Israel launched a series of strikes on Iran early Friday, particularly targeting nuclear and military facilities and killing Iran’s top military and nuclear scientists. The attacks come as part of a long-standing conflict between both countries, whether it has to deal with Iran’s development of nuclear weapons or Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which Iran backed. Overall, these countries have been in constant conflict with one another, and this attack is no different.
As Christians, we must understand the importance of how this conflict pertains to both countries, the world, and the end times according to the Bible.
What Does the Bible Say about Israel’s Prophecy?
Israel’s independence as a nation in 1948 is considered by many to be a fulfillment of the biblical prophecy of there being a mass return of Jews to the land of Israel (Deuteronomy 30:3; Isaiah 43:6; Ezekiel 34:11-13; 36:24; 37:1-14). At the same time, however, this does not mean that the end has officially arrived.
Throughout Israel’s existence, the country has not been without conflict. In the Bible, Israel has been ingrained in conflict, whether it’s the Egyptians, Amalekites, Midianites, Moabites, Ammonites, Amorites, Philistines, Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, or Romans. As Christians, we recognize the significance of Israel as chosen by God.
During a 2023 address to the nation, just weeks after Hamas attacked Israel, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu referenced the prophecy of Isaiah, stating that the Jewish state will someday have a future with no more violence or stealing at its borders.
“We shall realize the prophecy of Isaiah — ‘there will no longer be stealing at your borders, and your gates will be of glory.’ Together, we will fight. Together, we will win,” he said.
The Scripture in reference comes from Isaiah 60:18 which states, “Violence shall no more be heard in your land, devastation or destruction within your borders; you shall call your walls Salvation, and your gates Praise.”
“Israel is in the midst of a fight for our existence,” Netanyahu said. “… All Hamas members are dead men walking – above and below ground, inside and outside Gaza.”
What does the Bible about Iran’s Prophecy?
When looked at Scripturally, one should not be surprised at the conflict between Israel and Iran as it has long been prophesied in the Bible. Iran, formerly known as Persia, is considered by the prophet Ezekiel as an ally of Russia in the battle of Gog and Magog.
Ezekiel 38:1-6, “The word of the Lord came to me: ‘Son of man, set your face toward Gog, of the land of Magog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal, and prophesy against him and say, Thus says the Lord God: Behold, I am against you, O Gog, chief prince of Meshech and Tubal. And I will turn you about and put hooks into your jaws, and I will bring you out, and all your army, horses and horsemen, all of them clothed in full armor, a great host, all of them with buckler and shield, wielding swords. Persia, Cush, and Put are with them, all of them with shield and helmet; Gomer and all his hordes; Beth-togarmah from the uttermost parts of the north with all his hordes — many peoples are with you.'”
Therefore, the ongoing conflict is no surprise, as it has been foretold in the Bible. Nevertheless, there is also a word of encouragement, as God promised to intervene on Israel’s behalf and save the nation from its enemies.
“But on that day, the day that Gog shall come against the land of Israel, declares the Lord God, my wrath will be roused in my anger. For in my jealousy and in my blazing wrath I declare, On that day there shall be a great earthquake in the land of Israel.” –Ezekiel 38:1-6
What Do These Prophecies Predict about What Happens Next?
Although one can say that the conflict is an indicator of the end times, we must be reminded of the words of Jesus to His disciples in Matthew (Matthew 24:36), “But about that day or hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. This text, which was provided during Christ’s discourse in the Olivet Discourse, is eschatological in scope– whether it’s the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem in A.D. 70 or Christ’s return.
Nevertheless, we don’t know the time nor the hour; therefore, we must avoid anyone who prophesies a date for Christ’s return. All we can do is continue to persevere no matter what. As the Scripture states, “But the one who endures to the end will be saved” (v13). Perseverance is the mark of a Christian that is not contingent upon circumstances. Although trouble in this world is inevitable, Christ tells us to take heart, for He has overcome the world (John 16:33).
This article by Milton Quintanilla was culled from Crosswalk.
