Q: From a biblical perspective, how do you interpret the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict in light of End Time prophecies and biblical teachings?
A: The ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict is clearly part of the End Times scenario prophesied in the Bible. We're seeing the fulfillment of Zechariah 12, which says Jerusalem will become "a cup of drunkenness to all the surrounding peoples." The world's obsession with this tiny nation and the eruption of antisemitism globally are signs that we're in the Last Days. While the conflict is tragic, it shouldn't surprise us. The Bible foretells that hatred toward Israel will intensify as we approach Christ's return. As believers, we must stand with Israel while praying for peace and the salvation of all people in the region.
Q: How should Christians understand the historical and spiritual significance of Jerusalem and Israel in the context of biblical prophecy and the current conflict?
A: Jerusalem and Israel have immense spiritual significance as the epicenter of God's redemptive plan. God made everlasting covenants with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob concerning this land. Jerusalem is where Jesus will return to establish His Millennial Kingdom. The current conflict highlights the spiritual battle over God's land and people. Satan knows his time is short, so he's intensifying efforts to destroy Israel and thwart God's promises. But God will be faithful to fulfill every covenant. Jerusalem's importance in prophecy and current events should motivate us to pray for the peace of Jerusalem and eagerly await Christ's return.
Q: What role does prayer play in shaping our response as Christians to the Israel-Gaza conflict, and how should we be praying for those involved?
A: Prayer is absolutely critical in shaping our response to this conflict. We should be praying fervently for peace, for the protection of innocent lives on both sides, for wisdom for leaders, and most importantly for people to come to know Jesus as Savior. We need to pray that God would restrain evil, expose the true agendas at work, and open eyes to see His purposes. Pray for comfort for those suffering loss and trauma. Pray for the Gospel to advance powerfully amidst the chaos. And pray "Come quickly, Lord Jesus"—because only His return to set up His Kingdom will bring lasting peace to this troubled region.
Q: How does the current state of affairs in the Middle East align with or diverge from biblical predictions about the End Times?
A: The current state of affairs aligns very closely with biblical predictions about the End Times. We see the nations raging against Israel, just as Psalm 2 and Zechariah 12 foretold. The push for a two-state solution matches Joel’s prophecy about dividing the land. The rise of a Persian (Iranian) alliance against Israel fits Ezekiel 38. And the eruption of antisemitism globally fulfills Jesus' words that Israel would be "hated by all nations" before His return. While we can't set dates, the converging of so many prophetic signs indicates we're likely in the generation that will see Christ's return.
Q: In your opinion, what are some misconceptions or misunderstandings Christians may have about the Israel-Gaza conflict, and how can these be addressed from a biblical standpoint?
A: One misconception is viewing this solely as a political or ethnic conflict, when it's fundamentally spiritual. Another is thinking the Palestinians have some sort of legal right to the land. They don’t, and I address this with Mark Hitchcock several times in What’s Next: The Israel-Gaza War. With that said, we must remember that individuals on both sides need salvation. Some misunderstand the nature of God's covenants with Israel, thinking they're nullified. But Romans 11 affirms God's ongoing purposes for ethnic Israel. Overall, we need a balanced, biblically-informed perspective that upholds God's promises to Israel while also extending Christ's compassion to all affected by the conflict.
Q: What biblical principles should guide our attitudes and actions towards both Israelis and Palestinians affected by the conflict?
A: The key biblical principles that should guide us are love, truth, and justice. We're called to "pray for the peace of Jerusalem" (Psalm 122:6) while also loving our enemies and praying for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44). We should stand firmly against antisemitism and support Israel's right to exist securely. At the same time, we must have compassion on all civilians caught in the crossfire. Our ultimate aim should be to see all people in the region—Jew and Arab alike—come to saving faith in Jesus Christ.
Q: How does the Israel-Gaza conflict highlight the urgency for Christians to engage in efforts to spread the Gospel globally?
A: This conflict underscores the urgent need to spread the gospel everywhere. It reminds us that true peace only comes through Jesus Christ. As tensions rise and darkness increases, the light of the Gospel becomes even more crucial. We must redouble our efforts to reach both Israelis and Palestinians with the Good News of salvation in Christ. The conflict also highlights how fragile world peace really is, emphasizing that Christ's return could be very near. This should motivate us to greater evangelistic fervor, knowing the time is short to reach the lost.
Q: How can understanding the prophetic significance of events in Israel deepen our faith and commitment to God's redemptive plan for all nations?
A: It should deepen our faith by showing us God's Word is true and trustworthy. As we see biblical prophecies unfolding before our eyes, it strengthens our confidence in God's sovereign control over history. It should also increase our love for God's redemptive plan, which has always included both Israel and the nations. Recognizing we're living in prophetically significant times should motivate us to greater holiness, urgency in evangelism, and eager anticipation of Christ's return.
Q: What encouragement would you offer to those in fear over current events?
A: To those experiencing fear, I would say: take heart and look up! Jesus told us that when we see these signs happening, we should "stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near" (Luke 21:28 NIV). While the world grows darker, we have an unshakable hope in Christ. He is coming soon to make all things right. Until then, we can trust that He is in control and He loves us without measure. Stay grounded in God's Word, keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, and remember that no matter how chaotic things appear, God's purposes will prevail.
Q: Looking to the future, what do you see happening next in the end-time timeline of events in this region?
A: Looking ahead, I believe we'll see continued efforts to pressure Israel into a two-state solution, possibly even attempts to impose it militarily. We'll likely witness increased isolation of Israel globally and a further rise in antisemitism. I anticipate even more growing tensions between Israel and Iran, potentially leading to a major regional war as described in Ezekiel 38–39. Ultimately, these events are setting the stage for the Antichrist to confirm a peace covenant with Israel (Daniel 9:27), which will mark the start of the seven-year Tribulation. But before that, I believe the Rapture of the Church is imminent. So, our focus should be on living ready for Christ's return at any moment.
