Signs Of The Times (Part 174 of 0)

Signs of the Times – Part unknown

While the outward signs of Israel s relationship with Egypt are generally improving, her relationships to the north appear to become steadily more strained Over the past 4 months or so, Israel, aided by Lebanese Christian Party allies, has been engaged in a series of pre emptive raids against suspected guerrilla bases of the Palestine Liberation Organization in southern Lebanon

In attacks upon Tyre, Sidon, Nabati­yah and Marjayou and surrounding areas, nearly 300 civilians have been killed, and at least 350 wounded according to Le banese estimates One report in a recent issue of Newsweek magazine notes that many homes in the city of Tyre have been reduced to rubble by intensive Israeli bombardment Amongst the dam aged buildings was a hospital, in which 70 previous casualties were being treated

To the charges that the attacks are wonton and unproked, Israel has reported some 27 attempted raids upon its land by P L 0 terrorists in the same four month period The attacks, it claims, are therefore justifiable disciplinary or preventive measures upon those suspected of giving aid to the PL0 forces

The Goals and Risks

The situation clearly is intensifying the rhetoric from both sides and, indeed, is interpreted by some observers to be a deliberate effort by Israel to accomplish three goals to strengthen her bargaining position with Syria concerning control of the Golan Heights, to drive out the P L 0 guerrila forces from southern Lebanon, and to strengthen the Lebanese Christian and Shiite forces who are providing a friendly buffer zone along part of the northern border

The risk of this action to Israel’s esteem in world eyes is considerable Virtually all of Western Europe, Japan and the U.S. depend heavily upon the supply of oil from Arab controlled sources. Israel’s present active hostility toward Arab neighboring states places a test of loyalty before the Arab world and the economic well-being of the West could hang in the balance. This liability has tended to polarize France and Germany toward the Arab position and has brought strong criticism from the U.S. and other nations in the U.N. A major issue is the recognition of the P.L.O. as a legitimate representative of the Palestinian people.

The U.S. position has been until recently to support the Israeli view that the P.L.O. could not be considered the official representative. A gradual softening of this viewpoint in the U.S. to the extent of considering contact with the P.L.O. has been reversed after the incident with U.S. Ambassador Andrew Young’s unauthorized meeting with the P.L.O. The overall effect appears to be a lessening of unilateral support for Israel’s cause. One interpretive view of Israel’s actions sees them as an attempt to remove the middle ground for agreement between the U.S. and the P.L.O. By goading the P.L.O. to further terrorist activity, this view contends that Israel hopes to strengthen the P.L.O. radical element and thereby alienate the U.S. from any consideration of the P.L.O. cause. All we can say is that if all this is clear to the news reporters, it must have first been equally clear to the P.L.O. strategists as well. As to the outcome of these particular events, we must hold our predictions.

Israel’s Central Position in World Affairs

The former events lead one’s thoughts again to the rather different sets of world conditions described by Bible prophecies of the last days. First there is the general descriptions of Israel’s position in the Land prior to being invaded from the North. Ezekiel 38 graphically indicates Israel at peace, at least to the extent of dwelling “. . . safety, all of them dwelling without walls and having neither bars nor gates..” Such is their situation when they are invaded. As an aside, this may also be the point (in part) of the passage in I Thess. 5:3 “For when they shall say, ‘Peace and safety’, then suddenly destruction cometh . . . ” But it would appear from the context that I Thess. 5:3 has first in mind the brotherhood, which could hardly be directly threatened with destruction by Gog’s action against Israel. The destruction referred to by Paul seems more likely to be that of the world order in general when Christ appears in his glory.

Then there are the other prophetic passages which portray degenerating world order (eg Matt. 24, Luke 21) where the sea and waves roar, men’s hearts fail them for fear and things are as they were in Noah’s days, when the earth was filled with violence.

Coupled to this is Zechariah 12 and Joel 3, to cite just two, in which a girding for war is foretold of all nations, including the “weak (third world) and an alienation of Israel occurs in which she is an impossible weight upon any nation that burdens itself with her—Zech 12:3.

The Invasion

How is it that a tiny nation devoid of any (?) international support could be dwelling safely without bars or gates? An easy solution might be attempted in making the latter set of prophecies apply to the reaction of the world’s nations to the Russian invasion. In these present day oil dependence consciousnesses, such a response would seem plausible. There has been widely publicized talk in the U.S. of what type military intervention it would mount if middle eastern oil sources were cut off.

But the invasion from the north is storm-like in its suddenness, and no real advance preparation as in Joel 3 could be possible. Further before any nation can apparently do more than query upon the intent of the invasion (see Ezek. 38:13), the fury of the God of Israel is revealed to all nations as Gog is destroyed upon the mountains of Israel, without  any indication (at least from Ezekiel) of assistance from either Israel or the world powers. There is, in fact a rather interesting verse in Ezek. 39:9, 10 where it states “They that dwell in the cities shall go forth and set on fire . . . (Gog’s fallen weapons).” It is as though Israel is shut up as in prison camps within their cities until released by Gog’s destruction. Then they “spoil those that spoiled them and rob those that robbed them, saith the LORD God.” Ezek. 39:10.

Clearly this testifies to the abruptness and unexpected nature of Gog’s invasion as well as his demise. The basic questions left are: Were the nations actively involved in Israel’s behalf and what brought Gog there? To the first question, Zech. 12 appears to be a clear answer. The other nations cannot or will not help Israel. The former judgment seems more likely — the nations cannot help. As to what brings Gog to the mountains of Israel, consider the following.

The Lure of the Middleast

It has been popular in the past to cite oil as the spoil that draws all eyes to the Middle East. This is certainly true now, but there is another reason of equal strength. Israel represents a bastion of Western thought and principles of government. The Democratic, free society is a strong contrast to virtually all of the neighboring Arab states. Even Egypt, now fast becoming a friend, has a government that could easily be little more than an outright dictatorship should it please Sadat to do so. Israel’s governmental uniqueness alone appears sufficient to guarantee western interest in her survival, provided the price is not too great.

But interest in her governmental situation is not what draws Gog there. It is wealth, and the question is what sort of wealth is this ? We have observed in past articles that a substantial fraction of the presently known oil producing states are with Gog when he invades. Ezekiel lists Persia (Iran and perhaps Iraq) and Libya. Unless Israel discovers substantial oil in the future, Gog is rather far off course, if he came there for oil. Sheba and Dedan (Saudi Arabia, etc.) are quite clearly not invaded! Further, if we correctly identify much of Western Europe as “Gomer and all his bands, the house of Togarmah . . . and all his bands” (Ezek. 38:6), then the shift in allegiance described above has already occurred by the time the invasion takes place. This leaves the question of who are the young lions and the merchants of Tarshish? Is the U.S., Britain and few south-middle eastern nations all that are left who support what Israel stands for? Or is there a very real and substantial East-West superpower confrontation over the invasion that brings the World to the raw edge of Thermonuclear War? We leave this question for another time.

There is one clear point to all this. Israel’s goods are the attractant, and we are left to speculate for the present on how this tiny nation’s wealth will grow to the extent that it becomes that irresistible “hook in the jaws” that draws Gog forth with all his hosts to the mountains of Israel. There he meets the Lord God of Israel with all his Hosts and falls in battle with none to help, that all the world may stand in awe of God’s Power and His Glory.

May it be our lot to be found worthy to stand before the Son of Man in His glory, and having done all to stand.

The whole world is in trouble There seems to be universal pessimism that there will be no break in the clouds of the economic, political and social problems that afflict humanity today We are not unaware, or caught by surprise, that someday we would have to face the reality of our present dilemma Economists have been warning us for years that the energy resources of the earth are limited and when consumed could not be replaced

The United States, in particular, has been one of the most extravagant consumers of energy on the face of the earth This is to be expected for it has the greatest industrial capacity and the most affluent lifestyle of any nation in the world Now the inevitable result has caught up with us and the price must be paid The amazing thing is that in spite of gas shortages, truckers’ strikes, recession, inflation, unemployment, polluted air, and water and high prices, we will still be willing to pay the price America may have to adjust its lifestyle, but it will not give it up Gas prices may skyrocket to over a dollar a gallon but automobiles will still be driven and new cars sold

In Florida, where the writer lives, the limited gas supplies have greatly restricted pleasure driving and the attendance at the resort attractions and beaches has been sharply reduced as a consequence However, much of the public will find an alternative, which is reflected in an unprecedented increase in the sale and installation of home swimming pools We can’t all afford swimming pools to take the place of a trip to the beach but it is surprising how we, in America, can adjust to conditions and still maintain a reasonably comfortable lifestyle Today and in the days to come (if the Lord does not return) we shall be “eating, drinking, marrying and giving in marriage” for life goes on That this statement needs qualifying, however, is evident from Peter’s declaration that it would be a scoffer who would presume to deride a change in world affairs by saying ‘ Where is the promise of his coming For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.” Two Peter 3:4. As Bible students we know better and every issue of “The Tidings” has endeavored to stimulate us by placing particular emphasis on current events that show movement and progress toward the fulfillment of God’s purpose with the earth and mankind.

World afairs Moving Swiftly

The affairs of the world have moved swiftly since the last issue of our magazine. So many parts of the world have been affected that it is difficult to choose one event as being more significant than another. Beside the current economic cruch there have been important conferences in many places. The SALT talks in Vienna, the economic conferences in Tokyo, the OPEC meetings in Geneva and the continuing Israeli-Egyptian negotiations all have their significance. Trouble in such widely separated spots as Turkey, Cambodia, Iran and Africa and a brush fire war in Nicaragua add to the worries of a nervous world. The visit to Poland of a new and active Pope is considered to be by many in religious circles a resurgence of Catholicism throughout the World. All these events are so thoroughly covered by the news media that the student of the scriptures has little difficulty in determining that world events are at the crisis stage.

We suppose that much could be said on a number of these developments, but there is another side of the prophetic picture that needs to be looked at as well. It is a very important element in every revelation of God to man and it is as essential as the details of the communication itself. We are speaking of the exhorta­tional factor which in inherent in all declarations of the Divine purpose.

The function of a prophet was not merely the disclosure of the future, but included warning and encouragement as well. The foretelling of evtns was never given to satisfy idle curiosity, but was rather a prediction of the future with a profoundly exhortative and spiritual message. It was a life saver in connection with coming events. There are many places in the scriptures where it could be demonstrated that warnings within the prophetic message saved the hearers. The people of Nineveh are a notable example in their response to Jonah’s preaching, but the prophecy that is most applicable to us and the times in which we live would be the words of Jesus on the Mount of Olives.

A great many interesting and enlightening expositions have been written on the physical aspects of Christ’s second coming and the circumstances connected with it. Actually there are two elements in this prophecy, one predictive and the other exhortative. Both are related and neither is complete without the other. We would expect the Master to complete his discourse on the terrible judgments that were going to take place at his coming by giving his followers words of guidance and direction. This he did and it may come as somewhat of a surprise to see that Jesus was so concerned about the perils of the last days that he devoted more than twice as much time to the ex­hortative portion of his prophecy than he did to the predictive. Because we feel a good deal of the predictive area of the Mount Olives prophecy will have its fulfillment in the near future the exhortative words of Christ seem to be directed in a very personal sense to our generation.

Jesus Had Great Concern

Jesus’ great concern for those of the Household who would be alive at his coming was that they would be spiritually unprepared. No man knew the day nor the hour, not even the angels of heaven, and because of this uncertainty the possibility of that day taking his latter day dis­ciples unawares was uppermost in his mind. “Take heed” he said “lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. For as a snare shall it come upon all them that dwell on the face of the earth.” Luke 21:34, 35.

The exhortative section of the Mount Olivet prophecy starts at Matt. 24:37 with the warning “as the days of Noe were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.” What the Master is saying here is that the world was going about its every day activity in Noah’s day and was giving no consideration to his teaching and the signs of its times. The impact point that Jesus is stressing is the phrase “they knew not” until it was too late and they perished as the result of their lack of response.

The master does not finish his warning with one illustration but he continues with the same emphasis on preparedness in our every day activities. He speaks of two men working in a field and two women grinding at the mill. This would be routine with the common people of Christ’s time. With the exception of the Sabbath they would be engaged in this occupational activity every day of the week. In addition to the Matthew account Luke adds “there shall be two men in one bed” and the dramatic break comes when one man in the field, one woman at the mill, and one man in the bed, is taken and the other left. Once more the emphasis point is stressed, “Watch ye therefore: for ye known ot what hour your Lord doth come.” If we follow the rest of the Mount Olivet prophecy through the last verses of Matthew 24 we see this emphasis on “they knew not” repeated over and over again. When we ignore the chapter break we find the Master continuing his discourse on the same theme in Mathew 25 in the parable of the ten virgins and the parable of the talents.

Watch and Pray

It is not difficult to see from Jesus’ warning words that a particular generation in human history is going to face the greatest crisis mankind has ever known. Only a small segment of world society will be aware of the circumstances under which this great tribulation will take place. It is this “little flock” that Christ is addressing when he says “one shall be taken and the other left” “at a time when ye think not.” What is the significance of these words ? We think they have to be taken with another of the Master’s statements in mind which is found in Luke’s account of the Mount Olivet prophecy, “Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.” Luke 21:36.

In an analysis of this verse the word “watch” not only means observe the signs of the times but also to watch our way of life to see that our hearts are not overcharged with the cares of this life. What a great tragedy it would be if that day comes upon us unawares. The phrase “pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass” is of great importance. If Jesus urged us to pray that we may “be accounted worthy to escape” the time of trouble which is coming upon the world, escape is possible. How can this be accomplished? The answer is that there is only one place we can be “accounted worthy” and that is at the judgement seat of Christ. It is only at this time and place our worthiness is made manifest. This being so it requires the removal from human society of those responsibilities to judgment at the time of the Master’s coming. “To stand” in this verse also relates to judgment and means to be approved. This is born out by the statement in the Psalms “the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.” Psalm 1:5 and Paul exhorts “Wherefore take on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Eph. 6:13.

A Heavenly Visitor

With this in mind we can now see the application of Jesus’ words regarding the two men in the field, the two women grinding at the mill and the two in bed asleep. Now the question arises how will one be taken and the other left? We are assuming of course that we are the generation to which the words apply and here is a very sobering thought. We are all going to receive a heavenly visitor. This same prophecy states “he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.” Matt. 24:31. On a day unknown and at an hour not specified this celestial messenger will make himself known unto us. The details of his visit are not disclosed but using the Master’s prophecy as an illustration it seems evident we shall all be going about our daily routines. Some will be at the office or in the shop, some in their kitchens and in some parts of the world in their beds. All are, in God’s own way and wisdom, removed from human society before his terrible judgments are poured out on a world that is as degenerate as it was in the days of Noah.

Paul expresses the same thought regarding this separation in the words “caught up” in his first letter to the Thessalonians. We can indeed see the words of the Master in his Mount Olivet prophecy which Paul seems to purposefully use to reinforce his declaration that “the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air; and so shall we ever be with the Lord.” 1 Thess. 4:16,17. Isaiah extends God’s invitation and purpose in these words, “come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast. For behold the Lord cometh out of his place to punish the

inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity: the earth also shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain,” Isaiah 26:20,21.

We Cannot Be Smug

We suppose a certain sense of satisfaction and relief might be derived from the thought of escaping the dreadful punishment that will come upon the world’s population but the scriptures warn us that we cannot be smug and complacent for it will be an awesome experience to stand before the judge of the whole earth.

A few practical thoughts suggest themselves to us as we bring this article to a close. Suppose you were to receive a message that you were going to receive a very important visitor to your home who was going to give you instructions regarding a trip you must take. We are sure that very careful preparations would be made to see that when your guest arrived everything would be ready and your suitcase packed so there would be no delays when he arrived. You would want your visitor to find you under the most favorable circumstances, eager and ready to go. But suppose you did not know the day or the hour of his arrival and the days went by and the only message you received was “Have patience, I certainly am coming.” Would you get discouraged and begin to say to yourself “well he didn’t come last week and he didn’t come yesterday and he probably won’t come today either” and unpack your bag thinking I can always pack it again later? What consternation there would be when late that night you were awakened by a knock on the door and there stood your long awaited visitor. “Are you ready” he asks. “Just as soon as I pack my bag” you reply. “There is no time to pack your bag you will have to come without it” was your visitor’s response. What a tragedy. . . for a wedding garment should have been packed in that bag.

“Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and stand before the Son of man.” Luke 21:36.

On April 30th, a small freighter sailed slowly northward through the southern entrance to the Suez Canal, finally making its passage through the Egyptian controlled canal, to arrive eventually at the Port of Haifa There was nothing spectacular about the ship that would draw undue attention to itself, its size was a mere 4500 tons Many other vessels, much larger than it had made the same trip many times in the past But, not only did this modest ship claim the attention of the Egyptians, lining the canal, hut shouts of “Salaam’ Salaam!” (Arabic for “Peace! Peace”) could be heard, directed to the 22 man crew What made this particular voyage such a matter of importance was that it was a registered Israeli freighter, flying the flag of Israel and Egypt Its historic passage through the Suez symbolized the signing of the peace treaty between Egypt and Israel Its journey was a milestone in the normalization of relations between the two countries, and marked the beginning of Egypt’s guarantee of passage of Israel ships through the canal It was the first vessel bearing Israel identification that had ever gone through the canal

Iran – Egypt Ties Broken

At the precise time this historic first was taking place, the Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini ordered diplomatic relations with Egypt to be severed His action was in support of Arab nations that have already cut their ties with Egypt for the signing of the peace treaty with Israel Though non-Arab, the Khomeini’s regime is strongly behind the Palestine Liberation Organization, and supports demands for the return of Israel occupied lands

Terms of the Egyptian-Israeli Agreement

Under the terms of the treaty, normal diplomatic, economic and cultural relations between the two countries are to be established within ten months. This would remove all barriers to the free movement of goods and people between their countries; Israel being guaranteed free passage through the Suez Canal, the Gulf of Suez, the straits of Tiran and the Gulf of Aqaba.

To ensure the peace, much of the Sinai is to be demilitarized with United Nations forces controlling a strip from 12 to 15 miles wide. This zone will run along the border of Israel in Sinai, extending southward, down the Gulf of Aqaba to Sharm el Sheikh. The United States is to play an important role in continuing negotiations between Israel and the Arabs over the issue of self rule on the occupied West Bank and in Gaza.

Increasing Role of the United States in the Mideast

The signing of the treaty by Egypt and Israel is of tremendous importance to the United States. Although it will involve American expenditures in the billions of dollars, it is seen by most officials as a small price compared to the potential cost of another Mideast war. Some of the most important are new military and political responsibilities the United States has accepted. Paramount among these are:

  1. A United States commitment to meet the needs of Israel if she be faced with an Arab oil embargo.
  2. In the event of a collapse of the peace pact with Egypt, the U.S. guarantees in writing to help protect Israel. Many see in this a step toward a defense treaty involving the possibility of American troop and warplane presence in the Middle East.
  3. The United States has pledged to be the principle supplier of arms to Egypt. This also, for the first time establishes a close military tie with Cairo.

Hours before the formal ceremony marking the signing of the peace treaty on the White House lawn on March 26th, a U.S. – Israel “memorandum of agreement” was concluded that opens the door for U.S. involvement in any future Mideast war. This agreement is a major step in establishing a significant American military presence in the Mideast. The intent here is to maintain the security of the entire region, embracing Israel, Egypt and the oil-rich Persian Gulf.

President Jimmy Carter promised to “consider” urgently measures to deal with any kind of military moves or blockades against Israel. This consideration would mean the dispatching of combat forces to the area and taking the necessary measures to break a blockade and deliver emergency supplies to Israel. The “memorandum of agreement” spelled out the procedures in the event that Israel’s security is threatened. Washington will urgently consider “the strengthening of the United States presence in the area, the providing of emergency supplies to Israel and the exercise of maritime rights in order to put an end to the violation.” The United States has further agreed not to supply arms to any country which would use them in an armed attack against Israel. To promote full observance of the Egyptian-Israeli peace treaty, the U.S. will, in response to the request submitted by the two countries, continue SR-71 surveillance flights over the Sinai to monitor compliance with the pact.

Initially, the U.S. is contemplating regular visits to air and naval bases in Egypt and Israel by its military units. These moves further emphasize the Carter administration’s determination to “build a significant American military presence in the Middle East in collaboration with Israel, Egypt and possibly other moderate states.” This is partly to fill the void resulting from the overthrow of the pro­U.S. regime in Iran. The U.S. is particularly concerned with deterring the Soviets from further involvement in the Mideast.

Tied in closely with American military presence in the Mideast is the growing energy problem in the United States. Statements are coming out of Washington suggesting the possibility of sending American troops to protect the Persian Gulf oil supplies. The purpose is twofold: 1) To deter any more exploitation of the local crisis there by the Soviets, and 2) To re-assure the Saudis of American confidence and power after the events in Iran.

Actually the U.S. presently has only one small naval supply depot on the Indian Ocean Island of Diego Garcia. The naval strength amounts to but three vessels in the Persian Gulf. However, in case of a crisis, such as a move by Russia to take over oil supplies, the “U.S. military strength will be used to protect the flow of Mideast oil.” As Energy Secretary James R. Schlesinger declared on N.B.C.’s “Meet the Press” on February 25th: “The United States has vital interests in the Persian Gulf. The United States must move in such a way that it protects those interests, even if that involves the use of military strength or of military presence . . . If we are considering a military presence that would involve military personnel as well as equipment.”

What Egypt Stands to Gain

Anwar Sadat was under enormous pressure to agree to signing the treaty with Israel. He knew the price he would be required to pay if there were no agreement. The only other country that would be in a position to supply arms to Egypt is Russia, with whom the Egyptians do not want to be involved . Since Egypt is the most powerful military force in the Arab states, the burden of carrying on the initiative in case of another war with Israel, would fall to her. She would also be faced with the melancholy likelihood that she would lose the war.

Egypt knows that until there was peace with Israel, she could never rely on massive U.S. economic aid or major arms deliveries. The Soviet weapons in her possession are fast becoming obsolete, and she must now depend on the United States to re-equip her armed forces.

What Israel Stands to Gain

The most significant advantage to Israel is the U.S. promise to meet her oil requirements for the next 15 years as insurance against any future Egyptian boycott. This guarantee persuaded Prime Minister Begin to drop his demand that Egypt must continue to allow Israel access to Sinai oil supplies. Israel also expects the United States to contribute the major share of 4 billion dollars, estimated to be required to build 2 new air bases to replace those being evacuated in the Sinai.

Begin, too, was under great pressure to conclude a deal with Egypt. His driving desire for peace to secure Israel’s continued existence made him more receptive to Pres. Carter’s urging’s. Israel is faced with tremendous economic problems, and needs desperately to cut its military spending. A signed agreement with the most powerful country in the Arab states would help to achieve this goal. Although there was resentment of U.S. pressure to conclude a peace accord, Israel knew that the U.S. was the only protector it had. At the same time, some of Begin’s political backers warned against any change in the status of the West Bank of the Jordan River, and against giving away too much. Abba Eban, former Foreign Minister revealed the frustration encountered in bringing the treaty to a conclusion: “The proposed treaties require Israel to dismantle air bases, uproot a naval base, give up direct access to neighboring oil supply, remove settlers from new and cherished homes, renounce the strategic depth on which their security has depended for 11 years and to prepare for the replacement of the Israeli administration in the West Bank and Gaza . . . Egypt dismantles nothing and uproots no one.”

Russian Intervention

The agreement now achieved between Israel and Egypt, if it will survive, would seem to clarify the prophetic description of events as they will take place at the time of the end. In Ezekiel 38, the prophet speaks of a confederacy of nations, at the head of which is Russia, which launches an invasion into Israel. In enumerating those countries which would accompany the northern invader, Egypt is not mentioned. However, in Daniel’s prophecy of the same period, Egypt is depicted as suffering a fate similar to that of Israel: “He shall enter also into the glorious, and many countries shall be overthrown: but these shall escape out of his hand, even Edom, and Moab, and the chief of the children of Ammon. He shall stretch forth his hand also upon the countries: and The Land Of Egypt Shall Not Escape. But he shall have power over the treasures of gold and silver, and over all the precious things of Egypt: and the Libyans and the Ethiopians shall be at his steps” (Dan. 11:41-43).

If the new peace treaty will stand, it is understandable why Russia will have to deal with Egypt on a military basis when Israel is invaded.

The way in which world events are building up and the manner in which the separation of nations is progressing into the very position foretold by the Word of God, warns us that the “latter days” are upon us. Egypt’s reluctance to become entangled again with the Soviet Union, and its alienation from the other Arab countries lessens the possibility of Israel’s demise at the hand of the Arab world. Russia sees this, and must recognize that any move to control the Middle East must come directly from Moscow. No longer will it be possible to topple Israel through her neighbors. The move to do so, when it comes, will involve the use of Russian military personnel; something which the Soviets have sought to avoid in the past, but which must occur that God may “plead against him with pestilence and blood; and I will rain upon him, and upon his bands, and upon the many people that are with him, an overflowing rain, and great hailstones, fire and brimstone. Thus will I magnify myself, and sanctify myself; and I will be known in the eyes of many nations, and they shall know that I am the LORD” (Ezek. 38:22, 23).

Declining U.S. Influence

It has long been observed by students of prophecy that in some way the U S position in world affairs must weaken so that the Soviet presence may expand to create the situation described by the opening verses of Ezekiel 38 There Gog, the ‘chief prince’ of Meshech and Tubal is drawn forth by the LORD to the mountains of Israel, bringing many peoples with him, “as a cloud covering the land” The weakening process, it would seem, has been underway for more than a decade, its onset being marked most significantly by the Vietnam War episode

The decision by President Carter to extend full diplomatic relations to mainland, communist China appears to be another such milestone Since its separation from mainland China during the Communist takeover in the late 1940’s, the Nationalist China government of Chiang Kai-shek on the island of Taiwan has been the officially recognized representative of the people of China Although, from the standpoint of numbers, the U S position seemed arbitrary, it nevertheless signaled a U S commitment to oppose the non-representative totalitarian government of Communism

Times and Policies Change

But times have changed, and so has the policy of the government Largely as a result of the Vietnam war protestations, the U S discovered it was less concerned about ideology than economy The closely interrelated economies of the nations of the world make it more and more difficult, (and the consequences more severe), to stand alone on matters of principle So it was, in reality, inevitable that China should be ultimately represented by the majority, which incidentally is the economically more significant voice That voice, of course, is communist

The course of these events seems to be simple proof that human memories are very short. It has been stated that “The one thing we learn from history, is that we do not learn from history.” A more comprehensive summary comes from the Scriptures where the Spirit wrote through Solomon:

“What has been done is what will be done; and there is nothing new under the sun.” Ecc. 1:9 (RSV)

So we see in only one generation the menace of the communist forces has mel­lowed in the minds of the powers that be to being just another style of government. Business, as usual, seems to take prece­dent over principles.

Deplorable Conditions in NATO

Along similar lines elsewhere, there have been recent reports about the deplorable condition of the NATO defense forces in Europe. It has been stated that in event of an invasion, there would be critical shortages of parts and equipment in less than one month, as a result of the poor state of stockpiled equipment. One report went so far as to say that these shortages would all but eliminate any effective defense of Europe in such an event.

As noted at the beginning of this article, the nations under the aegis of Russia (GOG), come with her in the invasion to the south. We have also speculated in the past on the manner in which the shift of allegiance might occur. Again it seems plausible that the simple expedient of the nearness and might of the Soviet influence would be sufficient to alter any prior allegiances to the West, once policy of economical survival or isolationism is established by the U.S. as its first priority.

Wars and Rumors of War

Passing over the Tanzanian invasion of Uganda and the Chinese invasion of Vietnam for its invasion of Cambodia, we are drawn to the recent events in Iran.

Here again, a bastion of U.S. foreign policy has fallen. The Ayatollah Khomeini, a Moslem leader operating in exile in France, toppled the Shah’s regime as well as that of his delegated successor Shahpour Bakhtiar. The ensuing turmoil caused foreigners to flee, left portions of Tehran in shambles, and shut down Iran’s oil fields. Deprived of about 10% of its oil supply (which was partly offset by increased production by Saudi Arabia), world consumption is now being effected by higher prices and shortages of supply. The Soviet presence was conspicuous throughout the entire revolt in the form of its ubiquitous advisers.

As if to emphasize its new stance toward the West, the Khomeini government resumed oil production at half capacity and 50% higher prices. It seems doubtful indeed that the U.S. influence will regain its earlier stature, if the new government has its way. We note again that Persia (Iran) is one of the powers confederate with Gog in Ezekiel 38.

Peace Efforts

When Egyptian president Anwar Sa­dat made history in late 1977, by visiting Jerusalem to initiate a peace effort, pulses quickened and peace again seemed “at hand.” More than a year later, after much talk and renegotiation, an agreement of some sort is again imminent except for a “few details.” President Carter again used the phrase “peace is at hand.” We can of course only speculate if this latest effort will be successful or not. It would surely make a notable milestone if the immediate neighbors Egypt and Israel formally ended hostilities with a treaty.

This seems to be the situation as described in Daniel 11:40-42, where in verse 41 and 42 we find a reference to Egypt as well as the territories of modern day Jordan.

“but these shall be delivered out of his hand: Edom and Moab and the main part of the Ammonites. He shall stretch out his hand against the countries and the land of Egypt shall not escape.” (RSV)

A quick glance at the map shows modern Jordan occupies the lands of Moab, Ammon and Edom. The capitol city of Jordan is Amman, the biblical city of Rabbath Ammon. Moses, in Deut. 3:11, makes the identity clear as he refers to Og king of Bashan

” . . . behold his bedstead was a bedstead of iron; is it not in Rab­bah of the Ammonites?” (RSV)

Assuming some kind of agreement regarding the Palestinians, it may well be that a period of relative “peace and safety” could follow, in which Egypt and Jordan cease hostilities and Israel dwells “safely” in the land.

Well, another year has passed into his­tory, but we never look at the passing of a twelve month period as “just another year.” Time, to the Bible student, is always related to the movement of events toward an ultimate, predetermined change in world conditions which will affect the life of every man, woman and child on the face of the earth What the consequence of this change will be on each member of the world’s population will depend on how they are related to God’s master plan of the ages

Fortunately the earth s great architect and supervisor has chosen, in His mercy and wisdom, to reveal the destiny of this planet on which “we live and move and have our being” Have we ever considered how blessed we are to have, through our Bibles, prophetic insight into the future? If it were not for prophecy we would be like people walking backwards who were able to see where they had been but never able to perceive where they were going

Looking Back to see Forward

It may seem somewhat contradictory to say we are going to endeavor to see what lies ahead by looking behind us A review of the events of the past year, however, seems to have a significant relationship to the further signs which we expect to take place in the near future.

One of the most fascinating and informative areas in prophecy that relates to the days in which we live is found in the book of Ezekiel The 38th chapter is of particular interest because some of the countries mentioned are still identified by name We are not at all surprised to read in the news media, articles dealing with the problems of Israel, Persia (Iran), Ethiopia and Libya. The designation of Rosh, Meshech and Tubal is a little more difficult but these three names have been accepted by a number of Biblical scholars as representing Russia This definition seems to be supported with considerable validity based on the root origin of the names and their geographical location.

The dominant role of Russia in relation to Persia, Ethiopia and Libya is clearly seen in the 38th chapter of Ezekiel. These countries are a part of the great federation under Russian control that will invade Israel in the near future. The present condition of unrest and political change in these small nations is the favorable ground on which Russian diplomacy thrives. She not only takes advantage of internal strife — she promotes it. Out of these situations come the alliances so prominent in the final fulfillment of the prophecies concerning the last days.

Looking Back Encourages Us

Acceleration is one of the features of those predictions in God’s word which deal with the termination of present world governments. As we mentioned earlier, looking back at the events that have taken place in 1978 should be a source of great encouragement to us and help us recognize that considerable progress in the development of the signs of the times was made in the past year. Let us take a look at the political status of some of the nations which are particularly important from a prophetic standpoint.

Russia

The Soviet Union continued to expand its influence in 1978. It is particularly significant that its interest in the Mideast has been intensified by the political instability in that part of the world. Russia has a reputation of not only being an opportunist but a creator of opportunities. There is no doubt in the minds of international news correspondents that the Kremlin, through its agents has long been meddling in the affairs of Iran and that it is active in fostering and abetting the overthrow of the Shah. It is probable that by the time this article is published the Shah will be out and a new government, compatible with Soviet interests, will be in. Bible students have been looking for this development, for Persia (Iran) is one of those nations mentioned by name which, under the direction of Russia, will join in the prophetically foretold invasion of the Holy Land. It is interesting to note that Ethiopia and Libya are already firmly established in the Soviet camp.

A look at a map shows that when Russia attains her goal of political and economic influence in Iran, a huge pincer movement will have been achieved in the Mideast. The fabulously oil rich Arabian Peninsula will be surrounded by countries in the Soviet orbit of influence. Saudi Arabia and the smaller Arab Sheikdoms will then be vulnerable from the north across the Persian Gulf by Iran, from the south by Ethiopia and Yemen who control the entrance to the Red Sea and to the northwest by pro-Russian Iraq and Syria. The possibility of economic strangulation worries industrial nations of the western world as they consider their chances for the continuation of oil supplies from this explosive part of the Mideast.

The Soviet Union at the present time endeavors to portray itself to the world in the role of a sincere peace seeking nation. However, its exploitation of every area of political, social and economic instability and unrest belies this posture and proves it to be the cold, calculating opportunist it really is. This great northern powerhouse continues to strengthen itself in the development of sophisticated weaponry in spite of an apparent willingness to engage in “Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty” talks with the United States. It is well to keep in mind the thrust of the prophetic message, and we see in Russia’s insatiable ambition for expansion and power the verification of Ezekiel’s words “Be thou prepared and prepare for thyself, thou and all thy company that are assembled with thee, and be thou a guard unto them” Ezekiel 38:7. We can be sure, on the basis of God’s word, that when the time comes for this powerful nation to fulfill its fatal destiny on the mountains of Israel she will be prepared and ready.

The United States, Israel and Egypt

It is quite logical that we should review the dramatic events of the past year under the above heading. The United States through President Carter’s initiative became “A partner in peace” with Israel and Egypt and the Camp David meeting seemed to hold out what seemed to be the answer to an impossible dream. A framework for an agreement was signed and amid smiles and warm embraces a target date was set as the goal for signing a peace treaty. To be sure there were some details to be worked out, but they were not considered to be much more than clarifications in the language of the agreement document.

In the euphoria which followed this historic meeting the Nobel Peace Prize was awarded jointly to Israel’s Prime Minister Menachem Begin and Egypt’s Anwar Sadat. But the real prize, the Peace Treaty, became a kind of “will o’ the wisp” which eluded all attempts by U.S. Secretary Cyrus Vance to nail down. The December 17th target date came and went and euphoria gave away to angry frustration. President Sadat blamed Israel for its lack of flexibility and Prime Minister Begin accused President Sadat of proposals “inconsistent with the Camp David framework.” President Carter siding with Egypt let it be known he was irritated by the “very ungracious” way in which the Israeli Government rejected the latest Egyptian proposals, which the United States had endorsed. In Jerusalem, the Knesset voted with scarcely a dissenting voice to condemn Israel’s most important ally. The parliament voiced its bitterness over U.S. criticism by stating in a resolution that it was “one-sided, unjust and does not contribute to the advancement of peace.” So the Middle East peace process has come, for the moment, to a grinding halt. Does this mean the end of further efforts to find a solution to the Mideast dilemma? We think not. There will certainly be further efforts to explore ways of resuming the deadlocked talks on an Egyptian – Israeli pact. In the face of a very discouraging situation Israel’s Foreign Minister Moshe Dayan states “This is not the end. Either these talks will resume, or there will be another chapter of peace negotiations. The work we have done is not wasted.”

From a prophetic standpoint a peace treaty in which Israel obtains a measure of security and dwell in prosperous safety is indicated in Ezekiel’s prediction of the “latter years.” Speaking of the Russian invader Ezekiel prophesies “in the latter years you will go against the land that is restored from war, the land where people were gathered from many nations upon the mountains of Israel, which had been a continual waste, its people were brought out from the nations and now dwell securely, all of them” Ezekiel 38:8 R.S.V. The same condition is also found in the nth verse “I will go up against the land of unwalled villages; I will fall upon the quiet people who dwell securely, all of them without walls, having no bars or gates.” Further negotiations for a Mideast settlement will be watched with intense interest by those who are aware that it is God’s hand that directs and controls all things.

China

Napoleon Bonaparte once said “Chi­na? There lies a sleeping giant. Let him sleep, for when he wakes he will move the world.” A giant it is indeed, with a land area of 3.7 million square miles and 900 million people. Its main industries in the production of steel, machinery, electricity, oil and coal have a tremendous potential and its resources in tungsten, antimony, iron, coal and oil have hardly been tap­ped.

President Carter’s surprise announcement that the United States has established diplomatic relations with China has revealed that the “sleeping giant” is very much awake and ready to flex its muscles in the diplomatic and economic world of the twentieth century. As we consider the awesome resources of this great nation and ponder its rapid growth the question arises “where does China fit into the prophetic picture” ? The Bible student has to answer “it doesn’t appear that it does.” The conclusion that could be drawn from this is a very exciting one. Russia and China are competitors in the ideological world of Communism. Their concepts are not compatible and sooner or later, under normal conditions, a power struggle between them would be inevitable. But the Bible reveals that Russia must remain the dominant nation in this part of the world to fulfill her prophetic role in the “Later Day.” Could this not mean that the coming of Christ is so close that there is not time in the prophetic scheme of things for China to develop its resources to the point where it will be able to challenge Russia before it makes its move against the Holy Land? It’s an intriguing thought !

The Papacy

Before we bring this article to a close we would like to call attention to an area of great prophetic significance which seems to be neglected of late. Perhaps the striving in the Mideast and the dramatic political developments around the world have distracted us from another very important event which has taken place in the world panorama.

The year 1978 has been a notable one for the world’s 700 million Roman Catholics. Three popes have occupied the Vatican during this period and the present Pope’s election was most unusual, for he is the first non-Italian to receive high office since the time of Martin Luther. He is very young to be chosen to wear the Papal crown and at 58, unlike his immediate predecessor, is in excellent health with an outdoors man’s stamina. He is an intellectual and speaks seven languages and is said to have that personal charisma of leadership that arouses popular loyalty and devotion. He hints that he will travel extensively with visits to the Latin American Bishop’s Conference in Mexico and then return to bless the congregations of his native Poland. There is no doubt Pope John Paul II will be, as one worldly wise vatican pre­late put it “a tremendous, dominant figure who fills the whole screen.”

There may be an unconscious tendency among us to drop our guard a little be­cause of the seemingly benign stance of this new head of the Roman Catholic Church. The Ecumenical Movement in the churches of nominal Christendom provides a fertile field in which John Paul II can promote and expand his personable influence. This is exactly what is prophesied concerning the head of this great system at the time of the end. The leader of the church at this time is depicted as having gained so much prestige through his statesmanship that the nations will turn to him for guidance and leadership. Rev. 17:12,13. Pope John Paul II seems to have all the characteristics to qualify him as the last “son of perdition” who will sit on the throne of the apostate church in Rome.

While the Mideast will continue to be an exciting and dramatic point of interest let us not forget to keep an eye on Rome and the part the Great Harlot will play as time runs out in the kingdoms of men. Over the centuries she has been the real persecutor of the true church “and in her was found the blood of the prophets, and of the saints, and of all that were slain on the earth.” Rev. 18:24. It has been a faith-strengthening experience to look back on the past year, and as we look ahead we rejoice in the acceleration of the prophetic signs which indicate “Our redemption draweth nigh.”