A Wake of Vultures (November-December 2014)

November-December 2014
Volume 23, Number 6

In the Olivet Prophecy, Jesus provides clues to forecast His return in power and glory to this earth. One of those clues is His enigmatic statement about eagles gathering together where the carcass is. Carrion fowl like eagles and vultures indeed gather where corpses are plentiful, and that is where we must start in understanding what our Savior meant.  (Robert Harding World Imagery / Alamy)

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
Ecclesiastes and Christian Living (Part Ten):
Paradox

Ecclesiastes 7:15 contains a saying that does not ring quite true in the Christian ear. In this way, it is a paradox, an inconsistency, something contrary to what is considered normal. John Ritenbaugh establishes the foundation for a comprehensive understanding of Solomon's intent, showing that he is cautioning us to consider carefully how we react to such paradoxes in life.

Ready Answer
The Lunar Sabbath or the Seventh-Day Sabbath:
Which?
by Charles Whitaker

A recent phenomenon among some Sabbatarians is something called the "Lunar Sabbath," counting the weekly Sabbath from each month's new moon. Charles Whitaker argues that the Lunar Sabbath idea is unbiblical and unworkable, asserting that the traditional weekly Sabbath, observed every seventh day, is correct and in line with God's Word.

Prophecy Watch
Where the Eagles Are Gathered
by David C. Grabbe

Jesus Christ's Olivet Prophecy provides a handful of specific signs of His return, one of which seems particularly obscure. David Grabbe analyzes His saying, "Wherever the carcass is, there the eagles will be gathered together," in Matthew 24:28, explaining that it is a warning that Jesus will come back in judgment against those who resist Him.

WorldWatch
Age of Empires
by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

It was not all that long ago that news outlets and pundits wrestled with the fact that the United States was the world's superpower and policeman. Today, however, due to the Obama administration's policies, new powers are rising to fill the power vacuum created by America's retreat. Richard Ritenbaugh discusses five emerging empires that threaten world peace.

Bible Study
The Miracles of Jesus Christ:
The Resurrection of Lazarus (Part Two)
by Martin G. Collins

Jesus' resurrection of His friend Lazarus from the dead proved to be the final straw for the Jews who were trying to kill Him. After contrasting Jesus' weeping with those around Him, Martin Collins considers the diverse reactions of the witnesses to His great miracle, focusing on how it was a sign to them and us.