what you can expect at the beginning of the tribulation period

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There are a number of possibilities that could take place leading us into the tribulation period. Many believe that just before the tribulation period begins the world will be on the brink of nuclear destruction. Nation will rise against nation and new alliances will form that in time past would seem impossible. One such unlikely alliance is Russia and the Islamic world.

If you have done any historical studies on Russian-Iranian relations you know they haven't always been the best of friends. But for the last ten to fifteen years their relationship has changed dramatically...and it's not just Iran...Russia has been aligning itself with virtually all of Israel's enemies (Iran, Turkey, Syria, PA, etc.) and this is bad news for everyone.

Since the collapse of the SALT Treaty, they’ve determined to build up their nuclear capabilities and once again become a powerhouse by 2015. They've definitely made giant strides toward this goal since President Putin took over in 2000. It's estimated that they have between 20,000-30,000 nuclear warheads pointing at U.S. cities and have some of the most advanced weaponry in the world.

To make things worse, it's been learned that Russia has been arming its allies (Iran & Syria) with advanced and sophisticated anti-missile systems and weapons in the name of self-defense. They wanted to keep this quiet by channeling the weapons through Belarus. Unfortunately, the deal was uncovered by Russian reporter and former Col. Ivan Safronov who later conveniently fell from his apartment window five stories to his death. Naturally, the Kremlin has denied any involvement.

Certainly, Russia is arming Iran and Syria to guard against a possible US/Israeli attack, but I also see a much greater attack brewing on the Israeli border. Could a possible US/Israeli attack against Iran be an excuse for Russia to arm Israel's enemies in preparation for the prophesied battle described in Ezekiel 38 & 39? As we know, when the Islamic world comes calling Russia will be leading the charge.

When Will This Battle Take Place?
Probably sooner than we think. I believe the Battle of Gog and Magog will happen just after the signing of the peace treaty between the antichrist, Israel and the Islamic world. It will be a time when the world will be at peace and Israel will be resting safely within their own borders (Ezekiel 38:4-15). It is my estimation that this battle will transpire six months to a year after the tribulation period begins.

Many may ask, "When this battle takes place what part will the US play?" Unfortunately, Bible prophecy records no hint of any outside help coming to Israel's aid. The U.S. will protest the attack but I don't believe they will get involved. The magnitude of this war will just be to large and the stakes to high for the U.S. to come to their rescue. Besides, it could set off World War III and US public opinion will be in no mood to get involved in someone else's problem especially a lost cause like Israel. They (Israel) will be on their own and the power of God will be manifested throughout the world. For when the thunder rolls and the lightening flashes over eighty percent of the invading army will perish. The world will be in shock and many will turn to the Lord. "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." (Ezekiel 38:23)

When God destroys all of Israel’s enemies I believe He will shake the temple mount with a very violent earthquake that will completely destroy the Dome of the Rock. This great defeat along with the earthquake will cause the Arab world to flee the temple mount in fear never to return. It is at this time that I believe Israel will rebuild their temple.

After this battle, Israel will be seen as a major world power and a force to be reckoned with. With all of their enemies defeated, no one will oppose them. New alliances will be made and the balance of power will shift. This will change the world dramatically.

One of these powerful alliances will be headed up by the antichrist. He will go forth conquering and making alliances, and will form a ten nation confederacy. They to will be a very powerful group of nations. Whether the antichrist will come into the tribulation period with a kingdom of ten nations or after is unknown. It may be reduced to ten nations falling the world war described in Revelation chapter six.

During his march, much blood will be shed and the Bible states that one quarter of the world’s population will die (Revelation 6:2-8). The antichrist will be diplomatic with those who lend him their power but the others he will crush.

Three nations will have to be put down. Some believe that the U.S. will be one of them. I do foresee that both sides of the rebellion will use nuclear weapons due to the massive death toll that will be inflicted (1.5 - 2 billion people will die). Although many will die, the antichrist, Israel and his ten kings will come out on the other side victorious. Whether Israel will be incorporated as one of the ten or just be under its protection is not known, but either way, they will be one of the surviving nations.

China will also survive this horrific war and align itself with North Korea who will finally conquer South Korea. China will take back Taiwan along with many of the smaller surrounding nations and Japan will make a pact with both of them. At some point during the second half of the tribulation this eastern empire will begin their march across Asia killing one third of the world's population. This demon controlled army will number 200 million strong and kill, destroy and take possessions as they go.

I can't imagine what the world will be like following this great war, but I do know this, the Bible declares it will be a time of great tribulation the likes of which no man has ever known (Matthew 24:21). It will be a time of ruthless and unabated violence and bloodshed where no one will be safe. It will be the darkest time mankind has ever experienced "and except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved". (Matthew 24:22a)

Are you ready to meet the Lord? If not, your time is running out!

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Pastor Malone