BIBLE PROPHECY

RUSSIAN-ARAB INVASION OF ISRAEL

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(Subjects in this Section)

1-THE FOUR HORSES OF THE APOCALYPSE
2-ISRAEL IS GOD’S LAND AND GOD’S PEOPLE
3-ISRAEL IS DEWLLING SAFELY BY GOD’S PROTECTION, BUT RUSSIA DOES NOT KNOW IT
4-RUSSIA AND ITS ALLIES INVADE ISRAEL
5-A THOUGHT COMES INTO THE MIND OF THE LEADERSHIP OF RUSSIA TO INVADE
      ISRAEL
6-"GOD" BRINGS RUSSIA FORTH AGAINST ISRAEL
7-GOD IS AGAINST RUSSIA AND ITS ALLIES
8-WHO INVADES ISRAEL?
9-GOG IS TOLD TO PREPARE AND BE A GUARD
10-THE FORCES INVADING ISRAEL ARE A GREAT MILITARY ARMADA
11-WHY DOES RUSSIA INVADE ISRAEL?
12-THE SECOND SEAL: THE INVASION
13-THE INVASION COMES FAST
14-THE INVASION INVOLVES THE LAND, SEA, AND AIR
15-THE INVASION APPEARS TO COME FROM EVERY DIRECTION
16-THE INVASION CONTINUES
17-WHEN GOG ATTACKS ISRAEL, GOD’S FURY SHALL RISE UP
18-GOD WANTS ISRAEL TO TURN AND TRUST HIM
19-THE RUSSIAN MILITARY AND ITS ALLIES BEING DESTROYED BY GOD
20-THE BIBLE WARNS ABOUT JERUSALEM
21-NEWS SHALL BOTHER RUSSIA
22-THERE WILL BE A GREAT EARTHQUAKE
23-A SWORD AGAINST GOG
24-GOG SHALL COME TO HIS END
25-ONE-SIXTH WILL BE LEFT
26-THE LAND OF RUSSIA AND THE UNITED STATES BEING DESTROYED BY NUCLEAR
        WEAPONS:  ONE-FOURTH OF THE WORLD’S POPULATION DIES
27-FIRE SENT UPON THE ISLES
28-FIRE SENT UPON THE COUNTRY OF RUSSIA
29-THE TRUMPETS PREPARE TO SOUND
30-THE FIRST TRUMPET
31-NUCLEAR WEAPONS TODAY
32-THE SECOND TRUMPET
33-MILITARY SURVEILLANCE
34-THE THIRD TRUMPET
35-THE FOURTH TRUMPET
36-SUMMARY OF THE FIRST FOUR TRUMPETS:  WHAT TAKES PLACE
37-THE RESULTS
38-THE THIRD SEAL:  MASSIVE FAMINE
39-THE FOURTH SEAL:  ONE-FOURTH OF THE WORLD’S POPULATION DIES
40-IT IS COME, IT IS DONE
41-WHAT IS THE REASON GOD BRINGS RUSSIA AND ITS ALLIES AGAINST ISRAEL? GOD
        WILL MAGNIFY HIMSELF SO THE WORLD WILL KNOW THAT HE IS THE LORD
42-THE TIMING OF THE RUSSIAN INVASION OF ISRAEL
43-AFTER THE WAR IS OVER
44-THE MULTITUDE OF DEAD BODIES OF THE ARMIES WILL BE EATEN BY THE BIRDS
        AND WILD ANIMALS
45-THE WEAPONS ARE BURNED
46-ISRAEL WILL GET THE PLUNDER OF THOSE THAT PLUNDERED THEM
47-THE DEAD BURIED

THE RUSSIAN-ARAB INVASION OF ISRAEL
1-THE FOUR HORSES OF THE APOCALYPSE

    The book sealed with seven seals, which has been in the possession of the Father, seems to indicate that, from "the beginning," it has been held for a precise moment in time to be brought forth.
    The first four seals are represented by horses. They appear to come forth swiftly. Horses can approach and run at a rapid rate and cover much territory. They can represent speed. The riders direct the horses.
       Each horse is portrayed with a specific color. The color reflects what event is forthcoming.

2-ISRAEL IS GOD’S LAND AND GOD’S PEOPLE

3-ISRAEL IS DWELLING SAFELY BY GOD’S PROTECTION, BUT RUSSIA DOES NOT KNOW IT

    Israel is dwelling safely, not because of the covenant with the Antichrist, but because of God’s protection. Russia, however, does not know this.
    It is written, ISRAEL…THEY SHALL DWELL (or are living) SAFELY ALL OF THEM-Ezek 38:8. THEREFORE, SON OF MAN, PROPHESY AND SAY UNTO GOG, THUS SAITH THE LORD GOD; IN THAT DAY WHEN MY PEOPLE OF ISRAEL DWELLETH (or are living) SAFELY (or securely), SHALT THOU NOT KNOW IT (or take notice of it)?-Ezek 38:14.

4-RUSSIA AND ITS ALLIES INVADE ISRAEL

(A main commentary)

    Israel now expects there will be peace, because of the covenant or treaty with the Antichrist. A thought comes into the mind of the Russian leader to invade Israel. It is God that brings Russia and its allies forth to invade. Even though God brings them, He is against them and will ultimately destroy them to fulfill His purpose.
    The leader of Russia (Gog) assembles what may be the largest military armada ever put together in the history of the world. This enormous military force (of millions of troops) is backed up with a vast navy and air force, having missiles, advanced technology, spy satellites, and other sophisticated Russian weaponry. As the second seal is broken, war appears to come unexpectedly upon Israel. Russia and its many allies attack Israel. They come fast as a whirlwind and as a cloud to cover the land. They come with many ships by the Mediterranean Sea and possibly the Red Sea. They appear to come from the north and also from the northeast, through Jordan. They appear to come from the southwest, from Africa. They come from the air with an airborne invasion. In other words, the invasion seems to come from nearly every direction, including the ground, the sea, and the air.
    They invade Israel for the purpose of coming against the Jews and to obtain food, various goods, and riches, including silver and gold.
    The little nation of Israel appears to be overwhelmed. One moment they are dwelling safely. The next moment Israel is surrounded on nearly every side by the biggest invasion force ever assembled in the history of the world. Russia and its allies sweep through many nations; however, the chief of Amman shall escape. Egypt appears to fall to Russia. Russia may double-cross Libya and Ethiopia and be on their doorsteps.
    Israel’s situation is hopeless. They begin to turn to God with all their heart, with fasting, with weeping, and mourning. They cry out, "Spare thy people, O Lord."
    Then the Lord comes to their rescue. He is jealous for His land and pities His people.

5-A THOUGHT COMES INTO THE MIND OF THE LEADERSHIP OF RUSSIA TO INVADE ISRAEL

    The second seal (the Russian invasion of Israel) closely follows the first seal (the Antichrist coming forth). The Rapture occurs, followed by the Antichrist coming forth, followed by the confirmation of a covenant between Israel and the Antichrist, followed by the Russian invasion of Israel. This invasion appears to occur shortly after the beginning of the Tribulation.\
    The invasion of Israel by Russia begins with a thought.
    It is written, THUS SAITH THE LORD GOD; IT SHALL ALSO COME TO PASS (on that day), THAT AT THE SAME TIME SHALL THINGS (or thoughts will) COME INTO THY MIND, AND THOU SHALT THINK (or devise) AN EVIL THOUGHT (or plan, or scheme): AND THOU SHALT SAY, I WILL GO UP TO (invade) THE LAND OF UNWALLED VILLAGES (which is Israel); I WILL GO TO (attack) THEM THAT ARE AT REST (a peaceful and unsuspecting people-NIV), THAT DWELL (or live) SAFELY, ALL OF THEM DWELLING WITHOUT WALLS, AND HAVING NEITHER BARS NOR GATES-Ezek 38:10,11.

6-"GOD" BRINGS RUSSIA FORTH AGAINST ISRAEL

    God turns Russia back, in some manner, and then brings them forth to invade Israel.
    It is written, AND THE WORD OF THE LORD CAME UNTO ME, SAYING, SON OF MAN, SET THY FACE AGAINST GOG, (of) THE LAND OF MAGOG (which is modern-day Russia), THE CHIEF PRINCE OF (Rosh-which is Russia) MESHECH AND TUBAL, AND PROPHESY…AND SAY, THUS SAITH THE LORD GOD; BEHOLD…O GOG, THE CHIEF PRINCE OF MESHECH AND TUBAL-Ezek 38:1-3.
    Note, "Gog" is portrayed as being in the land of Magog. Magog was the second son of Japheth-ref Gen 10. He settled in the land that is now known as Russia.
    "Gog" is also presented as the chief prince or (leader) of Meshech and Tubal. Some have suggested that "Gog" is a wicked angel or a spirit over Meshech and Tubal. Note that both Meshech and Tubal are described as being under the same leader. Some consider that Meshech is a reference to Moscow and that Tubal may refer to Tobolsk. Both of these are in the land of Magog (or Russia). It is interesting to note that Moscow is almost directly north of Israel. This area is at the "far or remotest north parts"-ref Ezek 39:1,2.
    It is written, AND I WILL TURN THEE (Gog) BACK (or turn you around), AND PUT HOOKS INTO THY JAWS, AND I WILL BRING THEE FORTH-Ezek 38:4. Note, God brings Russia forth. AND I WILL BRING THEE (Gog and many nations with them) AGAINST MY LAND (Israel)-Ezek 38:16. I WOULD BRING THEE (Gog) AGAINST THEM (Israel)-Ezek 38:17.
    AND I WILL TURN THEE BACK (or turn you around and drag you along-NIV) (or drive you on)…AND WILL CAUSE THEE TO COME UP…AND WILL BRING (or send) THEE UPON (or against) THE MOUNTAINS OF ISRAEL-Ezek 39:2.

7-GOD IS AGAINST RUSSIA AND ITS ALLIES

    God uses Russia to accomplish His purpose. Nevertheless, He is against Russia.
    It is written, SON OF MAN, SET THY FACE AGAINST GOG, (of) THE LAND OF MAGOG (which is modern day Russia), THE CHIEF PRINCE OF (Rosh) MESHECH AND TUBAL, AND PROPHESY AGAINST HIM, AND SAY, THUS SAITH THE LORD GOD; BEHOLD, I AM AGAINST THEE, O GOG, THE CHIEF PRINCE OF MESHECH AND TUBAL-Ezek 38:2,3.
    THEREFORE, THOU SON OF MAN, PROPHESY AGAINST GOG, AND SAY, THUS SAITH THE LORD GOD; BEHOLD, I AM AGAINST THEE, O GOG, THE CHIEF PRINCE OF (Rosh) MESHECH AND TUBAL-Ezek 39:1.

8-WHO INVADES ISRAEL?

    Russia appears to be the instigator of the invasion of  Israel.
    It is written, GOG, (of) THE LAND OF MAGOG (which is modern-day Russia), THE CHIEF PRINCE OF (Rosh-which is Russia) MESHECH AND TUBAL-Ezek 38:2.
    Gog is the leader. Magog is the land. Gog dwells in the land of Magog, which is described as THY PLACE OUT OF THE NORTH PARTS-Ezek 38:15. O GOG, THE CHIEF PRINCE (which can mean ruler, king, or leader) OF (Rosh, which is Russia) MESHECH AND TUBAL…I WILL TURN THEE BACK (or turn you around and drag you along-NIV, or drive you on)…AND WILL CAUSE THEE TO COME UP FROM THE (far or remotest) NORTH PARTS, AND WILL BRING (or send) THEE UPON (or against) THE MOUNTAINS OF ISRAEL-Ezek 39:1,2.
    Listing the names of other countries that may be included with Russia when they invade Israel can be difficult. This is because the borders and names of some countries change from time to time. Also, there is somewhat of a debate as to exactly which present-day countries would be included within the ancient borders of Gomer, Togarmah of the north quarters, and others.
    Based upon Ezek 38:2,3,5,6, other members of the invasion force allied with Russia may be:

    Noah had three sons, Japheth, Shem, and Ham. Israel came from the lineage of Shem.
    The sons of Japheth were Gomer, Magog, Madai, Javan, Tubal, Meshech, and Tiras. Togarmah was the third son of Gomer.
    Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal were called Scythians. They were considered nomads and wandered in the areas north of the Black and Caspian seas. They were known as the wildest barbarians.

9-GOG IS TOLD TO PREPARE AND BE A GUARD

    The leader of Russia is being told to be ready, prepare, and be a guard or be ready to protect the great military armada that is assembled for the invasion of Israel.
    It is written, BE THOU PREPARED (or get ready), AND PREPARE FOR THYSELF, THOU, AND ALL THY COMPANY THAT ARE ASSEMBLED (or gathered) UNTO THEE, AND BE THOU A GUARD UNTO (or for) THEM-Ezek 38:7.

10-THE FORCES INVADING ISRAEL ARE A GREAT MILITARY ARMADA

    It may be said, this great military armada will be the largest ever assembled in the history of the world. The military might of Russia, united with some European, Arab, and African nations, will be overwhelming. This combined military force, of millions of heavily armed troops—attacking the tiny nation of Israel—appears to be a mismatch of unparalleled proportions. The number of troops attacking Israel could be almost as many as the entire population of the nation of Israel. God’s Word calls this "a mighty army."
    It is written, ALL THINE (whole) ARMY, HORSES AND HORSEMEN, ALL OF THEM CLOTHED (or splendidly attired) WITH ALL SORTS OF ARMOR (fully armed), EVEN A GREAT COMPANY WITH BUCKLERS (or large) AND (small) SHIELDS, ALL OF THEM HANDLING SWORDS-Ezek 38:4. THOU, AND ALL THY BANDS (or troops), AND MANY PEOPLE (or nations) WITH THEE-Ezek 38:9. Note: 1-armor, 2-bucklers, and 3-shields are for defense. Also note: 1-swords are for offense. Swords are in plural form.
    THOU, AND MANY PEOPLE WITH THEE, ALL OF THEM RIDING UPON HORSES (perhaps denoting all riding in vehicles), A GREAT COMPANY, AND A MIGHTY ARMY-Ezek 38:15.

11-WHY DOES RUSSIA INVADE ISRAEL?

    The Scriptures give several reasons why they attack Israel. These are 1-to come against (or to attack) the people, 2-things relating to food, 3-various goods, and 4-riches.
    In considering these four items, certain things may be revealed about Russia prior to the invasion. 1-It is possible this is telling us that they are hostile toward Israel for some specific reason. 2-It may be indicating that Russia’s food situation, prior to their invasion, will not be good. 3-There may be various goods (which Israel has) that Russia wants and needs. 4-They may have learned about certain silver and gold reserves that Israel has, which are not known by most people. This could also indicate that the Russian money will not be a stable currency at the time prior to their invasion of Israel.
    It is written, they invade TO TAKE A SPOIL (or plunder), AND TO TAKE (or seize) A PREY (or loot); TO TURN THINE HAND UPON THE DESOLATE (or waste) PLACES (or ruins) THAT ARE NOW INHABITED (or resettled-which is Israel), AND UPON THE PEOPLE THAT ARE GATHERED OUT OF THE NATIONS (which is Israel), WHICH HAVE GOTTEN (or are rich in) CATTLE (or livestock) AND GOODS, THAT DWELL IN THE MIDST (or center) OF THE LAND (or world). SHEBA, AND DEDAN, AND THE MERCHANTS OF TARSHISH, WITH ALL THE YOUNG LIONS (or all its villages) THEREOF, SHALL SAY UNTO THEE, ART THOU COME TO TAKE (or capture) A SPOIL (or plunder)? HAST THOU GATHERED (or assembled) THY COMPANY TO TAKE (or seize) A PREY (or to loot)? TO CARRY AWAY SILVER AND GOLD, TO TAKE AWAY CATTLE (or livestock) AND GOODS, TO TAKE (or seize, or capture) A GREAT SPOIL (or much plunder)?-Ezek 38:12,13.

    Note, Sheba and Dedan is generally considered to be Saudi Arabia. Tarshish is much debated. Some believe this represents south Turkey, others believe Spain. There are also other opinions.
    God had warned Israel, IF YE FORSAKE THE LORD, AND SERVE STRANGE GODS, THEN HE WILL TURN AND DO YOU HURT, AND CONSUME YOU, AFTER THAT HE HATH DONE YOU GOOD-Jos 24:20.

12-THE SECOND SEAL: THE INVASION

    Russia and part of the great army, assembled with it to attack Israel, come from their place out of the north parts. It is a huge army with many people, all riding in vehicles.
    Part of the surprise invasion is an airborne assault with so many paratroopers that they are like a cloud to cover the land. They are shown to be upon the mountains of Israel, or, we may say, they take the high ground. Also, upon certain mountains, Israel has some very sophisticated listening and detection equipment. This is the beginning of what may be classified as World War III, even though only one-third of the world should be directly involved. Many will be slaughtered.
    It is written, AFTER MANY DAYS (or a long time into the future) THOU (which is modern-day Russia) SHALT BE VISITED (or summoned, or called to arms): IN THE LATTER (or future) YEARS THOU SHALT COME (or invade) INTO THE LAND…OF ISRAEL-Ezek 38:8.
    AND THOU (which is modern-day Russia) SHALT COME FROM THY PLACE OUT OF THE NORTH PARTS, THOU, AND MANY PEOPLE WITH THEE, ALL OF THEM RIDING UPON HORSES, A GREAT COMPANY, AND A MIGHTY ARMY: AND THOU SHALT COME UP (or advance) AGAINST MY PEOPLE OF ISRAEL, AS A CLOUD TO COVER THE LAND; IT SHALL BE IN THE LATTER DAYS (or days to come, or last days)-Ezek 38:15,16. GOG SHALL COME AGAINST (or attacks) THE LAND OF ISRAEL-Ezek 38:18.
    AND I WILL TURN THEE BACK (or turn you around and drag you along-NIV, or drive you on)…AND WILL CAUSE THEE TO COME UP FROM THE (far or remotest) NORTH PARTS, AND WILL BRING (or send) THEE UPON (or against) THE MOUNTAINS OF ISRAEL-Ezek 39:2. Though Israel may be pictured biblically as the center of the earth, the invading forces are portrayed as coming "up" to Israel, rather than "down" from the north.
    The second seal. It is written, AND THERE WENT OUT ANOTHER HORSE. John sees another horse THAT WAS RED (a fiery red one): AND POWER WAS GIVEN TO HIM THAT SAT THEREON (its rider) TO TAKE PEACE FROM THE EARTH. The second horse is red and represents war. Note, it says "take peace from the earth." Thus, this war may be classified as World War III.
    AND THAT THEY SHOULD KILL ONE ANOTHER (or slaughter each other).
    AND THERE WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM A GREAT (or large) SWORD-Rev 6:4. The person or nation that is designated to cause this war will be given a great or large sword. This indicates that this nation will be a great military power, capable of mass destruction throughout the earth.
    There are only two nations in the world that have the military capability to fulfill this prophecy. They are the USA and Russia. In this case, it is Russia and its allies that invade Israel.

13-THE INVASION COMES FAST

    Often-times a storm can come upon us very quickly. One moment the sky appears to be clear. Then, one hour later, the weather is stormy, and the rain is coming down with thunder and lightning. This appears to be the illustration God gives us of the invasion of Israel.
    It is written, THOU SHALT ASCEND (or go up) AND COME (advancing) LIKE A STORM, THOU SHALT BE LIKE A CLOUD TO COVER THE LAND, THOU, AND ALL THY BANDS (or troops), AND MANY PEOPLE (or nations) WITH THEE-Ezek 38:9.
    THE KING OF THE NORTH (Gog or Magog - Russia) SHALL COME AGAINST HIM (Israel) LIKE A WHIRLWIND-Dan 11:40.

14-THE INVASION INVOLVES THE LAND, SEA, AND AIR

    The invasion appears to come by land, sea, and air.
    It is written, THOU SHALT ASCEND (or go up) AND COME (advancing) LIKE A STORM-Ezek 38:9. This indicates a land invasion.
    THOU SHALT BE LIKE A CLOUD TO COVER THE LAND-Ezek 38:9. THOU SHALT COME UP (or advance) AGAINST MY PEOPLE OF ISRAEL, AS A CLOUD TO COVER THE LAND-Ezek 38:16. This indicates a possible airborne invasion.
    Russia comes with MANY SHIPS-Dan 11:40; THE SHIPS-Rev 8:9.
    This indicates the invasion will also be by the sea.

15-THE INVASION APPEARS TO COME FROM EVERY DIRECTION

    Ethiopia is involved in the invasion. Since they are located in Africa, south of Israel, we could surmise that in some way they will invade from the south or southwest.
    Russia and Iran could attack from the northeast, coming by way of Iraq and through Jordan. Some believe Iraq may also be involved in this invasion.
    Russia and its allies could also come by the way between the Black and Caspian seas, through Turkey and Syria. This would be from the north. Some believe Turkey will be allied with Russia in this invasion. Others also believe Syria will be involved in this invasion. An airborne drop into Lebanon could enable Russia to attack northern Israel by land. This could be reinforced by Russian ships dropping troops into Lebanon.
    Libya could come by the Mediterranean Sea or through Egypt from the west or southwest.
    Russia, with its many ships, could also be expected to attack from the Mediterranean Sea. This would be from the west.
    As already mentioned, an airborne invasion also seems to be involved. The airborne invasion, using Russia’s advanced air force, could neutralize much of Israel’s early warning detection systems located on various hills and mountains. A specialized aerial bombing could also neutralize much of Israel’s early warning devices, along with certain Russian military satellites.
    Russia, through use of its sophisticated satellite photography, could know almost minute by minute how Israel’s troops and air force were being deployed. They could also tune in electronically to much of Israel’s communications or even jam it.
    This is only speculation based on the location of some of the hostile, attacking countries. Such an invasion could be devastating with millions of troops advancing, quickly and simultaneously, from four directions including the air. The tiny country of Israel would appear to have no chance. Israel’s forces could be spread so thin that they could simply be overwhelmed.

16-THE INVASION CONTINUES

    One or more African nations shall engage Israel in battle. Russia will come like a whirlwind with many vehicles, perhaps tanks and artillery. They shall also come with many ships and possibly submarines.
    Russia shall also invade other countries and shall sweep through them like a flood. Many shall be overthrown. Russia shall enter into Israel. The chief of Jordan shall escape out of his hand. Russia shall come against many countries. Egypt shall not escape. Russia may double-cross Libya and Ethiopia and be at their steps.
    It is written, Dan 11:40-AND AT THE TIME OF THE END. In this case, the Tribulation period is being referred to. SHALL THE KING OF THE SOUTH (possibly Libya or Ethiopia-ref Ezek 38:5). Others would include Egypt or say it is Egypt. The king of the south shall PUSH AT HIM (or engage him in battle), or push at Israel-ref Ezek 38:4,8. AND THE KING OF THE NORTH (Gog or Magog - Russia)-ref Ezek 38:3,4,15. SHALL COME AGAINST HIM (Israel) LIKE A WHIRLWIND-ref Ezek 38:9. WITH CHARIOTS, AND WITH HORSEMEN (or cavalry), AND WITH MANY SHIPS. This description fits Russia-ref Ezek 38:3,4,16; note "ships"-ref Rev 8:9.
    AND HE (Gog or Russia and its allies) SHALL ENTER INTO THE (or invade many) COUNTRIES-ref Ezek 38:13. AND SHALL OVERFLOW AND PASS OVER (or sweep through them like a flood-NIV)-ref Ezek 38:9.
    Dan 11:41-HE (Gog or Russia) SHALL ENTER ALSO INTO (or invade) THE GLORIOUS (or beautiful) LAND (Israel)-ref Ezek 38:15,16. AND MANY COUNTRIES SHALL BE OVERTHROWN (or fall)-ref Ezek 38:13; Isa 10:7. BUT THESE SHALL ESCAPE (or be delivered) OUT OF (or from) HIS (Russia’s) HAND, EVEN EDOM, AND MOAB (present-day Jordan), AND THE CHIEF (or king, or ruler) OF THE CHILDREN OF AMMON. Amman, today, is the capital of Jordan.
    Dan 11:42-HE (Gog or Russia) SHALL STRETCH FORTH HIS HAND (or extend his power) ALSO UPON THE (or many) COUNTRIES: AND THE LAND OF EGYPT SHALL NOT ESCAPE.
    Dan 11:43-BUT HE (Gog or Russia) SHALL HAVE (or gain) POWER OVER THE TREASURES OF GOLD AND OF SILVER, AND OVER ALL THE PRECIOUS THINGS (or riches) OF EGYPT-ref Ezek 38:13. AND THE LIBYANS AND THE ETHIOPIANS SHALL BE AT HIS STEPS (or in submission).

17-WHEN GOG ATTACKS ISRAEL, GOD’S FURY SHALL RISE UP

    Once Russia has attacked Israel, God will be very angry. He will be jealous for His land.
    It is written, AND IT SHALL COME TO PASS (or this is what will happen-NIV) AT THE SAME TIME (or on that day) WHEN GOG SHALL COME AGAINST (or attacks) THE LAND OF ISRAEL, SAITH THE LORD GOD, THAT MY FURY (or hot anger) SHALL COME UP (or be aroused) IN MY FACE. FOR IN MY JEALOUSY (or zeal) AND IN THE FIRE (or blazing) OF MY WRATH HAVE I SPOKEN (or declare)-Ezek 38:18,19.

18-GOD WANTS ISRAEL TO TURN AND TRUST HIM

    Israel had turned from God. The Lord then brings the greatest military armada, in the history of the world, upon little Israel. Israel has no chance. God wants Israel to turn and trust Him for deliverance. When they finally are willing to turn to God and to cry out to Him for help, then the Lord will deliver them. This same message may also cover many times in the past for Israel.
    It is written, THEREFORE ALSO NOW, SAITH THE LORD, TURN YE EVEN TO ME WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH FASTING, AND WITH WEEPING, AND WITH MOURNING: AND REND YOUR HEART, AND NOT YOUR GARMENTS, AND TURN UNTO THE LORD YOUR GOD: FOR HE IS GRACIOUS AND MERCIFUL, SLOW TO ANGER, AND OF GREAT KINDNESS, AND REPENTETH HIM OF THE EVIL-Joel 2:12,13.
    WHO KNOWETH IF HE WILL RETURN AND REPENT, AND LEAVE A BLESSING BEHIND HIM; EVEN A MEAT OFFERING AND A DRINK OFFERING UNTO THE LORD YOUR GOD? BLOW THE TRUMPET IN ZION, SANCTIFY A FAST, CALL A SOLEMN ASSEMBLY: GATHER THE PEOPLE, SANCTIFY THE CONGREGATION, ASSEMBLE THE ELDERS, GATHER THE CHILDREN, AND THOSE THAT SUCK THE BREASTS: LET THE BRIDEGROOM GO FORTH OF HIS CHAMBER, AND THE BRIDE OUT OF HER CLOSET. LET THE PRIESTS, THE MINISTERS OF THE LORD, WEEP BETWEEN THE PORCH AND THE ALTAR, AND LET THEM SAY, SPARE THY PEOPLE, O LORD, AND GIVE NOT THINE HERITAGE TO REPROACH, THAT THE HEATHEN SHOULD RULE OVER THEM: WHEREFORE SHOULD THEY SAY AMONG THE PEOPLE, WHERE IS THEIR GOD? THEN WILL THE LORD BE JEALOUS FOR HIS LAND, AND PITY HIS PEOPLE-Joel 2:14-18.

19-THE RUSSIAN MILITARY AND ITS ALLIES BEING DESTROYED BY GOD

    From this point on, the end of the brief war takes two directions. One is the destruction of the Russian invasion force and its allies in Israel. This is done supernaturally by God.
    The other is the destruction of the land or nation of Russia and events related to it. These, in turn, result in the death of one-fourth of the world’s population. Both events appear to happen at about the same time.

(A main commentary)

    God comes to Israel’s rescue.
    The leader of Russia hears news that disturbs him coming from the east and from the north. The war now seems to be divided on two fronts.
    One is Russia’s war against other nations that may come to try to stop him. The other is the continuing battle against Israel.
    A great earthquake occurs in Israel. Men shake, because of the presence of the Lord. God begins to fight. Mountains are thrown down and cliffs crumble. The Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem may crumble at this time.
    God begins to destroy the great military forces that attacked Israel. He does it in such a way that both Jews and Gentiles will recognize there is a God, and His name is Jesus. The invading soldiers turn against each other and begin killing each other. Plagues strike the troops and they begin dropping dead. Torrential rains come, and gigantic hailstones fall from the sky. Fire and sulfur begin to rain from the sky. The weapons and ammunition of the invading troops fall from their hands. Most in this great military force die upon the mountains and open fields of Israel. Only one soldier in six is left alive. The invasion forces are devastated. God’s Word tells us, FOR ISRAEL HATH NOT BEEN FORSAKEN, NOR JUDAH OF HIS GOD, OF THE LORD OF HOSTS; THOUGH THEIR LAND WAS FILLED WITH SIN AGAINST THE HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL-Jere 51:5. This verse has been fulfilled in the past, but also appears to apply to the latter days.

20-THE BIBLE WARNS ABOUT JERUSALEM

    It is written, BEHOLD, I WILL MAKE JERUSALEM A CUP OF TREMBLING UNTO ALL THE PEOPLE ROUND ABOUT (or a cup that sends all the surrounding peoples reeling-NIV), WHEN THEY SHALL BE IN THE SIEGE BOTH AGAINST JUDAH AND AGAINST JERUSALEM-Zech 12:2. This verse applies to the time approaching the Battle of Armageddon; however, it also appears to apply to the Russian invasion of Israel.

21-NEWS SHALL BOTHER RUSSIA

    During the Russian invasion of Israel, Russia apparently hears news (possibly from China and possibly from the EEC or perhaps the North Atlantic Treaty Organization) that troubles him. The USA is a part of NATO as of the writing of this book. It may be that Russia and its allies do not expect the USA or EEC to oppose them.
    It is written, Dan 11:44-BUT TIDINGS (or reports) OUT OF THE EAST (which may be the kings of the east) AND OUT OF THE NORTH (which may be the EEC or NATO) SHALL TROUBLE (or alarm) HIM (Gog or Magog - Russia).

22-THERE WILL BE A GREAT EARTHQUAKE

    God’s fury comes up as a result of the great military armada coming against Israel. An earthquake occurs in the land of Israel at the presence of Almighty God. It may well be, at this time, the Dome of the Rock will crumble, which would clear the way for the building of the Tribulation temple. One might wonder, if this earthquake is actually the beginning of the destruction of these massive forces that came against Israel. One could envision Russian tanks and artillery being swallowed up. Clearly, men will be terrified and utterly shaken.
    It is written, SURELY IN THAT DAY THERE SHALL BE A GREAT SHAKING (or earthquake) IN THE LAND OF ISRAEL; SO THAT THE FISHES OF THE SEA, AND THE FOWLS (or birds) OF THE HEAVEN (or air), AND THE BEASTS OF THE FIELD, AND ALL CREEPING THINGS THAT CREEP UPON THE EARTH (or ground), AND ALL THE MEN THAT ARE UPON THE FACE OF THE EARTH, SHALL SHAKE (or tremble) AT MY PRESENCE, AND THE MOUNTAINS SHALL BE THROWN DOWN (or overturned), AND THE STEEP PLACES (or cliffs, or steep pathways) SHALL FALL (or crumble, or collapse), AND EVERY WALL SHALL FALL TO THE GROUND-Ezek 38:19,20.

23-A SWORD AGAINST GOG

    The end of this great invasion force is at hand. God destroys them in such a fashion that the world will recognize there really is a God in heaven and that His name is Jesus. We have noted as a result of the earthquake that men will be afraid.
    Then the invading soldiers will turn against each other and begin killing each other. God did this in Judges 7:22. All of a sudden, a plague hits the troops, and they begin dropping dead. God did this in 2 Ki 19:35 and Isa 37:36; 185,000 Assyrians died in one night. Great torrential rains and huge hailstones fall upon the invading armies. God also cast down hailstones from heaven in Jos 10:11.
    Fire and burning sulfur begin to rain from the sky, perhaps much like it did upon Sodom and Gomorrah. The weapons and ammunition of the invading troops will drop out of their hands. Masses of troops will die upon the mountains and the open fields of Israel.
    It will be done by God, for He has spoken it. The world will know that there is a God in heaven.
    It is written, AND I WILL CALL FOR (or summon) A SWORD AGAINST HIM (against Gog or Magog - Russia) THROUGHOUT ALL MY MOUNTAINS, SAITH THE LORD GOD: EVERY MAN'S SWORD SHALL BE AGAINST HIS BROTHER. AND I WILL PLEAD (or execute judgment) AGAINST HIM WITH PESTILENCE (or with plague) AND WITH BLOOD (or bloodshed); AND I WILL RAIN (or pour down) UPON HIM, AND UPON HIS BANDS (or troops), AND UPON THE MANY PEOPLE (or nations) THAT ARE WITH HIM, AN OVERFLOWING RAIN (or torrential rain, or torrents of rain), AND GREAT HAILSTONES, FIRE, AND BRIMSTONE (or burning sulfur)-Ezek 38:21,22.
    AND I WILL SMITE (or strike) THY BOW OUT OF THY LEFT HAND, AND WILL CAUSE THINE ARROWS TO FALL (or drop) OUT OF THY RIGHT HAND. THOU SHALT FALL UPON THE MOUNTAINS OF ISRAEL, THOU, AND ALL THY BANDS (or troops), AND THE PEOPLE (or nations) THAT IS WITH THEE. THOU SHALT FALL UPON THE OPEN FIELD: FOR I HAVE SPOKEN IT, SAITH (or declares) THE LORD GOD-Ezek 39:3-5.

24-GOG SHALL COME TO HIS END

    Russia appears to put its headquarters in the holy mountain, and then his end comes.
    It is written, Dan 11:45-AND HE (Gog or Magog - Russia) SHALL PLANT THE TABERNACLES OF HIS PALACE (or royal tents, or headquarters) BETWEEN THE SEAS (between the Mediterranean Sea and the Dead Sea) IN THE GLORIOUS HOLY MOUNTAIN; YET HE (Gog or Russia) SHALL COME TO HIS END, AND NONE SHALL HELP HIM-ref Ezek 38:21,22; 39:2-6.
   Joel 2:20-BUT I WILL REMOVE FAR OFF FROM YOU THE NORTHERN ARMY, AND WILL DRIVE HIM INTO A LAND BARREN AND DESOLATE, WITH HIS FACE TOWARD THE EAST SEA, AND HIS HINDER PART TOWARD THE UTMOST SEA, AND HIS STINK SHALL COME UP, AND HIS ILL SAVOR SHALL COME UP, BECAUSE HE HATH DONE GREAT THINGS.
   The meaning of both these verses is much debated.  In Joel 2:20, the "northern army" has been thought to represent locusts, Assyria, Babylon, and others.

25-ONE-SIXTH WILL BE LEFT

    A huge military force had attacked Israel. Millions of troops were probably involved. Nevertheless, after God unleashes His wrath upon them, only one in six is left alive. Out of every six soldiers, five are now dead, yet their destruction may take only a few hours.
    It is written, AND I WILL TURN THEE BACK (or turn you around and drag you along-NIV, or drive you on), AND LEAVE BUT THE SIXTH PART OF THEE-Ezek 39:2.

26-THE LAND OF RUSSIA AND THE UNITED STATES BEING DESTROYED BY NUCLEAR WEAPONS: 
ONE-FOURTH OF THE WORLD’S POPULATION DIES

(A main commentary)

    Russia hears of tidings; he then goes forth in a rage to destroy many. The Revelation seems to depict one-fourth of the world’s population being killed as a result of this war. This mass destruction appears to last only eight hours and has all the earmarks of a nuclear exchange. Deadly gas may also be included. Neutron weapons could be involved.
    There are only two nations in the world that are capable of causing such mass destruction. They are the United States and Russia.
    During Russia’s invasion of Israel, something seems to trigger them to attempt to destroy the United States with nuclear weapons. It may be something that they hear. It appears that Russia sends a combination of its ICBM’s (intercontinental ballistic missiles) and submarine missiles raining down upon the USA. They may also send missiles against any other nation considered a threat. Russia may think that the surprise attack will destroy the United States and that no retaliation will come forth against them.
    Nevertheless, the United States appears to retaliate against the land of Russia with nuclear weapons. Both nations may be almost totally annihilated. As a result of this nuclear exchange, a third part of the trees of the earth are burned up. This appears to be the size of the total land area of the nations of the earth that are involved in this war.
    Also, all green grass, all over the world, is burned up. This indicates that the farm crops, all over the world, are destroyed, possibly from radioactive fallout. Mass starvation follows.
    Then a third part of the sea creatures die. This would cause further starvation. A third of the world’s ships are destroyed. This may include the ships of the USA, Russia, and other countries involved in this war. Then something strikes the earth, and a third of the fountains and rivers become poisoned or bitter with wormwood. This may indicate that the waters become radioactive. Many men die from these waters.
    The nuclear exchange may last only eight hours. During this eight hours, the light of the sun, moon, and stars over one-third of the earth does not shine.
    Massive famine occurs all over the earth. Multitudes of people starve to death. Countries that currently have food shortages, or that depend a great deal on farming, may be the hardest hit.
    As a result of this devastating nuclear exchange, one out of every four people on planet Earth die. The population of the world, as of the writing of this book, is between five and six billion people. Consider, over one billion people will die; of this staggering number—every single one will perish to hell.
    Consider the nations and their populations that are listed as being involved in this war. Consider that the EEC often seems to be alluded to during the Tribulation. Israel is the focal point during the Tribulation. In light of these things, there seems to be one inescapable conclusion: much of the over one billion people that die come from the USA and Russia. It is very likely that much of the population of Russia will be killed, as well as much of the population of the United States. The USA will be punished for its sin. In the United States and Russia, those that do not repent, before the Tribulation, may not have another chance to repent thereafter, as many of them could be dead. The nations of Iran, and possibly Iraq, Libya, Ethiopia, and all the nations that are involved with Russia during this invasion, will likely suffer great destruction and loss of life.
    From this point on, the EEC and Israel become the focal point in the world. The United States and Russia appear to be out of the picture during the rest of the Tribulation, after having rained mass destruction upon each other.
    The Lord says, "IT IS COME, AND IT IS DONE"-Ezek 39:8.
    As a result of God’s supernatural destruction of the greatest war machine ever assembled to date, many people throughout the world will understand that there is a God. Many will begin to understand that Jesus is the only way to be saved. He will be known in the eyes of many nations. The heathen and those that dwell in the isles shall know that Jesus is the Lord. The house of Israel shall know that Jesus is the Lord from that day and forward.

27-FIRE SENT UPON THE ISLES

    The leader of Russia can be expected to go forth in fury to destroy many. This may be the beginning of the destruction of the United States and perhaps some other countries. God shows that He will send fire on them that dwell safely in the isles. The fire may be nuclear, multihead missiles coming down from the sky that will bring a fiery destruction. Again, this may be indicating that Russia will be used by God to bring judgment upon the United States, for its turning away from Jesus and its great wickedness, after the born-again Christians have been removed in the Rapture. The time it takes for the nuclear missiles to strike the United States, launched from Russia, could be as little as fifteen minutes. The time for the nuclear missiles from Russian submarines to strike the United States could be 8 minutes or less.
    It is written, THEREFORE HE (Gog or Magog - Russia) SHALL GO FORTH WITH GREAT FURY (or in a great rage) TO DESTROY, AND UTTERLY TO MAKE AWAY (or annihilate) MANY-Dan 11:44.
    AND I WILL SEND A FIRE ON…THEM THAT DWELL CARELESSLY (or in safety) IN THE ISLES (or coastlands)-Ezek 39:6.

28-FIRE SENT UPON THE COUNTRY OF RUSSIA

    Nevertheless, the United States can be expected to retaliate against Russia with its own nuclear missiles, just prior to its destruction.
    It is written, AND I WILL SEND A FIRE ON MAGOG (which is the land of Russia)-Ezek 39:6.

29-THE TRUMPETS PREPARE TO SOUND

    It is written, AND I SAW THE SEVEN ANGELS WHICH STOOD BEFORE GOD; AND TO THEM WERE GIVEN SEVEN TRUMPETS. AND THE SEVEN ANGELS WHICH HAD THE SEVEN TRUMPETS PREPARED THEMSELVES TO SOUND. AND THE ANGEL TOOK THE CENSER, AND FILLED IT WITH FIRE OF THE ALTAR, AND CAST IT INTO THE EARTH: AND THERE WERE VOICES, AND THUNDERINGS, AND LIGHTNINGS, AND AN EARTHQUAKE. AND THE SEVEN ANGELS WHICH HAD THE SEVEN TRUMPETS (or shofars) PREPARED THEMSELVES TO SOUND (them)-Rev 8:2,5,6.
    As the following items are studied, they need to be looked at from the perspective that John saw them. How would John describe jet airplanes? How would he describe a tank? How would he describe a nuclear attack with missiles raining down upon the earth?
    Seal two was the red horse, representing war. As a result, a worldwide famine followed, which was seal three. Hence, one-fourth of the world’s population died, which was seal four—representing death. The trumpets help us to understand these things in more detail.
    Until the nuclear age began, the first four trumpet judgments would appear to have been impossible to understand. But now, with the introduction of such weapons as missiles, lasers, the atom bomb, the hydrogen bomb, the neutron bomb, and others, these scriptures come to life with new meaning. The first four trumpets appear to sound, one right after the other, in rapid succession. They could all sound in the same day.

30-THE FIRST TRUMPET

    THE FIRST ANGEL SOUNDED (his shofar or trumpet), AND THERE FOLLOWED (or came) HAIL (which may be hailstones or missiles raining down upon the earth) AND FIRE MINGLED (or mixed) WITH BLOOD. The hail and fire may well represent a nuclear exchange between Russia and the United States. The blood may represent a very great number of people being killed. This nuclear exchange may be the result of the Russian-Arab invasion of Israel. We may be reminded of the great fireball and heat that results from a nuclear explosion and the multitudes of fires that would occur. The blood could be a result of this. Hail and fire are also mentioned in Ex 9:23.
    The hail and fire mixed with blood WERE CAST (or hurled down) UPON THE EARTH: (and a third of the earth was burned up-NASB) AND THE THIRD PART OF TREES WAS BURNT UP. As a result of such a nuclear exchange, one-third of all the trees on planet Earth are burned up or destroyed. This may also indicate that one-third of the world’s land mass will be directly involved in the war. If one would consider all the nations involved in this conflict (as listed in Ezekiel chapter 38) and add in the United States and the nations of the EEC, the result would appear to be one-third of the land surface of the earth. This, in itself, is an incredible prophecy.
    The verse continues, AND ALL GREEN GRASS WAS BURNT UP-Rev 8:7. As a consequence of the nuclear exchange and the resulting radioactive fallout, all green grass is burned up or destroyed over the entire earth. Consider, all farm crops worldwide being burned up and destroyed. There would be famine and starvation such as the world could not imagine. Places like Africa, China, and India would see countless people starve. The entire world would be hard hit. Food prices would soar. It would take a day’s wages to buy a day’s worth of food. There is also a similarity between this verse and Ezek 38:22; ref Rev 6:3,4, the red horse—war.

31-NUCLEAR WEAPONS TODAY

    Few people today understand the power of the nuclear weapons that exist. Consider the nuclear bombs that were dropped in World War II. They were each rated at 20,000 pounds of TNT. Some of today’s bombs are rated at 50 million pounds of TNT. This is approximately 2500 times more powerful. Can one conceive a single bomb now being equal to 2500 World War II nuclear bombs combined? Can a person conceive that a single missile could carry many nuclear bombs at once and that each individual bomb can be pinpointed to its own specific target as it makes its descent to the earth? Can we understand that both Russia and the United States have enough of these weapons left that either country could destroy all life on the earth several times? Can we understand what would happen, if the United States and Russia unleashed this destructive force against the other in what may be called World War III?
    When such a bomb explodes, immediately there is a flash of light that is so intense, a person’s eyes can be instantly destroyed. The heat of the blast is so intense, a person can be instantly fried like an egg. The resulting blast is such that virtually nothing will be left standing within a certain proximity, depending on the size of the bomb. Next there is the reverse blast coming back in toward the center.
    There is also the unseen radioactivity. This is the silent killer. As a result, nothing within a certain range of the bomb will live. As the cloud from the bomb rises high into the atmosphere, it is full of radioactive fallout that rains down upon the earth as the winds blow the cloud this way or that. This can continue for a long period of time, resulting in radioactive poisoning of the crops or any living thing that is in its path. It may be said, the crops will be burnt up. Entire areas of land can be so poisoned from the radioactivity that no person can safely dwell or plant crops there for many years to come.
    The first four trumpets appear to be showing us the results of such a nuclear exchange.
    We can surmise that both Russia and the United States may nearly destroy each other; for this reason, there appears to be an absence of Scripture concerning the United States during most of the Tribulation.
    Trumpets number one through four appear to be dealing with the war and aftereffects of the war of Ezekiel chapters 38 and 39, as well as seal two, three, and four of Rev 6:3-8. This is the Russian-Arab invasion of Israel.

32-THE SECOND TRUMPET

    It is written, AND THE SECOND ANGEL SOUNDED (his shofar or trumpet). John then saw, AS IT WERE (or what looked like) A GREAT (or huge) MOUNTAIN BURNING WITH FIRE (or all ablaze) WAS CAST (or hurled) INTO THE SEA. Missiles coming through the atmosphere might fit this description of what John saw. As a result of this huge object being hurled into the sea, three things are described.
    1-AND THE THIRD PART OF THE SEA BECAME (or turned into) BLOOD-Rev 8:8.
    2-AND THE THIRD PART OF THE CREATURES WHICH WERE IN THE SEA, AND HAD LIFE, DIED;
    3-AND THE THIRD PART OF THE SHIPS WERE DESTROYED-Rev 8:9. From this, it appears, not only will the war take place on one-third of the land surface of the world, but also one-third of the seas or oceans will also become involved. One-third of the world’s ships may number several thousand. One unconfirmed source has put the total number of ships in the world at approximately 45,000. There would also be a huge number of casualties from this.
    Again, we should try to understand what John saw in the context of what he would have perceived in his day. John saw something large that appeared to be burning. It was cast into the sea. This appears to tell us that it came from above the sea, from the sky. As a result of this huge burning object being hurled into the sea, one-third of the sea became blood, one-third of the sea creatures died, and one-third of the ships were destroyed. In view of today’s technology, this seems to indicate some sort of huge weapon or accumulation of weapons, such as missiles armed with nuclear warheads, entering the atmosphere. The purpose may be to destroy ships. This could be Russian military forces seeking to destroy the U.S. vessels, including submarines, and the United States responding by destroying Russia’s ships. The end result appears to be that one-third of the world’s ships were destroyed, but in the same manner, one-third of the sea life also died. The sea became blood.

33-MILITARY SURVEILLANCE

    Both Russia and the United States have surveillance and listening devices in the oceans to detect and track enemy vessels, including ships and submarines. They sometimes follow each other. Satellites with super sensitive cameras and other devices are also taking pictures from space of things both on land and sea; they can photograph very small objects on the earth from hundreds of miles in space. They also have listening devices that are so sophisticated that they can tune into and record masses of phone calls from places around the world.

34-THE THIRD TRUMPET

    It is written, AND THE THIRD ANGEL SOUNDED (his shofar, or trumpet), AND THERE FELL A GREAT STAR FROM HEAVEN (or sky), BURNING AS IT WERE A LAMP (or a torch). This could be some form of military device or missile entering the atmosphere. Such a device could appear as a "great star burning as a lamp." Its appearance could be as a giant shooting star. John noted that IT FELL (from the sky or heaven) UPON THE THIRD PART OF THE RIVERS, AND UPON THE FOUNTAINS (or springs) OF WATERS-Rev 8:10.\
    AND THE NAME OF THE STAR IS CALLED WORMWOOD (or bitterness): AND THE THIRD PART OF THE WATERS BECAME WORMWOOD (or bitter): AND MANY MEN (or people) DIED OF THE WATERS, BECAUSE THEY WERE MADE BITTER-Rev 8:11.
    As a result of the object that John saw falling from the sky, one-third of the rivers and springs of waters become deadly or poisoned. Some might consider that this object, as it was coming down from the sky, could split into many pieces or objects, such as a multiple warhead missile (an intercontinental ballistic missile whose several warheads can be scattered). Some form of specially designed biological or radioactive devices, or even radioactive fallout from nuclear explosions, could cause the rivers and fountains to become poisoned, resulting in many deaths.
    Wormwood is mentioned in the Scriptures twice in the New Testament and also seven times in the Old Testament ("apsinthos" in Greek).
    The word "wormwood" has been highly researched by Bible scholars. One problem we have is that certain things, which exist today, were unknown to the people at the time this was written. No word existed in their language to accurately describe what this or that was. In the case of the name "wormwood," as it is used here, many believe it is referring to radioactivity. Should this great object falling from the sky cause the rivers and springs to become radioactive, then they could be deadly to people that drink them; indeed, many could die from the waters, as they had become poisoned (or radioactive).
    Again, these things seem to help explain in more detail, what we call, World War III.

35-THE FOURTH TRUMPET

    AND THE FOURTH ANGEL SOUNDED (his shofar or trumpet), AND THE THIRD PART OF THE SUN WAS SMITTEN (or struck), AND THE THIRD PART OF THE MOON, AND THE THIRD PART OF THE STARS. The terms sun, moon, and stars would indicate all over the earth. For when the sun is shining in one place, on the opposite side of the earth the moon and stars should be shining. The term "one-third" is explained next. SO AS THE THIRD PART OF THEM WAS DARKENED, AND THE DAY SHONE NOT (or was without light) FOR A THIRD PART OF IT, AND THE NIGHT LIKEWISE-Rev 8:12. This is showing us that one-third of the day was darkened. One-third of the night was darkened. Consider, the day is approximately twelve hours long. The night is approximately twelve hours long. One-third of the day would equal four hours. One-third of the night would equal four hours. Put them together and they would equal eight hours. It may be that the nuclear exchange between Russia and the United States will last eight hours. As a result of these eight hours, seal four, which is death, will claim over one billion lives-ref Rev 6:7,8. Death will claim one-fourth of the world’s population. The mass of nuclear and other kinds of devastating explosions (for perhaps eight hours) and the resulting very thick cloud cover may cause the sun, moon, and stars to all be darkened for eight hours.
    This may also denote the total surface area of the earth that will be covered by these dense clouds, blocking the light of the sun, moon, and stars as a result of the war.

36-SUMMARY OF THE FIRST FOUR TRUMPETS:  WHAT TAKES PLACE

37-THE RESULTS

38-THE THIRD SEALMASSIVE FAMINE

    AND WHEN HE (the Lamb, Jesus) HAD OPENED (or broke) THE THIRD SEAL, I HEARD THE THIRD BEAST (or living being, which had the face of a man) SAY, COME AND SEE. AND I BEHELD, AND LO A BLACK HORSE (before me); AND HE THAT SAT ON HIM (its rider) HAD A PAIR OF BALANCES (or scales) IN HIS HAND-Rev 6:5.
    AND I HEARD (what sounded like) A VOICE IN THE MIDST OF THE FOUR BEASTS (or living beings) SAY, A MEASURE (or two pounds, or a quart) OF WHEAT (what may be considered a day’s food) FOR A PENNY (or a day’s wages), AND THREE MEASURES (or six pounds, or three quarts) OF BARLEY FOR A PENNY (or a day’s wages). We seem to have a picture of the existing food carefully being measured out on a scale or set of balances. This appears to be showing the extreme scarcity of food upon the earth.
    AND SEE THOU HURT NOT (or do not damage) THE OIL AND THE WINE-Rev 6:6. Some believe that this last part of the passage is indicating there will not be enough money leftover to buy any oil or wine, or that even the rich will be hindered from buying oil and wine. The exact meaning of this passage is uncertain.
    Already there is starvation in some places around the world. However, seal two describes to us the results of a massive war, where famine seems to exist all over the world. We might consider asking, what would be the results of a massive war that used nuclear weapons? As radioactive fallout occurred, farm crops all over the earth could be ruined. Do the Scriptures indicate that this war will involve nuclear weapons? The answer appears to be, yes.
    Famines are also mentioned during the Tribulation in Mt 24:7.
    The worldwide famine follows the great war; thus, it can be expected to commence at the beginning of the Tribulation.

39-THE FOURTH SEAL:  ONE-FOURTH OF THE WORLD’S POPULATION DIES

    AND WHEN HE (the Lamb, Jesus) HAD OPENED (or broke) THE FOURTH SEAL, I HEARD THE VOICE OF THE FOURTH BEAST (or living creature, which was like a flying eagle) SAY, COME AND SEE-Rev 6:7. Some have wondered that since the emblem of the USA is the eagle with outstretched wings—could this mean trouble for the United States?
    AND I LOOKED, AND BEHOLD (in front of me) A PALE (or pallid, sickly-looking) HORSE. The word used here could indicate a pale green, such as a dead green or a dying green. AND HIS NAME THAT SAT ON HIM WAS DEATH (its rider was named death-NIV). There has just been a great war. Famines resulted. Death AND HELL (or sh’ol, or Hades) FOLLOWED WITH HIM (or close behind him, close behind death). What is being said here, if fully comprehended, is terrifying. Hell followed the rider of death.
    AND POWER (or authority) WAS GIVEN UNTO THEM (plural) OVER THE FOURTH PART (or one-quarter) OF THE EARTH-Rev 6:8. This appears almost unbelievable. As a result of the war, one-quarter of the earth will die. We might ask, "What on earth could cause such a thing?" The answer is a war with nuclear weapons. When Russia attacks Israel, will the United States stand by? We might consider that the United States and Russia will end up being involved in a nuclear exchange. Do other scriptures support this? It would seem that they do. This could explain why the United States is clearly missing from world events, in the Scriptures, during nearly the entire Tribulation.
    Also, consider that hell followed with death, which involved one-fourth of the earth’s population. The Scripture is indicating that every single person that died went to hell. Well over one billion people perished to hell. How could this be? Consider, if the Rapture had just happened, and all born-again believers were gone, the only ones left on the earth would be the unredeemed. Almost immediately, the great war and a nuclear exchange occur. Over a billion people die and perish forever. They perish to hell.
    Considering the nations that will be involved in the war, according to the Scriptures, we might recognize that the majority of the causalities will come from the Middle East, Russia, Europe, Africa, and from the United States; however, the results will affect the entire world. Ezek chapters 38 and 39, and many other scriptures, tend to support this.
    Power was given to the rider of the pale horse TO KILL. He kills WITH (or by) SWORD (or war), AND WITH HUNGER (or famine), AND WITH DEATH (or plagues, or pestilence), AND WITH THE (wild) BEASTS (or animals) OF THE EARTH-Rev 6:8.

40-IT IS COME, IT IS DONE

    It is written, BEHOLD, IT IS COME (or coming), AND IT IS (or shall be) DONE, SAITH THE LORD GOD; THIS IS THE DAY WHEREOF I HAVE SPOKEN-Ezek 39:8.

41-WHAT IS THE REASON GOD BRINGS RUSSIA AND ITS ALLIES AGAINST ISRAEL?
GOD WILL MAGNIFY HIMSELF SO THE WORLD WILL KNOW THAT HE IS THE LORD

    The Rapture has just happened; then the Antichrist comes forward, assumes control of the EEC, and signs a covenant with Israel. Because of the Rapture, there are no born-again Christians left on the earth. All those that are left have rejected Jesus Christ as their only hope of salvation. Many that claimed they believed on Jesus Christ, refused to allow Him to reign over them. Many that were left were only lukewarm.
    God is now going to do something that will awaken this sinful world (both Israel and the Gentiles) to the fact that there is a God and that Jesus Christ is the only way to be saved.
    The Lord then sets up a special situation. God brings the greatest military invasion force in the history of the world against the little nation of Israel. This huge army, from many nations, is so massive that even God calls it a GREAT COMPANY, AND A MIGHTY ARMY-Ezek 38:15. Israel has no chance of winning. God then intercedes supernaturally and destroys nearly all of this enormous invasion force. God does this in such an incredible way that both the people of Israel and the world will know that there is a God and that His name is JESUS. From this point on, many people will be seeking God. The evangelism of the world will begin to take place through 144,000 male, virgin Jews. Many will get saved, but they will have to face horrible persecutions. Eventually, many will be martyred for their faith in Jesus.
    It is written, AND THOU SHALT COME UP (or advance) AGAINST MY PEOPLE OF ISRAEL…IT SHALL BE IN THE LATTER DAYS (or days to come, or last days), AND I WILL BRING THEE AGAINST MY LAND, THAT (or in order) THE HEATHEN (or nations) MAY KNOW ME, WHEN I SHALL BE SANCTIFIED (or show Myself holy) IN (or through) THEE, O GOG, BEFORE THEIR EYES-Ezek 38:16.
    THUS WILL I MAGNIFY MYSELF (or show My greatness), AND SANCTIFY MYSELF; AND I WILL BE KNOWN (or make Myself known) IN THE EYES OF MANY NATIONS, AND (then) THEY SHALL KNOW THAT I AM THE LORD-Ezek 38:23.
    MAGOG, AND…THEM THAT DWELL CARELESSLY (or in safety) IN THE ISLES…THEY SHALL KNOW THAT I AM THE LORD-Ezek 39:6.
    SO WILL I MAKE MY HOLY NAME KNOWN IN THE MIDST OF MY PEOPLE ISRAEL; AND I WILL NOT LET THEM POLLUTE MY HOLY NAME (or let My holy name be profaned-NIV) ANY MORE: AND THE HEATHEN (or nations) SHALL KNOW THAT I AM THE LORD, THE HOLY ONE IN ISRAEL-Ezek 39:7.
    AND I WILL SET (or display) MY GLORY AMONG THE HEATHEN (or nations), AND ALL THE HEATHEN (or nations) SHALL SEE MY JUDGMENT (or punishment) THAT I HAVE EXECUTED (or inflict), AND MY HAND THAT I HAVE LAID UPON THEM. SO THE HOUSE OF ISRAEL SHALL KNOW THAT I AM THE LORD THEIR GOD FROM THAT DAY AND FORWARD. AND THE HEATHEN (or nations) SHALL KNOW THAT THE HOUSE (or people) OF ISRAEL WENT INTO CAPTIVITY (or exile) FOR THEIR INIQUITY (or sin): BECAUSE THEY TRESPASSED (or acted treacherously, or were unfaithful) AGAINST ME, THEREFORE HID I MY FACE FROM THEM, AND GAVE (or handed) THEM INTO THE HAND OF THEIR ENEMIES: SO FELL THEY ALL BY THE SWORD. ACCORDING TO THEIR UNCLEANNESS AND ACCORDING TO THEIR TRANSGRESSIONS (or offenses) HAVE I DONE UNTO THEM, AND HID MY FACE FROM THEM-Ezek 39:21-24.
    I WILL BRING (Gog) AGAINST MY LAND (because):

42-THE TIMING OF THE RUSSIAN INVASION OF ISRAEL

    Ezekiel chapter 38 and 39 show clearly why God brings Gog against Israel: so that many people, both Jew and Gentile, will know there is a God in heaven. Many will believe and get saved as a result of Gog being supernaturally destroyed. The destruction of Gog and his armies will be the beginning of a revival during the first half of the Tribulation, both among the Jews and Gentiles. These things reveal clearly why the invasion of Israel happens at the beginning of the Tribulation, soon after the Rapture occurs. The verses covering seal four (showing all who are killed perish to hell) could not be fulfilled, if this event were to happen further on in the first part of the Tribulation.                                       

43-AFTER THE WAR IS OVER

(A main commentary)

    The war seems to end as fast as it began, leaving perhaps millions of dead bodies in Israel. The Lord speaks to the predatory birds and to the beasts of the field to come to His sacrifice and eat the flesh of the dead who invaded Israel, both of horses and of mighty men. They will eat the fat till they are full. They will drink the blood till they are drunken with God’s sacrifice.
    The multitude of weapons of the invading forces will be burned for fuel seven years; Israel will not need to cut down any wood out of the forests.
    They will now rob and spoil those that robbed and spoiled them.
    Israel will begin to bury the remains of the invading forces. All appear to help. It will take seven months. The land shall be cleansed. Men will be employed and the land shall be searched for remaining bones. Once a person finds a bone, a sign is placed by it until it is buried. Gog and his allies shall be buried in the valley of Hamon-gog. The city there shall be called Hamonah.

44-THE MULTITUDE OF DEAD BODIES OF THE ARMIES WILL
BE EATEN BY THE BIRDS AND WILD ANIMALS

    The war seems to end as fast as it began. After God has destroyed the massive array of troops that invaded Israel, there will be, perhaps, millions of dead bodies. God will give these to the predatory birds and wild animals to eat.
    It is written, I WILL GIVE THEE (which is the great military invasion force that invaded Israel) (as food) UNTO THE RAVENOUS (or predatory) BIRDS OF EVERY SORT, AND TO THE BEASTS (or wild animals) OF THE FIELD TO BE DEVOURED-Ezek 39:4.
    AND, THOU SON OF MAN, THUS SAITH THE LORD GOD; SPEAK UNTO EVERY (kind of) FEATHERED FOWL (or bird), AND TO EVERY BEAST OF THE FIELD (or wild animals), ASSEMBLE YOURSELVES, AND COME; GATHER YOURSELVES ON EVERY SIDE TO MY SACRIFICE THAT I DO SACRIFICE (or am preparing) FOR YOU, EVEN A GREAT SACRIFICE UPON THE MOUNTAINS OF ISRAEL, THAT YE MAY (there) EAT FLESH, AND DRINK BLOOD. YE SHALL EAT THE FLESH OF THE MIGHTY (men), AND DRINK THE BLOOD OF THE PRINCES OF THE EARTH, (as if they were) OF RAMS, OF LAMBS, AND OF GOATS, OF BULLOCKS (or bulls), ALL OF THEM FATLINGS (or fattened animals) OF BASHAN. AND YE SHALL EAT FAT TILL YE BE FULL, AND DRINK BLOOD TILL YE BE DRUNKEN, OF MY SACRIFICE WHICH I HAVE SACRIFICED (or am preparing) FOR YOU. THUS YE SHALL BE FILLED AT MY TABLE WITH HORSES AND CHARIOTS (or charioteers, or riders), WITH MIGHTY MEN, AND WITH ALL MEN OF WAR (or soldiers of every kind), SAITH THE LORD GOD-Ezek 39:17-20.
    The dead bodies of the vast military armada that invaded Israel shall be given to:

45-THE WEAPONS ARE BURNED

    The weapons of the dead soldiers will be burned for fuel seven years; because of this, Israel will not need to take wood out of the fields or forests.
    It is written, AND THEY THAT DWELL IN THE CITIES (or towns) OF ISRAEL SHALL GO FORTH, AND SHALL SET ON (or make) FIRE AND BURN THE WEAPONS (for fuel), BOTH THE (small) SHIELDS AND THE BUCKLERS (or large shields), THE BOWS AND THE ARROWS, AND THE HANDSTAVES (or war clubs), AND THE SPEARS, AND THEY SHALL BURN THEM WITH FIRE (or make fires of them) SEVEN YEARS (for fuel): SO THAT THEY SHALL TAKE (or need) NO WOOD OUT OF THE FIELD, NEITHER CUT DOWN (or gather) ANY (firewood) OUT OF THE FORESTS; FOR THEY SHALL BURN THE WEAPONS WITH FIRE (for fuel) (or make fires with the weapons-NASB)-Ezek 39:9,10. 

46-ISRAEL WILL GET THE PLUNDER OF THOSE THAT PLUNDERED THEM

    As the invading armies came to rob and steal from Israel; now Israel will seize the plunder from them.
    It is written, AND THEY SHALL (take the) SPOIL (of) THOSE THAT SPOILED THEM, AND ROB THOSE THAT ROBBED THEM (or seize the plunder of those who plundered them-NASB), SAITH THE LORD GOD-Ezek 39:10.

47-THE DEAD BURIED

    Gog and his huge military force came to Israel to steal and destroy; however, God destroyed them. Now their dead bodies shall be buried in Israel. There will be so many dead bodies and bones, it will take seven months to bury them. All the people of the land shall bury them. Men shall be employed. After seven months the land shall be searched for remaining bones.
    AND IT SHALL COME TO PASS IN THAT DAY, THAT I WILL GIVE UNTO GOG A PLACE THERE OF GRAVES (a burial place) IN ISRAEL, (in) THE VALLEY OF THE PASSENGERS (or those who pass by, or travel) ON THE EAST OF THE SEA (or those who travel east toward the sea-NIV): AND IT SHALL STOP (or block off) THE NOSES OF THE PASSENGERS (or passers-by, or travelers) (because Gog and all his hordes will be buried there-NIV): AND THERE SHALL THEY BURY GOG AND ALL HIS MULTITUDE: AND THEY SHALL CALL IT THE VALLEY OF HAMON-GOG. AND SEVEN MONTHS SHALL THE HOUSE OF ISRAEL BE BURYING OF THEM, (in order) THAT THEY MAY CLEANSE THE LAND-Ezek 39:11,12. YEA, ALL THE PEOPLE OF THE LAND SHALL BURY THEM; AND IT SHALL BE TO THEM A RENOWN (or a memorable day) (on) THE DAY THAT I SHALL BE GLORIFIED, SAITH THE LORD GOD. AND THEY SHALL SEVER OUT (or set apart) MEN OF CONTINUAL EMPLOYMENT, PASSING THROUGH THE LAND TO BURY WITH THE PASSENGERS THOSE THAT REMAIN (or left) UPON THE FACE (or surface) OF THE EARTH (or ground), TO CLEANSE IT: AFTER THE END OF SEVEN MONTHS SHALL THEY (begin their) SEARCH. (Men will be regularly employed to cleanse the land. Some will go throughout the land and, in addition to them, others will bury those that remain on the ground. At the end of the seven months they will begin their search-NIV.)
    AND THE PASSENGERS (those) THAT PASS THROUGH THE LAND, WHEN ANY SEETH A MAN'S BONE, THEN SHALL HE SET UP A SIGN (or a marker) BY IT, TILL THE BURIERS (or gravediggers) HAVE BURIED IT IN THE VALLEY OF HAMON-GOG. AND ALSO THE NAME OF THE CITY (or town) SHALL BE (called) HAMONAH. THUS SHALL THEY CLEANSE THE LAND-Ezek 39:13-16.

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