Prophecy Update Newsletter
January 14, 2017
IN TODAY'S NEWSLETTER...
Obama-Kerry have 1 last surprise waiting for Jewish state - http://www.wnd.com/2017/01/obama-kerry-have-1-last-surprise-waiting-for-jewish-state/
'This isn't about land, this is about destroying Israel' Israel is bracing for more hostile declarations from a bloc of more than 70 nations meeting Sunday in Paris with the goal of embracing a document that calls for a two-state solution with a Palestinian state formed within the 1949 boundaries. Israel will not even have a representative in Paris, nor will Israel be present when Pope Francis meets with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas the day before, on Saturday. This has led some to describe the pope's meddling as tantamount to "having a wedding without the groom." This weekend's developments are just the latest in a three-week nightmare for Israel that has coincided with the final month of Barack Obama's presidency. The United Nations Security Council passed a resolution Dec. 23 calling all of east Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria "occupied Palestinian land." Five days later, Secretary of State John Kerry declared that construction in Judea and Samaria stands as one of the main obstacles to peace and said Israel could either be Jewish or Democratic, not both. The Palestinians, emboldened by the U.N. action and Kerry's comments, wasted no time reacting. A Palestinian drove his truck into a group of Israeli soldiers in Jerusalem last Sunday, killing four and wounding 15. The Palestinian Authority responded by giving a monthly stipend to the widow of the terrorist truck driver. Now, the Paris peace summit document looms, and the fear is that it will be used by the U.N. as the basis for yet another anti-Israel resolution or statement that will be issued when the U.N. Security Council meets on Jan. 17, just three days before Obama leaves office. Sign the petition to encourage President-elect Donald J. Trump and the Republican Congress to use all available means to encourage allies of the United States and Israel to withdraw from the United Nations and withhold all funding and official recognition from that organization. There is language in the document that pays lip service to the concept of a solution "not being imposed" on the parties, "yet that is precisely what U.N. Security Council Resolution 2334, the Paris Peace Summit 'Agreement,' and the upcoming UNSC Resolution seek to do," according to a report by the Jewish Press. Michele Bachmann, the former GOP congresswoman from Minnesota, a strong supporter of Israel, said the global body's momentum against Israel has been shifted into overdrive by the administration of President Obama. "Despite significant U.S. military and diplomatic weakening under Obama's leadership, the U.S. remains the world's leading global nation state," Bachmann told WND. "Tragically, Obama unmistakably sent the message that the problems of the world are Israel's fault." And why would he do that? "Because Jews seek to live quietly on their own rightfully secured land, and Arabs want the land known as Israel," Bachmann said. "Arab leaders announce every day they will not rest until Israel is no longer a Jewish state, and apparently Obama agrees with that." Trump to the rescue? Bachmann is of the belief that it doesn't really matter what declarations are made in France. "Obama is about to lose his power and Israel is about to gain a powerful friend in the White House," she said. "In Donald Trump, the Arab world will discover a man who will not undermine the Jewish state. "And they will learn the U.N. is not a powerful global government, but remains a dysfunctional playground for anti-American dictator wannabes." Joel Richardson, a Christian filmmaker and author of several books an Bible prophecy, including "The Islamic Antichrist" and "When A Jew Rules the World," says the Scriptures are clear that before the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, a majority of the nations will gather together against Jerusalem. The Jewish prophets Joel, Zechariah and Ezekiel are all in agreement on this, as well as the fact that God will judge the nations for their treatment of his people, Israel. Significance of the number 70 "Within Jewish thought, the number 70 represents fullness. This is why the Sanhedrin for example has 70 rabbis, representing the fullness of the Jewish nation," Richardson told WND in an email. He cites Exodus 24:7, which refers to these 70 elders: "Then [the Lord] said to Moses, 'Come up to the LORD, you and Aaron, Nadab and Abihu and seventy of the elders of Israel, and you shall worship at a distance.'" "So it is not a coincidence that we have 70 gentile nations coming together to make declarations against Israel," Richardson said. "This is, as it were the fullness of the Gentiles coming against Israel. The global spiritual ramifications for unjustly condemning Israel is profound. In Joel 3, we see that when the nations come against Israel, the Lord takes it very personally." A coming calamity Paul McGuire, who taught courses on Israel and Bible prophecy for many years at Kings College and Seminary and has written several books on the topic, said the global elites who run the United Nations hate Israel and the United States. They see the two countries as the primary obstacles to the global governance and control that the United Nations has always coveted. "The two-state solution has always been a nightmare problem, because all it does is it increases the physical proximity between Israel and the Arabs and puts the terrorists basically right in the lap of Israel, with an army right inside their nation," McGuire told WND. "The goal of the Palestinians from day one going back to Yasser Arafat, has been to literally drive the Jews into the sea and wipe them out," he said. "And so Israel, as a defensive measure, took that land in 1967, and now you have Obama pressuring the nations, and it's looking like a slam dunk to create the two-state solution, which represents the globalist position, and it will lead to unprecedented slaughter. It will be a nightmare." McGuire said that under the Abrahamic covenant God gave the physical descendants of Abraham the land as an "everlasting" covenant, and it's not contingent on what those descendants deserve. "And the other thing is this is really the game plan for the New World Order and the globalist elites, of whom Kerry is a part; and they don't give a damn about Bible prophecy," he said. "It exposes what the globalists and the U.N. are all about. They enact policies that are counter to the word of God in order to curse God." Pray for Trump McGuire said Christians "need to be praying for Trump, because this is very bad news, and very bad things could erupt; in fact, they will erupt." Trump's strategy remains to be seen. He could undo the U.S. commitment to the two-state solution and move the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. But he cannot undo the U.N. resolutions. "He does need to get us out of the U.N., because the U.N. is an adversary of Christians, of Jews and of all independent sovereign nations, and especially of the United States," McGuire said. "People don't get it. They buy the propaganda of Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt and all the movie stars who sell it as this benevolent organization that's going to feed the hungry, but that's not who they really are. The purpose of the United Nations is to push policies that benefit the globalist elite." Also in the middle of the "false peace" that the world community is trying to force upon Israel is the Vatican. Palestinian Authority President Abbas is expected to meet with Pope Francis at the Vatican on Saturday, one day before France is scheduled to host an international peace conference on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The pope has been a strong supporter of a two-state solution and has held three meetings with Abbas since his papacy began in 2013. The consequences Bill Koenig, author of "Eye to Eye: Facing the Consequences of Dividing Israel," has documented the negative events that often seem to follow the U.S. failing to defend Israel at the United Nations. "The Obama administration said they won't approve or abstain in another resolution. We'll see," he said. There have been 1,000 tremors and earthquakes in California and Nevada since the Dec. 23 U.N. Resolution 2334 approval. The four quakes measured 5.8, 5.6, 5.7, and 4.1 on the day of John Kerry's Dec 28 speech. Koenig says the Paris terror events of Jan. 7 and Nov 13, 2015, were both connected to Israel pressure. "The French also had record floods in Paris during their June 3, 2016 peace conference," Koenig told WND. "Germany did, too." Laurie Cardoza-Moore, director of Proclaiming Justice to the Nations, another pro-Israel group, sent out an action alert to members Friday asking them to contact U.N. Ambassador Samantha Power and tell her not support any more anti-Israel resolutions. "Please ask your ambassador to vote against any attempt to divide the nation of Israel," Cardoza-Moore's email states. "Remind him/her that the UN has no jurisdictional authority to unilaterally impose boundaries on a sovereign state. "Furthermore, according to international law, the Jewish people have legitimate rights to the land of Palestine. Those rights are preserved in three legally binding international treaties. ... The 1920 San Remo Resolution, the 1922 Mandate for Palestine and the 1924 Anglo-American Convention on Palestine." Timeline for the upcoming events Friday, Jan. 6: Meeting of senior diplomats from the dozens of Western and Arab countries that will attend the conference. French provide first draft. This week, two more rounds of consultations were held on the statement's wording before the conference
Betrayer of Israel - By Ron McClure - http://raptureready.com/soap2/mcclure1.html
We are told in Luke 22:3 how a man, a disciple and close friend of Jesus who after being filled with the spirit of Satan betrayed Jesus. Specifically that man, Judas Iscariot, went to the leading priests and captains of the Temple guard (enemies of Jesus) to contrive the best way to betray Jesus. We are further told this betrayal resulted in Jesus being abandoned by those he trusted and left alone to defend Himself through a series of carefully controlled hearings and procedures designed by Satan for the purpose of thwarting God's plan of redemption. As bad as this looked for believers in Jesus at that time, little did they know God had used this satanic evil plan to fulfill His (God's) ultimate plan for the salvation of all past and future believers. Praise be to God for He is in control of every event. This December 28th, I submit, a man representing a nation that is a close friend to Israel, who after being filled with the spirit of Satan betrayed Israel. Specifically that man, the secretary of state representing the United States of America, John Kerry, went to the leaders priest and captains of the enemy's of Israel to contrive the best way to betray, the very Apple of God's Eye. This betrayal has resulting in Israel being abandoned by those they trusted and left alone to defend themselves through what appear to be a series of carefully controlled hearings and procedures designed by Satan for the purpose of thwarting God's plan of completed redemption of both His land (Israel), His completed saints and His promises to Abraham. As bad as this looks for Israel and all believers in Jesus at this time, know this: God is using this satanic evil plan to not only bless Israel but also to fulfill His ultimate plan for not just the salvation of all past and future believers but His return to establish both His kingdom and His 1000-year millennial reign. Rejoice when we see these things for God has told us in advance, "when we see these things look up for our redemption drawth neigh." Praise be to God for He is in control of every event. Ron McClure [email protected] 
The Nations Plot In Vain - Leaked Draft Of Paris Peace Conference Revealed - http://www.prophecynewswatch.com/article.cfm?recent_news_id=934
A draft of the summary statement that will be released at the conclusion of the 70 nation conference in Paris on Sunday has been leaked. As you will see below, this communique is going to call for the division of the land of Israel, for the establishment of a Palestinian state, for the 1967 borders to serve as the basis for final negotiations between the Israelis and the Palestinians, and for the condemnation of any officials that refuse to support a two state solution. Of course this comes on the heels of UN Security Council Resolution 2334, which many believe represented America's greatest betrayal of Israel. Israeli government officials are publicly warning that there is a possibility that the principles agreed upon at this conference may form the basis for another Security Council resolution before January 20th, and this is something that we should all be watching for very closely. Haaretz exclusively obtained a copy of a draft of the summary statement that will be released following the conference on Sunday, and you can read it for yourself right here. Reportedly, there was a major meeting of diplomats last Friday, and the latest draft reflects feedback that was received from those diplomats during that meeting... Last Friday, there was a meeting of senior diplomats from the dozens of Western and Arab countries that will attend the conference. The French delegate, Pierre Vimont, presented them with the first draft of the conference's summary communiqué and asked for comments. According to Western diplomats, Vimont said France wants to reach a consensus among the participating states on a balanced statement that would stress the centrality of the two-state solution to the international community, but would take this month's transfer of presidential power in the United States into account. In many ways, the document very closely tracks the language of UN Security Council Resolution 2334. Here are some of the things that really stood out to me in the draft... -It makes a clear commitment to "two states, Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace and security". -It insists that there must be an end to "the occupation that began in 1967". -It calls on Israeli and Palestinian leaders to publicly renew their commitment to a two state solution. -It also calls on Israeli and Palestinian leaders to publicly renounce any of their officials that do not support a two state solution. -It states that the 70 nations gathered in Paris only recognize the June 4th, 1967 borders, and that the only future changes to those borders they will recognize will come as the result of negotiations between the Israelis and the Palestinians. And just like UN Security Council Resolution 2334, Jerusalem is specifically mentioned. So according to this document, Israel does not own the Wailing Wall, the Temple Mount, a single inch of the West Bank or a single inch of East Jerusalem. -The summary statement will also call on all countries to clearly distinguish between the State of Israel and territories that would belong to the Palestinians based upon the 1967 borders in all of their dealings. Needless to say, this is a horribly anti-Israel document and the Israeli government is already strongly denouncing it. At this point, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is most alarmed about the possibility that this summary statement could be used as the basis for another UN Security Council resolution just a few days later... Netanyahu fears that the final communiqué of the Paris conference will be adopted next Monday by the EU foreign ministers' council and the foreign ministers of the Quartet, and might also be the basis for another resolution at the Security Council, which is scheduled to convene next Tuesday for its monthly debate on the Israeli-Palestinian issue. "We find ourselves only a few days before the Paris conference and, only a few days later, a Security Council debate," Netanyahu said at the start of the weekly cabinet meeting on Sunday. "We are making a great effort to prevent another Security Council resolution." By organizing this conference and trying to lead the way in the effort to divide the land of Israel, France is in danger of greatly cursing itself. Recently I was asked why God cares so much about Israel. Well, I think that a very basic illustration can help us to understand this better. If you want to greatly anger any man, just go after his home and his family. This will be true in just about any culture all across the globe. Similarly, when the rest of the world attempts to divide the land of Israel and hurt the Jewish people, they are going after the family that Jesus was born into and the city where He will rule and reign for 1000 years after He comes back. When Jesus was being crucified, Roman soldiers divided up his clothing, and that was a deeply disgraceful thing to do. But now just before Jesus returns, the entire globe is trying to divide up His land and divide up the one city on the entire planet that He has identified as His city (Matthew 5:35). Why are our leaders being so foolish? In the Scriptures, God specifically warns us that in the last days He will judge the nations for dividing up His land. This is what Joel chapter 3:1-2 says in the Modern English Version... In those days and at that time, when I restore the fortunes of Judah and Jerusalem, I will gather all the nations, and bring them down to the Valley of Jehoshaphat. I will enter into judgment with them there regarding My people and My heritage Israel, whom they have scattered among the nations; they have also divided up My land. Those that bless Israel will be blessed, and those that curse Israel will be cursed. And the 70 nations that are gathering in Paris, France on Sunday are literally in danger of cursing the entire planet. Let us just pray that there will not be another UN Security Council resolution following this conference, because that would be absolutely disastrous for Israel, for the United States, and for the rest of the globe. 
Obama Knows the Time is Short... Like His Alinsky's Master Does - David Pepe - http://www.theignorantfishermen.com/2017/01/obama-knows-time-is-short-like-his.html
It would seem that the Obama administration is going full bore with their scorched "anti-constitutional" Stalinist Marxist policies understanding that the end their reign over the American people is at hand. In light of the 24/7 conservative media, Tea Parties, 2010 Republican victories, American's calls and letters to our elected representatives, Obama has continually moved the Marxist, moral relativism, critical theory and socialistic football down field well inside the 10 yard line of America's Constitutional Republic. The Obama administration has openly shown their hostility towards the constitution and the rule of law for the past 8 years for any American who adheres to even the weakest form of Judeo/Christian moral values to see. My dear friends, I could go on and on about Obama's out of touch elitist heirs. It has always been Obama's goal to change the social and fiscal landscape of America to that of what his father envisioned. Obama's hatred for this nation and our founding has been ingrained in him since his youth and has been the driving force in all of his radical policies. He is an anti U.S. constitutional 5th columnist and this objective assessment is to hard a pill for many to swallow, mostly because they are absolutely clueless of the Laws of Nature and Nature's God. A man actions ALWAYS tell and reveal the thoughts and intents of a man's heart and with Obama he has worn his actions as a suit with bright and lewd colors. A Full Blown Narcissist It is always the trait of a full blow subjective narcissist who cannot have his way to continually accuse others while justifying himself no matter how absurd and lawless his narcissist's agenda is. The narcissist can NEVER be wrong in his own mind, only a victim of his follower's incompetence. An example is Hitler, who single handedly brought National Socialism and Nazi Germany to complete ruin and defeat by continually inserting his incompetent will over the general staff causing the fall and defeat of Nazi Germany and all of his own personal evil dreams and godless admirations. In the end, Hitler (in his Berlin bunker) blamed everyone for Germany's defeat and fall except the "man in the mirror" and allowed in his vindictive estate the German army and people to be ravished by the communist Russians and ally bombing. Near the end, Hitler became more radical and destructive in his narcissism and ordered the suicide of the nation of Germany instead of surrender. He had no use for the people of Germany for in his own delusional subjective narcissistic mind the death of hundreds of thousands of German lives was to be justified because they were not worthy of his "genius" and "greatness". In the end it had always been all about him and the entire nation of Germany, the Jews and the world of that time was completely expendable. Hitler was a great example of Lucifer's demonic narcissism. Obama is also a narcissist in the same manner but not to that extreme. He and his administration fully comprehend better then anyone that their Alinsky legacy is in deep trouble and the only thing for them to do is to go completely full bore radical and do as much damage and destruction to America as possible before January 20th. The subjective narcissist knows no limit to their vindictive rage. It is what motivates them and gets them out of bed in the morning. It is fully gratifying to them to destroy and ruin all if they cannot have their way. I truly believe Obama sees that he has not been able to fully implement his socialistic secular state dream for America and that his reign will run out too soon for him to complete it. What is absolutely tragic is that how many people in America are truly deceived by Obama and are ignorant of his deep destructive hatred for the American Republic which he reigns over. My dear friends, this is not my own opinion or point of view, but an objective observation and evaluation of Obama's life through and by his very words and deeds. Obama has always had this burning vindictive "Anti American" raging blazing in his heart and in these last few months of his presidency expect him to hold nothing back as his presidency comes to a massive defeat. For He knows his time is short and he will break and destroy as much of America as he can before his power expires. In the end Obama will despise and hate the American people and his supporters because they have failed him in his own mind and that they could not understand his "greatness", "genius" and "vision" for America; for my friends that is what full blown narcissists always do. Obama's democratic totalitarianism and lawlessness anti-constitutional bent has sent this nation into its final death spiral and no Trump presidency will stop it. Tragically the American people on board, who are against this radical pilot's "course", truly believe that they can regain control of this plane before impact. That final act of optimism will find harsh reality when our nation implodes after the soon Rapture of Christ; but by then it will be too late (Prov. 1:22-33). Lucifer - The Arch Narcissist As we study and look at the history of mankind and look at some of the greatest despotic narcissists that have ever reigned in this fallen world since Babel, none can ever hold a candle to the arch narcissist of all, the fallen angel Lucifer (Isa. 14:12-16, Ezek. 28:11-19, John 8:44, Rev. 2:24). His vindictive rage and godless lawlessness knows no boundaries or limits in this physical world of time or in the spiritual realm of timelessness. Since his rebellion, fall and exile from Heaven's throne, Lucifer's burning rage and inferno of vindictiveness and hate has been his motivation and driving passion to destroy and terrorize all of God's creation and ETERNAL ORDER (Heb. 2:14-15) and any who represent Almighty God and His will. Lucifer has been a Terrorizing Tyrant over all tyrants and their peoples and a Destructive Despot over all despots and their peoples since day one (Eph. 2:1-2, Rev. 2:24). All whoever have existed in time since Adam's fall have only ever been just a pawn and tool to outwork his diabolical ambitions of global worship, the destruction of reality and the obliteration of Almighty God's ETERNAL RIGHTEOUS ABSOLUTES (Isa. 14:12-16, Ezek. 28:11-19, Eph 2:1-2). The ETERNAL death count from his demonic doctrine of "Do as thou wilt" and godless philosophy of existence without Almighty God (the ETERNAL Creator) has been catastrophic. He has deceived, bamboozled and led countless millions since the fall of Adam to ETERNAL perdition and doom, for indeed he is a murder of souls and a destroyer of life (Matt. 25:41, John 3:16-17, 5:39-40, John 8:44, 2 Cor. 4:3-4, Heb. 2:14-15, Rev. 20:10-15). It will be at the end; the middle of the seven year tribulation that Lucifer and Michael the Arch angel will go head to head and at this time and will be finally cast out of the heavenly realm and imprisoned in the limited confines of planet earth (Dan. 12:1, Rev. 12:7-17). It will be at this time that the rage and vindictive insanity of Lucifer will be at its zenith. Lucifer will FULLY COMPREHEND that indeed his time is very short and that the ETERNAL Son of God's coming and ETERNAL Kingdom is truly at hand. At this time Lucifer will be an absolute madman in instituting all that he can prevent the return of Almighty god the ETERNAL Son. He will seek to destroy and obliterate all that he can because he indeed KNOWS that his time is very short and his doom is at hand (Rev. 12:12-17). It will be his EXPONENTIAL demonic narcissistic mindset that all of his minions (human and demonic) have let him down and failed his immense genius. He will be absolutely cruel, barbaric and brutal to all (demonic and human) and everything will be expendable for the preservation of his demonic kingdom. He will go full bore all the way to Armageddon (Rev. 16:13-16) where he will meet his defeat and his lawless kingdom ambitions since his fall in timelessness past will come to an ETERNAL destructive end FOREVER (Dan. 2:44-45, 7:13-14, Rev. 19:11-21, 20:1-3, 7-10). My friend, subjective narcissism is the fallen trait from the fallen chief creation (i.e., Lucifer) of Almighty God (John 8:44, Jude 1:11-13). Tragically, individuals (Cain, Nimrod, Pharaoh, Herod, Hitler, Mussolini, Stalin, Mao etc...) who have allowed themselves to be dominated by this ever controlling "narcissistic" delusion - which ever submerges into the darken abyss of the depravity of the delusion of their own minds have found that in the end they have been at complete war with Almighty God their ETERNAL Creator and will suffer the RIGHTEOUS JUDGMENT FOREVER in Almighty God's ETERNAL prison, the Lake of Fire (2 Thess. 1:8, Rev. 20:11-15). My friend, the situation is not completely hopeless for the likes of these (excluding Satan and his host); for there has been some who have been dominated by this demonic "narcissistic" spirit which have repented and turned to the Lord is SPIRIT and in TRUTH and found that He was there to forgive them and pardon them from all sin (John 3:16-17, Rom. 2:4, 1 Cor. 6:9-11). Nebuchadnezzar, Manasseh, Saul of Tarsus are just a few who abandoned their demonic narcissism for RIGHTEOUSNESS and REALITY (2 Chron. 33:11-20, Dan. 4, Acts 22:1-21). My friend, in these dire days ONLY Almighty God has the solutions to deliver us from this present evil age safely into ETERNITY (Gal. 1:4). May you know the wonders of Almighty God's saving grace if you do not and if you do, EVER be rejoicing in the Lord, the Savior and Redeemer of your soul (Phil. 4:4). The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand! 
The Jerusalem, O Jerusalem - By Jonathan Brentner - http://raptureready.com/soap2/brentner14.html
When writers like myself talk about the nearness of the Lord's return, I'm sure for some it brings up an image of a scruffy old man draped with a sandwich sign with the words "The End is Near!" printed in bold letters on both sides. After two thousand years of waiting, I know many dear believers have difficulty wrapping their minds around the nearness of the Lord's return, and understandably so. Could Jesus really come for His church in our lifetime? Could the tribulation actually start in the coming years? Why do some believe that the end of human history is at hand? Prophecy. With so many events aligning so closely with what Scripture predicts about the last days, it's difficult for me to imagine that we are not getting to close to the time of the tribulation and hence to Jesus' return for His church. So while we do not limit God's patience or foolishly set dates, I believe Jesus would have us be wise in discerning the signs of the times in which we live. The Lord chided the Pharisees and Sadducees for not recognizing the signs of His first appearing (Matt. 16:3). Would He not also expect us to recognize the signs of the tribulation or of His return? For example . . . in just the past couple weeks the dispute over old Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria has reached a fever pitch with highly significant prophetic implications that leap out at us from the pages of Scripture. The Prophecies Regarding Jerusalem The prophet Zechariah, writing 2,600 years ago, said this regarding the behavior of the world toward Jerusalem in the last days: "Behold, I am about to make Jerusalem a cup of staggering to all the surrounding peoples. The siege of Jerusalem will also be against Judah. On that day I will make Jerusalem a heavy stone for all the peoples. All who lift it will surely hurt themselves. And all the nations of the earth will gather against it" (12:2-3). Zechariah long ago prophesied a future worldwide preoccupation of the nations with Jerusalem to the extent that the leaders of the world would literally become intoxicated with it and eventually injure themselves coming against it. The "heavy stone" signifies a boundary stone thus indicating a fixation on the boundaries of Jerusalem. Does this not describe what is happening today? Isn't it bizarre that with all the terrorism and violence taking place in the Middle East, the world remains almost solely focused on Jerusalem? One agency estimates that 90,000 Christians were martyred for their faith in 2016 and yet Jerusalem consumes all the attention of the nations, just as the prophets said would happen in the last days. The prophet Joel, who likely wrote before Zechariah, said this about Jerusalem and Judah: "For behold, in those days and at that time, when I restore the fortunes of Judah and Jerusalem, I will gather all the nations and bring them down to the Valley of Jehoshaphat. And I will enter into judgment with them there, on behalf of my people and my heritage Israel, because they have scattered them among the nations and have divided up my land" (3:1-2). The first part of this prophecy has come true; the Lord has restored "the fortunes of Judah and Jerusalem." The next event in this passage is the gathering of nations to fight against Israel with the Lord's subsequent judgment on them. But notice the reason for His anger with the nations: it is because they have divided up His land, which is precisely what we see happening before our eyes today. These prophecies from Zechariah and Joel long ago predicted what is currently happening at the UN. This undue preoccupation with Jerusalem and its boundaries is really no surprise. The ancient prophets said this would happen in the last days. UN Resolution 2334 On Friday, December 23, 2016 the UN Security Council passed Resolution 2334, which essentially divides up the land by making all Jewish settlements in old Judea and Samaria illegal. It gives all this land to the Palestinians. Land, by the way, that never belonged to the Palestinians in the past. Israel took that land from Jordan in the 1967 war and now has a peace treaty with them. The resolution also gives the Palestinians control of all of east Jerusalem; something Israel will never accept. It's now illegal, according to the UN, for Jews to go to the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem. As a follow up to this resolution, seventy nations will gather in Paris, France on January 15, 2017. Many believe the goal of this meeting will be to draft language promoting a "two-state solution" for Israel and Palestine. The intent is thus to draw up a UN resolution to this effect to be presented to the UN Security Council before January 20, when Donald Trump, who would sure veto the resolution, becomes president. The thinking is that Obama, who pushed for UN Resolution 2334, would also "allow" this to pass the UN Security Council. It's the prophecies of Zechariah and Joel coming to life before our eyes. Christian author and speaker David Hunt said this several years ago regarding the Zechariah 12:3-4 passage: "Consider how remarkable even this one prophecy is. Who could have imagined when the Old Testament was written that all the nations of the world would be involved in deciding the fate of Israel? And this involvement of all nations in dividing Israel has occurred exactly as prophesied and is still in the process of being implemented." This fascination of the world is even greater now than when David Hunt wrote these words. What's the Significance? Why is the current activity regarding Jerusalem and Israel such a big deal? Do you remember how the second US invasion of Iraq started? It began with the George W. Bush reciting all the UN resolutions that Saddam Hussein had neglected. Besides the weapons of mass destruction, it was the failure of Iraq to abide by UN resolutions that became the justification for the invasion in 2003. It may very well be another issue that brings the nations of the world to Israel's doorstep at the end of the tribulation. However, it's rather easy to see how the current UN resolution as well as the result of the upcoming meeting in Paris on January 15th could become the impetus for military action against Jerusalem such as prophesied to take place just before the Lord's return to earth. Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly stated that Israel will never give up the old sector of Jerusalem. He clearly stated in his response to Resolution 2334 that Israel will not agree to its terms. If the world further seeks to impose a two-state solution upon Israel, it will be met with the same resistance. Can you see why so many students of prophecy believe we are in the last days? We are already seeing events shape up in the world that could easily set the stage for the great battle at the end of the tribulation, which I believe is at least seven years away. I pray that President Obama does not allow passage of any UN resolution forcing a two-state solution upon Israel. I sincerely believe this will lead to disastrous consequences for America as well as set the stage for the Great Tribulation. It will lead to greater violence, not peace, and possibly ignite a series of events leading up to the battle of Armageddon. I also recognize that the refusal of the United States to block such action against Israel may be a part of the fulfillment of end time prophecies. Perhaps we might even expect it even though our hearts react strongly against such action by the UN. Such duplicity seems similar to that of Judas' betrayal of Jesus. Although terrible, it was prophesied in the Old Testament. He did not escape responsibility for his actions, even though Scripture said it would happen. Is this not similar the potential upcoming votes in the UN? We shudder to think of our nation betraying Israel in such a way. I pray every day that the Lord will restrain this evil and keep it from happening. I know our leaders will not escape responsibility for this great evil. If the UN votes to officially take land from Israel and give it to a newly formed Palestinian State, will it not be yet another bright flashing sign pointing to the nearness of the Lord' return? Is this not what the prophets Zechariah and Joel said would happen in the last days? I very much believe such a vote would signal the approaching of the Tribulation and even sooner appearing of Jesus to take us home to forever be with Him. Jonathan C. Brentner [email protected] Eternity Versus the Moment 
My Review of "Rapture Ready...Or Not?" Over the last 35 years, I have literally read hundreds of books on Bible Prophecy and End Time signs. I especially enjoy books on the Rapture, and I have read almost every Rapture-related book published. In all those years, devouring thousands of pages, and millions of words, I have not read a better book on the Rapture than, Rapture Ready...Or Not? Terry James might be physically blind, but he is spiritually sharp and well discerning beyond most authors. In "Rapture Ready...Or Not?" Terry has nailed the pre-trib Rapture, and removed any doubt what so ever about the Church going through the Tribulation. With great insight and Godly discernment, Terry explains with simple, yet profound words, why and how that he has come to believe the ways he does about the Rapture, the Tribulation, and the End Times scenario. I think after reading "Rapture Ready...Or Not?" you too will believe as Terry does, and be Ready for the Rapture like never before! - Randy Thomas - Publisher / Editor - Prophecy Update For more information and or to get your copy of "Rapture Ready...Or Not?" use this link: http://www.raptureready.com/terry/book35.html 
When Israel Is Living Securely - By Kit R. Olsen - http://raptureready.com/featured/olsen/k23.html
Some commentators propose that an Israeli retaliatory conquest resulting in greatly expanded borders would give Israel more peace and security (by subduing Islam and bringing millions of Allah worshippers under docile control). In fact, the opposite would be true. Expanded borders would ultimately endanger Israel even more because her enemies would know full-well that an army the size of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) could not handle the massive number of enemies that would need to be controlled within greatly expanded borders. Israelis would be even more on guard and less secure than they are today. It is during the Gog-Magog invasion that Islam will take a serious hit-by God Himself. This will happen when Israel has a security agreement(s) as she has now. In the future, just prior to the beginning of the seven-year Tribulation period, Scripture tells us that Israel will sign what will be more of a peace (shalom) covenant with the Antichrist (Daniel 9:27). Of course the Antichrist will break that covenant. Israel is living securely today, but not peacefully. "After many days you will be summoned; in the latter years you will come into the land that is restored from the sword, whose inhabitants have been gathered from many nations to the mountains of Israel which had been a continual waste; but its people were brought out from the nations, and they are living securely, all of them. And you will say, 'I will go up against the land of unwalled villages. I will go against those who are at rest, that live securely, all of them living without walls and having no bars or gates, therefore prophesy, son of man, and say to Gog, 'Thus says the Lord GOD: On that day when My people Israel are living securely, will you not know it?'" (Ezekiel 38: 8, 11, 14 emphasis added). What does "living securely" mean in reference to Israel and the battle of Ezekiel 38 and 39 (the Gog-Magog war)? We see in the previous passages that the Lord says Israel will be living "securely" when attacked. In verse 14, He states even more specifically, "My people Israel are living securely." The word for secure or safe when translated into Hebrew is "batach." In the Old Testament Hebrew Lexicon - New American Standard the word batach is not defined as peace. The word batach is defined in this way: "to trust in," "be secure," "be careless." The word for safe (as some translations have it) or secure, as used in the three verses above (NASB) is not the Hebrew word "shalom" (peace). Dr. Arnold Fruchtenbaum (and many others) agree that Israel is dwelling securely right now, as you will read next: They dwell securely (38:11, 14). This has often been misconstrued as meaning a state of peace, but this is not the meaning of the Hebrew root batach. The nominal form of this root means "security." This is not the security due to a state of peace, but a security due to confidence in their, own strength. This, too, is a good description of Israel today. The Israeli army has fought four major wars since its founding and won them swiftly each time. Today Israel is secure, confident that her army can repel any invasion from the Arab states. Hence, Israel is dwelling securely. Israel is dwelling in unwalled villages (38:11). This is very descriptive of the present-day kibbutzim in Israel. (Arnold G. Fruchtenbaum, Footprints of the Messiah, pages 121-122.) Notice that Dr. Fruchtenbaum does not say that the nation of Israel will be more secure or safer because she will conquer the enemy nations that surround her. He makes an excellent point that Israel is already dwelling securely because of the confidence in her ability to protect herself. As soon as Russia and the Islamic hordes march against Israel fulfilling the Ezekiel 38 and 39 prophecies, those who are waiting for Israel to be "safer" or more at peace as a prerequisite for the Gog-Magog war will realize they have not understood the meaning of the Hebrew word batach. The Israelis will not be living peacefully when they are attacked by the Russian-led coalition prophesied by Ezekiel. But they will be living under a sense of "security" or "securely" with generally secure borders as would be implied by already having a number of security agreements, going as far back as to the Camp David Accords. In 1978 at Camp David a treaty between Israel and Egypt was negotiated (known as the Camp David Accords), setting the groundwork for a final agreement between Egypt and Israel. On September 17, 1978 Egyptian President Anwar Sadat of Egypt and Israeli Premier Menachem Begin signed the pact at the White House in Washington D.C, and again on March 26, 1979 they signed the final official, document reflective of the Camp David Accords, formally ending the state of war between Egypt and Israel. Unfortunately, it also included a provision for Israel to withdraw from the Sinai-Peninsula, which she did in stages in exchange for the promise of more "secure" borders. The news cameras broadcasted and witnessed these historic events to the entire world. And there have been other treaties since. Although the treaties with Israel often contain the word "peace," all the so-called peacemakers seem to really want is for Israel to give up more land for the hollow promise of more peace. Peace is not really part of the equation. Land grabbing is, however. Israel is a tiny nation about the size of New Jersey surrounded by enemies who have large parcels of land. Israel could fit into the state of Florida 8 times. We read in Ezekiel 38:14: "On that day when My people Israel are living securely, will you not know it?" In essence this prophetic verse has been fulfilled. Security agreements have been signed and we "know it." The Camp David Accords were not peace (shalom) treaties, but rather security agreements. Secure borders were established. Even the security fences that have been constructed throughout parts of Israel over the years denote a feeling of security, despite the endless and frequent missile attacks launched by the Palestinians. Having protective fences as Israel has now in some areas does not create an isolated existence, as would be the case when an entire nation or "village" is living behind "bars or gates." The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) also provide a sense of confident security. Certainly the Jews in Israel are more secure today than they have been in the past, considering prior to their re-gathering in 1948 they were dispersed throughout the world seeking a safe-haven. Nowhere were the Jews in more danger than in Europe when they were hunted down, brutally tortured and murdered by Hitler and his bloodthirsty, satanically driven henchmen. Since that time, the Iranian hierarchy and its proxy nations and allies have been the most vocal enemies in their intention to totally destroy Israel and murder Jews. On July 27, 2012 the U.S. president signed a politically motivated bill to strengthen SECURITY cooperation with Israel: H.R. 4133, the United States Enhanced Security Cooperation Act of 2012. Once again the word "security" is the dominating word. Amir Tsarfati, whom I have often quoted as far back as 2009, is an Israeli born Jewish believer who resides in Jerusalem. He is a former deputy governor of Jericho and captain in the Israeli army. While Amir was deputy governor, the Israeli government entrusted him with what are now known as the famous Oslo Accords documents. Amir is highly aware of what is going on in Israel and her surrounding nations, and has many times declared publicly at his speaking engagements at various churches that nothing has to happen before the Gog-Magog invasion takes place. Even when Hamas is firing missiles into Israel, she is secure in her ability to retaliate and protect her citizens. Many Israeli citizens are armed and can protect themselves if necessary. Internal violence in Israel, particularly in Jerusalem brought on by Muslim aggressors is escalating but that does not negate the fact that Israel has secure borders and are living securely. More walls within Israel may be built to protect Israelis from Arab assaults but that will give them more security. We are primarily talking about the borders around Israel which are secure. But that does not mean internal violence from Muslim terrorists who reside in Israel will not increase. We can expect that it will. Unwalled Villages Defined Before modern Israel was reestablished nearly everyone in ancient Israel lived in walled villages. Jerusalem was surrounded by walls until 1860 when Sir Moses Montefiore built the first dwellings outside its walls. Throughout Israel today, most all of the population lives in unwalled towns and cities. In Ezekiel's time villages were surrounded by walls built from heavy rocks for protection to fend off her enemies. More recently when the Jews began to return to Israel they established new Jewish settlements. In order to protect against Arab attacks, watchtowers and stockade fences were built, especially used at night. These settlements were essentially small villages based on agriculture but were primarily established for defense, and were surrounded by a wall or fence. The first kibbutzim (plural of "kibbutz") were founded some forty years before the establishment of the modern State of Israel (1948). Degania (from the Hebrew "dagan," meaning grain), located south of Lake Kinneret, was established in 1909 by a group of pioneers on land acquired by the Jewish National Fund. In contrast, modern Israel is a nation consisting of unwalled settlements (villages) and cities. This is true despite the security checkpoints that control entry into some of the settlements, and also true regardless of the wall(s) that Israel has between certain Jewish and Palestinian-controlled areas. Walls, bars and gates still exist, but they do not play the same first line of defense position that they did in ancient times or in the recent history of Israel when the Jews began to return to their land. Additionally, to a great extent modern weapons have made the protection provided by walls, bars and gates of little effect. They do not provide protection from rockets, mortars or missiles. So when Ezekiel wrote that Israel would be living in "unwalled villages" when attacked it is correct to say they once did live in "walled villages" but do no longer. Today Israelis live in "unwalled villages," secure borders as Ezekiel described when he said that at the time of the Gog-Magog invasion the nation of Israel would be living "securely" and in "unwalled villages" and "without bars and gates." Living in Peace Is Not the Same as Living Securely Some commentators say that the Gog-Magog war cannot take place until Israel is living in peace. But they are not reading Scripture as it is written. Ezekiel 38:11 states: "You will go up against a land of unwalled villages; I will go to a peaceful people, who dwell securely, all of them dwelling without walls, and having neither bars nor gates-" The Scripture states a "peaceful people," not that Israel is living in "peace." At some point in the not too distant future, God's wrath will pour down upon the Gog-Magog alliance, which will significantly and overwhelmingly change the world as we know it, accelerating last days events. Considering the anti-Israel, pro-Iran nuclear deal made by the Obama White House in 2015, the Gog-Magog war may not be too far off, especially since the ongoing threatened extinction of Israel by the Iranian demonically-infested thugs has now become a more imminent possibility. (Iran is part of the Russian-led coalition prophesied by Ezekiel.) In an article written by Daymond Duck some time ago titled "Gog's Evil Thought," he brilliantly stated (emphasis added): Some say "dwelling safely" means after the Antichrist confirms the seven-year covenant with many for peace in the Middle East (Daniel 9:27). But it doesn't have to mean that because Israel is dwelling safely now under the protection of God who will not allow her to be defeated (Amos 9:15). When Does This Invasion Take Place? "Therefore prophesy, son of man, and say to Gog, 'Thus says the Lord God, 'On that day when My people Israel are living securely, will you not know it? You will come from your place out of the remote parts of the north, you and many peoples with you, all of them riding on horses, a great assembly and a mighty army; and you will come up against My people Israel like a cloud to cover the land. It shall come about in the last days that I will bring you against My land, so that the nations may know Me when I am sanctified through you before their eyes, O Gog'" (Ezekiel 83:14-16 emphasis added). This invasion takes place when Israel is back in the land, re-gathered as a nation as she is today. This war is supernatural in nature and will take place when God Himself says it is time-when God in His sovereignty brings down the invaders. We need not look for any particular circumstances for God to decide to act. Israel does not need to be richer or bigger. She has plenty right now that her enemies would want to plunder. "I will put hooks in your jaws and bring you down" (Ezekiel 38:4a). Israel is right now in a position of "dwelling securely" (Ezekiel 38:8-11, 14). The Hebrew word to study is not SHALOM ("dwelling at peace"). The word to study is the Hebrew word, BATACH, meaning dwelling securely, with a secure border; which is essentially what Israel has today. Israelis will never forfeit their weapons by thinking they are suddenly "safer" because some people have the notion that having more land will lull their protective instincts to sleep. We must keep in mind that Scripture states "they shall dwell securely" (as in secure borders). "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" (Ezekiel 38:8 emphasis added). The late Grant Jeffrey stated this in his book, Prince of Darkness - Antichrist and the New World Order (pp.193-194): A final question concerns the timing of this future war of Gog and Magog. Some writers conclude that the battle will occur during the seven-year treaty period leading up to the battle of Armageddon. However, there is no mention of the Antichrist or his seven-year treaty to protect Israel. If this battle takes place within the seven-year treaty period leading to Armageddon you would expect the prophet to refer to either (1) the Antichrist defending Israel against this attack or, (2) to his betrayal of Israel by refusing to protect them as agreed in his treaty. Ezekiel's prophecy about the war of Magog is silent about the Antichrist or the Messiah although they are central figures in the period leading to the battle of Armageddon. This silence convinces me that the war of Gog and Magog will occur at some point in time prior to the Antichrist arising to conclude his fateful seven-year treaty with the Jews. Does the phrase "dwell safely" mean that Israel has found true lasting peace with her neighbors? In the light of the grim history of the Middle East during the century it is unlikely that Israel will disarm to any degree before the Messiah returns. Israel will remain an armed camp surrounded by enemies committed to her destruction until God changes the hearts of mankind. The phrase "dwell safely" may simply indicate that Israel will be living in an expectation that they will not be attacked at that time, perhaps because of the recent peace agreement with the PLO (Palestine Liberation Organization). Many years have passed since Grant Jeffrey wrote those words, yet they still ring true today. Now with the new upcoming Trump Administration it is possible that Israel will breathe a great sigh of relief knowing that one of Israel's greatest enemies-Barack Hussein Obama, is no longer the U.S. "president." The Israelis might be more inclined to feel even more secure. President-elect Trump and Prime Minister Netenyahu obviously have a warm respectful regard for one another. I would not be surprised if the president-elect takes some strong measures against those who have demonized Israel. God's perfect plan will continue to unfold as we watch the moves on God's chessboard. We cannot second guess God on how the specific details related to the Gog-Magog prophecy will come to pass, but we know that He will be seen as the Victor in that battle. He makes it clear that many nations will know that He controlled its outcome. "I will magnify Myself, sanctify Myself, and make Myself known in the sight of many nations; and they will know that I am the Lord"' (Ezekiel 38:23). Endnotes Select excerpts taken from Israel's Guaranteed Glory. (First printing June 3, 2016, September 2016 distribution, World Bible Society) Footnote: "Anyone who loves God's chosen people will want to read Israel's Guaranteed Future Glory. Kit R. Olsen's wonderful new book highlights the State of Israel showing that God's prophetic promises have not been broken, and that He still has a plan for mankind. The history of the Jews proves the validity of His Holy Word; and the geopolitical climate unfolding today falls in line with God's prophetic messages. Kit has been my dedicated editor/writer for the site since 2012, and I am very pleased to share some of her additional work with our readers and feature her new book on the site." -Todd Strandberg https://www.amazon.com/Israels-Guaranteed-Future-Glory-Olsen/dp/1940241111/#reader_1940241111 
Do We Get It? - By Grant Phillips - http://raptureready.com/featured/phillips/phillips358.html
I wrote an article on December 9th entitled "They Just Don't Get It." It is now just days away from the inauguration of Donald Trump for President of the United States. Since the announcement of Donald Trump's November 8th victory over Hillary Clinton for President, many are feeling hope cruise through their veins again. It is especially being noticed among hardworking, God-fearing Americans, and even in the business and political world. It is frightening to think of just how close we came to the continued and final dismantling of America. Obama has done everything he could, and is still wreaking havoc, to destroy the American way and turn this country into an Islamic state. If Clinton had been victorious on that election night this past November, she would have continued Obama's rape and plunder of America and its citizens, but with intensified viciousness. Do not overlook the fact that Obama and his Democratic colleagues have already caused so much damage, we are still in grave danger as a country and its citizens. Do not forget that many powerful people; in politics, in the media, in celebrity positions, in the financial world, and also in the Republican party want to see Donald Trump fail and will not hesitate to help him do so. Currently, the liberal whiners are saying that Russia interfered with the election process, and that is why Hillary Clinton lost. · Consider this. This is nothing more than "the pot calling the kettle black." Obama interfered in Israel's last election process and they (this country's leaders) have done this so often with other countries they (our "leaders") should think long and hard before opening their mouths. · Also consider this. Let's assume that Russia did interfere. Let's assume they did 'help along' much damaging evidence about Hillary Clinton. Does it change the facts of any of Mrs. Clinton's activities? No, it does not. Do you really believe that all the illegal and/or questionable activities of Hillary Clinton would have ever been revealed to the American public by our media or law enforcement? No, never. If I were guilty of just a pittance of the 'activities' she has slithered through, our government would put me under the prison and throw away the key, but yet, she is still free, and that is disgraceful. Think of others who have done far less but paid the price (and rightly so) for their actions. · I just thank God that many of the illegal and/or questionable activities were revealed because it helped to wake up a nation that has been asleep too long. Thankfully, there were enough who finally "saw the light" and the real person behind the fake smile and syrupy speeches. What kind of President will Donald Trump be? As I have said before, I don't know, but I do know what kind of President Hillary Clinton would be if she had won. It's too scary to even contemplate. I do believe that Mr. Trump wants to "make America great again." I believe he sees in that phrase that we return to our roots; Christian background, obedience to our Constitution, protecting America's citizenry, removal of those from this country who wish to harm us, putting Americans first in jobs, etc. Is it possible that he may be overcome by those who wish to continue the dismantling of America, or maybe overcome by selfish motives? Yes, of course it is possible. He's just a man. No matter how good the intentions, nothing is going to return us to the America of yesteryear until our hearts return to God. As long as we place our hopes in man, we lose. As long as we make anything and everything else more important than God, we lose. As long as we just give "lip service" to God, we lose. I believe the Lord God has given us another chance, a final chance, to repent, not with words, but with deeds. I believe that God is offering more time for others to come to Him through Jesus Christ, the one and only true God, before He brings His wrath down upon this earth. It's up to us. The ball is in our court. However, it's frightening when we consider that so many voters in this country sided with the Democratic Party at November's election. Nevertheless, God over-ruled. Many of our states and commonwealths went Republican. Our Congress (Senate and House) has a Republican majority. Our President and Vice President are Republicans. Republicans say they are conservative and for preserving the Constitution, etc. Well now it is time to "put your money where your mouth is." Prove it. Donald J. Trump may be another President, the high caliber of Ronald Reagan, or the disappointing caliber of Jimmy Carter. We'll just have to wait and see. Here's the kicker. He could be as great as George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and Ronald Reagan all tied together in a neat knot, but only God can fix the mess we're in. It is that serious. This is why we so desperately need to repent as a nation and as individual Christians and keep President-elect Trump in continual prayer before God. God can use Mr. Trump to lead us back to sanity, but Mr. Trump cannot change our hearts. With changed hearts, I believe God will help us out of the mess Satan has made. However, if we continue to be rebellious before a holy God, no one will save us from God's judgment. In my opinion, I really believe this is Almighty God's last call to us before He removes His bride and delivers judgment to a rebellious and sin-soaked world. I long for the Rapture just as much as any of you who long for that day, but not at the expense of seeing one person suffer the time of Tribulation. Every person coming to Christ now, on this side of the Rapture, will not suffer God's wrath. Don't think for a minute that since we have won the election that everything will be okay now. Those who lost the election are very angry, and they have already shown how childish and evil they can be. They still have many Americans duped to the point of utter gullibility. They will use every dirty trick in their repertoire to defeat any positive movement forward. An example in point is U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions of Alabama. He is Mr. Trump's nominee for U.S. Attorney General and the accusations have already started. Let us be much in prayer that God will allow the right person to obtain the office that will help us out of the mess we're in. Be aware, that no matter how corrupt some people are (and they are about as corrupt as you can get) Satan is behind every bit of the corruption before us, and his is not a force we can overcome. He is much too powerful for us. We must continue to call upon God, with repentant hearts asking Him to stay the evil that seeks to destroy us. All down through history God has used men and women, good and bad, to further His objective. If we as a nation turn back to God in true repentance, He will hear. If not, many nations, even the "apple of His eye," have suffered divine justice, and we are no better than they. Grant Phillips Email: [email protected] Pre-Rapture Commentary: http://grant-phillips.blogspot.com Rapture Ready http://www.raptureready.com/featured/phillips/phillips.html 
Obama the Modern Day Haman: Will He Hang from the Gallows He Built for Israel? - By Geri Ungurean - http://raptureready.com/soap2/ungurean128.html
Please do not get me wrong. Donald Trump is NOT America's savior. Our only Savior is the Lord Jesus Christ. But God does place leaders in their positions, as He also removes them. Donald Trump clearly won the election against Hillary Clinton, and no matter what the Left attempted to do to make his election null and void, it failed miserably for them. God knows the thoughts and the hearts of all men and women. He knew that the Obama regime detested His people Israel, and He knew that the U.S. abstention from voting at the U.N. was coming. So He placed Donald Trump as victor in the presidential elections. And I believe that Israel knows that they will once again have a friend in the White House. I came across a compelling comparison between the Book of Esther and the scenario which is playing out right now between Obama and Israel. This piece is from a blog of a Messianic Rabbi, and is from 2015. I think that this blog is even more compelling today, in light of the U.N. vote, and Obama's abstention which allowed the vote to stand. From beitmashiach.org Obama, The New Haman Rabbi/Pastor Roy Blight: Posted on Sunday, September 20, 2015 Ecclesiastes 1:9, "The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun." We have all heard that history repeats itself and life goes in cycles. That certainly seems to be the case with Barrack Obama, the Jewish nation of Israel and historical references found in the book of Esther. The modern nation of Iran is the ancient nation of Persia. Again, please remember that Persia is the setting for the entire book of Esther. The current Iranian regime has earned the reputation today of being the No. 1 state sponsor of terrorism in the whole world. Above everyone else they hate the Jews. Some things never change do they? Iran has built a coalition of hatred, military power and religious fervor aimed directly at Israel and the Jews. Remember, America to the Iranians is the 'Great Satan' and Israel is the 'Little Satan'. The problem for Israel is that they are so close to the the action in their part of the world, every day could be their last. The Iranians predict almost daily the annihilation of the Jewish state. It's the same rhetoric we witnessed in the book of Esther! Recently, Israel's closest ally, the American nation has turned its back on Israel. In what looked to be an absolute surrender to the Iranian Mullahs', America begged Iran to let them give Iran billions of dollars in exchange for the United States to say they have a deal with Iran. How absurd is that? The new world order is declaring a great victory for mankind too. What are people smoking? Iran is telling everyone they gave up nothing. At the same time, America is shrugging her shoulders at the Jewish state wondering why Israel is so angry. Could it be because Iran has now been promised billions of dollars in which to prepare for war against Israel? This is all as illogical and surreal as anything I have ever seen. A quick look at the Iran Nuke deal reveals three very critical factors at its heart: 1. Iran's ambition to "wipe Israel off the map" (their own admission). 2. An American president who has made an agreement with an anti-Semitic Iranian empire determined to annihilate Jews. 3. A Jewish prime minister by the name of Benjamin. If you have ever read the book of Esther you will find the whole situation of today a direct parallel to the book of Esther. Esther's uncle was Mordecai, the Benjaminite Jew. Mordecai was a giant of a man. Yes, what we are seeing happen today greatly resembles the story of Queen Esther and her Uncle Mordecai. In fact, it is eerie. With this thought ringing in my mind, it doesn't seem to take a genius to see the many comparisons of Esther's story and what is happening now with Iran, America and the State of Israel. Haman, the evil hater of the Jews and Barrack Obama seem to have very much in common. I think President Obama has emerged as the new Haman in our day. To catch up with the story keep in mind, just as it was in Esther's day, the situation looked really bad for the Jewish nation. Haman had plotted against the Jews, finally demanding their destruction. I think it obvious that Barrack Obama is playing the same role of Haman to a great degree. I also think the Lord our God is well aware of man's blasphemous, murderous plans. To Recap: The book of Esther is the story of a jealous anti-Semitic politician, Haman, who convinces a nation that the Jewish people are worthy of being destroyed. Haman used the strategy of delegitimization and demonization to prove that Jews were unworthy of life itself. He painted a picture of Jews being an existential threat to the future of Persia. Interestingly, Haman was not a Persian but an Amalekite. However, being very rich, influential and having enormous political sway, he made an alliance with the king of Persia with designs to exterminate the Jewish people. Remember, the Amalekites, Haman's forebears, were the ancient enemies of Israel. The Amalekites were the ones who attacked Israel in the wilderness during their exodus from Egypt. Joshua led the Israelite army while Aaron and Hur held up the hands of Moses. After the Hebrews defeated Amalek, God proclaimed to Moses: Exodus 17:16, "For he said, Because the Lord hath sworn that the Lord will have war with Amalek from generation to generation." In so many passages of scripture you find the Amalekites, or those related to them plotting against the Jews. The brooding, hateful and lusting power of Amalek (the spirit of anti-Semitism) has always had its Hamans. A person doesn't have to search very far in Jewish history to find those inspired by Amalek. They were around in Biblical days and they are around today. Jewish history has had numerous people dedicated to the destruction of God's Chosen People and still do. So, are there similarities between Haman and Obama? Well, yes there is. I see a definite and sickening connection between Persia of old and the current Haman representing the USA right now. The question is begging to be asked, is history repeating itself? It always has before. I believe President Obama and Haman are of the same Amalekite stripe. Consider these facts: TWO NAMES, SAME COUNTRY: Iran is modern-day Persia. TWO DEALS MADE ON THE EXACT SAME DATE: Evil Haman and the king of Persia (Iran) made a deal on the 13th day of the first month of Nissan. Esther 3:12, "Then the kings scribes were called on the 13th day of the first month (Nissan) and a decree was written according to all that Haman commanded." The deal gave the Persian people the freedom to annihilate the Jewish people in the Middle East. President Obama and the current king of Persia (Iran) made a deal on April 2, 2015, which on the Jewish calendar is the 13th day of the first month of Nissan. This deal allows Iran (Persia) to build a nuclear bomb that has the capacity to annihilate the Jews living in Israel. The date this deal was made was the exact date Haman made a deal with the king of Persia. TWO MEN WHO MADE CONVENIENT YET DESTRUCTIVE POLITICAL ALLIANCES: Haman was not Persian yet had an affinity for the religion of Persia and made an alliance with the Persian Empire. President Obama is not Iranian(Persian), but has a very strong affinity and deep love for the Islamic political ideology and religion. TWO BENJAMINS: Mordecai was a Benjamite. The Prime Minister of Israel is named Benjamian, Benjamin Netanyahu. TWO HAMANS OFFENDED: Haman was offended when Mordecai the Benjamite refused to bow to his stature and demands. President Obama is offended by Benjamin Netanyahu because he refuses to bow to his ongoing political demands. TWO ISSUES OF PROTOCOL: Because of protocol, Esther was forbidden to speak in the king's court unless she was called by the king himself. Benjamin Netanyahu was discouraged by President Obama from addressing Congress last March. TWO GALLOWS BUILT: Through his alliance with the king of ancient Persia, Haman built a gallows in Shushan, the capital city of Persia to hang the Benjamite Jew, Mordecai. The gallows were 50 cubits in height, a little over 80 feet tall. On January 23, 2015, the Jerusalem Post reported satellite images of a structure looking much like a gallows. They had never seen anything like it before in its locale. The structure is in Tehran. The structure is a launching pad for an ICBM missile capable of reaching Israel. It is reported height was 50 cubits, a little more than 80 feet tall. TWO PURIMS: When God delivered Esther, Mordecai the Benjamite, and the Jewish people from Haman's anger, and Persian wrath, she called for a celebration that became one of the feasts of the Jewish people known as Purim. In Hebrew, Purim is Hebrew for "lots" because Haman cast lots to determine the day of the Jews' destruction. However, God turned the 'lots' in the Jews' favor. Purim of 2015 was March 4-5th. Benjamin Netanyahu appealed to the American nation to save and protect the Jewish people in a speech he gave to Congress on March 3rd. This was the 12th of Adar on the Jewish calendar, Purim Eve. TWO BOOKS: Mordecai wrote the decree of Esther that counteracted evil Haman's decree and saved the Jews from annihilation. The story surrounding the decree would later become the biblical book of Esther. On March 7, 2012, Purim Eve, in a visit to America to discuss the Persian nuclear threat, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gave a book to President Barrack Obama. The book was the book of Esther. TWO SIGNATURES: When King Ahasuerus agreed to Haman's plot to erase the more than 3 million Jews from the Persian empire, he gave him his signature ring to sign the decree. In our day the press has given their signature and title to President Obama's quest for a radical Islamic nuclear Iran. It is President Obama's signature foreign policy achievement. TWO GATES: When Mordecai learned of Haman's plot, he fasted, mourned and cried loudly. He put on sackcloth and ashes and went to the entrance of the king's gate. He wasn't allowed to enter because he was in mourning and making too much noise. A former U.S. Secretary of Defense writes in his memoir that he was so irritated by Prime Minister Netanyahu's constant concern over America's softness toward Iran he told the national security adviser to keep Benjamin Netanyahu locked outside of the White House gate because he was making too much noise. Ironically, the Secretary of Defense was Robert Gates. TWO FAILED ASSIMULATIONS: Haman's hatred toward the Jews was rooted in the fact that they would not blend into the multiculturalism of Persian society. The Jews would not assimulate. A present-day spirit of multiculturalism seethes at the very thought of a Jewish state. TWO SILVER ENRICHMENTS: Haman made a deal with the king of Persia that included enriching Persian vaults with 10,000 silver talents. President Obama has made a deal with the Supreme Leader of Iran that includes enriching uranium (a silver metal) within 10 years. TWO MEN WITH THE SAME DAILY FRUSTRATIONS: Haman was enraged toward Mordecai because every day he passed through the city gate Mordecai refused to bow down to pay him homage. In a conversation about Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that was picked up by a "hot" microphone between President Obama and the president of France (at that time, Nicolas Sarkozy) in November 2011, Sarkozy stated: "I cannot stand him." President Obama replied, "You're fed up with him? I have to deal with him every day." TWO GEORGES: Is history repeating itself? Seems like it is. It appears we are witnessing another Persian conspiracy against the Jewish nation. Are we witnessing another Haman-like drama unfold before our eyes? As you think about these connections, consider two statements by two Georges: George Santayana said, "Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it." ; and, George Bernard Shaw said, "We learn from history that we learn nothing from history." Isaiah 46:8-10, "Remember this, and shew yourselves men: bring it again to mind, O ye transgressors. Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me, Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure:" Haman met his end by being hung from the same gallows which he had constructed for Mordecai. As a child in the synagogue, I remember that on Purim, the story of Queen Esther would be told to us. Whenever the name "Haman" was said by the story teller, we had little noise makers which we would swing round and round. It truly made a very offensive sound. We would also shout "BOOO" along with our noise makers. But when the part of the story was told that Haman was hung from the same gallows he had intended for Mordecai - we children would cheer! I believe that God's judgment will be upon the heads of Barack Obama and John Kerry. I do not know how these men will meet their end. Perhaps not gallows, but God certainly knows. I will not shed one tear for either of them. MARANATHA [email protected] All articles can be found at grandmageri422.me 
FROM THE HEART
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