In the end times, Israel remains central to God's plan, with Jerusalem as the spiritual epicenter for Christ's return. Prophecies like Ezekiel 36:8-11 foretell Israel's restoration to their land, gathered from nations, especially northwest of Jerusalem, as indicated in Jeremiah 3:12 and Isaiah 49:12. Historical events, such as Israel's rebirth in 1948 and Jerusalem's return to Jewish control in 1967, align with God's timetable. Scattered among powerful nations and distant isles, Israel will face trials akin to the Great Tribulation but will be saved, as Romans 11:26 promises. God's unwavering commitment ensures Israel's transformation into a holy nation, pivotal in His redemptive purpose for all humanity.

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The Miraculous Survival of Israel

Commentary by Clyde Finklea

God is setting the stage for the return of Jesus Christ, our Messiah, with Jerusalem and Israel at the center of these unfolding events. For nearly 1900 years after the destruction of Jerusalem, following the Jewish revolt from 66-70 AD when the walls were breached on Tammuz 17 and the temple was destroyed, the city endured numerous overthrows. After the defeat of the Ottoman Empire in World War I, the British assumed control of Palestine, and on November 2, 1917, the Balfour Declaration expressed favor for establishing a national home for the Jewish people in Palestine. On May 14, 1948, against all odds, the state of Israel was born, marking a significant step in this divine timetable. The Ten Jubilee Prophecy of Jerusalem, attributed to Rabbi Judah ben Samuel from 1150-1217 AD, foretold that the Ottomans would rule Jerusalem for eight jubilees, or 400 years, from 1517 to 1917, after which Jerusalem would be a no man's land for one jubilee, until 1967. At the end of this ninth jubilee, following the Six Day War, Jerusalem returned to Jewish possession, signifying the beginning of the Messianic end time. The tenth jubilee concluded in 2017, when the United States recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and announced the relocation of its embassy there, further aligning with God's plan for the return of the Lord. Historical moments reveal God's hand in supporting Israel through various leaders. In 1948, President Harry Truman was the first to recognize Israel as an independent nation, setting a precedent for its establishment. In 1973, during the Yom Kippur War, President Richard Nixon provided crucial aid to Israel at a critical moment, ensuring their survival against surrounding enemies. These events underscore how God uses individuals and nations to fulfill His purpose for Israel. Jerusalem stands as the spiritual epicenter of the earth, the place where our Messiah came in the flesh, shed His blood, rose from the dead, ascended to heaven, and will return to rule. All these miraculous events and historical developments show that God is preparing for Christ's return, which is closer than many realize. Jerusalem will play a pivotal role in these end times, and it remains the focal point of God's unfolding plan.

144,000 of the Tribes of Israel

Sermonette by David C. Grabbe

The attributes of the 144,000 in Revelation 7 and 14 are found in prophecies of Israel, indicating that a humbled remnant of Israel will turn to God.

The Doctrine of Israel (Part Ten): Where Is Israel Today?

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

In the end times, God's plan for Israel remains central to His purpose, as He has not utterly forsaken His people despite their history of turning away from Him. Ezekiel 20:33-35 speaks of a second exodus, where God, with a mighty hand and outstretched arm, will gather Israel from the countries where they are scattered, bringing them into the wilderness to plead His case with them face to face. This prophecy underscores that God will act for His name's sake, not due to Israel's righteousness, but to uphold His reputation, fulfill His plan, and keep His promises, as seen in Ezekiel 20:44. The dire state of Israel and Judah in history, as described in Jeremiah and Lamentations, serves as a type of the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord in the end times, indicating the severity of the trials they will face. Yet, God's ultimate desire is to bring His people back to Him, as reflected in Lamentations 5:21-22, where the prophet expresses a faint hope that God will turn them back and restore them. Prophecies throughout Scripture, such as Ezekiel 36:8-11 and 36:23-24, affirm that Israel will be restored to their land in the end times, with God multiplying their numbers and sanctifying His name among the nations by gathering them from all countries. God's Word provides clues about Israel's location in the end times, indicating they are scattered among the nations, primarily to the north and west of Jerusalem, as seen in Jeremiah 3:12, 3:18, 31:8, Hosea 11:10, 12:1, and Isaiah 49:12. These passages suggest that the bulk of Israel resides in the northwest, along a corridor stretching through Europe, with some coming from other parts of the earth. Additional prophecies in Jeremiah 31:7-9 describe Israel as citizens of the chief of the nations, significant and powerful countries, hiding in plain sight with their ancient roots veiled by recent history. Further clues in Psalm 89:24, Jeremiah 31:10-12, Isaiah 41:1, and Isaiah 49:1-5 point to Israel living in distant isles and coastlands, along great rivers, reinforcing the northwest European location with a strong presence in maritime trade and naval power. Genesis 49:22 and Isaiah 49:19-20 highlight Israel's end-time character as a restless, pioneering, and colonizing people, especially the tribes of Joseph, spreading beyond boundaries to seek new lands for their growing population. God's commitment to Israel is evident in His determination to save them, as Romans 11:26 confidently states that all Israel will be saved, though they will endure great trials. Luke 15:1-7 illustrates God's character through the parable of the lost sheep, showing His joy in reclaiming even one lost sinner, a principle that will bring immense joy in heaven when millions of Israelites return to Him. John 10:16 further emphasizes that God has other sheep, including physical Israel, whom He will bring into one fold under one shepherd at the appointed time. These end-time prophecies prove that Israel still exists somewhere in the world, as God's plan depends on their restoration, and His Word will not return empty. Though scattered and sifted among the nations, as Amos 9:9 assures, not the smallest grain will fall to the ground, for God knows exactly where each Israelite is, ensuring the fulfillment of His promises through His actions.

The Doctrine of Israel (Part Eleven): Genesis 49 and Deuteronomy 33

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

In the context of the end times, God has been intricately involved with Israel, guiding and shaping her throughout history to fulfill His divine purposes. From the very beginning, He has maintained a special relationship with Israel, ensuring that she develops according to His will, even as she has often resisted Him. As the end times approach, God continues to position Israel strategically, moving her into the place He desires for the culmination of His plan. God's intimate knowledge and love for Israel set her apart from all other nations. As expressed in Amos 3:1-2, He declares that only Israel has He known among all the families of the earth, indicating a unique bond and responsibility. This relationship, marked by His guidance since the calling of Abram, underscores His commitment to Israel, even as He prepares her for significant roles in the last days. In prophetic scriptures such as Genesis 49, Jacob speaks directly to the latter days, foretelling what will befall the tribes of Israel in the time leading up to the return of Christ. These prophecies highlight specific characteristics and destinies of the tribes, traits that God has preserved through generations to manifest in the end times. Similarly, Deuteronomy 33, while presented as blessings by Moses, contains prophetic elements that complement these insights, focusing on the tribes' roles within Israel as part of God's overarching plan. In Zechariah 14:16-18, looking forward to the Millennium, God emphasizes the continuity of His perspective on nations as families grown large. The families of the earth, including Israel, are called to worship the King in Jerusalem during the Feast of Tabernacles, with consequences for those who refuse. This demonstrates that even in the end times, God's focus remains on Israel as a central part of His purpose, extending His call to all nations through her. Revelation 1:7 further confirms this enduring view, as all the tribes of the earth will mourn at His coming, showing that God's recognition of nations as families persists to the end. His plan involves Israel prominently, ensuring that her identity and role are clear as He works to bring His purposes to fruition. God's unwavering commitment to Israel is evident in Isaiah 49:14-16, where He assures Zion that He will never forget her, having inscribed her on the palms of His hands. This promise holds true as He shapes end-time Israel, guiding her to the position He intends. Through Isaiah 43:1 and 44:21, He reaffirms that He created and formed Israel for Himself, never forgetting her, even as He leads her to where she must be in the last days. Ultimately, God's laser-like focus on Israel aims to transform her into a model kingdom of priests and a holy nation, as proposed in Exodus 19. This purpose continues into the end times, with Israel playing a central role in His plan to bring all humanity into His family, starting with the church, then Israel, and finally the world. He has not forsaken Israel; she is not lost to Him, and He provides clues for His people to identify her in today's world, ensuring that the focus remains on her as He moves forward with His redemptive work.

The Doctrine of Israel (Part Thirteen): Jacob's Trouble

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

During Jacob's Trouble, a confederacy of gentile peoples (particularly the offspring of Ishmael and Esau) will destroy the nations of modern-day Israel.

Prepare to Meet Your God! (Part One)

Article by John W. Ritenbaugh and Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Preaching to the ancient Israelites, Amos' indictments parallel today's spiritual decline. God wants His people to repent and avoid impending judgment.

Globalism (Part Twelve): It Shall Never Be

'Prophecy Watch' by Charles Whitaker

Though the nations of this world are pushing for global economics and government, God's Word shows that mankind will NOT succeed.

The Olivet Prophecy Paradox

Sermon by David C. Grabbe

The Olivet Prophecy describes both a unique time of destruction and upheaval but also commonplace activities like eating, drinking, and marrying. How can this be?

The Needed Dimension

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Unless we humbly submit before God, all of His efforts go for naught. God will not give His Spirit to those who will not obey Him.

God Has the Last Word

Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

We need to realize the seriousness of the times, waking ourselves out of our zombie-like slumber, casting off the works of darkness.

The Beast and Babylon (Part Five): The Great Harlot

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh

The fallen Woman of Revelation 17 and 18 displays no religious characteristics but is instead involved in the politics, economics, and culture of its time.

The King of the South

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

The King of the South (Daniel 11:40) might be a confederation of Arabic/Islamic nations continually at war with the people of Israel.

Jesus and the Rebellious Son

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

The law for stoning a rebellious son was never recorded as having been carried out, but ironically the nation put to death the maximally obedient Son.