

### Gog & Magog

### Versus

### The God of Israel

### (God's Last Days' Debut)

A Verse by Verse Study of Ezekiel 38-39

Pastor Dwight J. Oswald

Gog & Magog Versus The God of Israel

(God's Last Days' Debut)

Copyright 2013

Published by Dwight Oswald at Smashwords

Contents

Introduction

Chapter 1 – Gog and his Confederacy (Ezek. 38:1-9)

Chapter 2 – Gog's Evil Plan (Ezek. 38:10-15)
Chapter 3 – YHWH's Response to the Invasion of Gog (Ezek. 38:16-23)
Chapter 4 – YHWH Predicts the Destruction of Gog (Ezek. 39:1-8)

Chapter 5 – Israel to Plunder Gog (Ezek. 39:9-20)

Chapter 6 – YHWH's Intervention – Israel's Turning (Ezek. 39:21-24)

Chapter 7 – Israel's Restoration (Ezek. 39:25-29)

Chapter 8 – Overview of Gog and Magog

Chapter 9 – The Timing of Gog and Magog

Chapter 10 – Gog and Magog in Perspective

Introduction

We currently live in the Church Age. The Church is a forever-family of believers in the Lord Jesus Christ consisting of both Jew and Gentile from all over the world (cf. Acts 15:14, Gal. 3:28). Christ promised to build His Church (cf. Matt.16:18). It began suddenly and signlessly on the Day of Pentecost as recorded in Acts 2. It will be completed suddenly and signlessly as seen in 1 Corinthians 15:51-52. The Church is not told to look for signs. Rather, we are to be preoccupied with being Christ's witnesses (cf. Acts 1:7-8). The sudden removal of the Church (the Rapture) is always IMMINENT (cf. 1 Thess. 4:13-17); meaning that it could happen at any time. "PERHAPS TODAY!"

During the Church Age, Israel has been temporarily set aside. However, following the completion of the Church, God will again resume and complete His program with Israel (cf. Rom.11:25-27). God's covenant promises to Israel will be fulfilled! This is as certain as God's covenant name is YHWH (cf. Ex. 3:13-15, 6:1-8, Jer. 31:31-37, Mal. 3:6, Rom. 11:29).

The "last days" in relation to the church is not to be confused with the "last days" in reference to Israel. The last days of the Church Age will be marked by apostasy (cf. 2 Tim. 3:1-5). The "last days" in reference to Israel consistently denotes the 70th week of Daniel which is a seven-year period of time involving great distress for Israel, followed by her deliverance (cf. Deut. 4:30, Dan. 9:27, Jer. 30:7). God's program for the Church and God's program for Israel are distinctly different.

Through the prophets, God has told us of two great end-time wars in reference to Israel. During the course of the Church Age, God's face has been hidden from Israel. He providentially protected and preserved her as a people, but His direct intervention on behalf of Israel has been hidden (cf. Ezek. 39:23-24).However, with the removal of the Church, God will then go about to re-establish His reputation as the covenant God of Israel in the Day of the Lord. This revealing of the God of Israel takes place in conjunction with the war of Gog and Magog. My view is that this war takes place early within the 70th week of Daniel (cf. Rev. 6:3-4). The war of Gog and Magog is not to be confused with the war of Armageddon which takes place at the end of the seven-year Tribulation Period.

Even though last days signs are not directed to the Church, there may well be a foreshadowing of things which will transpire soon after the Church is gone. Even before the Church is gone, there may well be a setting of the stage for that which will follow. A clear example would be the fact that Israel is even now back in the land as prophesied in conjunction with the last days. As we see the development of a coalition in our day that lines up with what Ezekiel predicted in chapters 38 and 39, it would appear that the stage is about set and that the curtain on Israel's last days finale is about to go up.

Maranatha!

Pastor Dwight J. Oswald

*****
Chapter 1 – Gog and his Confederacy – (Ezek. 38:1-9)

Ezekiel 38-39 is a unit. It plays a vital part in revealing the process of Israel's last days' restoration. Thematically it connects closely to the events that will usher in the Messianic Kingdom (cf. Ezek. 40-48).

Some think that Psalm 83 speaks of yet another specific war that will take place prior to the war of Gog and Magog. Others think that Psalm 83 has already been fulfilled in the past. Still, another view is that it presents general truth that shows Israel has always been surrounded by enemies who desire her destruction which will have a climactic fulfillment in the last days (cf. Ps. 2). This latter view would seem to be best. Psalm 83 presents general truth that has application to a whole host of situations. For example, when Israel first became a nation, she was immediately attacked by surrounding nations with her destruction in mind. It had application then, but it also has application now. Since there are no clear time markers in Psalm 83, we must leave it general.

However, in Ezekiel 38-39 there are various time markers. They are not as precise as we might like them to be, but they do clearly indicate this has a last days' fulfillment just prior to the coming Kingdom.

Contextual Time Markers in Ezekiel

  * Chapters 33-39 - Subject: Israel's End Time Restoration

* Chapter 37 – Israel back in the land in UNBELIEF

* Chapter 38-39 – Gog & Magog - in the "latter years"

* Chapter 40 – Millennial Temple/Kingdom

Thematically, the war of Gog and Magog takes place somewhere between Israel's end time restoration to the land and the Kingdom Age.

Ezekiel 38-39 reveals a last days INVASION against Israel by a great coalition which will be led by a leader who comes from the far north of Israel. This great coalition will descend on Israel like a cloud in the last days when Israel is back in the land. It will happen when Israel is dwelling safely with her guard down. It will be so overwhelming as to threaten the very existence of Israel. Ezekiel 38 reveals the players who will make up this invading coalition.

**Ezekiel 38:1 (NKJV)** **-** _1_ _Now the word of the_ _Lord_ _came to me, saying,_

The name **LORD** here is "YHWH". The name YHWH signifies His covenant relationship with Israel (cf. Ex. 3:13-15, 6:1-7).

_Ezekiel 38:2 (NKJV) - 2_ _"Son of man, set your face against Gog, of the land of Magog, the prince of Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal, and prophesy against him,_

The name **Gog** is the name or title of the leader of this confederation. The word literally means "high" or "supreme". His name occurs 11 times in Ezekiel 38-39. It is clear that he is an individual as God addresses him personally (cf. 38:14, 39:1), and he is called a prince (cf. 38:2, 39:1).

He is from the land of Magog and is the prince of Rosh, Meshech and Tubal. Scholars are divided on how to understand the term **Rosh**. Some believe it should be understood as "head" or "chief". The idea then is that Gog, the CHIEF PRINCE, is being addressed. Others believe that "Rosh" is essentially Russia. They point out that in verse 15 it says he comes from the "far north". On a map, go as far north as you can from Israel; and pointing at the northernmost land mass – you find Russia.

Whether Rosh means "chief" or "Russia", the territory of Magog essentially relates to and includes the land of Russia. **Magog** is associated with an ancient people known as the Scythians. This area is thought to be related to the countries of Central Asia or what I refer to as the "-stan" countries.

Today the land of Magog is inhabited by the former Soviet republics of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and possibly even the northern parts of modern Afghanistan. All of these nations today have one thing in common: Islam.[1]

In addition to the land of Magog, Gog is over Meshech and Tubal. Jimmy DeYoung writes:

When traveling in Turkey recently I picked up an ancient Turkish map. In biblical times, Turkey was divided into four parts: Meshech, Tubal, Gomer, and Togarmah. So Ezekiel was talking about those who live in the areas we know as Russia and Turkey. [2]

Ezekiel is to prophesy against this leader related to the territory of the former Soviet Union and Turkey.

**Ezekiel 38:3 (NKJV) -** _3_ _and say, 'Thus says the Lord_ _God_ _: "Behold, I am against you, O Gog, the prince of Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal._

There is a double emphasis here in verses two and three. God is against Gog and He wants him to know it.

**Ezekiel 38:4 (NKJV) -** _4_ _I will turn you around, put hooks into your jaws, and lead you out, with all your army, horses, and horsemen, all splendidly clothed, a great company with bucklers and shields, all of them handling swords._

Note God's sovereignty as stressed here. He will draw this northern alliance under the leadership of Gog out.

We are not told what the "hooks" will be, but they will be effective. The description is in keeping with terms that Ezekiel would have understood. It describes a great army that is well equipped.

**Ezekiel 38:5 (NKJV) -** _5_ _Persia, Ethiopia, and Libya are with them, all of them with shield and helmet;_

Until 1935, Iran was called Persia; but historically Persia was broader than just modern Iran.

Until 1936 there were three nations that comprised the area known as Persia: Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iran. [3]

**Ethiopia** is thought to broadly relate to parts of Sudan, as well as Ethiopia.

**Libya** refers to modern day Libya.

So represented here are: Iran, Ethiopia and Libya – along with the "greater" Russia and Turkey.

**Ezekiel 38:6 (NKJV)** **-** _6_ _Gomer and all its troops; the house of Togarmah from the far north and all its troops—many people are with you._

Again, Gomer and Togarmah are thought to relate to Turkey. This is a great coalition involving "many people".

Observe that the major power players come from the North and the East, which is to say Russia and Turkey from the North and Persia (Iran) from the East.

The first specific country he named as part of the Russian alliance was Persia (Ezekiel 38:5). Until March 21, 1935, Persia was the official name of the country we now call Iran. But never in the last 2,500 years have Russia and Iran had a military alliance.[4]

**Ezekiel 38:7 (NKJV) -** _7_ _"Prepare yourself and be ready, you and all your companies that are gathered about you; and be a guard for them._

This is interesting language. It's like God is taunting or mocking them. In effect, He is saying, "Make sure you get ready. Prepare yourself. Watch out for everybody with you." (cf. Ps. 2:4, Joel 3:9-14).

The idea is that God is insulted by this puny little adversary who thinks to do such a monstrous evil. They want to fight on God's turf, so God says, "Bring it on." and taunts them that they had better be ready!

**Ezekiel 38:8 (NKJV) -** _8_ _After many days you will be visited. In the latter years you will come into the land of those brought back from the sword and gathered from many people on the mountains of Israel, which had long been desolate; they were brought out of the nations, and now all of them dwell safely._

When it says, " **After many days you will be visited** ", in context it is speaking about a visitation of God's JUDGMENT. In the Scriptures we see visitations of God in the form of grace (cf. Lk. 19:44), as well as in judgment.

This will take place in the " **latter years** ". God prophetically tells Gog and company that then they will come into the land of Israel where those brought back from the sword and gathered from many people are now dwelling on the mountains of Israel which had previously been desolate for a long time.

**Isaiah 11:11-12** in context is dealing with Christ's Second Coming and the setting up of His Millennial Kingdom. Isaiah in this context speaks of this being the **SECOND TIME** that He goes about to recover the remnant of His people who are out of the land. We note that the only other time that Israel as a nation returned from being out of the land was after the Babylonian Captivity. So, the return after the Babylonian Captivity was the FIRST TIME.

But Isaiah 11:11-12 speaks of a SECOND RETURN that will be worldwide in scope and will take place in conjunction with the coming of the Messiah. This SECOND return actually takes place in **phases** , as did the FIRST return. Isaiah is describing the climax of the Second Return.

With this in mind, Ezekiel 38:8 has to be describing the initial phase of the Second Return to the land which officially began as Israel was "reconstituted" as a nation in 1948. The description here is consistent with that reality. Note the phrases, " _in the latter years_ ", " _into the land of those brought back from the sword_ ", and " _gathered from many people"_.

The qualifying phrase " **on the** **mountains of Israel** " would further qualify this as applying to a time after 1967, when Israel retook the "mountain spine" of the land known today as the Western Bank. It comes after the land had " _long been desolate_ ;".

For about 1,900 years, Israel was out of the land. They were then brought out of the nations, as they came back to the land from all over the world.

And then note this important qualifier, " **now all of them dwell safely.** " Israel has never " **dwelt safely** " since she has been back in the land. She is loaded to the gills with ammunition and finds herself in a state of constant war.

This is consistent with Luke 21:24 which indicates that Jerusalem (the capital of Israel, hence representing Israel) will be trodden down by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.

Ezekiel uses this terminology " **dwell safely** " in 28:26, 34:25 and 28, 38:8, 11 and 14.

Some say this terminology merely has the idea of a sense of confidence and security and does not necessarily refer to a time of peace.

I certainly agree that a sense of "confidence and security" is in view, but when I look at how Ezekiel uses this phrase elsewhere, I think more is involved – including a time of actual peace.

Theologically, we refer to the law of first occurrence as used by a writer. We normally look back on how a term is first used and then that exact term is normally understood in a similar way when it is used again, unless the immediate context clearly indicates it should be understood otherwise.

In the first two usages in Ezekiel, " _dwell safely_ " relates to a kingdom restoration context where Israel is clearly in a context of peace and safety. I point this out because there is a tremendous emphasis in Ezekiel 38 on this exact phrase in relation to the attack of Gog and Magog.

As used in chapter 34:25 and 28, the phrase " _dwell safely_ " certainly has the nuance of peace and safety. It is used there in the context of a " **covenant of peace** ". In this context, the terms " _covenant of peace_ ", " _dwell safely_ ", and " _sleep in the woods_ " give the proper sense and nuance of the phrase. Also observe that chapters 34-39 are all in the same basic section of Ezekiel. Unless there is good reason to understand it otherwise, it makes sense to understand Ezekiel's use of this phrase in a consistent manner in this whole section.

Biblically, Israel NEVER knows a time of peace and safety during the times of the Gentiles apart from her seven-year covenant with Antichrist. This is brought out in Daniel 9:26-27.

**Daniel 9:26 (NKJV)** \- **26** _"And after the sixty-two weeks_ [plus 7 referenced in verse 25 for a total of 69 weeks]

_GAP PERIOD_ _(with three defining characteristics)_

[1] Messiah shall be cut off, but not for Himself;

[2] And the people of the prince who is to come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary. The end of it shall be with a flood,

[3] And till the end of the war desolations are determined **.** (emphasis mine)

Literally: " _till the end shall be war; desolations are determined." [5]_

Daniel 9:26 describes a parenthesis time period from the rejection of Christ at His TRIUMPHAL ENTERY into Jerusalem (cf. Lk. 19:41-44) until the signing of the 7- year covenant with Antichrist in Dan. 9:27. This Gap Period will be characterized BY WAR until the end.

The rather amazing thing is that in all this vast chasm of over nineteen centuries, Daniel identifies clearly only two events: the death of Messiah and the destruction of Jerusalem.... But if the prophet mentions specifically only two events, he does not altogether ignore the general character of the age.

Sweeping through our centuries of "progress" with the eye of divine inspiration, he sums up the whole period in two statements, very startling for their ominous brevity. The first is "Unto the end shall be war." And the second is: "Desolations are determined." [6]

... _take note..., "even to the end there will be war; desolations are determined." For the reminder of the interval between the Sixty-ninth Seven and the Seventieth Seven the Land would be characterized by war, and its resulting condition would be desolation. All this would set the stage for the final, or Seventieth, Seven.[7]_

If the period between the 69th and 70th weeks of Daniel is characterized by perpetual war and desolations for Israel, then the strong description of Ezekiel 38 and 39 on " _dwelling safely_ " cannot take place prior to the 70th week. Note the flow of Dan. 9:26 and 27.

**Daniel 9:26–27 (NKJV) -** _26_ _"And after the sixty-two weeks Messiah shall be cut off, but not for Himself; And the people of the prince who is to come Shall destroy the city and the sanctuary. The end of it shall be with a flood, And till the end of the_ _war desolations_ _are determined._

_27_ _Then he shall confirm a covenant_ _with many for one week; But in the middle of the week He shall bring an end to sacrifice and offering. And on the wing of abominations shall be one who makes desolate, Even until the consummation, which is determined, Is poured out on the desolate."_

Prophetically, the only time in the future when Israel will know peace and safety is when they enter into a 7-year covenant with Antichrist. Therefore, I take it that the timing of Ezekiel 38 and 39 takes place within the Day of the Lord. There are other positions held by good scholars and this is not a place to be dogmatic, but my position is that the exegetical data argues persuasively for Gog and Magog happening **within** the 70th week of Daniel.

**Ezekiel 38:9 (NKJV) -** _9_ _You will ascend, coming like a storm, covering the land like a cloud, you and all your troops and many peoples with you."_

This coalition will ascend like a powerful storm that covers the entire land of Israel. This will be an overwhelming and terrifying sight for Israel to behold. This is a massive invasion that apparently intends to be what Hitler called "THE FINAL SOLUTION". Once and for all they intend to wipe Israel out. And from all human appearances, it will be over for Israel. But Gog and company are oblivious to the YHWH factor and that changes everything!

This is going to be a major event that will change the political power structure of the world and make way for Antichrist to have full rule. It will also put YHWH on display before the entire world. Both Israel and the world will recognize YHWH's undeniable intervention.

However, it may well be that Antichrist will claim credit for the destruction of Gog and Magog and God will allow a strong delusion to overtake the world (cf. 2 Thess. 2:11-12). People will be forced to make a choice. Will they believe in YHWH, the God of Israel, or will they believe the claims of Antichrist?

The Players

**Gog** – leader from the area of former Soviet Union (Russia)

Makeup of the Coalition

Rosh = "Chief" or "Russia"

Magog = Central Asia ("stan" countries – former Soviet Union)

Meshech = Turkey

Tubal = Turkey

Gomer = Turkey

Beth-Togarmah =Turkey

Persia = Iran

Ethiopia = Ethiopia/Sudan

Libya

*****
Chapter 2 – Gog's Evil Plan – (Ezek. 38:10-15)

**Ezekiel 38:10 (NKJV) -** _10 'Thus says the Lord GOD: "On that day it shall come to pass that thoughts will arise in your mind, and you will make an evil plan:_

Under the leadership of Gog (the leader of Russia), this coalition will come up with an evil plan. It is a plan for invasion and plunder. God already knew the thoughts they would have thousands of years before it would happen. Ezekiel wrote about 2,500 years ago, so God has been on record about this since that time. Their evil plotting does not catch Him off-guard. He is totally sovereign.

**Ezekiel 38:11** **(NKJV) -** _11 You will say, 'I will go up against a land of unwalled villages; I will go to a peaceful people, who dwell safely, all of them dwelling without walls, and having neither bars nor gates'—_

Here again we note that Israel at this point is dwelling safely. This is an important description. It is not just emphasized once or twice, but three times in relation to Israel and once in relation to Magog in the context of chapters 38 and 39.

The reason this is important is because it gives us a hint as to when the timing of this war takes place. There are some who say the idea of "dwell safely" is simply a FEELING of confidence and security on the part of Israel, but not necessarily a context of peace and safety. They say that Israel has a feeling of security today because of their own military readiness and therefore, this could be fulfilled at any time. I disagree. The description is much more than just a feeling of security.

The word used (dwell safely) denotes a people who are quiet, at rest, and undisturbed. It denotes rest from military conflict. This exact phrase, as used by Ezekiel, always has in view a time of peace and safety. The first three times it is used in Ezekiel, it refers to Israel dwelling safely in the kingdom. That is more than a feeling. That is real peace and safety. Also, when it is used in reference to Magog in 39:6, the idea is one of dwelling securely or safely.

_Ezek. 28:26_ "Dwell Safely" – build houses and plant vineyards – dwell securely [safely]

_Ezek. 34:25_ "Dwell Safely" – covenant of peace – sleep in the woods

_Ezek. 34:28_ "Dwell Safely" – no longer prey for the nations – no one makes them afraid

_Ezek. 38:8_ "Dwell Safely"

_Ezek. 38:11_ "Dwell Safely" – peaceful [at rest/quiet] people – without walls, having...neither bars nor gates [unarmed – defenses down]

_Ezek. 38:14_ "Dwell Safely"

_Ezek. 39:6_ "Live in Security"

But beyond the use of the phrase " _dwell safely_ " and a mere word study, is the prolonged description of the state of things as described in verse 11. It will be a time when Israel is dwelling without walls, having neither gates nor bars.

The emphasis here is strong! Three times the stress is that Israel will be " **unarmed** " as seen in the phrases: "unwalled villages", "dwelling without walls", and "having neither bars nor gates". That in effect describes a time when Israel will have laid down her defenses. Her defense will not be up. Israel will be living an unarmed, peaceful lifestyle. She will be unsuspecting and vulnerable.

So when the prophet Ezekiel writes about living in unwalled villages, it means that the people living in those villages have laid down their defenses. Today it would refer to the Jewish people laying down their military power and trusting a world leader to protect them. [8]

That description is the farthest thing possible from where Israel is at today. Today every Israeli has to be on constant alert and they are militarily armed to the hilt. Israel today is the most militarily-alert nation in the entire world. At some point, some unspecified event has to transpire prompting Israel to let her guard down. That is the description here in Ezekiel. She lets down her defenses and is dwelling safely.

Prophetically, Jesus said that Jerusalem would be trampled down by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled (cf. Lk. 21:24). Daniel prophesied that the gap period between the 69th and 70th weeks would be characterized by war and desolations to the end. There is no letup or time of dwelling safely UNTIL Antichrist signs a 7- year covenant with Israel.

Biblically and prophetically, the only time during the times of the Gentiles when Israel knows a period of dwelling safely, where they let their guard down is when they sign a 7-year covenant with Antichrist as found in Dan. 9:27.

**Daniel 9:26–27 (NKJV) -** _26 "And after the sixty-two weeks Messiah shall be cut off, but not for Himself; And the people of the prince who is to come Shall destroy the city and the sanctuary. The end of it shall be with a flood, And till the end of the_ _war desolations_ _are determined._

_27_ _Then he shall confirm a covenant_ _with many for one week; But in the middle of the week He shall bring an end to sacrifice and offering. And on the wing of abominations shall be one who makes desolate, Even until the consummation, which is determined, Is poured out on the desolate."_

**1 Thessalonians 5:2–3 (NKJV) -** _2_ _For you yourselves know perfectly that the_ _day of the Lord so comes_ _as a thief in the night._

_3_ _For when they say, "_ _Peace and safety_ _!" then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape._

**Revelation 6:1–4 (NKJV) -** _1_ _Now I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals; and I heard one of the four living creatures saying with a voice like thunder, "Come and see."_

_2_ _And I looked, and behold,_ _a white horse_ _. He who sat on it had a bow; and a crown was given to him, and he went out conquering and to conquer._

[Verses 1-2 correspond to " **peace** " in Dan. 9:27 & 1 Thess. 5:2-3]

_3_ _When He opened the second seal, I heard the second living creature saying, "Come and see."_

_4_ _Another horse, fiery red, went out. And it was granted to the one who sat on it_ _to take peace from the earth_ _, and that people should kill one another; and there was given to him a great sword._

[Verses 3-4 correspond to the **war** of Gog and Magog]

Once Israel lets her guard down, this northern coalition sees their opportunity and they come up with an evil plot to attack Israel.

**A possible scenario:** Today Israel is a formidable military power. She currently ranks tenth in the world, which considering her size is amazing. But specifically what strikes fear into her Arab neighbors is the reality that Israel is a nuclear power. However, Israel desperately desires peace. How can it be that Israel will go from being one of the most armed nations in the world to being unarmed as described in Ezekiel 38:11?

Enter Antichrist – the man with the plan, a peace plan. According to Daniel 9:27 Antichrist will broker a seven year "peace plan" with "many". The "many" in context is essentially the majority of the Jews living in Israel, but also may include the Palestinians and other Arab neighbors, etc. The ultimate thing that the Jews have to bring to the bargaining table is their nuclear weapons. The ultimate thing that the Palestinian Arabs have to bring to the table is their functional control of the temple mount. Regarding these two realities Antichrist may broker a seven year peace deal. He may say to Israel, "Disarm yourselves and I will guarantee your safety". This is the essence of the firm covenant signified in Daniel 9:27. The Arabs for years have been stymied because of Israel's military power. They will cheer this development. However, they too will have to make a major concession which will be temporary control of the temple mount. If Israel is willing to lay down all of her arms the Palestinian Arabs will then agree to temporarily yield control of the temple mount.

Whatever the details in how it happens Ezekiel sees the time coming when Israel is unarmed (cf. Ezek. 38:11) and Daniel sees Israel controlling the temple mount with functional temple activities including sacrifice and offering (cf. Dan. 9:27). Antichrist is clearly the broker related to Israel's newfound liberty related to her temple activities. Antichrist will clearly be a major broker of "peace" as seen in the prophetic Scriptures (cf. Rev. 6:1-2, 1 Thess. 5:3). When you put all the pieces of the prophetic puzzle together this proposed scenario, or something similar to it, seems very plausible.

_During the first half of this time [70_ th _Week of Daniel] Israel feels at peace and secure, so the covenant must provide some guarantee for Israel's national security. Very likely the covenant will allow Israel to be at peace with her Arab neighbors. One result of the covenant is that Israel will be allowed to rebuild her temple in Jerusalem._ [9]

Israel will initially trust the Antichrist for protection, only to find him unable make good on his promises as seen in the attack of Gog and Magog. God will then supernaturally intervene which will mark a major turning point in Israel. From that day forward Israel will recognize YHWH as their protector God (cf. Ezek. 39:22). God will then be seen as the One Who preserves Israel which He will continue to do even through the darkest times in the Day of the Lord (cf. Jer. 30:7, Dan. 12:7). When Christ comes and sets up His kingdom the Lord Himself will be Jerusalem's wall of protection.

**Zechariah 2:5 (NKJV)** \- _5_ _For I,' says the_ _Lord_ _, 'will be a wall of fire all around her, and I will be the glory in her midst.' "_

**Ezekiel 38:12 (NKJV)** _\- 12_ _to take plunder and to take booty, to stretch out your hand against the waste places that are again inhabited, and against a people gathered from the nations, who have acquired livestock and goods, who dwell in the midst of the land._

They come to plunder the Jewish people who are back in the Promised Land and who are thriving. But note carefully, that they not only come to plunder goods, but also that they come AGAINST the people of Israel who have come back home from the nations. This certainly means this had to happen after Israel was re-established as a nation in 1948. Although Israel has been involved in many wars since 1948, they have never experienced a time of " _dwelling safely_ " or experienced a war like that described in Ezekiel 38-39. This is yet future.

Note that the re-gathered people are said to " _dwell in the midst of the land_ ". More literally, the word **midst** means "navel". In Ezekiel 5:5, Israel and Jerusalem are considered by God to be the center or navel of the earth.

**Ezekiel 38:13 (NKJV) -** _13_ _Sheba, Dedan, the merchants of Tarshish, and all their young lions will say to you, 'Have you come to take plunder? Have you gathered your army to take booty, to carry away silver and gold, to take away livestock and goods, to take great plunder?' "_ **'**

Scholars generally agree that Sheba and Dedan are the Arab peoples dwelling in modern-day Saudi Arabia and the Gulf States (cf. 1 Kg. 10:1-13, 2 Chron. 9:1-12, Isa. 21:13, Jer. 25:23, 49:8, Ezek. 25:13, 27:15, 20, 38:13). Even now Saudi Arabia is concerned about Iran advancing.

Saudi Arabia is concerned about two things – possession of her oil and possession of Mecca. No wonder they will sit this one out. They want no part of Iran and company moving in on their territory.

But observe that they only raise questions. They are not in a position to stop this action or do anything about it.

Also note that Tarshish and all her young lions also raise questioning objections and yet don't do anything.

**Tarshish** was a term that in ancient times described the western extreme of human civilization – the farthest parts west. Jonah in his rebellion headed for Tarshish (cf. Jonah 1:3). There are various viewpoints as to the precise identity of Tarshish. Some think it refers to Spain and some think it refers to Britain with the young lions representing Britain's colonies that then became their own countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, etc. It is not totally clear, so we can't be dogmatic.

However, if the British view is correct – and it might be – then this is the only place that United States of America is really seen in the prophetic Scriptures. In this case, she has a very passive role; simply raising a few anemic questions that have no muscle behind them. That would seem to fit the trajectory of where the U.S.A. and those long-associated with Britain are going. This would fit the view that America fades into virtual insignificance and is no longer in a position, for whatever reason, to help Israel in the end times. Into that vacuum will step the Antichrist.

**Ezekiel 38:14 (NKJV) - 14** _"Therefore, son of man, prophesy and say to Gog, 'Thus says the Lord_ _God_ _: "On that day when My people Israel dwell safely, will you not know it?_

Gog is the key leader from Russia. Gog is a title like "Czar". He is mentioned 11 times in Ezekiel 38-39. It is clear that he is an individual, as he is called a prince (cf. 38:2, 39:1) and God addresses him directly.

Again, we note the emphasis that Gog and company make their move at a time when God's people Israel are dwelling safely. This very well may be part of the "hooks" that draw them out to attack God's people. They will see that Israel is now vulnerable because they have let down their defenses and so they prepare to pounce.

**Ezekiel 38:15 (NKJV) - 15** **Then you will come from your place out of the far north, you and many peoples with you, all of them riding on horses, a great company and a mighty army.**

Gog comes from his place out of the "far north". This refers to the regions farthest north of Israel. If you go straight north on a map and go as far as you can go and still be in land mass – you will find Russia. But Russia is not alone. There are many peoples with him, and all of them coming heavily-equipped with military accessories. Humanly speaking, they are a "mighty army".

Note the strong emphasis on NORTH in this whole section:

Ezek. 38:6 "from the far north"

Ezek. 38:15 "out of the far north"

Ezek. 39:2 "from the far north"

Now jump down a couple of verses to 38:17.

**Ezekiel 38:17 (NKJV) - 17** _Thus says the Lord_ _God_ _: "Are you he of whom I have spoken in former days by My_ _servants_ _the_ _prophets_ _of Israel, who prophesied for years in those days that I would bring you against them?_ (emphasis mine)

And again in 39:8:

**Ezekiel 39:8 (NKJV) - 8** _Surely it is coming, and it shall be done," says the Lord_ _God_ _. "This is the day of which I have spoken_.

God is here represented as addressing Gog at the time of his attack on Israel. The "former days" is the time long prior when the prophets spoke. According to God, this NORTHERN COALITION that will attack His people is well represented in the prophetic Scriptures. Observe that not only Ezekiel is said to have addressed this war, but the "prophets" plural. So the question is this: Where outside of Ezekiel do the prophets specifically speak of this last days war emanating from the NORTH? Where specifically is a great northern coalition seen to come against Israel in the last days?

If one takes the position that this war happens before the Day of the Lord, I submit to you it's not there. But if you take the position (as I do), that it takes place within the Day of the Lord, then there are two major cross-references to consider.

The first is in Joel 2:20.

**Joel 2:20 (NKJV) - 20** _"But I will remove far from you_ _the northern army_ _, And will drive him away into a barren and desolate land, With his face toward the eastern sea And his back toward the western sea; His stench will come up, And his foul odor will rise, Because he has done_ _monstrous things_ _."_ (emphasis mine)

During the time of the Tribulation, of which this passage is set, Israel will also experience invasion from the North. [10]

Note 3 things. 1) This text of Joel 2:20 is set within the context of the Day of the Lord (The Tribulation Period). 2) It speaks of "the northern army" which is decimated by God in the land of Israel. 3) The reason God destroys him is because he has done "monstrous things". That fits the description of Ezekiel 38-39 perfectly.

Another key text showing a great threat of invasion from the North during the Day of the Lord is found in Daniel 11. Daniel 11 gives the prefigure of Antichrist – the character of Antichrist and the career of Antichrist. In type, Antiochus Epiphanes (175-164 BC) who came out of Syria prefigures the Antichrist.

In Dan. 11:1-35 there are as many as 135 prophetic details. Daniel 11:5-20 chronicles the 150-year (c. 320-170) back-and-forth struggle between the Ptolemaic (Egyptian) and Seleucid (Syrian) dynasties. And right in the middle of this epic struggle was the nation of Israel.

All the way through this chapter (Dan. 11) the "king of the south" refers to the leader of Egypt and the "king of the north" refers to the leader of Syria. Consistency insists that this carries through for the remainder of the chapter. Here attention to detail is very important. And Daniel expects us to pay attention to minute detail.

Probably no other portion of Scripture presents more minute prophecy than Daniel 11:1-35, and this has prompted the sharpest attack of critics seeking to discredit this prophetic portion. [11]

Daniel 11:21-35 presents Antiochus Epiphanes as a type of Antichrist. Then in Daniel 11:36 Antiochus suddenly fades into the background and Antichrist himself comes into full view. At Daniel 11:36, from our vantage point, history suddenly ends and prophecy begins.

In Daniel 11:36-39 we have the character of Antichrist brought out and we find that he worships the god of military might. Then in 11:40-45 we have an overview of Antichrist's career. That is what we want to look at; especially in relationship to the issue of the NORTH.

**Daniel 11:40 (NKJV) - 40** " _At the time of the end the_ _king of the South_ _shall attack_ _him_ _; and the_ _king of the North_ _shall come against_ _him_ _like a whirlwind, with chariots, horsemen, and with many ships; and_ _he_ _shall enter the countries, overwhelm them, and pass through. (emphasis mine)_

Note the personal pronouns " **he** ", " **his** ", and " **him** " are found 24 times in verses 36-45 and they all refer to ANTICHRIST.

So, in view here is a pincer attack on Antichrist from Egypt in the south and from Syria in the north.

At this point, Antichrist is in **covenant relationship** with Israel and considers Israel HIS territory and he will respond very aggressively to any attack. Antichrist will bring his armies out of Europe down into the Middle East in an overwhelming fashion passing through this whole area.

**Daniel 11:41–42 (NKJV) - 41** _He shall also enter the Glorious Land, and many countries shall be overthrown; but these shall escape from his hand: Edom, Moab, and the prominent people of Ammon._

_42_ _He shall stretch out his hand against the countries, and the land of Egypt shall not escape._

In this advancement Antichrist enters into the Glorious Land (which is the Holy Land) overthrowing many countries in the process.

However, Edom, Moab and Ammon (corresponding to modern-day Jordan) will escape his wrath. This is the preserved area where the Jews will flee in the middle of the Tribulation. But Egypt will not escape!

**Daniel 11:43 (NKJV) - 43** _He shall have power over the treasures of gold and silver, and over all the precious things of Egypt; also the_ _Libyans and Ethiopians_ _shall follow at his heels. (emphasis mine)_

Observe that the Libyans and the Ethiopians are mentioned here in Daniel 11:43 as well as in Ezekiel 38:5 which is evidence that these are parallel accounts.

It is difficult for me to imagine two completely different battles transpiring in such a short time in the same general area. That's why I believe both passages refer to the same event. [12]

**Daniel 11:44 (NKJV) - 44** _But news_ _from the east_ _and_ _the north_ _shall trouble him; therefore he shall go out with great fury to destroy and annihilate many. (emphasis mine)_

Observe that Daniel 11:44 doesn't say "the king of the north" at this point. It simply says " **news from the east and the north** ". That is a break in pattern in contrast to what we have seen all the way through the chapter up to this point. Syria (the king of the north) has already been dealt with, so he is NOT in view. I submit to you that the north here refers to Gog from Magog and the east refers to Persia (Iran). These are the two primary players in Ezekiel 38 & 39.

My view is that Daniel 11:40-44 parallels Ezekiel 38-39. Both involve Libya and Ethiopia. Both involve major players from the North and the East.

Daniel and Ezekiel are describing the same event, but from different vantage points – kind of like the gospels in relation to Christ.

In this view, Syria and Egypt working a pincer move on Israel is the spark that ignites the Gog and Magog war. Antichrist will respond to this pincer move and bring his army deep into Africa (Libya/Ethiopia). But when he gets to that point, NEWS from the NORTH (Russia/Turkey) and the EAST (Iran) will TROUBLE him. But, before Antichrist can respond to this sudden attack by Gog and company on his territory (Israel), YHWH Himself will destroy this Northern Coalition.

In the aftermath, Antichrist will take credit for the destruction of Gog and Magog and fill the power vacuum left in their void. Islam will no longer be a threat. Antichrist will now be in a position to rule the world!

One KEY nation is conspicuously missing in the lineup in both Ezekiel 38-39 and in Daniel 11. It is the nation of Iraq (Babylon). This makes sense because Babylon will become the economic capital for Antichrist during the Tribulation Period (cf. Rev. 17-18). It is consistent that Iraq would not be involved because Iraq under Antichrist will at this point be in league with Israel, the country that is being attacked.

When God says that His prophets previously referenced this great war (cf. Ezek. 38:17, 39:8), specifically in view is Joel (2:20) and Daniel (11:40-44). This is an event that shakes the entire world; and as such, it is to be expected that it is represented not only in Ezekiel, but also in the other prophets, as well as in the book of Revelation (cf. Rev. 6:3-4).

*****
Chapter 3 – YHWH's Response to the Invasion of Gog – (Ezek. 38:16-23)

**Ezekiel 38:16 (NKJV)** **-** **16** _You will come up against My people Israel like a cloud, to cover the land. It will be in the latter days that I will bring you against My land, so that the nations may know Me, when I am hallowed in you, O Gog, before their eyes."_

Constantly throughout this whole section, the emphasis is on what a vast and massive horde this will be that comes against Israel. God says, " **you are coming against My people Israel** ". They are still His people – even in disobedience.

This huge coalition covers the land of Israel. They are so numerous that they blanket the entire land. Humanly speaking, Israel would be DEAD! But in reality, the greatness of this vast army serves to HIGHLIGHT the greatness of YHWH when He intervenes to deliver a killer blow against this coalition.

God says this will happen in " **the latter days** ". This is a phrase that deserves special study. This exact word " **latter** " is found 60 times in the OT (cf. Gen. 49:1, Num. 23:10, 24:14, 20, Deut. 4:30, 8:16, 11:12, 31:29, 32:20, 29, Isa. 2:2, 41:22, 46:10, 47:7, Jer. 5:31, 12:4, 17:11, 23:20, 29:11, 30:24, 31:17, 48:47, 49:39, 50:12, Ezek. 23:25, 38:8, 16, Hos. 3:5, Amos 4:2, 8:20, 9:1, Micah 4:1, Ps. 37:37, 38, 73:17, 109:13, 139:9, Job 8:7, 42:12, Prov. 5:4, 11, 14:12, 13, 16:25, 19:20, 20:21, 23:18, 24:14, 20, 25:8, 29:21, Eccl. 7:8, 10:13, Lam. 1:9, Dan. 8:19, 23, 10:14, 11:4, 12:8).

**Thomas Ice** says _:_ _There are a number of different biblical expressions which appear to speak of the end times. The Bible teaches that this present age will end with the rapture, followed by the tribulation, which will end with the second coming of Messiah to the earth._

Thus, we must distinguish between the "last days" of the church age and the "last days" of Israel's tribulation....When we look at Old Testament usage of these terms, we see that they are used differently than those which speak of the church age. I believe that the Old Testament use of this language refers to the time leading up to the coming of Messiah to set up His kingdom on earth, which I would call the tribulation period. A clear example of this is found in Deuteronomy 4:30...,

...So are we living in the last days?... we are currently living in the last days because we are in the church age, which is called the "last days," "last times," and "last time." However, in no way shape or form are we in the last days, as the Old Testament says of Israel. Those terms, "latter days," "last days," "latter years," "end of time," and "end of the age" all refer a time when Israel is in her time of tribulation. This is a future time, which we could very well be on the verge of entering. I believe that we are seeing the stage being set for last days or end time events of the tribulation. [13]

Many scholars point out that the term " **latter days** " (or similar terms) when used in **reference to Israel** are really technical terms related to the Day of the Lord, or what is commonly called the Seventieth Week of Daniel, or the Tribulation Period (cf. Dan. 9:24-27, Matt. 24:21, 1 Thess. 5:1-4)

...the familiar expressions "after many days," "in the latter days" (38:8), and "in the last days" (38:16) refer to the time of the tribulation (Deut. 4:27-30, Dan. 2:28, 8:19, 23, 10:14) and/or the millennial restoration (Isa. 2:2-4, Mic. 4:1-7). The context must determine the setting. Here in Ezekiel 38-39 it must refer to the time of great tribulation for Israel. [14]

... _the expression "in the last days" (beaaharit hayyamim), found in Ezekiel 38:16, places these events at the end time, for this phrase is most frequently employed to designate the time of Israel's final restoration to the land and the period of Messiah's rule (cf. Isa. 2:2, Jer. 23:20, 30:24, Hosea 3:5, Mic. 4:1, Dan. 10:14). [15]_

This phrase [latter days] is used in the Old Testament in reference to Israel's final time of distress or to Israel's final restoration to the Messianic kingdom (Isa. 2:2, Jer. 23:20, 30:24, Hos. 3:5, Mic. 4:1).... in Ezekiel 38:16 the phrase "in the last days" is a technical term that refers to the end times. [16]

The ''last days,'' as related to Israel, are the days which, though begun in sorrow, issue in Israel's exaltation and blessing (cp. Jer. 30:4-10), i.e., the Kingdom Age (Isa. 2:2-4, Mic. 4:1-7). They are ''last days,'' not with reference to this dispensation [Church Age] but in respect to the whole of Israel's history. [17]

What these scholars are saying is that the most common way that this phrase " **latter days** " and similar terms are **used in reference to Israel** refers to the time that will usher in Messiah's rule – or what we commonly refer to as the Tribulation Period. The phrase " **last days** " certainly includes the Tribulation Period, but there is debate as to whether it is limited to the Tribulation Period or not. I argue that " **latter days** " and similar phrases consistently have in view the Tribulation Period that ushers in the Messianic Era (the kingdom reign of Jesus Christ).

The key verse to understanding what these terms mean is Deuteronomy 4:30 which reads, " _When you are in distress and all these things have happened to you, then in later days you will return to the LORD your God and obey him_." "Distress" is also translated as "Tribulation." It is the Tribulation of Daniel's 70th week that brings the Jewish people as a nation back into the belief in God, and later to accept Yeshua as their Messiah.

The Tribulation leading up to the Millennial reign of Christ is what the Old Testament prophets consistently and repeatedly taught about. And so, we can know from these key phrases that the Gog-Magog Battle happens in relation to the Tribulation and Millennial Kingdom. [18]

**Deuteronomy 4:30 (NKJV) - 30** _When you are in distress, and all these things come upon you in the latter days, when you turn to the_ _Lord_ _your God and obey His voice_

One of the points in favor of seeing " _last days_ " as a technical phrase referring to the Tribulation Period is that this is the time when God resumes His special dealings with Israel. The GAP PERIOD between the 69th and 70th weeks of Daniel is a sort of "time-out" on Israel as they are temporarily set aside (cf. Rom. 11). The beginning of the 70th week (cf. Dan. 9:27) officially marks God's resumption of His special program related to Israel and the fulfillment of last days prophecy in relationship to them. This is the most common way " _last days_ " terminology is used in reference to Israel.

The fact that Israel is back in the land does not prove we are in " _the last days_ " in the technical sense in relation to Israel. Certainly that part of the stage has to be set in order for " _last days_ " events to be fulfilled, but Israel has already been in the land for over 60 years. The " _last days_ " for Israel begins in earnest with the beginning of the 70th week of Daniel.

The term translated " _latter days_ " in Ezek. 38:16 occurs 14 times in the OT (cf. Gen. 49:1, Num. 24:14, Deut. 4:30, 31:29, Isa. 2:2, Jer. 23:20, 30:24, 48:47, 49:39, Dan. 2:28, 10:14, Hos. 3:5, Micah 4:1) and is normally associated with Israel's final time of distress – also known as Jacob's Trouble, or in conjunction with the coming of the Messianic Kingdom (cf. Isa. 2:2, Jer. 23:20, 30:24, Hos. 3:5, Mic. 4:1).

Some believe that there may be a sizable gap between the time of the Rapture and the start of the Day of the Lord and that the war of Gog and Magog may take place during this "in-between" time. However, that is doubtful.

There may be a little gap between the Rapture and the Day of the Lord – just as there was between the Cross and the Day of Pentecost; but it will probably not be a long gap. Part of the purpose for removing the Church is so that God can resume and complete His program with Israel.

Just as God "immediately" began the Church after setting Israel aside, so He will "immediately" resume His program with Israel after the Church is removed.

Romans 11:25 says that blindness in part has happened to Israel, but only until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. In other words, when the Church (which is largely Gentile in makeup) is complete, then God will again resume His program with Israel.

Redemptive history moves from God's program dealing with Israel to the Church and then back to Israel again, once the Church is complete. If there is a large gap of YEARS between the Rapture and the Day of the Lord, it would in effect add another dispensation which we might call the dispensation of "Gog and Magog". This is not represented in the Scriptures. The 70 weeks of Daniel present an overview of God's redemptive program with Israel. The start of the 70th week officially kicks off the end of days that will bring God's special dealings with Israel to a close. Therefore, it seems forced to place the major event of Gog and Magog prior to the Day of the Lord (cf. Dan. 9:27).

In 2 Thessalonians 2:3, Paul (under inspiration) names only two things that stand in the way of the Day of the Lord coming into place. They are 1) The departure (which I take to be the removal of the restraining ministry of the Spirit in conjunction with the Church at the time of the Rapture) and 2) The man of sin being revealed, which happens in conjunction with him signing a 7-year covenant with Israel (cf. Dan. 9:27). The only thing standing in the way of the man of sin coming to the fore is the RESTRAINER. Once the restrainer is removed, nothing stands in his way. So, I take it that the man of sin comes to the fore immediately after the restrainer is removed.

There is no hint of a GAP period between the removal of the restrainer and the man of sin being revealed. If there is such a gap, 2 Thessalonians 2 would have been the perfect place to have it brought out; but the Holy Spirit did not do so.

In Ezekiel 38:16, God says to Gog, " **I will bring you against My land,** " **.** God is seen to be very possessive here. He speaks of them coming against " _My people Israel_ " and against " _My Land_ ". This is personal with God!

When leaders or nations start messing with Israel, it gets personal in a hurry with God. This doesn't just refer to Old Testament times, or former times, but to the **latter days**. God hasn't gotten over Israel. He hasn't moved on. He hasn't replaced Israel. God is still in special covenant relationship with the people Israel and that covenant has to do with the Land. The world at this point will be oblivious to that reality, but they are about to find out the hard way.

God is sovereign over this whole affair. He says, " **I will bring you against My land** ". God will do it, and yet Gog and company are responsible.

God will do it, and yet this action will make God very angry. Once again, we have that mystery tension between God's sovereignty and human responsibility.

And then note to what end God does this: " **so that the nations may know Me, when I am hallowed in you, O Gog, before their eyes.** "

In wiping out Gog, the God of Israel is going to set Himself apart; showing in the defeat of Gog that He, the God of Israel, is the One true supernatural God.

God has been quiet for thousands of years as His people were under discipline, but now it is the DAY OF THE LORD and He is going to intervene directly in supernatural ways to show that He is LORD. He is showing that He, the God of Israel, is still the God of Israel. He, the God of Israel, is faithful to His covenant promises.

This is what this showdown is going to reveal to the world. The world from then on will know the reality of the God of Israel. That doesn't mean the world in mass will convert any more than it meant that Egypt in the days of Pharaoh converted. But they will know the reality of the God of Israel (cf. Ex. 7:3-5, 14:4, Rom. 9:17). They will know the fact of it, whether they yield to the truth of it or not.

In the early days of the Tribulation Period, multitudes of people throughout the world will come to a saving faith. In Revelation 7, John saw a great multitude which no man could number of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues; and he is told that they come out of the "great tribulation" (cf. Rev. 7:9, 14).

In the Tribulation, there is going to be a stark contrast presented to the world. With most all the countries in this coalition being predominantly Muslim; Allah is going down in the war of Gog and Magog. YHWH will make Himself known in this event. But many believe that Antichrist will then seek to capitalize on the situation and take credit for the destruction of Gog and Magog. He, the Antichrist, will then claim that he has delivered Israel and will go on to claim to be God (cf. 2 Thess. 2:4). In Revelation 13:4, the world says of Antichrist, "Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?" This is a very possible scenario.

**Ezekiel 38:17 (NKJV) - 17** _Thus says the Lord_ _God_ _: "Are you he of whom I have spoken in former days by My servants the prophets of Israel, who prophesied for years in those days that I would bring you against them?_

God here is seen as addressing Gog at the time of his assault. He asks a rhetorical question showing that indeed, Gog is the one that the prophets spoke of; although they did not name him personally. Therefore, the " _former days_ " is the time long prior during the times of the prophets when they spoke of this specific war.

The pronouncement in context relates to this great northern coalition in the last days. The only two other places in the Old Testament that specifically mention such a last days confederation are found in Joel 2:20, speaking in a Day of the Lord context, and also in Dan. 11:44 where news from the east and north trouble Antichrist.

I take it that Daniel 11 and Ezekiel 38-39 overlap; addressing this battle from different angles. Ezekiel presents it from the standpoint of God versus Gog. Daniel presents it from the standpoint of Gog versus Antichrist.

**Ezekiel 38:18 (NKJV) - 18** _"And it will come to pass at the same time, when Gog comes against the land of Israel," says the Lord_ _God_ _, "that My fury will show in My face._

When Gog converges on the land of Israel and blankets it like a cloud, then Adonai YHWH (Master/YHWH) is going to become furiously angry. This will be "sinners in the hands of an angry God".

**Ezekiel 38:19 (NKJV)** **-** **19** _For in My jealousy and in the fire of My wrath I have spoken: 'Surely in that day there shall be a great earthquake in the land of Israel,_

God is jealous over His people and His land and what Gog is seeking to do makes Him exceedingly angry! He speaks of the " **fire of His wrath** ". God will be red-hot with righteous anger and the whole world will know it.

There is going to be a GREAT earthquake in the land of Israel. Israel is going to be the epicenter of this earthquake because that is where Gog, at this point, is positioned.

**Ezekiel 38:20 (NKJV) - 20** _so that the fish of the sea, the birds of the heavens, the beasts of the field, all creeping things that creep on the earth, and all men who are on the face of the earth shall shake at My presence. The mountains shall be thrown down, the steep places shall fall, and every wall shall fall to the ground.'_

This is not just an average earthquake. This is a WORLD-QUAKE! The epicenter is Israel, but it affects the entire world. The whole world of nature is affected. God says, " **All men who are on the face of the earth shall shake at My presence.** " Mountains and steep places will fall down. Every wall shall fall to the ground. This is not typical activity for outside the Day of the Lord. This smacks of Divine intervention in keeping with the Day of the Lord, when God directly intervenes; demonstrating His Lordship in supernatural ways in relation to Israel and affecting the entire world.

The study of earthquakes is interesting. People often speak of the earthquakes that we are seeing in our time as " **signs of the times** ", but technically that is not correct.

All the prophesied earthquakes in the Old Testament are specific to the "day of the Lord"... in other words, those that are caused by divine judgment, and clearly referring to the time of God's wrath. [19]

When Christ speaks of earthquakes that will take place in various places in Matthew 24:7, the context is " _the beginning of sorrows_ " which relates to the beginning of the Tribulation Period – and not before it (cf. Mt. 24:8).

The assertion that earthquakes are increasing in fulfillment of Matt. 24:7 misinterprets Scripture. The context of Matthew 24:7 demands that this sign is for believers in the tribulation, who anticipate the return of the Lord; it is incorrect to refer to this passage as describing events during the church age. [20]

Earthquakes have been used distinctly by God to highlight some of the most important events of the Bible. The three main purposes for biblical earthquakes are judgment, deliverance, and communication. The lesson is obvious – God does not do anything really big without emphasizing it with an earthquake! [21]

The world doesn't know it – but the stage is being set for something really BIG! God is about to communicate in no uncertain terms that He is YHWH – the God of Israel in everlasting covenant relationship with Israel, just as Scriptures present Him to be.

If indeed this event takes place at the beginning of the Tribulation Period and if the Dome of the Rock is still standing prior to this, **it won't be afterward**!

We are convinced that the Temple will be built because the Bible says it will. We simply are not sure how it will happen. But the "War of Gog and Magog" may provide the answer. One possibility is that the God of Israel will use the supernatural judgment involving a massive earthquake, hailstorms, and firestorms from heaven to destroy the Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aksa Mosque, clearing the Temple Mount for the building of a Holy Temple to worship Him. [22]

It makes sense that with the defeat of Allah, his major worship centers are also coming down – especially that which relates to God's HOLY LAND of Israel.

**Ezekiel 38:21 (NKJV) -** _21_ _I will call for a sword against Gog throughout all My mountains," says the Lord_ _God_ _. "Every man's sword will be against his brother._

Note again the possessive phrase: " **My mountains** ". God calls for a sword against Gog, but we find it is an internal sword. There is going to be massive confusion and pandemonium where terrible infighting takes place. An earthquake of this magnitude would really mess with their communication systems. In disarray, "friendly fire" will become deadly fire.

**Ezekiel 38:22 (NKJV) - 22** _And I will bring him to judgment with pestilence and bloodshed; I will rain down on him, on his troops, and on the many peoples who are with him, flooding rain, great hailstones, fire, and brimstone._

God also will cause disease and plague to break out, in addition to bloodshed. God will rain on their parade with flooding rain, great hailstones, fire, and brimstone. They will find out that the God of Israel is in charge of the weather. God is going to literally pound them from above with violent storms.

**Brimstone** is what God rained down on Sodom and Gomorrah. It is like burning sulfur or tear gas. God is going to pound them to death right there on His mountains, in the land of Israel. This will be fatal for them. There is no recovery!

**Ezekiel 38:23 (NKJV) - 23** **Thus I will magnify Myself and sanctify Myself, and I will be known in the eyes of many nations. Then they shall know that I am the** **Lord** **." '**

This vast and great army which seemed invincible is eviscerated by God! They seemed so great, but the God of Israel shows Himself to be so much GREATER! God will magnify Himself through this event. He will be shown to be great! He will also sanctify Himself; meaning He will set Himself apart as the One true God – the God of Israel.

Note the emphasis: " **Then they shall know that I am the LORD."** That is the whole point. The word **LORD** here is YHWH. This is the most sacred name for God in the Old Testament Scriptures. It is often referred to as His "covenant name". This name speaks of God's covenant relationship with Israel. Then, the whole world will know that the God of Israel is real.

The nations had long disregarded the idea of God being in covenant relationship with Israel because He had been silent; allowing them to undergo severe discipline. But – no more. Now, it is clearly revealed that the God of Israel is still the God of Israel and He is still in covenant relationship with them!

*****
Chapter 4 – YHWH Predicts the Destruction of Gog – (Ezek. 39:1-8)

Two full chapters in Ezekiel are given to this war of Gog and Magog. The reason for this is emphasis and amplification. This is a KEY event in redemptive history. When God wants to really underscore something, He repeats it. For example, in Genesis 1 we have an overview of Creation Week; but then in Genesis 2, God goes back and fills in important details that highlight the importance of His crowning work of Creation; namely, that of mankind. We also see that kind of emphasis here in Ezekiel. In chapter 38, we have an overview of Gog and Magog; but now chapter 39 fills in with more details.

In Ezekiel 39:1-8, we have Gog's Doom Described and Israel's Conversion.

**Ezekiel 39:1 (NKJV) - 1** _"And you, son of man, prophesy against Gog, and say, 'Thus says the Lord_ _God_ _: "Behold, I am against you, O Gog, the prince of Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal;_

Throughout this whole narrative, God consistently addresses Gog who is the main leader of this last days coalition. The word **Gog** means "high" or "supreme". We believe that it refers to a ruling position, like that of Czar or President.

Note the word " **against** " is stated twice here: " **prophesy against Gog** " and " **Behold, I am against you, O Gog,** ".

**Lord GOD** is "Adonai YHWH". **Adonai** means "Master" and "YHWH" signifies God's eternality and His everlasting covenant relationship with Israel. This message comes from Master/YHWH – the sovereign covenant-keeping God of Israel.

Repeatedly, Gog is addressed as the prince (king) of Rosh ("Russia" or "Chief"), Meshech, and Tubal (areas in Turkey).

Turkey is well-represented in this coalition. The areas of Meshech, Tubal, Gomer, and Beth-Togarmah are all thought to relate to modern day Turkey.

Since 1963, Turkey has been trying to become a member of the European Union; but the EU's unwelcoming attitude is now causing Turkey to reconsider. Try as hard as they may, Turkey's desire to align with Europe just isn't working out. Instead, they are now leaning toward alliance with Russia and company. This is exactly where Ezekiel predicts they will be at the time of this last days war and we may be seeing the stage set right before our eyes.

**Ezekiel 39:2 (NKJV) - 2** _and I will turn you around and lead you on, bringing you up from the far north, and bring you against the mountains of Israel_ **.**

The old KJV says, " _And I will turn thee back, and leave but the sixth part of thee_ " which would seem to say that one-sixth of this army would be spared. But most all commentators now think that this is inaccurate. In fact, it is quite clear that this entire army is going to be totally destroyed.

Again, we note that God sovereignly leads them here (cf. 38:4). He brings Gog up from the far north (cf. 38:6, 15, 39:2). There is a major emphasis on this army coming from the north, and Gog in particular coming from the far north. We believe this relates to Russia (the former Soviet Union) because it is the farthest point north of Israel in land mass. God will bring them against the mountains of Israel.

The mountains of Israel are considered to be the SPINE of the country. They make up a large part of what today is called the West Bank. Ariel Sharon reportedly used to constantly say, "He who rules the mountain ridge rules the Land of Israel."

This area, called the "West Bank", was not occupied by the nation of Israel until the famous Six-Day War in 1967. Previously, it was in the hands of the Jordanian Arabs. However, in 1967 the Jews took over this area and it is this area that is so hotly contested yet today. As it stands right now, it appears that Israel has no intention of giving it up – at least not what they consider its vital parts.

These prophesies that specifically name the **"mountains of Israel** " could not have been fulfilled until 1967, because prior to that time Israel did not occupy them. They do NOW! This is the heart of the land. This is where Gog and company come and this is where YHWH takes them down.

**Ezekiel 39:3 (NKJV) - 3** _Then I will knock the bow out of your left hand, and cause the arrows to fall out of your right hand._

The idea in context is that God disarms Gog before he really does any damage. Ezekiel uses language that was familiar to him, but the application is to weapons of war used by Gog and company.

**Ezekiel 39:4 (NKJV) - 4** _You shall fall upon the mountains of Israel, you and all your troops and the peoples who are with you; I will give you to birds of prey of every sort and to the beasts of the field to be devoured._

Note again that where they fall is on the mountains of Israel. And notice the emphasis is regarding Gog and all his troops – not merely some of them. This is total destruction. This will be enlarged upon in verses 17-20. In the minds of the people who lived in Old Testament days, there was no greater indignity than to be denied a proper burial and to be eaten by birds of prey and beasts of the field. God is going to totally humiliate this northern army.

**Ezekiel 39:5 (NKJV) - 5** _You shall fall on the open field; for I have spoken," says the Lord_ _God_ _._

There is an emphasis here. They fall on the mountains and out in the open field and not in the towns where the people of Israel are largely found. Again, this is spoken by Adonai YHWH. Gog and Magog attack God personally (as it were); and in response, God has a personal message of destruction for them. It is never advisable to take on the God of Israel – and most certainly never on His home turf.

**Ezekiel 39:6 (NKJV) - 6** _"And I will send fire on Magog and on those who live in security in the coastlands. Then they shall know that I am the_ _Lord_ _._

In Ezekiel 38:2, Gog is said to be "of the land of Magog". Magog is the area that generally aligns with the former Soviet Union. Not only will God wipe out the armies of Gog on the mountains of Israel, but He will also send fire on the homelands of the invaders. Back home, these people will think all is safe and secure; and in that context, God strikes them. The " **coastlands** " probably speaks of the furthest reaches of the territories back home. God's judgment is going to hit these people even in the extremities of their territories. The sense is that no part of their territory will be untouched. It very possibly includes areas along the Black and Caspian seacoasts.

The " **fire** " is probably violent lightning (cf. 1 Kings 18:38). This would seem to be an extension of the judgment that God rains down on the invading armies. In 38:22, we find that God will bring on them " **flooding rain, great hailstones, fire, and brimstone.** " These are super-destructive killer storms (cf. Ps. 29:4-5, 9).

Perhaps the fire is related to these seacoasts in conjunction with strong hurricanes which cause widespread destruction, but we are not given details.

The end result is that then they will know that God is YHWH – that He, the God of Israel, is real and that they have just gotten whacked by Him.

They will then connect the dots of their attack on Israel and the God of Israel bringing fiery judgment upon them and their territories. The connection will be so close that they won't be able to miss the obvious conclusion.

There are many commentators who believe that in the power vacuum created by the destruction of Gog and Magog that Antichrist will then come to the fore and very possibly claim responsibility for the destruction of Gog and Magog. Whereas God used **fire** in the destruction of Gog (cf. 38:22) and Magog (cf. 39:6), the false prophet working in conjunction with Antichrist will also call fire down from heaven, as seen in in Revelation 13:13.

In 2 Thessalonians 2:9, we find that Antichrist comes " _according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders_ ,". So, it is not beyond the realm of possibility that Antichrist will indeed take credit for the destruction of Gog. 2 Thessalonians 2:11 goes on to say that God will " _send them strong delusion that they should believe the lie,_ ". The lie is a particular lie – the ultimate lie that says Antichrist is God. To make a claim of Deity will require him to display this kind of power. In Revelation 13:3 it says, " _And all the world marveled and followed the beast_." and verse 4 goes on to say, " _and they worshiped the beast, saying, "Who is able to make war with him?_ "

One key reason they worship Antichrist is because he deceives them into thinking that he is all-powerful in the matter of war. In Daniel 11:37-38, it says that Antichrist will not regard any god, " _for he shall exalt himself above them all_." and it goes on to say he shall honor the god of fortresses. This word " **fortress** " is found five other times in Daniel 11 (cf. vv. 7, 10, 19, 31, 39) and indicates a STRONG PLACE related to military power. The idea then is that Antichrist will worship a god of war, a god of military might and power. In effect, the Antichrist will **worship WAR** **power**. So, in terms of the mind of Antichrist, his god is a combo of HIMSELF and, by extension, his WAR MACHINE. This would certainly fit with his claim to have destroyed Gog and Magog.

**Ezekiel 39:7 (NKJV) - 7** _So I will make My holy name known in the midst of My people Israel, and I will not let them profane My holy name anymore. Then the nations shall know that I am the_ _Lord_ _, the Holy One in Israel._

God is going to show the world that He is the one and only unique God. " **Holy** " means that there is none other like Him (cf. Isa. 45:5-6, 21-22, 46:9). He will make Himself known in the context of His people Israel. His action will clearly show His connection to both the people and the land of Israel.

For thousands of years, the people of the world have not really seen the overt/direct supernatural intervention of YHWH on behalf of Israel. Yes, there were providential realities, but they were overlooked by the world. The world came to see Israel as nothing special. When the UN convenes and discusses Israel, there is no concern about the God of Israel reacting or bringing judgment because of their mistreatment of Israel. God's direct intervention has long been silent because He has allowed His people Israel to be under discipline as a result of their rebellion.

However, the mistreatment of His people by the Gentiles has profaned His holy name. The world came to not have any respect for the God of Israel.

Because they could abuse Israel at will, they no longer took the God of Israel seriously. They reject the idea of His power and intervention on behalf of Israel, as seen historically in the Exodus.

To profane God's name means **to soil His reputation**. It is to **make unclean** or **pollute His reputation!** It is to make Him look bad. It is to make God look like He is unfaithful to His covenant promises. It makes God look like He is unfaithful to His people Israel. It makes God look like He doesn't care about Israel or is not able to help them. This is most grievous to God and nothing could be further from the truth! In allowing Israel to be disciplined by the Gentiles, God's reputation has been drug through the mud (cf. Ezek. 20:9-10, 13-14, 21-22, 36:20-23).

Today, much of professing Christendom – while claiming to believe in God, no longer believes that God has an ongoing covenant relationship with Israel. Many think the Church has replaced Israel. This is tantamount to saying God doesn't keep His covenant promises. This profanes His Holy Name!

And so, God's name has long been profaned as the Gentiles abuse and mistreat God's people and His land. But this war of Gog and Magog is going to change this dynamic. God is from now on going to intervene. He is going to make it clear that He is still the covenant God of Israel. Nothing has changed! This people and this land are still His and He doesn't appreciate the Gentiles running roughshod over them and acting like Israel's God is not a factor to be reckoned with. God is going to move to get His reputation back as the ONE TRUE GOD – the God of power – the God of Israel – the God of covenant relationship.

And when God does this He says, " **Then the nations shall know that I am the LORD, the Holy One in Israel.** " When God intervenes in this way, the whole world will know that He is YHWH – the covenant God of Israel. The world will then make the connection between the one true God of heaven and His relationship with Israel. For thousands of years, the world has never seen a demonstration like this – but they will!

And God says, " **I will not let them profane My holy name anymore.** " Never again will the world doubt God's covenant relationship with Israel. Never again will God allow His Name (YHWH) to be profaned like this.

God wants the world to know that He is the Holy One in Israel – that He, the One True God is the God of Israel (cf. 38:16, 17, 23, 39:13, 21, 22, 28). This is a Lordship/YHWH issue. This is the stuff of the Day of Lord intervention. It's in the Day of the Lord that God overtly makes His LORDSHIP known to the world; and we see here that He does it in conjunction with Israel.

This does not signify the conversion of the world. It is similar to when God showed Egypt in the 10 plagues that He was YHWH (cf. Ex. 7:5, 9:16, 14:18, Rom. 9:17). Even though they were forced to concede to the reality of YHWH, yet in their hearts they were still rebellious; as seen in the fact that shortly after conceding, they yet pursued after Israel (cf. Ex. 14:5).

In the surrounding context, there are really two MAJOR interrelated issues here concerning Israel: 1) God's reputation in regard to Israel and 2) Israel's relationship with God.

This war marks a MAJOR turning point in Israel's relationship with God. From this point on, the nation of Israel will recognize YHWH as their God (cf. Zech. 13:9). Note the emphasis of verse 22.

**Ezekiel 39:22 (NKJV) - 22** _So the house of Israel shall know that I am the_ _Lord_ _their God_ _from that day forward._

This verse strongly argues that this war happens within the context of the Day of the Lord, instead of prior to it. Israel cannot recognize YHWH as their God from this day forward before the time of Antichrist. When Israel enters into a covenant relationship with the Antichrist, it will be the height of their unfaithfulness. It is the climax of all their apostasy. This is the ultimate fulfillment of the " **covenant of death** " spoken of in Isaiah 28:15.

To put this war of Gog and Magog before the time of Antichrist is to say that Israel as a people can know YHWH as their covenant God from that day forward – and yet apostatize in the greatest way possible afterward by entering into a covenant of death with Antichrist. That is totally inconsistent! Either they faithfully recognize YHWH and depend on Him as their God, or they recognize Antichrist and depend upon Him. These two premises are mutually exclusive.

Once the event of Gog and Magog takes place, Israel will be solely dependent upon YHWH and not upon Antichrist. The war of Gog and Magog marks the beginning of the end of Israel's relationship with Antichrist. They as a people transition from dependence upon Antichrist to dependence upon YHWH. So, not only does Antichrist turn on Israel and break his covenant with them, but Israel will also turn from Antichrist to YHWH! The event of Gog and Magog marks this turning point.

Israel's conversion as a nation is connected with Gog's supernatural destruction (Ezek. 39:7, 22-29), and this cannot occur before the Antichrist appears. [23]

...Israel has long lost sight of their covenant relationship with God. Today they don't value it at all. In fact, most Jews are totally secular in their orientation. This leaves them wide open to the covenant with Antichrist, which is the height of apostasy. They rejected the true Christ; but when Antichrist comes in his own name, him they will receive.

**John 5:43 (NKJV) - 43** _I have come in My Father's name, and you do not receive Me; if another comes in his own name, him you will receive_.

In my view, soon after they enter into a covenant with Antichrist, then the war of Gog and Magog comes and this brings Israel to repentance. Then they will recognize YHWH as their covenant God and they will do so from that day forward.

A great many Jews will be saved in the early part of the Tribulation Period; so that by the mid-part of the Tribulation, they will discerningly respond to Christ's exhortation to flee as seen in Matthew 24:15-16.

**Matthew 24:15–16 (NKJV) - 15** _"Therefore when you see the 'abomination of desolation,' spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place" (whoever reads, let him understand),_

**16** _"then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains_.

This word from Jesus is a signal to Jews who have become believers in the first half of the Tribulation Period. When Antichrist goes into the Temple and declares himself to be God, these Jews will heed Christ's warning and flee for their lives (cf. 2 Thess. 2:4). They will be part of the remnant that is preserved in a special place prepared by God (cf. Rev. 12:5-6, 11-17).

The "Day of the Lord" in many respects is a "compact" period in which many things are quickly developing. Ezekiel 39:22 is the BEGINNING of the national conversion process – not the end of it. The war of Gog and Magog definitely marks a turning point toward YHWH from which they never turn back; but seemingly it develops into all-out faith in Jesus as Messiah, progressively – which will culminate into full fruition in close connection to the Second Coming (cf. Zech. 12:8, 13:1-8). Their conversion experience would seem to be similar to that of the disciples who believed in Jesus during the early part of His earthly ministry (cf. Jn. 2:11), but the full appreciation of Him for Who He was as Messiah – was not fully realized until after the resurrection (cf. Jn. 20:28). There definitely was a process; and this would seem to be the case with the nation of Israel as well.

Further evidence that Israel's unfaithfulness with Antichrist comes first and then their commitment to YHWH as their God follows, is seen in verses 25-26:

**Ezekiel 39:25–26 (NKJV) - 25** _"Therefore thus says the Lord_ _God_ _: 'Now I will bring back the captives of Jacob, and have mercy on the whole house of Israel; and_ _I will be jealous for My holy name—_

_26_ _after_ _they have borne their_ _shame_ _, and_ _all their unfaithfulness_ _in which they were_ _unfaithful to Me_ _,_ _when they dwelt safely in their own land and no one made them afraid_ _._ _(emphasis mine)_

In view is not just general unfaithfulness, but a particular unfaithfulness qualified by " **when they dwelt safely in their own land and no one made them afraid.** "

The only time prophetically where Israel meets these conditions is in conjunction with their covenant with Antichrist.

This will be the climax of their unfaithfulness and it will be at a time that ushers in a period of seeming safety. They will think this covenant with Antichrist insures them safety; but in reality, it is a "covenant with death" (cf. Isa. 28:15).

They will momentarily celebrate peace and safety only to find out shortly that they are being overwhelmed by this great northern coalition led by Gog. And then YHWH will be jealous for His Name. He will come to their rescue; and from that time on, they will recognize Him as their God. Only the war with Gog will turn Israel from dependence upon Antichrist to dependence upon YHWH.

**Ezekiel 39:8 (NKJV) - 8** _Surely it is coming, and it shall be done," says the Lord_ _God_ _. "This is the day of which I have spoken._

Note the extreme emphasis on God's sovereignty over this whole situation:

v. 2 "I will turn you around and lead you on"

v. 3 "I will knock the bow out of your left hand,"

v. 4 "I will give you to birds of prey"

v. 5 "I have spoken," says the Lord God."

v. 6 "I will send fire"

v. 7 "I will make My holy name known"

v. 7 "I will not let them profane My holy name"

v. 8 "I have spoken."

God will bring this to pass! We have Adonai YHWH's solemn Word on it. And then He adds in verse 8, "This is the day of which I have spoken." This is not the only place this "day" is referenced, as seen in 38:17. In particular, we have noted a great northern enemy coming against Israel in the context of the Day of the Lord in Joel 2:20 and in Daniel 11:44. Beyond that, "the day" in view here is the Day of the Lord that is referenced so often in the prophetic Scriptures.

*****
Chapter 5 – Israel to Plunder Gog – (Ezek. 39:9-20)

It is commonly referred to as the prophecy against Gog and Magog, and it is the most detailed prophecy concerning war in the entire Bible. The prophecy predicts an invasion of Israel in the last days – an invasion comprised of enormous masses of troops from a coalition of nations led by Russia and Iran. It is likely that this invasion will occur shortly after Israel signs a covenant with the new leader of the European Union [Antichrist]. [24]

We have noted that two full chapters in Ezekiel are given to the description of this war. It is a major event in redemptive history. It marks a time in the last days when God shows His Lordship to the world in this event. He shows that He is still the God of Israel – still in covenant relationship with Israel – that He is still YHWH. Chapter 38 emphasizes the enormity of this last days coalition that comes against Israel. Chapter 39 emphasizes how God utterly decimates it, thereby affirming His LORDSHIP relationship with Israel. This will be the time when God gets His reputation back (so to speak) before the world as He proves that He, the One true God, is still in covenant relationship with Israel. It also marks a turning point in Israel as it is from this day forward that they will recognize YHWH as their God (cf. 39:22).

In the context of Ezekiel 39:9-20, YHWH – the God of Israel – has just destroyed Gog and his coalition forces on the mountains of Israel.

Furthermore, He has also sent fire on Magog and those back in the homeland of Gog (cf. 39:6). It is a total wipe out of the great army marshaled by Gog. Total devastation is what defines the scene.

**Ezekiel 39:9–10 (NKJV) - 9** _"Then those who dwell in the cities of Israel will go out and set on fire and burn the weapons, both the shields and bucklers, the bows and arrows, the javelins and spears; and they will make fires with them for seven years._

_10_ _They will not take wood from the field nor cut down any from the forests, because they will make fires with the weapons; and they will plunder those who plundered them, and pillage those who pillaged them," says the Lord_ _God_ _._

Israel is holed up in their cities as this massive coalition descends upon their mountains, but then will emerge essentially unharmed. When the dust settles, they come out of the cities and begin a massive recycling program which involves converting the weapons and equipment of this great army into energy. They will use it to make fires and this will continue for 7 years. There is a lot of stuff here to convert into fuel.

The Jews are great at improvising. They will turn these weapons and equipment into useful energy. Thus, they will plunder those who sought to plunder them; and they will pillage those who sought to pillage them. This is the ultimate turning of tables.

The fact that they will make fires with this war rubble for 7 years has caused no end of discussion – especially in relation to the timing of this war.

It is often reasoned that the burning of the equipment is actually a " **cleansing of the land** "; and therefore, it must be completed prior to the coming of the Kingdom. Just one problem – the text doesn't actually say that. Note carefully that the cleansing of the land is tied only to the burial of the people, and not to the burning of the equipment.

v. 12 "burying them, in order to cleanse the land."

v. 14 "bury those bodies...in order to cleanse it."

v. 15-16 "buried...Thus they shall cleanse the land **.** "

Exegetically, the cleansing of the land has everything to do with burial and nothing to do with burning. Therefore, there would be no problem with burning even if it went on into the Kingdom Era. It is noted that at the beginning of the Millennial Kingdom, the people will " _beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks_ " (cf. Isa. 2:4, Mic. 4:3). In other words, they will make use of and utilize what formerly were weapons in the Kingdom.

Another argument is that the Jews will be on the run in the second half of the Tribulation; so how could they be burning this equipment at that time? Therefore, it is reasoned that the burning must be completed by the middle of the Tribulation Period. In order to make this seven-year burning fit the timing of the war of Gog and Magog – it is therefore placed at least 3 and a half years prior to the Day of the Lord, so that the burning is all done by the mid-point of the Tribulation.

The real problem here is that this is an argument based purely on deductive reasoning that holds to certain presuppositions and is not really based on exegetical data. While it is true that a remnant is going to be preserved in a special place (probably Petra – cf. Rev. 12:6, 14-16), it is also true that Israel is going to continue to have a representative presence in the land throughout the Tribulation Period. A purging process is going to go on in which 2/3 of the people will die in the land (cf. Zech. 13:8). Observe that at the time of Armageddon, Jews are still well-represented in the land – even in Jerusalem.

**Zechariah 14:2 (NKJV) - 2** _For I will gather all the nations to battle against Jerusalem; The city shall be taken, The houses rifled, And the women ravished. Half of the city shall go into captivity, But the remnant of the people shall not be cut off from the city_

In addition, note that Christ instructed that when they see the abomination spoken of by Daniel standing in the holy place that they should " **flee to the mountains.** " (cf. Mt. 24:16). It is assumed by some that all will flee to Petra at this point. Certainly, a great remnant will; but Christ spoke of "the mountains" in general. He didn't specifically say which mountains.

It is very probable that there will also be Jews hiding in the mountains of Israel – exactly where the equipment of Gog was destroyed; and very possibly the Jews hiding there will utilize this equipment for needed fire/energy during this time. It would be just like God to use the weapons of His archenemies to take care of His people in this context.

These enemies forcibly invaded the mountains of Israel, but God's people end up fleeing to these mountains; and ironically, one means of their survival there is fuel provided by Gog and Magog. I am not dogmatic about these details, but present them as a possibility.

_As long as some Jews (perhaps even a minority) continue to burn the remaining weapons throughout the second half of the tribulation, the prophecy of Ezekiel 39:9 would be fulfilled._ [25]

Some hold that the 7-year figure here may be an indicator that the War of Gog and Magog takes place near the beginning of the 70th week of Daniel. I think this view best harmonizes with all the details in the passage.

**Ezekiel 39:11 (NKJV) - 11** _"It will come to pass in that day that I will give Gog a burial place there in Israel, the valley of those who pass by east of the sea; and it will obstruct travelers, because there they will bury Gog and all his multitude. Therefore they will call it the Valley of Hamon Gog._

Gog comes to plunder Israel, and God buries him there! This place of mass burial will be called the **Valley of Hamon Gog** , or literally, " _The Valley of the Multitude of Gog_ ". This valley will become a massive grave for this northern coalition. This cemetery will be so large that travelers will not be able to pass through that part of the land.

It is said to be " **east of the sea** ". But, the question in view is which sea? Two views are put forth. Some think the sea in view is the Dead Sea and some think it is the Mediterranean Sea. If it is east of the Dead Sea, that puts it in modern-day Jordan; which is why some prefer the Mediterranean Sea. Still others argue that Israel in the past has, and also in the future will control this area.

**Ezekiel 39:12 (NKJV) - 12** _For seven months the house of Israel will be burying them, in order to cleanse the land._

This is a massive clean-up job. From the perspective of the Jews, the dead must be buried because exposed corpses are a source of ritual defilement (cf. Lev. 5:2, 21:1, Num. 19:11-22, Deut. 21:1-9). The land must therefore be purged of all corpses. It will take seven months to do this. If this takes place in the early part of the Tribulation Period, this will be no problem; as Israel (at this point) is in covenant relationship with Antichrist and is not threatened (cf. Dan. 9:27).

**Ezekiel 39:13 (NKJV) -** _13_ _Indeed all the people of the land will be burying, and they will gain renown for it on the day that I am glorified," says the Lord_ _God_ _._

This will be a national effort. All the people of Israel will get involved in the burying of these people. In fact, Israel will become famous for it at this time and God will be glorified in it. Some think this may become sort of a holiday in Israel!

I like to say that every time someone has tried to wipe out the Jewish people, the Jews end up with another holiday. With Pharaoh they got Passover, with Haman in the book of Esther they got Purim, with Antiochus Epiphanies they got Hanukkah, with Hitler they got May 14/1948, the rebirth of the modern nation of Israel.[26]

And I might add that with Gog and Magog, they will get "Buried Gog Day"! Whatever the case, Israel will in this day be famous for this burial of Gog! Thus says Adonai YHWH!

**Ezekiel 39:14 (NKJV) - 14** **"** _They will set apart men regularly employed, with the help of a search party, to pass through the land and bury those bodies remaining on the ground, in order to cleanse it. At the end of seven months they will make a search._

Israel will be very serious about removing all the corpses from the land. After the seven months of mass burial, they will send a search party to look throughout the land and make sure no-body (pun intended) was missed.

**Ezekiel 39:15–16 (NKJV) - 15** _The search party will pass through the land; and when anyone sees a man's bone, he shall set up a marker by it, till the buriers have buried it in the Valley of Hamon Gog._

**16** **The name of the city will also be Hamonah. Thus they shall cleanse the land." '**

If the search party finds a bone, they will put a marker by it; and then those assigned to burial will come and properly dispose of the body in the Valley of Hamon Gog. In this way, the land may be entirely cleansed of Gog and Magog. This will be such a massive project that a city settlement will be developed by this great cemetery. It will be called **Hamonah** , which literally means "multitudes".

**Ezekiel 39:17 (NKJV) - 17** **"** _And as for you, son of man, thus says the Lord_ _God_ _, 'Speak to every sort of bird and to every beast of the field: "Assemble yourselves and come; Gather together from all sides to My sacrificial meal Which I am sacrificing for you, A great sacrificial meal on the mountains of Israel, That you may eat flesh and drink blood._

Verse 17 picks up on the description of the devastation begun in verse 4. In the process of 7 months of burial, there is going to be a lot of rotting flesh; and so God calls all the carrion and scavenger birds and beasts to feed upon Gog and Magog.

Note this meal takes place " **on the mountains of Israel,** ". One unidentified Jewish source says this:

_So right now there's a big test in all the world going on about who gets the_ _mountains of Israel_ _. The European Union, the United Nations; the governments of the world are saying it doesn't belong to the Jews. But the Word of God says that it does, so I think that it's a testing ground right now. Nations should bless Israel by agreeing with the Word of God and agreeing with the prophecies. So I think right now what is going on is a testing of nations over this place._

Gog and Magog should take note. Indeed, the mountains of Israel are a testing place. They coveted this place; and alas, they get a permanent place here – that is, a burial place!

The description here is similar to that of Armageddon in Rev. 19:17-18; and because of this, some have thought it is the same as Armageddon. However, there are too many differences for it to be the same war. For example, Gog and Magog is selective in who is involved; whereas at Armageddon the entire world comes against Israel. Israel (at the time of Gog and Magog) is dwelling safely; something that is certainly not true in the context of Armageddon. The conclusion is that the war of Gog and Magog is separate from Armageddon and must take place prior to it.

**Ezekiel 39:18 (NKJV)** **-** **18** _You shall eat the flesh of the mighty, Drink the blood of the princes of the earth, Of rams and lambs, Of goats and bulls, All of them fatlings of Bashan._

Bashan was northeast of the Sea of Galilee and was famous for its pasturelands and fattened cows (cf. Deut. 32:14, Ps. 22:12, Amos 4:1). Metaphorically here it depicts the strongest and best of a great people (humanly speaking) who come against Israel. These people who are brought down were the best fed; that is, the strongest and the finest. Alas, they are bird feed now; and food for the beasts.

**Ezekiel 39:19 (NKJV) - 19** _You shall eat fat till you are full, And drink blood till you are drunk, At My sacrificial meal Which I am sacrificing for you._

Normally, the fat and blood of animals was sacrificed to God; but here it is inverted as God provides this human army as a sacrificial meal for animals (cf. 44:15, Lev. 3:17). This shows how little regard God has for these ruthless enemies of Israel. They despised God; and God in turn treats them with contempt and totally belittles them.

**Deuteronomy 7:10 (NKJV) - 10** _and He repays those who hate Him to their face, to destroy them. He will not be slack with him who hates Him; He will repay him to his face._

**Deuteronomy 32:41 (NKJV) - 41** _If I whet My glittering sword, And My hand takes hold on judgment, I will render vengeance to My enemies, And repay those who hate Me._

**Ezekiel 39:20 (NKJV) - 20** _You shall be filled at My table With horses and riders, With mighty men And with all the men of war," says the Lord_ _God_ _._

God, in graphic terms, shows that this army which was so MIGHTY is going down hard. God is going to bring them down. God speaks of, " **My sacrificial meal** " and says, " **I am sacrificing** ", and again, " **My table** ". This is a total God-thing. He does it. He totally destroys the Gog and Magog coalition on the mountains of Israel.

Their bodies are eaten by birds and beasts as Israel engages in a 7-month burial campaign for which they will become famous! They will then go on to burn the war equipment and use it for fuel and energy for a period of 7 years.

The moral of the story is don't touch the mountains of Israel. Don't touch the West Bank. Don't mess with Israel because the God of Israel is still the God of Israel. The world has largely forgotten this truth, but it is about to rediscover it – the HARD WAY. The stage appears to be being set for the last days war of Gog and Magog as Russia, Iran, and Turkey are becoming a definite military alliance – and none of them has any regard for Israel or for the God of Israel.

*****
Chapter 6 – YHWH's Intervention – Israel's Turning – (Ezek. 39:21-24)

TURKEY is a major player in this coalition. It is amazing to see in our day the incredibly strong alliance that is right now being forged between Russia, Turkey, and Iran. It is not hard to envision the reality of Turkey joining forces with Russia, Iran, Libya and Islamic Sudan to attack Israel. Indeed, this is exactly what Ezekiel predicts will happen at some point in the latter days.

**Ezekiel 39:21 (NKJV) - 21** _"I will set My glory among the nations; all the nations shall see My judgment which I have executed, and My hand which I have laid on them._

This phrase, " **I will set My glory among the nations;** " is very important. God's glory in Ezekiel is associated with His demonstrated presence. In fact, the last real emphasis in Ezekiel regarding God's glory was back in chapters 8-11. That is where Ezekiel chronicled God's glory departing from the temple prior to its destruction in 586 B.C. (cf. 8:4, 9:3, 10:4, 18-19, 11:22-23).

In order to appreciate what is being said, we need to step back a bit and get the big picture. Back at Mount Sinai in 1446 B.C. (cf. Ex. 19-24), God had made Himself King over Israel. At that time, God's glory cloud (signifying His presence) abode with His people. This presence remained with the people; dwelling in the Holy of Holies until His departure in 592 B.C., as recorded in Ezek. 8-11. That departure signified the end of the theocratic arrangement that Israel had known for nearly a thousand years.

From 1446 B.C. until 592 B.C. God's glory presence had uniquely been with Israel. During this time, God's presence was intimate and direct. He had often MIRACULOUSLY intervened on behalf of Israel. But starting in 592, things changed. Now God's glory had departed and Israel would no longer know God's direct, miraculous intervention. Instead, 586 B.C. introduced the times of the Gentiles as Babylon destroyed the temple and took Judah captive.

God's covenant relationship with Israel remained intact, but God now allowed His people Israel to be taken advantage of and to be abused by the Gentiles as a matter of discipline. Note the double emphasis in verses 23 and 24 that during this time – that is, the times of the Gentiles, God hides His face from Israel. They did not know His miraculous intervening presence – that is, His glory as they had previously known it.

Note that the last three prophetic books of the OT era – namely, Haggai, Zechariah and Malachi, as well as the last three historical books – namely, Ezra, Nehemiah and Esther are all devoid of God's MIRACULOUS activity. After God's glory departed, He then worked providentially but not directly or miraculously on Israel's behalf. His glory had departed! This is clearly portrayed in the book of Esther where the name of God is not even found, but yet His providential working underlies everything that is happening in the book.

During the times of the Gentiles, this is God's consistent pattern (cf. Dan. 2, 7, Lk. 21:24).

In terms of miraculous activity, we note that when the Messiah came and presented Himself to Israel that God's miraculous activity again became front and center as part of Messiah's credentials in presenting the kingdom to Israel (cf. Heb. 6:5). By extension, miracles also defined the apostles as they served as Christ's authoritative representatives who gave forth New Testament revelation (cf. Heb. 2:3-4). However, with the passing of the apostles, this miraculous activity again ceased.

But note that the miracles of the Messiah and those of the Apostles were not directly in reference to the physical welfare of Israel as a nation. They still remained under Roman rule. The times of the Gentiles proceeded with God continuing to hide His face from His people Israel; and with His glory, His direct intervening presence, not being seen on Israel's behalf. Through all the intervening years since the Babylonian Captivity, PROVIDENTIAL working has defined God's activity in relation to His people Israel – in contrast to His glorious firsthand miraculous, intervening presence.

This pattern will continue until suddenly, IN THE DAY OF THE LORD, God's glory – that is His miraculous, intervening presence on behalf of His people Israel will again be seen. Prophetically, this kind of intervention does not happen until THE DAY OF THE LORD; and hence a major argument that the event of Gog and Magog happens within the context of the Day of the Lord and not prior to it. Realize that the kind of GLORIOUS INTERVENTION with Gog and Magog in many ways is comparable to God's glory on display in the Exodus (cf. Ex. 15:1, 16:7, 10).

It is only in "The Day of the Lord" that God's LORDSHIP is front and center on display in a direct and miraculous way. It is then that God's glory is overtly manifested, which is exactly what we have here in the text of Ezekiel 39:21. Also realize that it is in the context of the Day of the Lord that Israel will experience trauma on an unparalleled level – which is why it is called _"the time of Jacob's trouble_ " (cf. Jer. 30:7). The event of Gog and Magog will threaten to consume Israel. It is definitely a time of exceedingly great peril that has few parallels in Israel's history. But into that overwhelming context steps YHWH, which serves to prominently exalt His GLORY. The whole setting is very much in keeping with the "Day of the Lord" intervention.

Realize that in the book of Ezekiel, God's glory departed; and was not seen in relation to His people Israel since Ezekiel 8-11 in 592 B.C. The last mention of God's glory is found in Ezekiel 11:22-23. Now fast forward and we find it again in 39:21. Only now in the " _latter days_ " (in conjunction with the defeat of Gog) is God's glory overtly seen again in relation to Israel.

• 1446 – 592 B.C. (God's glorious presence)

• 586 B.C.... (Times of the Gentiles – God's face hidden from Israel as He works providentially)

• Day of the Lord (God's glory on display – cf. Isa. 2:10, 19, 21)

***** Ezek. 39:21 (" **I will set My glory among the nations;** ")

Note the specific language here in verse 21 where God says that He will set His glory " **among the nations** ". There are two passages in Ezekiel that speak of Jerusalem and Israel as being set in the center of the nations; as seen in Ezek. 5:5 and 38:12, respectively. In other words, God is going to reveal His glory in connection with Israel which is set among the nations – which is to say, in the center of the nations. God's glory is going to be revealed in connection with the centerpiece nation of Israel.

And God's glory is going to be revealed specifically in His judgment of Gog and Magog. All the nations will see the presence of His Divine intervention on behalf of Israel. The intervening hand of God will be so clear that all will see it. It will therefore bring Him great glory (cf. Ex. 9:16, Isa. 37:20).

**Ezekiel 38:16 (NKJV) -** _16 You will come up against My people Israel like a cloud, to cover the land. It will be in the latter days that I will bring you against My land, so that the nations may know Me, when I am hallowed in you, O Gog, before their eyes."_

The world will see the sovereign power of God working on behalf of His people Israel. As God's glory had previously been revealed in ancient times by His saving acts toward Israel, so it will now again be on display (cf. Ex. 6:7, 7:5, 17, 10:2, 14:18, 16:6-7, Josh. 2:9-11, 3:10, 4:24, 5:1). This is God's glory on display right in the midst of the nations, in the land of Israel.

**Ezekiel 39:22 (NKJV)** **-** _22_ _So the house of Israel shall know that I am the_ _Lord_ _their God from that day forward._

This deliverance from Gog and Magog marks a MAJOR turning point in the nation of Israel. From this time on, they will recognize His covenant relationship with them and that it is this enduring relationship that has preserved them.

The name **LORD** here is YHWH, which is God's covenant name. It is considered to be the most sacred Name for God in the Old Testament. Inherent in this Name, as revealed by God, is His special covenant relationship with Israel.

**Exodus 6:3–7 (NKJV) -** _3 I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, as God Almighty, but_ _by My name LORD I was not known to them_ _._

_4 I have also_ _established My covenant with them_ _, to give them the land of_

Canaan, the land of their pilgrimage, in which they were strangers.

_5 And I have also heard the groaning of the children of Israel whom the Egyptians keep in bondage, and I have_ _remembered My covenant_ _._

_6 Therefore say to the children of Israel: '_ _I am the LORD_ _; I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, I will rescue you from their bondage, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with great judgments._

_7 I will_ _take you as My people, and I will be your God. Then you shall know that I am the LORD your God_ _who brings you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians._ (emphasis mine)

**Zechariah 13:9 (NKJV) -** _9 I will bring the one-third through the fire, Will refine them as silver is refined, And test them as gold is tested. They will call on My name, And I will answer them. I will say, 'This is My people'; And each one will say, '_ _The LORD_ _is my God.' " (emphasis mine)_

Again, it is good to step back and get a more inductive view of this situation. Historically, Israel has consistently looked to foreign nations for deliverance, instead of trusting and relying upon YHWH. Over and over again, the prophets pronounced judgment upon Israel because they did not properly look to God for deliverance. Instead, they looked to the Gentiles to protect them (cf. Isa. 30-31, Jer. 42).

Throughout the times of the Gentiles, Israel desperately looked to man for help – instead of looking to their God. They came to depend upon "the Gentiles" instead of trusting in God. In the last days, Israel will be desperate for peace as they are even now. But they will not look to YHWH. Instead, a man with a plan (Antichrist) will come out of Europe and will offer them a peace plan that they can't refuse (cf. 1 Th. 5:3, Rev. 6:1-4). Jesus came in the Father's Name, but this man will come in his own name offering protection simply on the basis of who he is within himself – offering nothing but his own credentials (cf. Jn. 5:43). The Jews, in desperation, will look to him for protection and enter into a 7-year covenant – thus unknowingly entering into a covenant with death (cf. Dan. 9:27, Isa. 28:15).

It will not be until after the destruction of Gog and Magog that Israel finally recognizes that their protection is really from YHWH and that their covenant relationship with Him is still intact.

Today, Israel generally does not recognize YHWH as their protector or the One Who is preserving them (cf. Mal. 3:6). Instead, they (for the most part) think that they are a self-made people and they are looking to the Gentile nations to help them. In this context, the United States prophetically will go by the wayside and a leader from Europe will emerge and offer Israel the help that they so desperately need (cf. Dan. 9:26-27). Israel will go for it and will celebrate peace and safety – only to have the Day of the Lord, and within it, the war of Gog and Magog come down upon them.

But in their deliverance – at that time, they will come to know YHWH as their God. From that day forward, they will depend upon Him as their God. Note the language here is strong – saying " **from that day forward** " Israel will know that YHWH is their God. This is the language of a covenant. This is language that recognizes God's covenant protection, instead of looking to the Gentiles for deliverance. This is the exact same

language Zechariah uses in relation to Israel's conversion in the Day of the Lord, as seen in Zech. 13:9.

This day sets in motion Israel's conversion. Indeed, Israel's conversion is a process that culminates in them looking on the One Whom they pierced and mourning for Him as one mourns for his only son, in conjunction with the Second Coming (cf. Zech. 12:10).

Under the powerful ministry of the two witnesses, and in conjunction with Gog and Magog, Israel comes to recognize YHWH as their God and never again departs from that position. In the middle of the Tribulation, a great remnant of Jews will have been converted and will follow Jesus' instructions to flee to the mountains when they see the abomination of desolation; spoken of by the prophet Daniel (cf. Mt. 24:15-16).

Also observe that recognizing the LORD as their God is closely tied to the time when God's Spirit is poured out upon them, as seen in verses 28-29 at the end of the chapter. This denotes conversion; and Israel's conversion is associated with the Day of the Lord that culminates in the Second Coming.

Knowing YHWH as their God Who preserves and protects them is totally inconsistent with looking to Antichrist to protect them. It therefore seems totally inconsistent to place " **shall know that I am the LORD their God from that day forward** " prior to the time of Israel signing a strong covenant with Antichrist.

Theologically, this must come after their covenant with Antichrist and not before. The whole spirit of knowing YHWH as their God is in conflict with a strong covenant with Antichrist, as seen in Daniel 9:27. To know YHWH as their God is to reject Antichrist. In the context of Ezekiel 39 knowing YHWH as their God relates to deliverance, protection, and preservation. In the context of Daniel 9:27, this is exactly what they look to Antichrist for; which results in a strong seven-year covenant.

**Daniel 9:26–27 (NASB95) -** _26 "Then after the sixty-two weeks the Messiah will be cut off and have nothing, and the people of the prince who is to come will destroy the city and the sanctuary. And its end will come with a flood; even to the end there will be war; desolations are determined._

[What breaks this cycle of war and desolations for Israel?]

_27 "And he [_ _Antichrist_ _] will make a firm covenant with the many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering; and on the wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate, even until a complete destruction, one that is decreed, is poured out on the one who makes desolate."_

The theme of Joel is THE DAY OF THE LORD. It prophetically highlights this coming period of judgment that will usher in the Messiah. Note what Joel says in chapter 2 and how it parallels what Ezekiel says.

**Joel 2:1 (NKJV) -** _1 Blow the trumpet in Zion, And sound an alarm in My holy mountain! Let all the inhabitants of the land tremble; For_ _the day of the LORD is coming_ _, For it is at hand:_

**Joel 2:20 (NKJV) -** _20 "But I will remove far from you_ _the northern army_ _, And will drive him away into a barren and desolate land, With his face toward the eastern sea And his back toward the western sea; His stench will come up, And his foul odor will rise, Because he has done monstrous things."_

**Joel 2:21 (NKJV** ) - _21 Fear not, O land; Be glad and rejoice,_ _For the LORD has done marvelous things!_

**Joel 2:27–28 (NKJV) -** _27_ _Then you shall know that I am in the midst of Israel: I am the LORD your God And there is no other._ _My people shall never be put to shame._

_28 "And it shall come to pass_ _afterward That I will pour out My Spirit_ _on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, Your old men shall dream dreams, Your young men shall see visions. (emphasis mine)_

Note the similarities between Joel and Ezekiel:

• midst of Israel (cf. Ezek. 38:12, 39:21)

• know...I am the LORD your God (cf. Ezek. 39:22)

• It happens WITHIN the Day of the Lord, but PRIOR to God's Spirit being poured out and the events of Armageddon, as seen in Joel 2:30-32.

Scholars note that the phrase " _that day_ " often is used in reference to THE DAY OF THE LORD. The term " _that day_ " consistently "refers either to an impending or a final judgment when God intervenes. (cf. Deut. 31:17, Deut. 31:18, 1Sam. 8:18, Isa. 2:11, Isa. 2:17, Isa. 2:20, Isa. 3:7, Isa. 3:18, Isa. 4:1, Isa. 4:2, Isa. 7:18, Isa. 7:20, Isa. 7:21, Isa. 7:23, Isa. 10:20, Isa. 10:27, Isa. 11:10, Isa. 11:11, Isa. 12:1, Isa. 12:4, Isa. 17:4, Isa. 17:7, Isa. 17:9, Isa. 19:16, Isa. 19:18, Isa. 19:19, Isa. 19:21, Isa. 19:23, Isa. 19:24, Isa. 20:6, Isa. 22:8, Isa. 22:12, Isa. 22:20, Isa. 22:25, Isa. 23:15, Isa. 26:1, Isa. 27:1, Isa.27:2, Isa. 27:12, Isa. 27:13, Isa. 28:5, Isa. 29:18, Isa. 30:23, Isa. 31:7, Isa. 52:6, Jer. 4:9, Jer. 30:8, Jer. 48:41, Jer. 49:22, Jer. 49:26, Hosea 2:16, Hosea 2:21, Joel 3:18, Amos 2:16, Amos 8:3, Amos 8:13, Amos 9:11, Micah 2:4, Micah 4:6, Micah 5:10, Micah 7:11, Micah 7:12, Zech. 2:11, Zech. 3:10, Mark 2:20, Luke 6:23, John 14:20, John

16:23, John 16:26). Compare Ezek. 38:10, 14, 19, 39:11, 13, and 22 where "that day" or similar terminology is used.

By itself, the phrase "that day" is used generally and qualified by the immediate context. But realize that within the context of Ezek. 38-39 is the emphasis of this happening "in the latter days" (cf. 38:16), which combined with the repeated phrase "that day", harmonizes with the Day of the Lord terminology used elsewhere. However, the immediate context of "that day" throughout Ezek. 38-39 is specifically emphasizing the time of the war of Gog and Magog and not necessarily placing it within the Day of the Lord framework.

**Ezekiel 39:23–24 (NKJV) -** _23_ _The Gentiles shall know that the house of Israel went into captivity for their iniquity; because they were unfaithful to Me, therefore I hid My face from them. I gave them into the hand of their enemies, and they all fell by the sword._

_24_ _According to their uncleanness and according to their transgressions I have dealt with them, and hidden My face from them."_ _'_

Not only will Israel understand that YHWH as their covenant God is watching out for them, but also the Gentile nations shall now understand that Israel's prolonged time-out of the land and their great affliction was due to God's discipline of His unfaithful people. It wasn't a bad reflection upon God. The cause was the sin of Israel.

The world, prior to this point of Gog and Magog, misreads the Jews' plight. They either write the God of Israel off as not real, or they believe that He doesn't really care about Israel. They either see God as UNABLE to protect Israel or that He has NOT BEEN FAITHFUL to deliver them.

**Ezekiel 36:20 (NKJV) -** _20 When they came to the nations, wherever they went, they profaned My holy name—when they said of them, 'These are the people of the LORD, and yet they have gone out of His land.'_

But now the Gentiles understand that what Israel suffered was simply a matter of discipline. They will understand that God is still the God of Israel – and that He is still in covenant relationship with them. They no longer see this as a matter of shortcoming on the part of God, but understand that He has been punishing Israel because of her sins.

For thousands of years, God allowed His people to be abused and slaughtered; but it was not because His unfaithfulness. Rather, it was because of Israel's unfaithfulness. He allowed them to suffer the consequences of their sin, as clearly stated in Dan. 9:24-27. In Deuteronomy 31:17-18, God had clearly warned that this would happen if Israel apostatized.

**Deuteronomy 31:17–18 (NKJV) -** _17 Then My anger shall be aroused against them in that day, and I will forsake them, and I will hide My face from them, and they shall be devoured. And many evils and troubles shall befall them, so that they will say in that day, 'Have not these evils come upon us because our God is not among us?'_

18 And I will surely hide My face in that day because of all the evil which they have done, in that they have turned to other gods.

Note in Ezekiel 39:23 and 24 the words **iniquity** (meaning either "to pervert" or "to err"), **unfaithful, uncleanness, transgressions** (violations of God's law) in relation to Israel (cf. Ezek. 6-24, esp. chp. 22).

Observe the double emphasis here that because of Israel's sin, God hid His face from them! In context, it is clear that this means God did not intervene for them. He did not deliver them from their deadly trials and struggles. He allowed them to suffer to the point that the Gentiles did not take the covenant God of Israel seriously; and did not therefore hesitate to oppress Israel.

And note that this situation of God hiding His face continues UNTIL the war of Gog and Magog. At that point, God no longer hides His face from Israel. Then He will intervene in a miraculous way on behalf of them as He did in the Old Testament days prior to the removal of His glory. At precisely this point, He will no longer work just providentially in regard to Israel, but now will act directly and miraculously.

And note that this situation of God hiding His face continues UNTIL the war of Gog and Magog. At that point, God no longer hides His face from Israel. Then He will intervene in a miraculous way on behalf of them as He did in the Old Testament days prior to the removal of His glory. At precisely this point, He will no longer work just providentially in regard to Israel, but now will act directly and miraculously.

One thing commentators are essentially in agreement on is that the key defining characteristic of "The Day of the Lord" is God's direct intervention in human affairs.

The phrase "day of the Lord" usually identifies events that take place at the end of history (Isaiah 7:18-25) and is often closely associated with the phrase "that day". One key to understanding these phrases is to note that they always identify a span of time during which God personally intervenes in history... [27]

**Ezek. 39:21** _"I will set My glory among the nations; and all the nations shall see..."_

**Ezek. 39:23-24** " _I hid My face from them... hidden my face from them"_

Finally, the world will get it; at least on some level – that God has allowed all this to happen to Israel because of their unfaithfulness; but at the same time, His covenant relationship with them was never severed. God's reputation as a covenant-keeping God – as YHWH, will thus be restored. The nations of the world will now see the God of Israel as still the God of Israel. It was God's righteousness that sent Israel into exile and it was His faithfulness that brought them back.

**Malachi 3:6 (NKJV) -** _6 "For I am the LORD, I do not change; Therefore you are not consumed, O sons of Jacob._

**Joel 3:2 (NKJV) -** _2 I will also gather all nations, And bring them down to the Valley of Jehoshaphat; And I will enter into judgment with them there On account of My people, My heritage Israel, Whom they have scattered among the nations; They have also divided up My land._

**Ezekiel 36:22 (NKJV) -** _22 "Therefore say to the house of Israel, 'Thus says the Lord GOD: "I do not do this for your sake, O house of Israel, but for My holy name's sake, which you have profaned among the nations wherever you went._

The coming war of Gog and Magog is about God restoring His reputation as the covenant God of Israel. The supreme lesson to be learned by Israel and the world is that Israel's captivity and the destruction of Gog and Magog both show the holiness of God and His covenant faithfulness to Israel. Israel's captivity shows God's holiness. Her preservation shows His faithfulness.

God's got something to say to the whole world concerning His glory – as YHWH, the covenant-keeping God of Israel. And the forum that He is going to use to break through and manifest it to the world in the last days is the war of Gog and Magog.

I believe the stage very possibly is even now being set for this coming war. The players involved are coming together even now.

*****
Chapter 7 – Israel's Restoration – (Ezek. 39:25-29)

Ezekiel 39:25-29 summarizes the results of God destroying Gog and Magog. It is a comprehensive summary that ties various aspects of the narrative together, while bringing the matter to a conclusion. Gog and Magog begins a process of restoration that culminates in the full liberation of the Jews and the pouring-out of God's Spirit.

**Ezekiel 39:25 (NKJV) -** _25_ _"Therefore thus says the Lord_ _God_ _: 'Now I will bring back the captives of Jacob, and have mercy on the whole house of Israel; and I will be jealous for My holy name—_

Following the defeat of Gog and Magog, God will then " **bring back the captives of Jacob, and have mercy on the whole house of Israel;** ". This event marks a MAJOR transition in the RESTORATION of Israel. Many of the Jews will still be outside the land of Israel at the time of Gog and Magog. But the wheels will now be put in motion that will result in the full restoration of the whole house of Israel. All the Jews who are converted during this time period will eventually make their way home to Israel. Note that verse 28 says none of them will be captive in a foreign context any longer. The war of Gog and Magog marks a turning point, which results in the whole house of Israel coming home.

Note that the event of Gog and Magog is very intimately connected with the Day of the Lord restoration, as seen in God bringing back His people in their entirety and in the pouring-out of His Spirit upon the house of Israel (cf. Isa. 11, Joel 2). Being so intimately connected strongly suggests that these events are all bound together in the context of the Day of the Lord.

Further note that God brings about this full RESTORATION because He is jealous for His holy name. It is ultimately for God's own reputation's sake that He does this (cf. Ezek. 36:22). In the restoration of Israel, He shows that He is faithful to His NAME YHWH – He is faithful to His covenant promises. He is shown to be the faithful covenant-keeping God of Israel. He is shown to faithfully fulfill all the promises made to the forefathers – all the promises given in the Abrahamic Covenant. They will all now be fulfilled; and in this, God will totally vindicate His HOLY NAME.

Note that the word **captives** in verse 25 can also be rendered "fortunes". It is used in the sense of returning from captivity (cf. Jer. 29:14, 30:3), but also in the sense of restoring fortunes (cf. Deut. 30:3, Jer. 30:18, Ezek. 16:53). Both are ultimately true for Israel.

**Ezekiel 39:26 (NKJV) -** _26_ _after they have borne their shame, and all their unfaithfulness in which they were unfaithful to Me, when they dwelt safely in their own land and no one made them afraid._

Some manuscripts here read " **they shall forget their shame** "; while others read " **they shall bear their shame** ", as is seen here in the NKJV. Truly, God will wipe away Israel's reproach in her restoration. So, that is a possibility.

However, there is a strong emphasis here on Israel's previous UNFATIHFULNESS; which appropriately calls for a spirit of repentance. In context, Israel's unfaithfulness has just been dealt with in verses 23 & 24 and was shown to be the reason why God had previously hidden His face from them. It fits the flow of thought that now AFTER they have come to repentance, God will then bring about their full restoration. Israel must FIRST come to repentance before God restores her. AFTER they have borne their shame for all their unfaithfulness, then God will restore them (cf. 16:9, 20:43, 36:31, Dan. 9:24).

_The Holman Christian Standard Bible_ translates this: " _They will feel remorse for their disgrace and all the unfaithfulness they committed against Me_ ,".

God has consistently shown through the Scriptures that before restoration comes to Israel, they must FIRST come to repentance (cf. Hos. 3:4-5, Acts 3:19-21).

When John the Baptist came, he came preaching " **a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.** " (cf. Mk. 1:4). John came calling the people to repentance so that when the Messiah came, they would be a prepared people and ready to go into the Kingdom which He would present to them. Did John fail in his mission? Well, he didn't personally fail, but the objective in bringing the nation to repentance did fail.

Israel's response to John, by and large, was that they rejected him. Jesus said, "John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, 'He has a demon.'" (cf. Lk. 7:33) Again, in John 5:35 Jesus said, "... you were willing for a time to rejoice in his light."

But note that John the Baptist was a type of Elijah who must come before the Messiah.

**Matthew 11:14–15 (NKJV) -** _14_ _And if you are willing to receive it, he is Elijah who is to come._

_15_ _He who has ears to hear, let him hear!_

If the people had responded (theoretically) to the ministry of John the Baptist, he would have, in effect, fulfilled the ministry of Elijah. When Jesus was transfigured on the Mount of Transfiguration and gave the disciples (Peter, James, and John) a glimpse of the coming Kingdom, it was Moses and Elijah who appeared there talking with him (cf. Mt. 17:3).

**Matthew 17:10–11 (NKJV) -** _10_ _And His disciples asked Him, saying, "Why then do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?"_

_11_ _Jesus answered and said to them, "Indeed,_ _Elijah is coming first and will restore all things._ _(emphasis mine)_

Note carefully that Elijah must come FIRST and he WILL RESTORE ALL THINGS. Even to this day, the Jews at Passover have someone go to the door and check if Elijah has come. They always set a plate for him. What did Jesus mean – that Elijah will restore ALL things?

Well, just as John the Baptist called people to repentance and was a type of Elijah, so Elijah will call the nation to repentance. Whereas, John the Baptist failed in this endeavor – Elijah will succeed.

**Malachi 4:5–6 (NKJV)** \- _5_ _Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet_ _Before_ _the coming of the great and dreadful day of the_ _Lord_ _._

_6_ _And_ _he will turn The hearts_ _of the fathers to the children, And the hearts of the children to their fathers, Lest I come and strike the earth with a curse._ (emphasis mine)

In other words, Elijah will bring about repentance in Israel. And note, this will take place BEFORE the GREAT AND DREADFUL DAY OF THE LORD. Jesus (in Matt. 24:21) described the last half of the Tribulation Period as the time of " _great_ _tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be_."

In the first half of the Tribulation (in my view) there are two great realities working in harmony that will bring about revival and repentance in Israel. One of these is the appearance of the two witnesses, as seen in Revelation 11. These witnesses are unnamed, but most believe that one of them is undoubtedly Elijah; since Elijah must come FIRST and restore all things. Since Moses appeared with him at the Mount of Transfiguration, and since the nature of the miracles they will perform mirror the types of miracles previously performed by Moses and Elijah, this seems like a strong possibility.

The two witnesses of Revelation 11 will prophesy for 1,260 days (3 and ½ years) during the first half of the Tribulation. During this time, no one can harm them. If they try to do so, fire will proceed out of their mouth and devour their adversaries (cf. Rev. 11:5). They have power to shut the heavens so there is no rain. They can turn water into blood and strike the earth with all manner of plagues (cf. Rev. 11:6). Their ministry will be effective. Twelve thousand from each of the 12 tribes will be saved and these 144,000 Jews will become powerful evangelists. It will be like 144,000 Apostle Pauls set loose. By the time these two witnesses are killed at the mid-point of the Tribulation, Elijah will have restored all things – as prophesied by Christ in Matthew 17:11. He will have turned the hearts of the people. Israel will be repentant.

It seems apparent that Elijah is one of the two witnesses; and that by the time he is killed halfway through the Tribulation, the seeds of all things being restored will be in place. In conjunction with this, the war of Gog and Magog will also be a major facilitating factor working in harmony toward this end; because from that day forward, Israel shall know that YHWH is their God (cf. Ezek. 39:22).

Before RESTORATION comes in its fullness, there must be repentance in Israel; and closely linked with this restoration process here in Ezek. 39, is the destruction of Gog and Magog.

Gog & Magog tied to Repentance

Repentance tied to Restoration

**Note:** Both Repentance and Restoration are MAJOR "Day of the Lord" themes which are here closely related to the event of Gog and Magog.

What is presented here is the package of: Gog and Magog's destruction, Israel recognizing YHWH as their God, Israel's brokenness over their sin, and Israel's restoration. These realities are all closely linked together. And since Israel's repentance and restoration is vitally linked to the Day of the Lord, it makes sense that this entire package relates to the Day of the Lord events.

Notice the end of verse 26... " **when they dwelt safely in their own land and no one made them afraid.** " The context of this statement relates to Israel's brokenness over their sin of unfaithfulness. As translated in the NKJV, it relates to Israel's UNFAITHFULNESS (in particular) when they dwelt safely and no one made them afraid. It was in the context of safety when they were guilty of this unfaithfulness.

Commentators bring out that the Hebrew construction here (the infinitive construction) can either be translated as " _when they dwelt_ " in safety (in the past tense) or " _when they dwell_ " in safety (in the future tense). It could go either way; and context is the determining factor. The problem here is that the context is mixed. Ezekiel is describing their past sin, but also their future restoration. If one takes it as a future tense, then the idea is that Israel will no longer bear their reproach of shame when they are settled in the Kingdom in a context of safety (cf. Jer. 32:37-41).

However, I favor this relating back to their sinfulness; which is where this thought flows from – as seen beginning in verses 23 and 24. It is when they are dwelling safely that they will commit the most egregious sin in the history of Israel (other than, perhaps, the crucifying of their own Messiah) as they enter into covenant relationship with the Antichrist.

I take it that the time of safety is when they enter into the 7-year covenant with Antichrist (cf. Dan. 9:27). This covenant with Antichrist is the height of their unfaithfulness, as they receive the one who comes in his own name, with his own credentials; while at the same time, they had previously rejected the One Who came with all the Bible credentials of the Father (cf. Jn. 5:43).

Before their repentance comes, they reach the height of their apostasy; and it is committed in a context of safety, in which no one makes them afraid. In this arrangement with Antichrist, they feel no need of God and they feel safe. Finally, they will have "arrived"; and all without the help of God – or so it will appear. This covenant with Antichrist is especially OFFENSIVE to God. Israel thought it would bring them safety; but immediately thereafter, God allows this massive invasion by Gog and Magog. Then YHWH rises up to show that Israel's preservation is really dependent upon Him alone! Israel and the world will get the point!

The broader context bears this out. Ezekiel has made a major point of showing that the War of Gog and Magog happens when Israel is dwelling SAFELY. When something is stated three times, an emphasis is being made which is of great importance.

**Ezekiel 38:8 (NKJV)** \- _8_ _After many days you will be visited. In the latter years you will come into the land of those brought back from the sword and gathered from many people on the mountains of Israel, which had long been desolate; they were brought out of the nations, and_ _now all of them dwell safely_ _._

**Ezekiel 38:11 (NKJV)** \- _11_ _You will say, 'I will go up against a land of unwalled villages; I will go to a peaceful people,_ _who dwell safely, all of them dwelling without walls, and having neither bars nor gates'_ _—_

**Ezekiel 38:14 (NKJV)** \- _14_ _"Therefore, son of man, prophesy and say to Gog, 'Thus says the Lord_ _God_ _: "_ _On that day when My people Israel dwell safely_ _, will you not know it?_

It's in the context of "safety" that Israel's unfaithfulness comes to a climax in conjunction with Antichrist, and it is in that context that Israel also finally comes to repentance.

**Ezekiel 39:27–28 (NKJV)** **-** _27_ _When I have brought them back from the peoples and gathered them out of their enemies' lands, and I am hallowed in them in the sight of many nations,_

_28_ _then they shall know that I am the_ _Lord_ _their God, who sent them into captivity among the nations, but also brought them back to their land, and left none of them captive any longer._

This is a summary statement in regard to Gog and Magog. It looks back and also looks forward to the completed end result. The setting for the last days restoration of Israel will happen in conjunction with two realities. 1) They will once again be back in the land, gathered from the land of their enemies. 2) God will then be hallowed in them in the sight of many nations.

**Hallowed** means "set apart" or "sanctified". It is in conjunction with Israel back in the land that God will show Himself uniquely God – that there is none other like Him. In effect, YHWH will show Himself to be the One true God – the God of Israel, as He intervenes on behalf of Israel.

Throughout history, God makes Himself known in conjunction with Israel. He is the God of Israel. However, for many years (during the times of the Gentiles) His face was hidden; and the world did not clearly see that connection. But in the event of Gog and Magog, they will.

The previous context has over and over emphasized that in the matter of Gog and Magog, God will be " **hallowed** " before the watching world (cf. Ezek. 38:16, 23, 39:7, 39:23).

We also have duly noted that the event of Gog and Magog results in Israel recognizing YHWH as their God. From that day forward, they will know it (as seen in verse 22); which is the exact language seen here again in verse 28.

But then verse 28 runs to the end of the matter saying, " **brought them back to their land, and left none of them captive any longer.** " The NASB captures the proper sense of it:

**Ezekiel 39:28 (NASB95)** \- _28_ _"Then they will know that I am the_ _Lord_ _their God because I made them go_ _into exile_ _among the nations,and_ _then gathered them again_ _to their own land;and_ _I will leave none of them there any longer_ _. (emphasis mine)_

The sense is that what God began to do in bringing them back to the land will now be completed with absolutely every saved Jew being brought back to the homeland (cf. 20:41, 28:22, 25, 36:23, 38:16, also cf. Isa. 11:12, 16).

**Ezekiel 39:29 (NKJV)** **-** _29_ _And I will not hide My face from them anymore; for I shall have poured out My Spirit on the house of Israel,' says the Lord_ _God_ _."_

God's face was hidden from the Jews during the times of the Gentiles; but starting with Gog and Magog, it is hidden no longer (cf. v. 23-24). Now, God's direct intervening presence (" **His glory** " cf. v. 21) will again be seen. The reality of God no longer hiding His face from Israel is linked with Him pouring out His Spirit on the house of Israel, " **says the Lord GOD** " (Adonai YHWH).

This linkage is significant because God pouring out His Spirit upon the house of Israel happens in connection with the Day of the Lord, as seen in Joel 2:28-29 and Zech. 12:10 (cf. Ezek. 11:19, 36:26-27, 37:14). Again, the linkage of Gog and Magog with the Day of the Lord is very close. Following Gog and Magog, God's presence with and God's Spirit upon them will define national Israel.

Prophecy tends to be compressed, which certainly allows for a process that comes to conclusion; but the linkage of all that is happening with the Day of the Lord is very close, so as to make the strong case that this all happens within the Day of the Lord.

Before the destruction of Jerusalem God had promised to "pour out" (Hb shaphak) His wrath on Israel (7:8, 9:8, 20:13, 21, 22:22, 36:18). Now in restoring His people He will pour out (Hb shaphak) His Spirit. This reference to the Spirit of God connects this passage in its entirety to chapters 36-37 with its focus on the Spirit. [28]

The ultimate result of the battle with Gog will be Israel's national repentance and spiritual restoration. This will be fulfilled in the millennial kingdom. [29]

No matter how you interpret the details, the War of Gog and Magog is a MAJOR occasion regarding last days events, which ultimately results in Israel's restoration. If the stage is indeed being set even now for this last days event (which may well be the case) then we are very close to the Rapture of the Church. We do see the day approaching (cf. Heb. 10:25), but only God knows the precise timing of these things. Live ready, for these things will have a fulfillment – very possibly in our lifetime.

Maranatha! (Our Lord comes!)

*****
Chapter 8 – Overview of Gog and Magog

Ezekiel 38-39 describes a "last days" war in which a great confederation, from the NORTH in particular, will invade Israel. This confederation will be led by a leader called Gog who is from the land of Magog (the former Soviet Union). As they invade Israel, God will SUPERNATURALLY INTERVENE and totally destroy this massive army. In doing so, God will bring great glory to Himself and restore His reputation as YHWH - as the covenant-keeping God of Israel. Both Israel and the world will recognize the reality of YHWH at that point.

THE KEY PLAYERS:

**Gog** – leader from the land of Magog (former Soviet Union territory - Russia)

Makeup of the Coalition

Rosh = "Russia" or "Chief"

Magog = Central Asia (the "-stan" countries – former Soviet Union)

Meshech = Turkey

Tubal = Turkey

Gomer = Turkey

Beth-Togarmah =Turkey

Persia = Iran

Ethiopia = Ethiopia/Sudan

Libya

What about Gog and Magog in Revelation 20?

There is only one place (other than Ezekiel 38-39) that Gog and Magog is referenced in the Bible, and that is found in the New Testament in Revelation 20:8. The context of this reference is placed immediately after the 1,000 year Millennial reign of Christ.

**Revelation 20:7–9 (NKJV) -** _7_ _Now_ _when the thousand years have expired_ _, Satan will be released from his prison_

_8_ _and will go out to deceive the nations which are in the four corners of the earth,_ _Gog and Magog_ _, to gather them together to battle, whose number is as the sand of the sea._

_9_ _They went up on the breadth of the earth and surrounded the camp of the saints and the beloved city. And fire came down from God out of heaven and devoured them. (emphasis mine)_

Dispensational scholars typically do not see the reference to Gog and Magog in Revelation 20 as the same war that is referenced in Ezekiel 38-39. We see the Ezekiel 38-39 reference coming before the Millennial Kingdom; and in particular, my view is that it takes place during the Day of the Lord Judgment in the first half of the Tribulation Period.

In addition, we note these discrepancies between the two accounts:

1. In Ezekiel, the bodies of Gog and Magog are famously buried; whereas in Revelation, they are consumed (a case of Divine cremation).

2. The account of Ezekiel 38-39 is set in the context of Israel's restoration, which chronologically comes before the Millennial Temple in chapters 40-48. In contrast, the Revelation account takes place after the Millennial Reign of Jesus Christ.

3. Ezekiel requires 7 months to bury the bodies and 7 years to burn the weapons of Gog and Magog. In Revelation, the next event that IMMEDIATELY follows is the Great White Throne Judgment; followed by the eternal state.

4. Ezekiel makes it clear that in the event of Gog and Magog, God will make His holy Name YHWH known and restore His reputation as the covenant God of Israel – after His face has been hidden for many years (cf. 39:7). In contrast, in the book of Revelation, the glory of the God of Israel has been fully on display for a thousand years during the Millennial Reign of Christ.

These discrepancies show that these are two distinct events separated by over a thousand years. However, there are also similarities; hence both are called Gog and Magog. Both involve a confederation of nations that attack Israel from every direction. Both occur when Israel is living securely. Both have the objective of destroying Israel. Both result in the enemy being supernaturally destroyed by God.

Following is an overview of how I see Gog and Magog unfolding. I am not dogmatic about all the details, but this is my studied opinion as to how (in general) it may unfold.

God has TWO major programs in redemptive history. One being Israel, and the other being the Church. These two programs, as seen in Romans 11, do not essentially overlap. When God is working – essentially with Israel, He is not building the Church. When He is building the Church, He is not essentially advancing His prophetic program with Israel. For the time being, Israel is "broken off" while God is building His Church (cf. Rom. 11:19-22).

When God shifted from working with Israel to building the Church, He did so rapidly – within a 50-day period of time (cf. Acts 1-2). When the Church is complete, He will then shift back and resume His program with Israel (cf. Rom. 11:25-29).

There is no "in-between" program presented in Scripture. There was no large gap between Israel and the start of the Church, and there is no reason to think that there will be a large gap between the completion of Church and the resumption of His program with Israel. Consistently the prophetic Scriptures present God's resumption of His program with Israel as immediately following the Church Age.

There may be some gap, but we are not told about it; and consequently, just like the 50-day gap related to the start of Church Age – if there is such a gap, it is presumably neither notable nor long in duration.

1 Thessalonians 4 and 5

  * 1 Thess. 4:13-18 (Rapture of the Church)

(Thematically, the Rapture is immediately **followed** by the theme of The Day of the Lord.)

  * 1 Thess. 5:1-5 (Day of the Lord – Israel)

**2 Thessalonians 2:3** : The Day of the Lord cannot come until two things are in place:

  * The departure takes place (the restraining ministry of the Spirit through the Church).

  * The man of sin is revealed (Dan. 9:27 – the signing of 7-year covenant).

**Note:** These are the ONLY TWO things standing in the way of the Day of the Lord coming. Presumably, with the restrainer removed, the man of sin will rapidly take his place – because then nothing is holding him back.

The last days (related to the Church Era) is not to be confused with the last days in relation to Israel. These are two different things. It is true that the Church Age relates to those "upon whom the ends of the ages have come." (cf. 1 Cor. 10:11, Heb. 1:2). Those in the Church Age live at the end of God's redemptive program that will usher in the FINAL climactic end time events in relation to Israel. The last days of the Church Age give way to the last days related to Israel.

The "last days" of the Church Age will be marked by "perilous times" in which apostasy abounds (cf. 2 Pet. 3:3). The peril of those days – days we now live in, are marked by perilous apostasy (cf. 2 Tim. 3). John tells us we know it is the "last hour" because many antichrists have come (cf. 1 Jn. 2:8). A momentum of the deceptive spirit of antichrist will characterize the end of the Church Age.

In contrast to the "last days" of the Church Age, is the "last days" related to God's program for Israel. The last days related to Israel are consistently tied with what is known as the 70th week of Daniel, or the 7-year Tribulation Period (cf. Dan. 9:24-27). What is in view in Ezekiel 38-39 relates to the lasts days in reference to Israel, and not in reference to the Church.

In prophesy there are two major hubs: 1) the nation of Israel, and 2) the Messiah. Prophetic history moves forward in relation to Israel.

In Dan. 9:24-27, God gave Daniel an overview of Israel's history from the decree of Artaxerxes to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem until the presentation of Messiah the King; which would involve a period of 483 years. This was fulfilled in Christ's Triumphal Entry (cf. Lk. 19:42).

Following this is an unspecified " **gap period** ", which progressive revelation shows runs essentially parallel to the Church Age. Then comes the final 70th week of Daniel (a 7-year period), which will bring to a conclusion God's special dealings with Israel and place them in the Kingdom.

The Church is a parenthesis program which is essentially "dateless". It came without warning (cf. Acts 2) and it will end without warning (cf. 1 Thess. 4). The Rapture is "sign-less", meaning that it could happen at any time. It is imminent.

Prophetic signs properly belong to Israel and relate essentially to the Tribulation Period. However, before the Rapture we may well see a foreshadowing; a setting of the stage for what will transpire after the Church is gone. Hebrews 10:25 says, " _you see the Day approaching._ " We believe that Israel back in the land as a nation is part of this foreshadowing.

However, at any point the Church could be whisked away. This has always been the case since the time the Apostle Paul voiced this hope. When it happens, it will happen "in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye" (cf. 1 Cor. 15:52).

Once the Church is removed, then into that vacuum will step the "man of sin". He will come on the scene as a great man of peace. He will come as a broker of peace and have an answer for the Mideast tensions. This is seen in the breaking of the first seal in Revelation 6:1-2, in which the Antichrist is the rider on a white horse coming in triumph. Then there is peace.

Again, Israel is the central player. This is reflected in 1 Thessalonians 5:2-3 when the Day of the Lord is shown to come as a thief in the night and when people are saying, "Peace and safety". This is how the Day of the Lord starts in conjunction with Antichrist.

But then suddenly, the second seal is broken; and immediately peace is taken from the earth and many people will die (cf. Rev. 6:3-4). This corresponds to "sudden destruction" that comes upon the earth, as seen in 1 Thessalonians 5:3.

Before the Rapture, the world is desperate for peace; especially in the Middle East, which is the focal point of prophecy. Suddenly, the Rapture takes place and into that context comes a man with a peace plan; namely, the Antichrist. He brokers a 7-year covenant with Israel, insuring their peace and safety. The world celebrates; but then just as suddenly, this "peace" is shattered. The shattering of this peace I take to be the WAR OF GOG AND MAGOG.

I see Daniel 11 (and in particular, verse 44) intersecting with Ezekiel 38-39. Daniel 11:36-45 presents the character and career of Antichrist. "He", "him", and "his" are mentioned 24 times in these verses – always in reference to Antichrist. His career then is dealt with in Daniel 11:40-45.

The language of Daniel 9:27 relates that Antichrist will enter into a very STRONG covenant with Israel. It will be so strong that Antichrist will consider an attack on Israel as an attack on his own territory.

Throughout the whole preceding chapter (in Daniel 11), the king of the South has been in reference to Egypt and the king of the North has been in reference to Syria. Consistency demands that this is still the case as we now come to Daniel 11:40. At the time of the end (the Day of the Lord – the 70th week of Daniel – the Tribulation Period), the king of the South (Egypt) and the king of the North (Syria) will apply a "pincer" military move on Israel, which will be seen as an attack on Antichrist.

**Daniel 11:40 (NKJV)** \- _40_ _"At the_ _time of the end_ _the_ _king of the South [Egypt]_ _shall attack him; [antichrist] and the_ _king of the North [Syria]_ _shall come against_ _him_ _like a whirlwind, with chariots, horsemen, and with many ships; and_ _he_ _shall_ _enter the countries, overwhelm them, and pass through_ _. (emphasis mine)_

This pincer move by Egypt and Syria is the spark that ignites the fire of Gog and Magog. Antichrist will then respond with dominant force, coming out of Europe and sweeping through various countries en route to the Middle East.

**Daniel 11:41 (NKJV)** \- _41_ _He_ _shall also enter the_ _Glorious Land_ _, [_ _Israel_ _] and_ _many countries_ _shall be overthrown; but these shall escape from_ _his_ _hand:_ _Edom, Moab, and the prominent people of Ammon [_ _Jordan_ _]_ _. (emphasis mine)_

From a Jewish perspective, the "Glorious Land" can only mean Israel. Antichrist will go straight through Israel and not bother to cross the Jordan River into the country of Jordan (Edom, Moab, Ammon).

**Daniel 11:42–43 (NKJV)** \- _42_ _He_ _shall stretch out his hand against the countries, and the land of_ _Egypt_ _shall not escape._

_43_ _He_ _shall have power over the treasures of gold and silver, and over all the precious things of_ _Egypt_ _; also the_ _Libyans_ _and_ _Ethiopians_ _shall follow at_ _his_ _heels._

Antichrist will then take his army down south and plunder Egypt, as well as the Libyans and Ethiopians (Sudan).

**Daniel 11:44 (NKJV)** \- _44_ _But news from the_ _east and the north_ _shall trouble him; therefore he shall go out with great fury to destroy and annihilate many._

With his army positioned way down south, suddenly Antichrist will get the troubling news that his territory Israel is again under attack from the east and from the north. The two principal players will be Iran from the east and Magog and associates from the north (cf. Ezek. 38:1-6).

However, before Antichrist can react and get his armies into position to defend Israel, God intervenes and wipes out Gog and Magog on the Mountains of Israel. It may well be that (consistent with his intention to destroy and annihilate many) Antichrist will then claim credit for the destruction of Gog and Magog (cf. Rev. 13:4).

The challenge will then be who to believe – the two witnesses, or the competing claims of Antichrist? The two witnesses will make it clear that YHWH, the covenant God of Israel has protected them. Antichrist will claim he has supernatural power and will go on to claim to be God Almighty (cf. 2 Thess. 2:4). With the Muslim factor essentially eliminated (the makeup of the armies of Gog being essentially from Muslim nations), Antichrist will now aggressively position himself for a hostile takeover of the entire world.

*****
Chapter 9 – The Timing of Gog and Magog

In this chapter I want to give an overview of the key Biblical evidences that indicate that the war of Gog and Magog probably takes place within the Day of the Lord (the Tribulation Period/the 70th Week of Daniel).

In dispensational thought there is generally three prominent views on the timing of this war. Some place it before the Tribulation Period, some early in the Tribulation, and some near the middle of the Tribulation. I argue for early in the Tribulation Period.

The following is a series of theological snapshots; when considered collectively, show convincingly that this war will take place within the 70th week of Daniel.

**1. Ezekiel 38:11–** The timing of this war takes place when Israel is dwelling safely. This is further described as a time when Israel is dwelling "without walls, and having neither bars nor gates". That, in effect, describes a time when Israel is UNARMED having laid down her defenses. Israel will be living a peaceful lifestyle. The only time prophetically when Israel will be in such a position is following her covenant with Antichrist in the Day of the Lord (cf. Dan. 9:27). In her reliance upon Antichrist, Israel will be unsuspecting and vulnerable.

**2. Ezekiel 38:16 –** The phrase "latter days" (Last Days) in relation to Israel consistently refers to the period of time that will usher in the Messianic Kingdom (cf. Joel 2-3, Acts 2:17-21, Isa. 2:2, Jer. 23:20, 30:24, Hos. 3:5, Mic. 4:1). Hence, the most natural way to understand this phrase places the war of Gog and Magog within the Day of the Lord, related to the 70th week of Daniel which will usher in the Kingdom.

**3. Ezekiel 38:17 –** God here is seen as addressing Gog at the time of his assault. He asks a rhetorical question; showing that indeed, Gog is the one that the prophets previously spoke of – although they did not name him. Therefore, the " _former days_ " is the time long prior (during the times of the prophets) when they spoke of this specific war (cf. Ezek. 39:8). The pronouncement, in context, relates to this great northern coalition in the last days.

The only two places that specifically mention such a last days NORTHERN confederation would be Joel 2:20 and Dan. 11:44. I take it that Dan. 11:44, Joel 2:20, and Ezek. 38-39 overlap and all deal with the battle of Gog and Magog. Each text is set within the context of the Day of the Lord.

**4. Ezekiel 38:18-20** **–** The event of Gog and Magog evokes the direct outpouring of God's WRATH that affects the entire world. Prophetically, the Day of the Lord is the "day of wrath" when God directly pours out His wrath upon the Gentiles for how they have abused His people (cf. Joel 3:2, Zeph. 1:15, Rev. 6:16-17, 14:19, 15:1, 7, 16:1, 19:15). The description of " _fury_ " and " _fire of My wrath_ " is very much in keeping with the emphasis seen within the Day of the Lord.

**5. Ezekiel 38:20** **Global Effects** **–** The event of Gog and Magog has worldwide effects. All on the face of the earth will shake at God's presence. The Day of the Lord judgments are often shown to be worldwide in scope. They have ramifications for the entire world. As such, the judgment of Gog and Magog is in keeping with the character of the Day of the Lord Judgments (cf. Rev. 3:10).

**6. Ezekiel 39:22 –** Israel's "covenant with death" (Antichrist) is inconsistent with knowing YHWH as their covenant God "from that day forward", following the event of Gog and Magog (cf. Isa. 28:15, 18). Thus the event of Gog and Magog must come AFTER their covenant with Antichrist (cf. Isa. 10:20). First comes Antichrist and Israel's covenant with him; and then following within the Day of the Lord is Israel's turning to God, in conjunction with Gog and Magog.

**7. Ezekiel 39:21-24 –** Prior to Gog and Magog, God's face was hidden from Israel. He providentially continued to preserve them, but He did not overtly act directly on their behalf (cf. Deut. 31:17-18). Consequently, the world did not see the connection between YHWH and His covenant relationship with Israel. Now, at the event of Gog and Magog, God does intervene and reveal His glory. He reveals His covenant relationship and commitment to Israel and thus goes about to restore His reputation as YHWH before the world (cf. Ezek. 36:20, 22). This restoration and revealing is consistently brought out in relation to the Day of the Lord, but not prior to it.

**8. Ezekiel 39:26 –** It is in the context of dwelling safely that Israel's unfaithfulness reaches its climax, as seen in their covenant with Antichrist (cf. Ezek. 39:23-24). It is not until AFTER Israel is thus dwelling safely in unfaithfulness that the war of Gog and Magog takes place (cf. Ezek. 38:8, 11, 14).

**9. Ezekiel 39:29** **–** Prior to the event of Gog and Magog, God's face was hidden from Israel. But at Gog and Magog, God comes out and reveals Himself as the covenant God of Israel as He intervenes on their behalf. In conjunction with and closely linked with this is the fact that God then pours out His Spirit on the house of Israel. God's pouring out of His Spirit upon Israel is elsewhere linked with the Day of the Lord (cf. Joel 2:28-29, Zech. 12:10, Ezek. 11:19, 36:26-27, 37:14). Prophecy tends to be compressed, which certainly allows for a process that comes to a conclusion; but the linkage of all that is happening with the Day of the Lord is very close – so as to make the strong case that this all happens within the Day of the Lord.

**10.** **Daniel 9:26 War & Desolations** – Daniel 9:26 shows that the ENTIRE GAP PERIOD between the time the temple is destroyed in 70 A.D. until the signing of the 7-year covenant with Antichrist will be characterized by war and desolations. This allows no provision for a time prior to the 70h Week of Daniel when Israel is dwelling safely "without walls, and having neither bars nor gates" (cf. Ezek. 38:8, 11, 14).

**11. Daniel 11:43 –** The Libyans and the Ethiopians are mentioned in Daniel 11:43, as well as in Ezekiel 38:5, which is evidence that these passages are parallel/overlapping accounts with both of them taking place within the Day of the Lord. The context of Daniel 11:43 is definitely set within the Day of the Lord, dealing with the career of Antichrist.

**12. Daniel 11:44 –** In the context of the career of Antichrist, he faces a major attack from the NORTH and from the EAST. This happens in the Day of the Lord. The major players involving Gog and Magog come from the NORTH [former **Soviet Union** ] and from the EAST [ **Iran** ]. In Ezekiel 38:6, 15, and 39:2, there is an emphasis on Gog and company coming from the FAR NORTH. It is within the Day of the Lord that Joel 2:20 and Dan. 11:44 also emphasize the reality of a great northern army that will threaten Israel. This presents a strong argument that these refer to the same event happening within the Day of the Lord (cf. Ezek. 38:1-6).

**13. Joel 2:20** – In the context of the Day of the Lord, Joel speaks of the "northern army" that does "monstrous things" and is destroyed because of it. This description harmonizes with the northern coalition, as seen in the war of Gog and Magog in Ezekiel 38-39.

**14. 2 Thessalonians 2:3 –** Paul (under inspiration) names only two thingsthat must be in place prior to the inauguration of the "Day of the Lord". 1) The departure. 2) The revealing of the man of sin. If Gog and Magog is to take place prior to the Day of the Lord, this would have been the place for Paul to address it. He doesn't. In fact, the flow of thought is that the departure (Rapture) gives way to the man of sin being revealed with no substantial gap or major event in-between.

**15. 2 Thessalonians 2:7** **–** The only thing holding back the coming of the Antichrist is the restrainer (the Holy Spirit working through the Church). Once the restrainer is removed, the expectation is that Antichrist will promptly come on the scene and the world will enter into the Day of the Lord.

**16. Revelation 1:19** **–** John is told to write the things that relate to thePAST, PRESENT, and FUTURE. By necessity, Gog and Magog must be an event that relates either to the past, present, or future. Certainly, an event as BIG as Gog and Magog must be represented (cf. Amos 3:7). Nothing like Gog and Magog has ever happened in the past. Nothing is stated about it in relation to the PRESENT Church Age in Revelation 2-3. However, I take it that it is represented in Revelation 6:3-4, thus placing it within the Day of the Lord. In Revelation, there is no essential gap period presented between the conclusion of the Church Age and the beginning of the Tribulation Period.

**17. Revelation 11:3-6 –** In addition to the "secure covenant" that Israel willenter into with Antichrist (cf. Dan. 9:27), will be the ministry of the two witnesses in the first half of the Tribulation Period. The ministry of these two witnesses will ensure a level of peace and safety for Israel, so much so, that when they die at the mid-point of the Tribulation – the whole world rejoices (cf. Rev. 11:9-10). This time period of security takes place in the Day of the Lord; which harmonizes with the time of dwelling safely, as seen in Ezek. 38-39.

**18. Dwell Safely** – The description of Israel "dwelling safely" (cf. Ezek.38:8,11,14) matches the description that will characterize the beginning of the Day of the Lord – when they say, "Peace and safety!" (cf. Thess.5:3, Rev. 6:1-4). In Scripture last days prophetic truth revolves around Israel. When the world says, "peace and safety!" as found in 1 Thessalonians 5:3 it is safe to assume that the Middle East is primarily in view with Israel being a major player.

**19. Supernatural Intervention** – The Supernatural Phenomenon described in relation to God's destruction of Gog and Magog fits the phenomenon that defines God's INTERVENTION in the Day of the Lord. Commentators generally agree that the idea of DIVINE SUPERNATURAL INTERVENTION is a key factor that defines the Day of the Lord (cf. Isa. 2:12, Zeph. 1:7, 14-18). God's INTERVENTION to destroy Gog and Magog is unique and completely out of the ordinary, thus befitting the Day of the Lord.

**20. LORDSHIP/Israel** – In the DAY OF THE LORD, YHWH proves Himself to both Israel and the world to be LORD in connection with the nation of Israel (cf. Joel 2-3). That is precisely what God does in relation to Gog and Magog in Ezekiel 38-39. This is a LORDSHIP demonstration in keeping with the character of the Day of the Lord.

**21. Earthquakes** – The prophetic timing of earthquakes are consistently placed WITHIN the Day of the Lord – especially MAJOR earthquakes that affect the entire world. The event of Gog and Magog involves earthquakes that affect the entire world (cf. Ezek. 38:19-20, Matt. 24:7, Mk. 13:8, and Lk. 21:11, Rev. 6:12, 8:5, 11:3, 19, 16:18).

**22. Conversion** – Recognizing YHWH as their God ("from that day forward involves Israel recognizing Jesus as their God. This is true because the progressive revelation of God presents Jesus as YHWH (cf. Ezek. 48:35, Jer. 23:6, Joel 2:32, Rom. 10:13) and His relationship with the Father as indissoluble. He who does not honor the Son, does not honor the Father (cf. John 5:23, 10:30). Not until the Day of the Lord will Israel come to recognize Jesus as YHWH (cf. Mt. 23:39).

**23. Thief in the Night** **–** Placing Gog and Magog PRIOR to the Day of the Lord is inconsistent with the Day of the Lord coming as a thief in the night (cf. 1 Thess. 5:2). The event of Gog and Magog is a MAJOR event that will NEVER be forgotten by Israel or the world. The SURPRISE INTERVENTION of the Day of the Lord argues strongly that Gog and Magog happens after the Day of the Lord has begun, and not before it.

**24. Iraq –** Of the various nations mentioned in the Gog and Magog coalition in Ezekiel 38-39, conspicuously absent is the nation of Iraq. Iraq relates to the area of ancient Babylon which will become Antichrist's Economic Headquarters (cf. Jer. 50-51, Zech. 5:5-11, Rev. 17-18). It is therefore consistent that Iraq is not involved with this group of nations that attacks the territory of Israel that will be in covenant relationship with Antichrist. This is consistent with the war of Gog and Magog taking place within the Day of the Lord, when Iraq is aligned with Antichrist.

**25. Repentance –** Before RESTORATION comes in its fullness, there must be repentance in Israel (cf. Acts 3:19-21). Closely linked with this restoration process is the destruction of Gog and Magog, as seen in Ezekiel 38-39. At the time of Gog and Magog, there will be a major Turning to God in Israel from which they will never again turn back from (cf. 39:22). Working in tandem with this repentance/restoration emphasis is the ministry of the two witnesses (cf. Rev. 11). Elijah, (one of the 2 witnesses) comes to " _restore all things_ ". This restoration (revival) emphasis happens within the Day of the Lord in the first half of the Tribulation Period (cf. Mal. 4:5-6, Mt. 17:11).

Every one of these points presents a solid argument, but taken collectively, they make a very compelling case for seeing Gog and Magog as taking place within the Day of the Lord. I stop short of dogmatism, but my conviction is that the evidence is strong for seeing Gog and Magog as taking place within the Day of the Lord.

**Note:** The most common argument against Gog & Magog taking place within the Day of the Lord is the 7 years required for the burning of the weapons (cf. Ezek. 39:9). It is supposed that this must be completed prior to the inauguration of the Kingdom.

Yet, this is a deductive argument based on certain presuppositions which are not grounded in strict exegetical data.

I prefer the view that this takes place EARLY within the 70th week of Daniel (at the breaking of the second seal – Rev. 6:3-4), thus allowing for the 7 years of burning to run essentially concurrent to the 7-year Tribulation Period. In defense of this view, I note that Israel will always have a presence in the land throughout the Tribulation Period, especially in the area of the mountains where they will flee to (cf. Mt. 24:15-16, Zech. 13:8, 14:2)

Daniel 12:11 speaks of 30 additional days and verse 12 adds yet another 45, which makes for a total of 75 days of transition related to the setting up of the Kingdom. These additional days may accommodate the 7-year figure in an exacting manner.

However, note that the text itself never says this must be completed prior to the setting up of the Kingdom. Some think this is necessary because they think it involves a cleansing that must be in place prior to the establishment of the Kingdom.

But the text itself equates "cleansing" only to the 7 months of burying (cf. Ezek. 39:12, 14, 15-16) and not to the burning of the weapons. Other texts bring out that in the kingdom there will be a recycling of weapons during the Kingdom Era itself (cf. Isa. 2:4, Joel 3:10, Micah 4:3).

Ezekiel 39:9 states the duration of 7 years of burning, but this does not necessarily presuppose that this must be completed prior to the Kingdom.

My view is that the comprehensive arguments for this event happening within the Day of the Lord are strong; and therefore take precedent over arguments which place it prior to the Day of the Lord, but which are not based on clear exegetical data. The preponderance of the exegetical evidence leads me to hold that the Gog and Magog event happens WITHIN the Day of the Lord

_Some think that the 70_ th _week will begin with the rapture of the church, but as Daniel 9 states that is clearly not the case. The rapture could occur and there could be a period of days, weeks, or months before this covenant is signed._ _It probably will not be a long period of time, because part of the purpose of removing the church is so that God can complete His program with Israel._ _[emphasis mine] [30]_

**Romans 11:25 (NKJV) -** _25_ _For I do not desire, brethren, that you should be ignorant of this mystery, lest you should be wise in your own opinion, that_ _blindness in part_ _has happened to Israel_ _until_ _the_ _fullness of the Gentiles has come in_ _._

The Format of God's Program for Israel and the Church

Israel - [Church] - Israel

*****
Chapter 10 – Gog and Magog in Perspective

GOG AND MAGOG IN RELATION TO THE CHURCH

The next event on God's prophetic calendar is the Rapture of the Church.

When the Church is complete, all prophetic indications are that God will promptly resume His program with Israel. There is no other "in-between" program. God promptly shifted from His program with Israel to His program concerning the Church following the crucifixion of Christ; and once the Church is complete, it is to be expected that He will again promptly shift back to His program with Israel. In fact, the whole episode related to Gog and Magog is related to Israel's "last days" events. In my view, one of the reasons for the confusion regarding the timing of this war has been that commentators have often failed to keep distinct God's "last days" program for Israel in contrast to His "last days" program for the Church. They are two different programs.

If indeed we are seeing the stage being set today for those events that relate to Israel's last days in the Tribulation Period, how close must the Rapture be? The imminent truth of James should be taken to heart: " _Behold, the Judge is standing at the door!_ " (cf. Ja. 5:9). Indeed, we are those, " _upon whom the ends of the ages have come_." (cf. 1 Cor. 10:11).

Still, we must always bear in mind that the Church Age is not about signs. The Church began suddenly in a "sign-less" manner and it will conclude in the same fashion (cf. Acts 2, 1 Thess. 4). Our preoccupation is not to be with "signs", but with Christ and the witnessing/Great Commission assignment He has given us to do.

**Acts 1:7–8 (NKJV) -** _7_ _And He said to them, "It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority._

_8_ _But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."_

We are always to live ready. Yet, we do see the Day approaching (cf. Heb. 10:25), and our salvation is nearer than when we first believed (cf. Rom. 13:11). God has given the prophetic Scriptures, including the book of Revelation, to the Church for a reason.

We know the truth of what is coming and we are to sound out a warning. The Church is the pillar and ground of the truth (cf. 1 Tim. 3:15), including prophetic truth (cf. Acts 17:30-31). With what appears to be the setting of the stage for Israel's last days events, the Rapture must be getting close indeed; but again, we don't know how close (cf. Rom. 13:11-12).

When the Rapture will take place, we don't know. When exactly Gog and Magog will take place, we can't say with dogmatism. But mark it down that these things, in God's timing, will have a fulfillment! YHWH says:

**Ezekiel 39:21–22 (NKJV) -** _21_ _"I will set My glory among the nations; all the nations shall see My judgment which I have executed, and My hand which I have laid on them [Gog & Magog]._

_22_ _So the house of Israel shall know that I am the Lord their God from that day forward._

EZEKIEL – A LORDSHIP BOOK

The title "Lord GOD" is Ezekiel's favorite designation for God. Lord is "Adonai", meaning Master – the One with sovereign authority. GOD is "YHWH", which is God's covenant Name. It refers to God as eternal, in an everlasting covenant relationship with Israel (cf. Ex. 6:1-7). One can no more change God's covenant relationship with Israel than they can change His Holy Name YHWH (cf. Jer. 31:35-37). It's because of Who God is as YHWH, the covenant-keeping God of Israel, that His covenant promises to Israel must have a fulfillment. They are as sure as the very Name of God "YHWH", which signifies absolute covenant faithfulness!

**Malachi 3:6 (NKJV)** \- _6_ _"For I am the_ _Lord_ _, I do not change; Therefore you are not consumed, O sons of Jacob._

**Lord GOD** literally means "Master YHWH". Ezekiel uses this title a total of 217 times in the book. In the entirety of the Old Testament, this designation is found only 103 times. Some variation of the phrase, "shall know that I am the LORD" is found 63 times in the book of Ezekiel. God wants Israel and the whole world to know WHO He is as YHWH! He wants the entire world to know that He is the faithful covenant-keeping God of Israel. From Genesis 12 on, God has consistently revealed Himself in history through and in conjunction with, His chosen people Israel. This is true in regard to the prophets, to the Messiah, and to the apostles. " _Salvation is of the Jews_." (cf. Jn. 4:22)

Although God's face has been hidden from Israel for thousands of years, in the last days God is once again going to make Himself known for WHO He is in connection with Israel (cf. Ezek. 39:21-24). This radical self-revelation is going to happen in conjunction with the war of Gog and Magog. In this event, God will set His glory (self-disclosure) among the nations; resulting in Israel from that day forward once again recognizing YHWH as their God – and the nations of the world knowing that He is "the LORD, the Holy One in Israel" (cf. Ezek. 39:7, 21).

This turning to God on behalf of Israel (in the event of Gog and Magog) will mark the major turning point in redemptive history that God has been waiting for concerning His people Israel (cf. Ezek. 39:22, Acts 3:19-21). Finally, the nation of Israel will properly recognize YHWH as their God! Finally, they will recognize the Lord Jesus Christ as their Messiah! This will set in motion the remaining events of the Tribulation Period, climaxing in the Second Coming of the Messiah as King of kings and Lord of lords. Not only will YHWH deliver Israel from the destruction plotted by Gog and Magog early in the Tribulation Period, but He will also deliver Israel from Antichrist and the entire world arrayed against her at the end of the Tribulation Period (cf. Jer. 30:7).

**Joel 3:16 (NKJV)** \- _16_ _The_ _Lord_ _also will roar from Zion, And utter His voice from Jerusalem; The heavens and earth will shake; But the_ _Lord_ _will be a shelter for His people, And the strength of the children of Israel._

Then Jesus the Messiah will set up His throne in Jerusalem at the glorious Millennial Temple that He will construct (cf. Ezek. 43:7, Zech. 6:12-13). From that time on, the name of the city of Jerusalem shall be, "THE LORD IS THERE" (cf. Ezek. 48:35). YHWH's presence will define the city of Jerusalem throughout the Millennial Kingdom reign of the Lord Jesus Christ.

The revelation of YHWH, in conjunction with Gog and Magog, comes to a climax in the Second Coming and in the Millennial reign of Messiah from Jerusalem. But it is the war of Gog and Magog that begins this climactic last days revelation of YHWH as the God of Israel.

The book of Ezekiel begins with a vision of the glory of YHWH in chapter 1, and concludes at the end of the book with a vision of His glory in relation to the temple and Jerusalem in the Kingdom. Throughout the remainder of the book, the sovereign authority of YHWH is stressed – first in relation to judgment, and then in relation to Israel's restoration. Fittingly, the book concludes with Jerusalem in the Kingdom being named "THE LORD [YHWH] IS THERE". God will have made His point! In the end, all will know that the Lord GOD is YHWH!

PERSONAL APPLICATION

In the setting of the Tribulation Period, the prophet Joel makes this statement regarding YHWH [the LORD]:

**Joel 2:32 (NKJV) -** _32_ _And it shall come to pass That whoever calls on the name of the_ _Lord_ _Shall be saved. For in Mount Zion and in Jerusalem there shall be deliverance, As the_ _Lord_ _has said, Among the remnant whom the_ _Lord_ _calls._

In the Tribulation Period, whoever comes to call upon the Name of YHWH will be saved. In the New Testament, Paul (under inspiration) takes the truth of Joel 2:32 and applies it to saving faith in the Lord Jesus Christ in Romans 10. This speaks to the fact that Jesus is YHWH – and also to the consistent nature of a saving faith that recognizes Him as LORD!

**Romans 10:13 (NKJV)** \- _13_ _For "whoever calls on the name of the_ _Lord_ _shall be saved."_

When Paul came to Corinth, he determined not to know anything among them, "except Jesus Christ and Him crucified."; as referenced in 1 Cor. 2:2. In other words, the essence of Paul's gospel message was the PERSON and the WORK of Jesus Christ.

In Paul's gospel, there are two great emphases. One is the all-sufficient cross-work of Jesus Christ. In 1 Corinthians 1:17-18, Paul says that his gospel was the message of the cross, which is foolishness to those who are perishing – but the power of God to those being saved. He goes on to say in verse 21 that (in the wisdom of God) it pleased Him, "to save those who believe" this gospel message.

A true saving faith believes in Christ ALONE as Savior. He alone died for our sins. There was no one with Him on the cross. Jesus' dying cry was, "It is finished!" (Jn. 19:30). Single-handedly, Jesus Himself paid our sin debt in full! He alone is the Lamb of God (the sacrifice) Who takes away the sin of the world (cf. Jn. 1:29). He "by Himself purged our sins" (cf. Heb. 1:3). By one offering, Jesus has perfected FOREVER those who are being sanctified (cf. Heb. 10:14).

Paul, prior to his conversion, was a very religious man. He was depending upon his "religious credentials" to make him right with God. However, when he saw the truth of the Lord Jesus Christ, he counted all his "self-credentials" as dung in exchange for "the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord". He came to know the righteousness which is " _through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith_ " (cf. Phil. 3:7-9).

A true saving faith does not depend upon baptism, good works, self-effort, religiosity, rituals, or anything that one might do. Rather, in faith alone, it rests all upon Jesus Christ as Savior (cf. Eph. 2:8-9). It's on the basis of Christ's finished work on the cross alone that we are reconciled to God (cf. 2 Cor. 5:20-21).

In 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, Paul summarizes the gospel as being that Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again the third day according to the Scriptures. But note WHO died for our sins! It was Christ Who died for our sins.

The word **Christ** literally means "anointed One" and corresponds to the Hebrew word for Messiah. This is a designation that points to the Old Testament Scriptures which prophesied of the coming Deliverer. We see this in the double reference in 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 – " _according to the Scriptures_ ", meaning the Old Testament Scriptures. Jesus was the promised Messiah, prophesied in the Old Testament. As such, He is LORD (cf. Isa. 9:6-9)! Only the LORD could be Savior (cf. Isa. 43:10-11, 44:6, 45:21-23).

In the Old Testament, it is stated in unequivocal terms that the Messiah would in fact be YHWH (cf. Isa. 24:23, 40:3, Jer. 23:5-6). Paul states all saints in every place " _call on the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours"_ (cf. 1 Cor. 1:2). He goes on to say that " _no one can say Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit_.", as referenced in 1 Cor. 12:3.

Of course, one can mouth the words, "Jesus is Lord" – and not mean it in the heart. Many on Judgment Day will say to Jesus, " _Lord, Lord_ " – only to have Him respond, " _I never knew you; depart from Me_ " (cf. Matt. 1:21-23). He was never really their Lord. A true saving faith believes on Christ as Lord and Savior from the heart, which is reflected in calling on Him as LORD (cf. Rom. 10:9-13). Paul develops this concept as part of the gospel that he preaches in 2 Cor. 4:3-6.

**2 Corinthians 4:3–6 (NKJV)** \- _3_ _But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing,_

_4_ _whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them._

_5_ _For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus' sake._

_6_ _For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ._

The light of the gospel that Paul preaches presents Christ as the very image of God.

This is the glory of Christ. This means that Jesus is the EXACT representation of God. He is God of very God, and reveals God to us. As Paul says in Colossians 1:15, " _He is the image of the invisible God_ ". Christ is the visible manifestation of the invisible God. Hebrews 1:3 says: " _And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature_ ". John 1:18 says that no one has seen God at any time, but that Jesus in the bosom of the Father " _has declared Him_." He made known God to us. He showed us God because in fact, He is God. At the end of His earthly ministry, Christ said to His disciples, " _He who has seen Me has seen the Father_ " (cf. Jn. 14:9, also cf. 10:30).

This is the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ. And it is this truth that Jesus is God that must shine on people if they are to be saved. This is a fundamental truth of what it means to believe. One must come to believe in Jesus as God! In John 8:24, Jesus told the Jews, " _if you do not believe that I am, you will die in your sins_." God told Moses in Exodus 3:13-15 that His eternal name is "I AM". He just is. He is the eternal God from everlasting to everlasting (cf. Mic. 5:2). Jesus, in saying He is the "I AM", was claiming to be that same eternal God (YHWH) Who was revealed to Moses; and if we don't believe it, we will die in our sins.

In 2 Corinthians 4:5 Paul presents a shorthand statement of his gospel message. He introduced it in verse 4 as " _the gospel of the glory of Christ_ ". Now in verse 5, he states a summation of this gospel. His message succinctly stated, that he preached, was " _Christ Jesus the Lord"._

Again, we note that the word **Christ** is actually a Messianic title meaning "anointed One", which speaks of Him being the fulfillment of O.T. prophesy regarding the coming deliverer – reigning One (cf. Isa. 9:6-7).

**Jesus** is His given name at the time of His birth. That's why it is called His "human name". It means SAVIOR. Matthew 1:21 says, " _you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins_."

**Lord** means "MASTER". When used of the resurrected Lord, it always refers to His exalted position as the Sovereign God-Man. The idea of Lord is "God-Master". In Philippians 2:10-11, it says that one day every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. That is worship; and worship singularly belongs to God alone!

One day everyone will be forced to acknowledge the truth that Jesus is Lord, as seen in Philippians 2:9-11, but the point of 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 is that all believers acknowledge this now – in the enlightenment of conversion.

Here is the essence of the gospel – that one must BELIEVE. We must believe that Jesus is the promised/prophesied One in the Old Testament. We must believe in Him as the Savior Who came to die for our sins. And we must believe in Him as Lord – Sovereign God-Master.

The main theme of the gospel of John is belief in Christ as Lord (cf. Jn. 1:1-4, 8:24, 58, 10:30, 20:28). The book reaches its pinnacle as Doubting Thomas comes to post-resurrection New Testament faith when he sees Jesus ALIVE and exclaims, " _My Lord and my God!_ " Jesus in turn says to Thomas, " _you have seen and believed_ " (cf. Jn. 20:28-29). This is what it means to truly believe in Jesus. One must believe in Him as " _My Lord and my God_!" This is the essence of saving faith.

The oldest creed in Christianity is **"Jesus is Lord** ". This was known as the confession of salvation. Paul is clear in Ephesians 4:5, saying that for all believers there is the unity of " _One Lord, one faith_ ".

In 1 Corinthians 15:1-4, Paul says that the gospel is that Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again the third day according to the Scriptures. This emphasizes the WORK of Christ. In 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, Paul emphasizes the PERSON of Christ; showing that the gospel presents the LORDSHIP – the GODHOOD of Jesus Christ.

The bottom line is that the gospel message involves both the PERSON and the WORK of Christ. One cannot be divorced from the other. That's why the Bible says: " _Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved_ " (cf. Acts 16:31). It doesn't say just believe on Him as Lord, or just believe on Him as Savior. Rather, it joins them together by saying to believe on Him as "Lord Jesus" – meaning Lord and Savior!

And then to drive home the point of Christ's LORDSHIP in the gospel (which must be seen and believed on in salvation), Paul enlarges on the reality of gospel "light" in 2 Corinthians 4:6.

When Paul says, " _it is God who commanded light to shine out of darkness_ " – he is referring to the Creation account in Genesis 1:3. There was darkness over the face of the deep; and suddenly, God commanded: " _Let there be light_ ", and there was light. This was God's first command. These are the first words of Creation. God spoke and it happened! There was no evolving. It was immediate and instantaneous! There was light!

Paul uses the Creation account to illustrate what happens to the believer in conversion. The God who commanded light to shine in Genesis 1:3 shines the light of the gospel into our hearts, enabling us to see the truth of the Lord Jesus Christ. Just as it was a supernatural miracle of physical creation in Gen. 1, so it is a supernatural miracle of spiritual creation in our hearts. This is being born of God (cf. Jn. 1:13, 3:3-8).

Note that this is God's activity. It is God who turns on the light. We can't do this. This happens at His sovereign initiative! This is God's supernatural activity. This is a spiritual miracle. Every time someone gets saved, God performs a supernatural spiritual miracle comparable to when He said, "Let there be light" in the Creation account.

Verse 6 further explains the preaching of " _Christ Jesus the Lord_ " in verse 5. The light that God shines in the believer's heart is " _the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ._ " God enlightens us to the truth of Jesus being Lord/God. Light enables one to see. The light here relates to KNOWLEDGE.

In order to be saved, you must know something. In 1 Timothy 2:4, Paul says that God " _desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth_ ". The light of this knowledge here is the glory of God. Note the parallel between " _the glory of Christ_ " in verse 4 and the " _glory of God_ " in verse 6.

The glory of God is His brilliance, His splendor, His moral excellence. It's the beauty of His character. When Moses asks to see God's glory (cf. Ex. 33:18), God revealed His character.

**Exodus 34:6–7 (NKJV)** \- _6_ _And the_ _Lord_ _passed before him and proclaimed, "_ _The_ _Lord_ _, [YHWH – the eternal God in eternal covenant relationship with Israel]_ _the_ _Lord_ _[YHWH]_ _God_ _[El,- the Supreme Being]_ _merciful_ _and_ _gracious_ _,_ _longsuffering_ _, and_ _abounding in goodness_ _and_ _truth_ _,_

_7_ _keeping mercy_ _for thousands,_ _forgiving_ _iniquity and transgression and sin, by_ _no means clearing the guilty_ _,_ _visiting the iniquity_ _[Emphasizing His Holiness] of the fathers upon the children and the children's children to the third and the fourth generation."_ _(emphasis mine)_

The glory of God is manifested in all of His attributes together. It is seen in the fruit of the Spirit (cf. Gal. 5:22-23). It is seen in the Love Chapter of 1 Corinthians 13:4-8.

We see it reflected in the beatitudes of the Sermon on the Mount (cf. Mt. 5:3-9, cf. v. 48). The glory of God is the essence of Who He is.

But the glory of God is most clearly revealed in the PERSON of the Lord Jesus Christ. We see the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ, which is to say when we look at Jesus, we see God. We see the glory of God in Him. When God turns on the light in saving faith, we see the reality that Jesus is fully God and that He reveals the truth of God to us. We see God in Him and Him as God.

No one ever really believes or sees the truth of this in their heart apart from Divine revelation. That's why Paul says in 1 Corinthians 12:3 that " _no one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit."_

In conversion we see the truth of Jesus as God! God turns on the light and we see Jesus as God Who reveals God to us. That is an essential part of the gospel. Jesus is SAVIOR! Jesus is LORD! A saving faith embraces both truths from the heart. Israel, as a nation, will come to this point in the Tribulation Period.

But what about you – in the here and now? Now is the accepted time! Today is the day of salvation (cf. Cor. 6:1-2)! Today if you will hear His voice, do not harden your heart (cf. Heb. 3:7-13). " _Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved,_ " (cf. Acts 16:31).

**Romans 10:13 (NKJV) -** _13_ _For "whoever calls on the name of the_ _Lord_ _shall be saved."_

*****

To learn more about the Gospel of Jesus Christ or the ministry of Pastor Dwight Oswald visit

southviewbible.org

Bibliography

1. Mark Hitchcock,"The Coming Islamic Invasion of Israel", 31-32

2. John Ankerberg & Jimmy DeYoung, "Israel Under Fire", 60

3. Ibid.

4. Joel Rosenberg, "Epicenter", 104

5. The Scofield Study Bible, Daniel 9:26 Note

6. lva McClain, "Daniel's Prophecy of 70 Weeks", 43-44

7. Arnold Fruchtenbaum, "Messianic Christology", 98

8. John Ankerberg & Jimmy DeYoung, "Israel Under Fire", 149

9 Charles H. Dyer, World News and Bible Prophecy (Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 1995, 214.

10. Tim LaHaye Prophecy Study Bible, p. 937 (Note on Joel 2:20)

11. John Walvoord in Daniel commentary, 252

12. Mark Hitchcock in Middle East Burning, 109

13. Quoted from The Thomas Ice Collection – "Are We Living in the Last Days?"

14. Harold Hoehner, "The Progression of Events in Ezekiel 38-39," in Charles Dyer and Roy

15. Ralph H. Alexander quoted in Northern Storm Rising by Ron Rhodes – p. 168

16. Mark Hitchcock in Iran: The Coming Crisis – p. 178

17. Quoted from website: http://www.biblestudymanuals.net/last_days.htm

18. Nathan Jones – Lion & Lamb Ministries Quoted from website  http://lamblion.com/articles/articles_tribulation2.php

19. Wilfred Hahn in Midnight Call, Aug. 2011 – p. 21

20. Dr. Ron. J. Bigalke in Midnight Call, July 2011 – p. 14

21. Steven A. Austin in Acts & Facts, Oct. 2010 – p. 15

22. Joel Rosenberg in Epicenter – p. 191

23. John C. Whitcomb Quoted in an article entitled "Gog from Magog" from website: . http://sharperiron.org/article/gog-from-magog

24. Dr. David Jeremiah in "What in the World Is Going On?" – p. 162

25. Ron Rhodes in "Northern Storm Rising" – p. 194

26. Mark Hitchcock in "Middle East Burning" – p. 19

27. Gotquestions.org

28. Holman Christian Standard Bible

29. The Bible Knowledge Commentary – p. 1302

30. Pastor Gil Rugh

