. Palestine therefore, has been and will continue to be the most important of all lands. It will yet be the stage upon which the final scene of the world drama will be enacted.<\/p>\n

What is meant by the statement: „In the latter days thou shalt come into the land that is brought back from the sword“? This prophecy has been variously interpreted. Light is thrown upon it by the clause which follows: „that is gathered out of many peoples.“ The clauses, „that is brought back“ and „that is gathered out,“ modify the word land<\/i>. In what sense, therefore, can the country be said to be brought back from the sword? The literal land cannot in any way be spoken of as being brought back. It is possible that this expression might mean that the country has been delivered from the sword; that is, been granted cessation from hostile military operations. While such a meaning is a possible one, it is altogether highly improbable. The parallel clause, „that is gathered out of many people,“ seems to indicate what is meant; namely, that the peoples who have been subjected to the sword in other nations have been brought back into their own land. In this event, the language is an illustration of metonymy or synecdoche. In all probability this is the correct signification. The people are spoken of in terms of the country which belongs to them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\n

(Continued from chapter I)
\n<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

This land is said to have remained in a state of continual waste. That is just what was to be expected. God foretold through Moses that, if Israel should be disobedient to Him, He would scatter her among the nations (Lev. 26; Deut. 28). Moreover He declared that in this period of her sojourn among the Gentiles the land would be permitted to enjoy its Sabbaths, which thing was not true while she dwelt therein. Furthermore, the passage in Leviticus 26:33-39 tells us that the land is to be desolate during this period of time. A visit to Palestine makes plain the significance of this prophecy. In both 1937 and 1939 I had the privilege of visiting Palestine, spending three months there both times. During my first stay in the land I had the privilege of going throughout its length and breadth. Also a missionary group which I joined traversed Transjordan from the Gulf of Akabah to the Syrian border. The traveler sees waste and desolation on every hand. Through mismanagement and a lack of scientific methods of farming, the country is now in the state described by Moses.<\/span><\/p>\n

The one who has spiritual discernment can see the hand of Providence in allowing this condition to develop and continue, for, had there been a dense population in the country throughout the centuries, much of the historical data found in the ruins of the land would have been destroyed. Out of the tells or the mounds of Palestine have been dug up many material evidences which corroborate and confirm the Biblical narratives. For all of this assuring testimony, we give thanks and praise to God.<\/p>\n

Both Moses and the prophets promised Israel that God would gather her from among the nations and would establish her in her own land. This, they affirmed, would come to pass in the latter days. For this testimony see Leviticus 26, Deuteronomy 4:25-33, and chapter 28. The passages just referred to speak of the final and complete regathering of Israel as it will be accomplished at the beginning of the Millennial Age of our Lord’s reign. But the gradual and methodical restoration of the Jews to the land of their fathers is set forth in that marvelous vision of the valley of dry bones (Ezekiel 37:1-14). In this revelation, the prophet saw a valley overspread with dry bones–human bones. At the command of the Lord, he, in the vision, spoke to them, and there occurred a great earthquake and a terrific noise. Then the bones automatically started to come together–bone to its bone. Next, sinews began to appear, connecting each bone with its neighbor. Then flesh and skin commenced to appear; but there was no breath in them until the prophet called to the Spirit of God to breathe into them the breath of life. When He did that, these lifeless corpses sprang into life and became an exceedingly great army. This pictorial representation, presented to the prophet in vision, sets forth in a most graphic and dramatic manner the gradual and methodical restoration of Israel to the land of the fathers. Without a doubt the earthquake and the great noise, which caused the bones to move and take their proper position to form the skeleton, symbolized some great horrifying event in the history of Israel which makes the discordant elements come together. The vision, as we shall see, pertains to Israel at the time that she says, „Behold, they say, Our bones are dried up, and our hope is lost; we are clean cut off“ (Ezek. 37:11). This attitude in heart is a modern one in Israel. Only in the last half century have any considerable number of them assumed this outlook. What great calamity has affected the Jewish nation during this period that could be properly symbolized by an earthquake and a terrific noise, and that has thus brought unity to it? The answer is at hand: The World War with all of its atrocities and persecutions. A study of the Jews during that great catastrophe and its effect upon them is positive evidence of this proposition.<\/p>\n

From a close study of this marvelous prediction, one can see there is to be a gradual return of the people of Israel to the land of their fathers. The last thing to take place with them nationally is the coming of the Spirit of God into the entire race and the bringing of life from God to them–the conversion of the nation to her Messiah and Saviour. Since new life is imparted to her only by the Spirit of God, this oracle can refer to nothing but her conversion.<\/p>\n

The time of the vision of Ezekiel 38 and 39 is spoken of as „in the latter years.“ This is a phrase with great latitude. Its exact meaning in a given context must be gathered from the facts found in its connection. In the vision the prophet sees Israel gathered back and dwelling in the land of the fathers. Since the regathering of God’s Chosen People is to be a gradual process as has just been seen from the vision of the valley of dry bones, and since, as we shall see later, this revelation presents a picture of this people before the final and complete regathering has occurred, we know that only a portion of the race will be in the land at the time that this vision has materializes–when the hordes of Gog invade the land. This point will be made very clear in chapter III. For the time being, however, we shall assume that which is there proved.<\/p>\n

\n

CHAPTER II
\n<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n


\n<\/b><\/span>
THE EVENTS OF THE PROPHECY<\/center><\/center><\/p>\n


\n<\/b><\/span>A CASUAL glance at this prophecy of Ezekiel shows conclusively that he foresaw and invasion of Palestine by the forces of the countries mentioned, the identification of which we have seen in the preceding chapter. The ancient synagogue interpreted this passage as a reference to the land of the peoples living north of Palestine. Modern commentators among the Gentiles, likewise, see in these chapters an invasion of Palestine by the same forces. Since there can be no dispute about the import of the prediction thus far, we must pass on to consider the objectives of the nations of the Northeastern Confederacy.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I. THE INVASION OF PALESTINE<\/span>
\n<\/i><\/span>

\n<\/i><\/span>
A. The objective<\/center><\/center><\/center><\/p>\n

„Thus saith the Lord Jehovah: It shall come to pass in that day, that things shall come into thy mind, and thou shalt devise an evil device: 11 and thou shalt say, I will go up to the land of unwalled village; I will go to them that are at rest, that dwell securely, all of them dwelling without walls, and having neither bars nor gates; 12 to take the spoil and to take the prey; to turn thy hand against the waste places that are now inhabited, and against the people that are gathered out of the nations, that have gotten cattle and goods, that dwell in the middle of the earth“ (Ezek. 38:10-12).<\/span><\/p>\n

From this quotation it is quite evident that the supreme motive leading to this invasion is a desire to acquire the wealth of the Jews who have gathered back in the land. Throughout history we see that from time to time the more powerful nations have sought quarrels with smaller ones in order to have an excuse for invading their territories and seizing their goods. Unfortunately, this practice has never ceased. It seems to be in evidence in various parts of the world today.<\/p>\n

At the present time what wealth is there in Palestine–a very small country 150 miles long with an average breadth of 50 miles, which has been devastated with incessant wars throughout the centuries? On account of unscientific methods of agriculture the land has become exhausted, more or less, and is in a rundown condition. Prior to the recent influx of Jews there was little commerce and industry. There was nothing known that could prove to be such a powerful magnet. This passage presupposes that there is great wealth in the land sufficient to induce these mighty nations to take up arms and to send a force of occupation there in order to seize the country and its wealth.<\/p>\n

During my six months‘ stay in the land upon my two visits, I have literally traveled from Dan to Beersheba, going the length and breadth of the country. In addition to this, I have traveled throughout Transjordan, going as far as Aqaba at the northern end of the gulf of the same name. Turning north I have gone throughout Gilead, the Hauran district, and into Jebel Druze Mountains. I have gone to Damascus, Baalbek, Beirut, Tripoli, and the Cedars of Lebanon. Having friends among the Jews and Arabs, I have had the peculiar privilege of coming in firsthand contact with the conditions which exist throughout the land.<\/p>\n

In 1937 the Jews had purchased 7 per cent of the total acreage of Palestine. This information was procured at the Zionistic Headquarters in Jerusalem. The 93 per cent of the country is, therefore, in the hands of the Arabs and foreigners. The Fellahin, the villagers, cultivate the land around their little towns. The Bedouins raise sheep, cattle, camels, and donkeys. Certain of the Arabic population in the vicinity of Jaffa especially are engaged in the citrus fruit industry.<\/p>\n

According to reports which I received when I was there at the beginning of 1939, the Jews have something like 250 colonies scattered throughout the land. In the coastal plain the agricultural population is engaged largely in the citrus fruit industry, which has been improved very greatly since the Jews began returning to the land. They also grow fruits of all varieties and all kinds of vegetables suitable to that climate. In the great Plain of Esdraelon they have many flourishing colonies and settlements engaged in agricultural pursuits. They also have some in the Jordan valley just south of the Sea of Galilee. About 1936 the Jewish National fund purchased 57,000 dunams of land in the Huleh district, north of the Sea of Galilee. Their purpose is to drain these swamps and to establish colonies in this section of the country. There are a few settlements in the mountainous regions, but they are small and lack the opportunities of those established in the great plains of Sharon and Esdraelon. Where the Jew has settled, by the aid of science and a determination to restore the land, he has wrought marvels.<\/p>\n

According to reports which I heard in the Land, Palestine exported around 12,000,000 cases of oranges during 1939. This is the total sum, grown and shipped by both Jews and Arabs.<\/p>\n

In Tel Aviv and surrounding country and in Haifa and community, the Jews have established factories making various commodities. Thus has begun, in a limited way, the production of goods for foreign commerce. Before the troubles in 1936, the Jewish communities were rapidly moving forward in their industrial development. Though progress along this line has been retarded for the last three years, industry has nevertheless forged forward under serious and great handicaps and has made marked advance.<\/p>\n

All manufactured goods, fruits, and vegetables exported from the land are as nothing in comparison with the mineral wealth of the Dead Sea. Throughout the centuries, dating back at least to the days of Abraham and Lot, God has been pouring into that mysterious sea a fabulous amount of wealth in the form of mineral salts. All travelers have observed that life, both animal and vegetable, is not possible in its briny water. So far as I know, no one ever attempted to discover its mineral content until the Jews began their return to the Land. The analysis shows that the value of the chemicals in the Dead Sea is $1,270,000,000,000. It has been stated that this staggering sum is equal to the combined wealth of America, Great Britain, France, Germany, and Italy. Many of the most valuable minerals used in industries of today are to be found there in abundance. Likewise those chemicals that are vital to the manufacturing of war materials are stored up there, awaiting the coming of those who worship the god of war.<\/p>\n

To the Palestine Potash, Ltd., the concession for extracting these minerals from the Dead Sea has been granted for a period of 99 years. It has a very large plant at the northwest end of the Sea and likewise another one at the southwestern corner–near Jebel Usdum. The minerals from the latter plant are brought by boat to the main works at the northern end. Caravans of large modern trucks make two trips daily from Jerusalem to the dead Sea hauling tens of thousands of tons monthly from this inexhaustible supply of vital minerals.<\/p>\n

The method adopted by this company for obtaining these minerals from the water is the simplest and least expensive. In fact, 1500 acres have been made into pans or vats by digging three or four feet into the hard clay, which is characteristic of this section of the plain. The water is pumped from a certain depth out of the Sea into vats on the highest ground of the plain west of the plant. The intense heat at this low level, which is 1292 feet below the Mediterranean, causes rapid evaporation. In order to hasten this natural process, certain chemicals are put into the water, which accelerates it by 40 per cent. Since the chemical content of the water is about 22 per cent, as evaporation continues, the water left, of course, increases in specific gravity. At a certain point in the process it is allowed to flow from this upper level to a lower pan where evaporation continues. After a certain amount of evaporation has taken place in this pan, the solution is allowed to flow to a basin on a lower level. This work continues until the maximum evaporation has taken place. By this time the water has been conveyed to the vat nearest the chemical works. This solution is pumped out of this last pan into the plant where the final stage of the operation takes place and the chemicals appear in the form of a whitish substance like pure salt.<\/p>\n

These chemicals are sacked and shipped to factories which separate the salts one from another and produce the marketable goods.<\/p>\n

Nowhere else on earth is there such an inexhaustible supply of the necessary chemicals for modern life as in the Dead Sea. When the powerful nations of the Northeastern Confederacy think that they can invade the land and can have access to this fabulous wealth, they will do so. That they will do this very thing is evident from the verses quoted at the beginning of this chapter.<\/p>\n

According to verse 13 the Western Democracies will understand why the Northeastern Confederacy has sent its armies into the land, for they ask, „Art thou come to take the spoil? Hast thou assembled thy companies to take the prey? To carry away silver and gold, to take away cattle and goods, to take great spoils?“ The principle upon which these nations send there armies into the land is that might is right. Such will be the political philosophy of these countries. Such will be the political philosophy of these countries.<\/p>\n

Man is free to do as he chooses. God never forces or coerces the will of anyone. It is true that in answer to believing prayer He brings all moral and spiritual forces into operation in order to influence one to choose the right and to do that which is just and correct. Nevertheless in His overruling providence He always halts at and never crosses over the threshold of the individuals personality lest He destroy such a one’s will.<\/p>\n

At the same time He providentially overrules the actions of men and causes them to do that which will promote His cause and will bring blessings to humanity. No philosopher or theologian has ever been able to harmonize the seeming contradictory theses of man’s freedom and God’s sovereignty. Nevertheless, the Scriptures assert both. Though we, while we are in the flesh, may never be able to explain satisfactorily these two great fundamental teachings of the Christian faith, when we see and know fully as we are known, we shall see how God can leave man free and yet overrule everything which he does and make it contribute to the forwarding of His divine plans and purposes.<\/p>\n

As we have seen, Gog with all of his confederates will go into Palestine for the one purpose of taking the spoil, ignoring human rights. Nevertheless we know that God overrules and actually brings these aggressors into the Land. In order that we might see this point most unmistakably, let us read Ezekiel 38:14-16:<\/p>\n

„Therefore, son of man prophesy, and say unto Gog, Thus saith the Lord Jehovah: In that day when my people Israel dwelleth securely, shalt thou not know it? 15 And thou shalt come from thy place out of the uttermost parts of the north, thou, and many peoples with thee, all of them riding upon horses, a great company and a mighty army; 16 and thou shalt come up against my people Israel, as a cloud to cover the land: it shall come to pass in the latter days, that I will bring thee against my land, that the nations may know me, when I shall be sanctified in thee, O Gog, before their eyes.<\/p>\n

Let the reader note the latter part of verse 16: „It shall come to pass in the latter days, that I will bring thee (Gog with his forces) against my land (Palestine), that the nations may know me, when I am sanctified in thee, O Gog, before their eyes.“ Here God affirms that it is He who brings Gog and his hordes against Palestine. About this position there can be no question–for the one who is willing to let the Bible deliver its message.<\/p>\n

A case similar to this one may be seen in Isaiah 10:5-19. A few verses from this quotation will demonstrate this principle:<\/p>\n

„Ho Assyrian, the rod of mine anger, the staff in whose hand is mine indignation! 6 I will send him against a profane nation, and against the people of my wrath will I give him a charge, to take the spoil, and to take the prey, and to tread them down like the mire of the streets. 7 Howbeit he meaneth not so, neither doth his heart think so; but it is in his heart to destroy, and to cut off nations not a few … 12 Wherefore it shall come to pass, that, when the Lord hath performed His whole work upon mount Zion and on Jerusalem, I will punish the fruit of the stout heart of the king of Assyria, and the glory of his high looks. 13 For he hath said, By the strength of my hand I have done it, and by my wisdom; for I have understanding: and I have removed the bounds of the peoples, and have robbed their treasures, and like a valiant man I have brought down them that sit on thrones: 14 and my hand hath found as a nest the riches of the peoples; and as one gathereth eggs that are forsaken, have I gathered all the earth: and there was none that moved the wing, or that opened the mouth, or chirped“ (Isa. 10:5-7,12-14).<\/p>\n

The Assyrian here addressed is doubtless Sennacherib. Note the fact that God spoke of him thus: „the rod of mine anger, the staff in whose hand is mine indignation!“ Moreover, the Almighty declared that He would send this proud Assyrian against a profane nation, which is none other than Israel. God would send him to take the spoil, and to take the prey, and to tread them down like the mire of the streets. Howbeit the Assyrian had no intention or thought of carrying out the divine will: Neither did it enter his heart that he was simply a tool in the hands of God Almighty. On the contrary, it was in his heart to destroy and cut off nations not a few. Israel had sinned and had to be punished. The Lord used this heathen king and his forces in order to chastise His disobedient people. According to this prediction when God had used this proud monarch to carry out His purpose, He would then punish him. This is seen in verse 12 of the quotation given above.<\/p>\n

In the same manner God used the Pharaoh of old when Israel was in Egyptian bondage. In a similar way He caused Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon to execute His will regarding Israel. On a higher plane, however, He used Cyrus, king of Persia, who, not conscious of doing the divine will, issued a decree for Israel’s return to the land of the fathers after the Babylonian captivity. For the full prediction of how God used Cyrus, see Isaiah 44:24-45:13. That he did not know God is evident from 45:4: „I have surnamed thee, though thou hast not known me.“<\/p>\n

The object which the Lord will have in mind in bringing Gog with his associates and all of their hordes into Palestine is stated in these words: „I will bring thee against my land, that the nations may know me, when I shall be sanctified in thee, O Gog, before their eyes.“ From this verse we learn that God has as His object in bringing Gog with his forces into Palestine this high and holy purpose; namely, that He might be sanctified in Gog before all nations in order that they might know Him as Jehovah the Almighty. What does this prediction mean? A comparison with this prediction and verse 23 may enable us to see. „And I will magnify myself, and sanctify myself, and I will make myself known in the eyes of many nations; and they shall know that I am Jehovah“ (Ezek. 38:23). When this verse is read in the light of its immediate context, it becomes apparent that God will be, in the thinking of the peoples of earth, set apart from all others and will be recognized as Jehovah, the Supreme Being. A thought similar to this one is found in Ezekiel 28:22: „Thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Behold, I am against thee, O Sidon; and I will be glorified in the midst of thee; and they shall know that I am Jehovah, when I shall have executed judgments in her, and shall be sanctified in her.“<\/p>\n

A parallel case to Gog and his hosts and the judgment which will fall upon them is to be found in that which came upon Pharaoh and his hosts. Read Exodus 9:13-16.<\/p>\n

„And Jehovah said unto Moses, Rise up early in the morning, and stand before Pharaoh, and say unto him, Thus saith Jehovah, the God of the Hebrews, Let my people go, that they may serve me. 14 For I will this time send all my plagues upon thy heart, and upon thy servants, and upon thy people; that thou mayest know that there is none like me in all the earth. 15 For now I had put forth my hand, and smitten thee and thy people with pestilence, and thou hadest been cut off from the earth: 16 but in very deed for this cause have I made thee to stand, to show thee my power, and that my name may be declared throughout all the earth.“<\/p>\n

God gave Pharaoh power and authority, strengthened by material prosperity and wealth. In fact, he was the mightiest sovereign of his day. The Omniscient Creator knew from the beginning the type of character he was; He, therefore, brought him to the throne that He might demonstrate in his case His mighty power by overthrowing him. The Lord, therefore, drowned the Egyptian forces in the Red Sea, while Israel enjoyed a marvelous deliverance. As a consequence, the report was noised abroad throughout the neighboring countries that the God of the Hebrews was the supreme God of heaven and earth. Hence fear and consternation gripped all alike. In this sense God was sanctified in Pharaoh. In a similar manner, He, as Ezekiel 38:16 declares, will be sanctified by Gog and his hosts. The Lord makes even the wickedness of man to Praise Him.<\/p>\n

Surely the wrath of man shall praise thee:
\nThe residue of wrath shalt thou gird up on thee (Psa. 76:10).<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n


\nB. <\/span>This Invasion Distinct from that Foretold by Joel and Daniel<\/i><\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As we have already noted, Ezekiel’s prediction foresees and invasion by Palestine by the Northeastern Confederacy. Joel the prophet, in chapter 2 of his book, foretold the invasion of Palestine by a northern army. Before the coming of this mighty host the land of Palestine is as „the garden of Eden“ (Joel 2:3). After that event it is like a desolate wilderness. In verses 4-11 is a vivid description of the onward march of this force. When the language is allowed to speak for itself and deliver its message without modifying it in any way, it is abundantly evident that this is a mechanized army. Only such an interpretation will meet the demands of the passage.<\/span><\/p>\n

In the following paragraph, verses 12 to 14 the prophet pleads with those of Israel who will be living at the time to turn to God, assuring them that it is not too late for them to repent. In the event they do so the Lord in lovingkindness will accept them. Following this passage, in the next paragraph, verses 15 to 17, are the words of Joel calling upon the people to proclaim a day of national prayer, fasting, and confession. Though he did not state definitely, in so many words, that they would do so, his language implies this, for in the following paragraph, verses 18 to 20, God sees that they really and truly do repent. In compassion and mercy He then has pity upon them. In answer to their cry He gives them the following promise:<\/p>\n

„And Jehovah answered and said unto his people, Behold, I will send you grain, and new wine, and oil, and ye shall be satisfied therewith; And I will no more make you a reproach among the nations; 20 but I will remove far off from you the northern army, and will drive it into a land barren and desolate, its forepart into the eastern sea, and its hinder part into the western sea; and its stench shall come up, and its ill savor shall come up, because it hath done great things“ (Joel 2:19,20).<\/p>\n

The Lord promised to remove far from them, in answer to their prayer, the northern army. This army is divided, as the prediction shows, and is removed from the country into a land barren and desolate. The forepart is driven into the eastern sea and the hinderpart into the western sea. The marginal rendering in the Revised Version of the word rendered „into“ is „toward.“ This translation is to be preferred to the text rendering, since the promise states definitely that this great host is driven into „a land barren and desolate.“ This fact shows that it does not perish in the Land of Palestine as do the hordes of Gog. In the light of this fact we may assert with all boldness that Joel was speaking of an invasion entirely different from that of Ezekiel. Immediately after this promise, he foretells that the Lord will restore to Israel all that they have lost and will give them the early and latter rains, together with all blessings. This latter paragraph is a prediction of the great Millennial Age when the curse will be lifted and the glory of God will encircle the earth as the waters cover the sea.<\/p>\n

Daniel speaks of an invasion of Palestine, which we know from the context will occur in the middle of the tribulation. In Daniel 11:36-39 appears a forecast of the willful king who is none other than the world dictator at the end time. Some have concluded that this person is a Jew. This deduction is arrived at from an inference drawn from the facts of verse 37, which states: „Neither shall he (the willful king) regard the gods of his fathers, nor the desire of women, nor regard any god; for he shall magnify himself above all.“ This is a possible inference, but not a necessary one. When this willful king thus takes a determined stand against all gods and magnifies himself above them, he promotes to honor those who acknowledge him. At that time he will divide the land of Palestine for a price. When this is done, the king of the south will contend with him. Who is the king of the south? Many Bible interpreters see in him the sovereign of Egypt, but since that country is in alliance with England, the British sovereign is supposed by many to be the one referred to. Since the evidence is not conclusive, it behooves one to be very careful and to hold his judgment in suspense, awaiting further light.<\/p>\n

When the king of the south strikes at the world dictator, the king of the north will come like a whirlwind against him. Thus he will be besieged by two forces. At that time he enters the glorious land which is none other than Palestine. As the conflict rages, tidings from the north and east reach the dictator’s ears. By force of circumstances, he pulls up stakes and leaves. The country now known as Transjordan is not invaded at that time, although Palestine west of Jordan is. The world dictator, or willful king, will have authority over Egypt, Ethiopia, and Libya, but he can not carry his banner east of the Jordan.<\/p>\n

At that time, Michael, the archangel who stands for the Hebrew people, will champion their cause. These events will usher in the period of the greatest suffering and distress that the world has ever seen. These mighty catastrophic judgments and wonders will continue for a time, times, and a half time (Dan. 12:7). When, therefore, all the facts set forth in Daniel 11:36 to 12:13 are examined, it is evident that the invasion mentioned in this passage occurs in the middle of the 70th week of Daniel 9.<\/p>\n

Is the invasion of Palestine, as foretold by Ezekiel, the same as that which is predicted by Daniel and Joel?<\/p>\n

At this stage of our study, we shall have to assume that which will be proved in chapter III. The invasion foretold by Ezekiel 38 and 39 occurs before the tribulation; the one revealed by Daniel comes in the middle of it. Daniel, therefore, was speaking about an invasion different from that of Ezekiel’s prophecy. But what invasion does Joel have in mind? This prophet speaks only of a northern army, whereas Ezekiel mentions a group of nations, which we have already designated as the Northeastern Confederacy. When all three passages are studied, it appears quite likely, though one may not be dogmatic on this point, that Joel was foretelling an event which occurs in the middle of the tribulation, and which is mentioned by Daniel.<\/p>\n

There is to be a third invasion of Palestine in the end time, which will be by the nations of the world at the close of the tribulation. This fact is foretold by Zechariah 14:1-8. As I see the situation, Ezekiel foretold an invasion by the armies of the Northeastern Confederacy before the tribulation. Joel and Daniel spoke of one which will occur in the middle of the tribulation. Joel mentioned only the northern army, whereas Daniel spoke of the armies of the north and the king of the south. At that time the world dictator likewise enters the glorious Land, Palestine. This invasion is undoubtedly in the middle of the tribulation. But the third and last one is, as we have seen, to be at the end of the tribulation when the armies of the world will be gathered against Jerusalem to battle. At this time the Lord Jesus will descend from heaven and deliver His ancient and beloved people.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

II. THE PROTEST BY THE WESTERN DEMOCRACIES
\n<\/span><\/center><\/p>\n

When the powers of the Northeastern Confederacy send their armies into Palestine, the governments of Sheba, Dedan, and Tarshish (England) together with the young lions thereof (The younger Western Democracies) issue a protest; for they say, „Art thou come to take the spoil? Hast thou assembled thy company to take the prey?“ etc. The language of Ezekiel 38:13 indicates clearly that these Western Democracies send only a protest–a very mild one. It comes in the form of a question. All who have been noticing the events in Europe for the last four or five years can understand what a protest by one nation to another is. When Germany sent her troops into the Rhineland to occupy it, France and England simply sent protests. The same thing was true with reference to the conquest of Austria. Turning from Europe and looking at the Far East, we remember that the powers sent one protest after another to Japan for her warring against China. Ignoring these protests, the aggressors went forward in their campaigns. The matter, in each of these instances, seems to have been dropped after diplomatic representation was made to the government involved. Such is what the prophet Ezekiel said would occur when the Northeastern Confederacy sends its gigantic armies to seize and occupy Palestine.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

III. A STROKE OF CATASTROPHIC JUDGMENT
\n<\/span><\/center><\/p>\n

Is there a war foretold in Ezekiel 38 and 39? In answer to this question some most excellent prophetic students answer in the affirmative. Others, to the contrary, are very emphatic in their denials. Hence, consecrated Biblical students are of different opinions on this question. It behooves us to examine this prediction very carefully and ascertain the facts set forth in the text.<\/span><\/p>\n

The prophet, speaking for the Almighty, addresses Gog and asks him this question: „Art thou he of whom I spake in old time by my servants the prophets of Israel, that prophesied in those days for many years that I would bring thee against them?“ (Ezek. 38:17). This historical question implies that he is the one of whom God had spoken on former occasions.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A. The Wrath of God<\/i><\/span>
\n<\/span><\/center><\/p>\n

When Gog leads his forces down into Palestine against the defenseless Jews, God’s wrath will be kindled, for He declares: „And it shall come to pass in that day, when Gog shall come against the land of Israel, saith the Lord Jehovah, that my wrath shall come up into my nostrils“ (Ezek. 38:18). No one can do an injustice to the Hebrew people or to an individual of that race, because he is a Jew, and go unpunished; for God distinctly declares: „I will curse him that curseth thee“ (Gen. 12:3). Again through Zechariah the prophet, God warned men against mistreating His people, „for he that toucheth you (the Hebrew people) toucheth the apple of his eye“ (Zech. 2:8). A casual glance at the history of the nations that came in contact with Israel and mistreated her reveals clearly the fact that God does avenge Himself of all who persecute the Jew. Egypt, which was the mightiest empire of the day was cast down into the dust of humiliation and reduced to the basest of all kingdoms because of her persecution of Israel. The Assyrian adopted the same attitude toward God’s people. In wrath He cast that mighty and cruel empire into the oblivion of annihilation. All that remains of her ancient power and glory are the rubbish heaps of Mesopotamia and the regions round about the Tigris river. The same thing is true with reference to Babylon. In medieval times certain nations arose and persecuted the Jews. God who said, „I will curse him that curseth thee,“ continually watches over that warning of His word. In the past He punished every type of anti-Semitism, is still doing it today, and will continue to avenge Himself of everyone who is guilty of this unreasonable sin.<\/span><\/p>\n

Along with the threat of punishment for all persecution of the Jews, God made the marvelous statement that He would suit a special blessing to those who will bless Abraham and his seed. The Lord is just as faithful in the fulfillment of this promise as He is in carrying out His threat against the anti-Semites. Many are the lovers of Israel who can witness truthfully to God’s making this promise good in their own experience. I personally can testify that He has richly and abundantly blessed me because of my having given my life and strength in an effort to be a blessing to Israel. My life is dedicated to the task of giving the truth of the Gospel to her and in combating anti-Semitism.<\/p>\n

The prophets and psalmists constantly looked out into the future and gave us word pictures of those nations that persecute the Jews, and that enter their land for the purpose of despoiling them and of blotting out the name of Israel from the face of the globe. In all these predictions we can see that a catastrophic judgment of God always is foretold as coming upon those who persecute Israel. In the light of these many passages, we can see and understand why it is that God says, „My wrath shall come up into my nostrils,“ when Gog leads his forces into Palestine to take the spoil of the Jews and to persecute them.<\/p>\n

One should not be surprised, nor be startled, when God says that His wrath will be stirred to its depths by this invasion of Palestine. The Lord is not only a God of love, but also a God of vengeance and one who has righteous indignation every day. No one can appreciate His revelation as found in the Scriptures unless he is thoroughly conversant with His own statement of His own character, which is:<\/p>\n

„And Jehovah passed by before him, and proclaimed, Jehovah, Jehovah, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abundant in lovingkindness and truth; 7 keeping lovingkindness for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin; and that will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children and upon the children’s children, upon the third and upon the fourth generation“ (Ex. 34:6, 7).<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\n

 <\/p>\n

(Continued from chapter II)
\n<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Since there is unrighteousness and injustice practiced every day, the God of righteousness and justice, of necessity, has indignation every day.<\/span><\/p>\n

God is a righteous judge,
\nYea, a God that hath indignation every day (Psa. 7:11).<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n


\nB. An Earthquake <\/i>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

„For in my jealousy and in the fire of my wrath have I spoken, Surely in that day there shall be a great shaking in the land of Israel; 20 so that the fishes of the sea, and the birds of the heavens and the beasts of the field, and all creeping things that creep upon the earth, and all the men that are upon the face of the earth, shall shake at my presence, and the mountains shall be thrown down, and the steep places shall fall, and every wall shall fall to the ground“ (Ezek. 38:19,20).<\/span><\/p>\n

According to this quotation there is to be a great shaking in the land of Israel. The land of Israel can be none other than Palestine. As to whether or not it includes Transjordan, as we understand it today, is not certain; but it is absolutely beyond question that it refers to the territory west of the Jordan. That this shaking indicates an earthquake is clear from the effects of it as they are described in verse 20: „And the mountains shall be thrown down, and the steep places shall fall, and every wall shall fall to the ground.“ Without a doubt this statement foretells an earthquake which will shake the entire land, causing rocks and soil to roll down the mountainsides, which will be destructive to life and property. Everyone who has gone through the length and breadth of the Holy Land can understand this language, because with the exception of the coastal plains, the Jordan valley, and the plain of Esdraelon the country is mountainous. There was, evidently, a terrific earthquake which rocked Palestine in the days of Uzziah king of Judah and Jereboam II king of Israel; for Amos the prophet spoke of it (Amos 1:1). Zechariah the prophet likewise mentioned this quake and other terrific destructions (Zech. 14:5).<\/p>\n

Earthquakes have been used of God at various times in forwarding His plans and purposes. For instance, when Israel crossed the river Jordan, there probably was an earthquake and another which shook down the walls of Jericho. The evidence which was unearthed by Professor Garstang and Sir Charles Marston confirms this position. There seems to be a reference to just such a occurrence as that found in Psalm 114:5,6:<\/p>\n

    \n
  1. \n

    What ailest thou, O thou sea, that thou fleest?
    \nThou Jordan, that thou turnest back?<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n

  2. Ye mountains, that ye skip like rams;
    \nYe little hills, like lambs?<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    The Lord, in answer to the question as to what would be the sign of His coming and of the consummation of the age, warned against accepting false messiahs and drawing erroneous conclusions with reference to some conflict that might break out. He declared that wars would occur all during His absence. They indicate nothing with reference to the end of the age. Hence, whenever one should occur, the disciples were not to draw the conclusion that the closing of the age was at hand, for, declared our Lord, the following international upheaval must first come to pass: „For nation shall rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom, and there shall be famines and earthquakes in diverse places, but all of these things are the beginning of travail“ (Matt. 24:7,8). This passage points to a world war, famine, and earthquakes in diverse places as constituting the sign of the end of the age and the coming of the Lord. Thus earthquakes are to figure prominently, declared our Lord, in connection with a world war, famines, and pestilences, which united are „the sign of the end of the age,“ the first birth pain (Matt. 24:8). (For a full discussion of the Olivet Discourse, read my volume Future Events Revealed<\/a> according to Matthew 24 and 25.)<\/p>\n

    At the end of the first quarter of the great tribulation (Rev. 6:12-17) there will be a great and mighty earthquake, which will cause havoc throughout the world. In the middle of the tribulation an earthquake will rock Jerusalem and will destroy one-tenth of the city (Rev. 11:13). At the end of the tribulation the mightiest earthquake that has ever occurred will shake the earth so very violently that every city upon the face of the globe will be destroyed (Rev. 16:17-21). Thus the forces of nature will be used of God to forward His plans and purposes. This is in perfect harmony with the general outburst of praise set forth in Psalm 148:6-13:<\/p>\n

      \n
    1. \n

      He hath also established them forever and ever:
      \nHe hath made a decree which shall not pass away.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

    2. \n

      Praise Jehovah from the earth
      \nYe sea-monsters, and all deeps;<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

    3. \n

      Fire and hail, snow and vapor;
      \nStormy wind, fulfilling his word:<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

    4. \n

      Mountains and all hills;
      \nFruitful trees and all cedars;<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

    5. \n

      Beasts and all cattle;
      \nCreeping things and flying birds;<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

    6. \n

      Kings of the earth and all peoples;
      \nPrinces and all judges of the earth;<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

    7. \n

      Both young men and virgins;
      \nOld men and children;<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

    8. \n

      Let them praise the name of Jehovah;
      \nFor his name alone is exalted;
      \nHis glory is above the earth and the heavens.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

      When this great shaking occurs in the land of Israel, according to Ezekiel’s vision, it will be so very severe „that the fishes of the sea, and the birds of the heavens, and the beasts of the field, and all creeping things that creep upon the earth, and all the men that are upon the face of the earth, shall shake at my presence, and the mountains shall be thrown down, and the steep places shall fall, and every wall shall fall to the ground.“ In order to understand this prediction, we must remember that this wreckage is in the land of Israel; that is, in Palestine. The things mentioned must be understood as being in the territory where the earthquake occurs. Since it is said to be in Palestine, we must understand that all life affected by it is in that area. What sea is referred to in the phrase „fishes of the sea“? Does it mean the Mediterranean Sea, or the Sea of Galilee? It cannot indicate the Dead Sea because there is no life in it. Since the Sea of Galilee is in the land, it is quite likely that reference is made to it, although it is possible that it might signify the Mediterranean Sea, because it washes the western coast of the Holy Land. The birds, the animals, and the creeping things „upon the earth, and all the men that are upon the face of the earth“ certainly must be understood to refer to the earthquake zone, Palestine.<\/p>\n

      C. The Sword of the Lord<\/i><\/p>\n

      „And I will call for a sword against him unto all my mountains, saith the Lord Jehovah: every man’s sword shall be against his brother“ (Ezek. 38:21). When one hostile nation invades the territory of another, the government of the latter country calls to its man power to wield a sword against the aggressors. Such a procedure has been practiced throughout the annals of history. In this instance, as foretold by the prophet, however, God does not use men to combat the aggressors, but rather calls to His mountains for the sword. His calling to the mountains for weapons against the invaders is but a graphic, pictorial way of saying that He will slay these armies by tumbling rocks and landslides as they crash into the valley from the heights of the mountains above. Walls and buildings likewise will topple to the ground during this mighty earthquake. It is a well known fact that usually the casualties resulting from an earthquake are indeed very great. For instance, the recent one which rocked central Turkey caused the death of more people, according to reports, than have been caused by modern weapons during the four months of the European war.<\/p>\n

      When this earthquake occurs, those who are not killed by it will be thrown into utter confusion, for we are told, „every man’s sword shall be against his brother.“ What is the significance of these words? The meaning becomes apparent in the light of such a passage as Judges 7. Here we find a record of the overthrow of the Midianite hosts which had invaded Israel, and which were encamped in the plain of Jezreel between the Hill of Moreh and Mount Gilboa. There were between 120,000 and 135,000 of the enemy. When they lay asleep in camp, Gideon with his company of three hundred men threw them into consternation and stampeded the entire army with their shouts of praise to God and the waving of the torches together with the blowing of their trumpets. The Biblical writer describes the event in the following words: „And they blew the three hundred trumpets, and Jehovah set every man’s sword against his fellow, and against all the host; and the host fled as far as Beth-shittah toward Zererah, as far as the border of Abelmeholah, by Tabbath“ (Judges 7:22). Being thrown into utter confusion and being unable to see who was near him, each soldier drew his sword and slew the man next to him-every man’s sword was against his brother. A situation somewhat similar to this one is found in I Chronicles 20.<\/p>\n

      It is altogether possible, though no one would dare to assert, that this earthquake which brings about such a catastrophic judgment upon the forces of Gog as they will be encamped in Palestine will be at night. If this supposition be allowed, one can easily see how these forces will be stampeded. With an earthquake of any proportion there is always a rumbling, roaring noise. It is altogether possible that some may interpret the rocking of the land, the roaring caused by the quake, and the rolling of the stones down the mountainsides, as the result of aerial bombardment. Of course this is a mere suggestion. It is not put out as a statement of fact.<\/p>\n

      D. Pestilence <\/i><\/p>\n

      The next judgment that falls upon these forces of the invader is a pestilence from the Lord. Throughout the predictions of the Old Testament we constantly see that a pestilence is mentioned in connection with war and famine. What form this judgment will take, no one at the present time can know. From Zechariah 12 and 14, we learn that there will be pestilences or plagues from God, both upon the men and upon their horses. As to whether this pestilence, which comes upon the forces of Gog and his associates, is in the form of these mentioned by Zechariah to occur at the end of the tribulation, no one can say. It is sufficient, however, to believe that there will be such pestilences, which will reduce materially the number of those who survive the earthquake and the fighting that will be between every soldier and his neighbor.<\/p>\n

      E. Floods <\/i><\/p>\n

      „And I will rain upon him, and upon his hordes, and upon the many peoples that are with him, an overflowing shower, and great hailstones.“ When Joshua and his forces together with the Gibeonites fought against the armies of the Amorites, chasing them from Gibeon down the pass of Beth-Horon and through the valley of Ajalon, „It came to pass as they fled from before Israel, while they were at the descent of Beth-horon that Jehovah cast down great stones from heaven upon them unto Azekah, and they died: they were more who died with the hailstones than they whom the children of Israel slew with the sword“ (Josh. 10:11). Thus the Lord caused hail to destroy many of the opponents of Joshua and the Israelites. Hail as a rule is accompanied by rain, and it is quite likely that there was a terrific cloud-burst at that time.<\/p>\n

      When Deborah and Barak fought against Jabin king of Hazor, whose forces were led by Sisera, the Lord sent a downpour of rain which aided the Israelites in their fight against their enemy (Judges 5:19-21):<\/p>\n

        \n
      1. \n

        The kings came and fought;
        \nThen fought the kings of Canaan,
        \nIn Taanach by the waters of Megiddo:
        \nThey took no gain of money.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

      2. \n

        From heaven fought the stars,
        \nFrom their courses they fought against Sisera.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

      3. \n

        The river Kishon swept them away,
        \nThat ancient river, the river Kishon.
        \nO my soul, march on with strength.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

        According to the prediction of Ezekiel there will be a terrific downpour of rain together with hail at the time of this earthquake, which will shake the land of Palestine from center to circumference.<\/p>\n

        F. Fire <\/i><\/p>\n

        At the time of this disaster the Lord will rain fire from heaven. He did it when Moses and Aaron, appearing before Pharaoh, brought the seventh plague upon Egypt in the form of a thunderstorm. The rain came, the hail fell, „and fire ran down unto the earth; and Jehovah rained hail upon the land of Egypt“ (Ex. 9:23). From this historical reference, it is clear that the fire refers to lightning. Thus, in the future overthrow of the enemies of Israel, the storm and all of its attending destructive agencies will be brought into operation to slay the invading army.<\/p>\n

        G. Brimstone<\/i><\/p>\n

        According to Ezekiel 38:22 brimstone likewise will be rained down from heaven upon this army. What is the meaning of this prediction? A clear understanding of this passage may be obtained by reading the account of the overthrow of the cities of Sodom, Gomorrah, and the cities of the Plain found in Genesis 18 and 19. The passage having a special bearing upon this event is Genesis 19:23-25:<\/p>\n

        „The sun was risen upon the earth when Lot came unto Zoar. Then Jehovah rained upon Sodom and upon Gomorrah brimstone and fire from Jehovah out of heaven; 25 and he overthrew those cities, and all the Plain, and all the inhabitants of the cities, and that which grew upon the ground.“<\/p>\n

        According to these verses the Lord Jehovah rained brimstone and fire from heaven upon the doomed cities. God, who created the universe and has sustained it throughout its existence, is able, as He declares He will, to rain fire and brimstone upon the forces of Gog in concluding this catastrophic judgment. He who believes the Bible can by faith see that this prediction will be fulfilled literally as it has been uttered.<\/p>\n

        Not only will the Lord rain down fire upon the invaders of Palestine, but according to Ezekiel 39:6, He will send forth fire on „Magog, and on them that dwell securely in the isles; and they shall know that I am Jehovah.“ Magog, the land of Gog, which is Russia, is in view in this passage, together with the lands of those „that dwell securely in the isles.“ Not only will there be an electrical storm, if this is a proper name for it, in connection with the overthrow of the hostile forces in Palestine, but there will also occur similar ones in Magog, Russia, and in those countries whose population dwells securely. The words in the original translated here as „isles“ literally mean „coast lands.“ It does not necessarily signify a small portion of land surrounded completely by water. It is a nautical term, the viewpoint which is that of the sailor as he approaches the shore of a given country. In some instances it does refer to an island, but the word in and of itself does not inherently connote such an idea. Other facts must give us this information. It is synonymous with countries. Such is the only significance that it can have in many different places. In the passage under discussion it refers to nations which at this future time will be dwelling securely. As to what is connoted by this expression of security, I am unable to say. What nations were in the prophets view is impossible to determine. We may be sure that certain nations will dwell securely at that time and that upon them this fire will fall, bringing havoc and chaos everywhere.<\/p>\n

        IV. THE WORLD IN CHAOS<\/p>\n

        Thus far in this investigation, we have seen that the forces of Russia, Germany, Turkey, Persia, Ethiopia, and Cush and Put with all their allies and associates will be destroyed with one catastrophic blow of the Almighty after they have invaded the Holy Land. Such a stroke of annihilation of these vast armies will cripple those nations and will throw them into utter consternation. The fire that will fall from heaven upon Russia and those countries that are secure will completely annihilate the civilization and the material wealth of the same. Thus nothing but chaos and havoc, in those special sections of the world, will be in evidence on every hand. Those nations, therefore, will be rendered powerless and become a ready prey of their enemies. Such conditions as these prevailing all over the earth, Rome will have an opportunity to become a world empire as is foretold in Daniel 7:23. This question, however, will be dealt with in a later chapter.<\/p>\n

        V. GOD MAGNIFIED BEFORE THE NATIONS<\/p>\n

        „And I will magnify myself, and sanctify myself, and I will make myself known in the eyes of many nations; and they shall know that I am Jehovah“ (Ezek. 38:23).<\/p>\n

        By the complete overthrow and annihilation of this invading army, God the Almighty will become known among many nations. It is not without significance that the two outstanding nations, whose leaders have largely turned away from God, are the ones that are completely overthrown by this catastrophic stroke of divine justice and judgment. It shall be as it was at the time when Israel was delivered from Egyptian bondage. The Lord manifested his presence and power in such a way that no thinking person could avoid the conclusion that Almighty God had miraculously intervened and delivered Israel. At this future time, the Lord will burst forth through the natural order and will easily be recognized, figuratively speaking, by all who have eyes to see. The overthrow of these armies will be of such a nature that it will be utterly impossible to explain what has happened to them apart from direct intervention from Almighty God. Although the evidence will be crystal clear, there will be those who, not desiring the truth, will not recognize the supernatural element which will manifestly characterize the entire situation. Men become wedded to naturalistic theories to the extent that is utterly impossible for them to see and to recognize such divine intervention.<\/p>\n

        The principle enunciated in John 7:17 will find an illustration in these future events, although it is applicable at all times and under all circumstances. The import of this verse becomes very evident when studied in the light of the facts of the context. Jesus went up to Jerusalem at the Feast of Tabernacles, as we learn in the first paragraph of that chapter. Upon His arrival in the midst of the Feast, he taught the people. The Jews marveled at His wisdom saying, „How knowest this man letters, having never learned?“ It was indeed a mystery to them that Jesus, who had not attended any of the rabbinical schools, could teach as He did. In reply to them, the Lord said, „My teaching is not mine, but His that sent me. If any man willeth to do His will, he shall know of the teaching, whether it is of God, or whether I speak from myself.“ The Jews could not understand the source of Christ’s information. Thereupon Jesus affirmed that, if anyone desired to do God’s will–God’s will, nothing more, nothing less, nothing else–he would have the spiritual insight and could know whether He was speaking simply as a man, giving forth His own conclusions with reference to life, morals, and the spiritual life, or whether He was speaking as a messenger from God Himself. When the Lord thus signally overthrows all these armies by employing natural means such as the earthquake, floods attended by lightning, and hail, and the supernatural elements such as the raining of brimstone out of heaven upon them to complete the annihilation of these hostile armies, these events will be such a demonstration of divine interposition that it will be impossible for anyone who will look at the facts to avoid the conclusion that this is nothing less than the judgment of the Almighty upon these godless hordes. Moreover, when the Lord sends fire, not only upon Russia, but upon all that dwell securely in the isles, all thinking people will likewise recognize the fact that this is divine interposition–a call from God for men to repent and to turn to Him.<\/p>\n

        As a rule God hides Himself and works in an obscure and unobservable manner; that is, unnoticed by the average person. When a crisis arises, however, He comes out boldly into the open, figuratively speaking, and performs His mighty acts in a manifest way, which we call miracles, in order that men’s attention may be arrested and that they may have no excuse for continuing in a godless life.<\/p>\n

        „And my holy name will I make known in the midst of my people Israel; neither will I suffer my holy name to be profaned any more: and the nations shall know that I am Jehovah, the Holy One of Israel“ (Ezek. 39:7). As the result, or one of the results, of this miraculous interposition, a revival will start in Israel. Such is the force of the prediction contained in this verse. The mighty overthrow of these confederated enemies of God and man will be correctly interpreted by those in Israel who have a thirsting and a hungering for the Lord. Thus there will begin at that time a mighty revival among God’s Chosen People.<\/p>\n

        In this connection, however, let us not think that the working of miracles, such as were wrought at the time Israel was delivered from Egyptian bondage or those performed by our Lord during His personal ministry, can sustain faith, for such is not true. On this point the Lord spoke unto Moses saying. „How long will this people despise me? And how long will they not believe in me, for all the signs which I have wrought among them?“ (Num. 14:11). Miracles call attention to God’s presence and actions, which can be explained only by the statements found in the Word. When one thus recognizes God’s presence and His overruling providence in the affairs of men, when his attention is centered upon the word of God and when he reads it to know and to do the will of God, his faith is sustained. „So belief cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ“ (Rom. 10:17). On this point our Lord declared concerning the rich man who lifted up his eyes in Hades, being in torments, that his five brothers who still remained in life would not believe, even though one should arise from the dead and deliver a message of warning to them. They had Moses and the prophets. If they would not read and believe, neither would they accept a message from one who had come back from the dead. The ability to see and recognize the presence of God and His overruling providence in any event is always conditioned upon one’s thirsting for God and having a heart yearning to do His will.<\/p>\n

        God never forces any man’s will. Wherever He, figuratively speaking, bursts through the natural order and performs miracles working through any of His servants, He always allows Satan to operate through his own children of disobedience and to perform similar miracles. This may be seen in the case of the magicians of Egypt who up to a certain point duplicated the miracles of Moses and Aaron, but beyond this point, which was set by the Lord, these servants of Satan were powerless. God does allow Satan to perform, in a measure, similar miracles in order that there might be a margin for the exercise of the faith of the one who has a yearning and longing for righteousness and for the will of God.<\/p>\n

        Notwithstanding the fact that the evidence crystal clear, proving beyond a doubt that this overthrow of the hostile forces is divine interposition, the majority of men will explain the unusual phenomena upon a naturalistic basis and thus count God out of His universe. The average person living then, being imbued with the spirit of the anti-religious philosophy current in our day, will explain every phase of the judgment upon a natural basis. By this materialistic philosophy, the force of the evidence of the miracle will be largely counteracted.<\/p>\n

        Notwithstanding the delusions of Satan relative to this catastrophic overthrow of these armies, there will be those who have eyes to see, and ears to hear, and hearts to understand. These will step forth upon the promises of God and take their stand upon His Word. They will begin a mighty revival which will eventually sweep the Jewish nation, bringing her, to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. And eventually through saved Israel the world will be brought to the foot of the cross. That there is to be such a revival which begins in Israel before the great and terrible day of the Lord is affirmed by the prophet (Joel 2:28b-32). There cannot be any revival of the Biblical type apart from the preaching of the Word. The Lord has always approached man through his natural faculties–the seeing, hearing, and touching. Whenever the Lord wanted His Word delivered to His people, He did not thunder His message from on high, but inspired some faithful servant of His to deliver it, speaking to man in his own language. Hence, He raised up a long succession of prophets who proclaimed His Word to His people. John the Baptist broke the silence of four centuries by proclaiming that the time was fulfilled and that the kingdom of heaven was at hand; men, therefore, were called upon to repent and believe in the Gospel. After the resurrection and before the ascension, the Lord charged His disciples to go forth into all the world and to proclaim the Gospel to every creature. Men cannot believe on another of whom they have not heard, and they cannot hear without a messenger. (See Romans 10:1-16 for the proof of this proposition). In keeping with this declaration is a statement that God is seeking to save those that believe through the foolishness of preaching (I Cor. 1:21). Paul affirmed that God has committed unto men the message of reconciliation (II Cor. 5:18,19). In view of these statements, and many others that might be quoted, it is evident that the Gospel must be preached in order that there may be a revival. God has always used this method. When this revival, therefore, starts in Israel after the destruction of these armies of the Northeastern Confederacy, we may be assured of the fact that the awakening and turning to God among His Chosen People will be directly the result of the preaching of the Word.<\/p>\n

        Those who are led to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ in the beginning of the revival in Israel will be added to the body of Christ, if the rapture has not occurred by the time it takes place. If they are thus added to the body, they will be taken out of the world when the Lord comes for His saints (I Thess. 4:14-5:11). One cannot speculate as to how long before the beginning of the tribulation this revival in Israel begins. We only know that it does start among the Chosen People prior to the great and terrible day of the Lord.<\/p>\n

        After the church has been removed from the earth, a revival will burst forth and will sweep over the world in the first half of the great tribulation period. The facts concerning it are seen from a study of Revelation 7, when this chapter is examined in the light of its context in the Book of Revelation. According to this prediction, there will be 144,000 Jewish evangelists, servants of God, who become the heralds of the cross during the tribulation. The results of their labors will be an innumerable host of saved people who come out of the great tribulation, washing their robes and making them white in the blood of the Lamb. These are not the saints of the church age, but are those who hear the message delivered by the 144,000 Jewish evangelists in the first half of the great tribulation, and who accept Christ personally, washing their robes and making them white in the blood of the Lamb. We may not understand the „whys“ nor the „wherefores“ concerning this glorious revival. Our failure to comprehend this great spiritual phenomenon does not militate against the fact that it is to be. God clearly states that such is the case. We who are willing to take His Word at its face value must accept this fact.<\/p>\n

        A study of the Book of Revelation shows that, notwithstanding the fact that the revival which sweeps the world during the first half of the tribulation is put under the ban and is outlawed in the middle of that time of distress, it will go on in a concealed and silent way, even during the latter half of the day of the Lord.<\/p>\n

        The smoldering flames of this mighty revival in Israel will break forth into a great conflagration of soul saving at the end of this period of Jacob’s trouble–when all Israel living at that time will turn to God.<\/p>\n

        When this occurs, the Lord will use converted Israel in bringing the entire world to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Her turning to God and accepting her long rejected Messiah are, as all Bible students recognize, at the very end of the tribulation period. We are told that Israel in the person of her leaders will have to declare, „Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord,“ before the Lord Jesus Christ will return to this earth to reign. Hosea informs us that they must acknowledge their offense, which they committed against Him at His first coming, and seek His face earnestly before the Lord will arise from His seat at the right hand of the Majesty on High in order to return to earth. But she will do this someday. When she invites Him to return, He will do so. Israel will be converted in a day. Then she will become the missionary nation and bring about the conversion of the world.<\/p>\n

        The prophet (Ezek. 39:7), therefore, by the Spirit of God viewed the future world-wide revival as beginning in Israel, moving forward by stages among the Chosen People, and finally resulting in the conversion of the world.<\/p>\n

        \n

        weiter<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

        When_Gog’s_Armies_Meet_The_Almighty_In_The_Land_Of_Israel     PREFACE TO THE THIRD EDITION Having returned from the Holy Land in the summer of 1939 and having studied in a special manner the prophecies relating to the end time, I wrote the present volume, which issued from the press in 1940. These facts must be borne constantly in mind because the … <\/p>\n

        \u201eWhen Gog’s Armies Meet\u201c <\/span>weiterlesen<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1227","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-allgemein"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/buch.jehovah-shammah.de\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1227","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/buch.jehovah-shammah.de\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/buch.jehovah-shammah.de\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/buch.jehovah-shammah.de\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/buch.jehovah-shammah.de\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1227"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"http:\/\/buch.jehovah-shammah.de\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1227\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1234,"href":"http:\/\/buch.jehovah-shammah.de\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1227\/revisions\/1234"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/buch.jehovah-shammah.de\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1227"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/buch.jehovah-shammah.de\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1227"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/buch.jehovah-shammah.de\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1227"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}