The Syrian
Antichrist
a commentary & outline discussing his attributes to be used with the scriptures...
(KJV, NKJV, NASB, NLT & NIV as well as Hebrew, Greek & Aramaic cited)
Written in April 1997
The Antichrist is a man of
war who manifests during a cry for peace and yet his desire is to destroy - Yeshua
is the Prince of Peace
The Antichrist is “the lie” - Yeshua is the truth
The Antichrist is the
embodiment of sin, wickedness, craft and deceit - Yeshua was without sin,
wickedness, craft or deceit
The Antichrist will exalt
himself in his heart - Yeshua humbled Himself publicly
The Antichrist is the chief
persecutor of Israel - Yeshua will deliver Israel
The Antichrist gets his
power from Satan - Yeshua gets His power from Yahweh
I am sure you get the gist
of it. The Antichrist is a tool of Satan and he himself is deceived by the
“serpent of old”. He is the opposite of Christ! Israel will never receive him
as their messiah. Instead, they look to him, a Gentile ruler, for peace and
security. This angers Yahweh because of their refusal to look to Him for peace
and security. It stands to reason, that the world wants peace without the
Prince of peace and love without loving. Unfortunately, the church
is plagued by false prophecies. Wicked men and women often devise schemes to
manipulate new believers into doing what they wish in the name of “the prophetic”.
Not every “word” from a believer is a “word” from Yahweh. It is the
responsibility of each and every believer to measure prophecy against what is
clearly written in the text. If it doesn’t line up, toss it out! I hope you
appreciate the disciplined approach I use in this brief exposition.
When studying prophecy we should always interpret literally
unless it is clear that the revelator is speaking allegorically or
symbolically. If symbolism is used it is important that we rigorously comb
through the scriptures to look for a location where that symbol might be
described as to its meaning. The books of Daniel and Revelation, although
penned centuries apart, are inseparable and should be studied together. These
two books go through an irrefutable and systematic process of giving us the
precise geographical location that brings forth The Antichrist and The False
Prophet. For all intents and purposes that very subject is what I intend to
discuss. Although prophecy is precise and worthy of exhaustive, date inclusive,
historical representation, that is not the focus of this study.
The purpose of this short exposition of prophecy is to
provide a solid scriptural basis for the unveiling of The Antichrist. Prophecy
is so precise that it can often baffle the finite capacity of the mind,
especially mine.
I strongly
suggest a good understanding of Daniel before diving into the book of
Revelation. It is the revelation of Yeshua, given to the apostle John while in
exile on the island of Patmos. He was placed there because of his effective
testimony of Yeshua. The revelation was given to him in approximately 96 A.D.
Many people struggle through the book of Revelation because they fail to
realize the visions John saw are interwoven with the visions described in
detail in the book of Daniel. Daniel’s visions occurred six centuries before
John’s visions.
Isaiah calls him
the King of Assyria and The Assyrian
If we believe in the literal interpretation of scripture, we
can gain understanding as to the location of this latter day deceiver, The
Assyrian or The Antichrist. Isaiah names him in numerous locations. I use the
Complete Jewish Bible for the first passage from Isaiah. The King James Version
is the source for the rest of the passages taken from Isaiah. Using several translations
yields a more vivid picture of this complex and composite individual, The
Antichrist. If you happen to be a “King James only” person, it is in that
version as well. I made certain of this prior to my journey throughout the
various texts.
Notice the actions and attributes that I have underlined, so
that you can look for them when you see this man. Keep in mind that the serpent
Satan used in the garden did not enter the scene as a roaring lion. He entered
craftier and more cunning than all the others. Satan’s tools are craft, deceit,
cunning and conspiracy. It is only when his plans begin to fall apart that he
becomes the tyrant. Such is the case with The Antichrist. He enters the scene
and establishes his power through his deceitful policies and cunning…just as
Hitler did. Here are a few references to The Assyrian.
“Therefore when the Lord has
done everything He intends to do to (against) Mount Zion and Jerusalem1.
He will say, ‘I will punish the King of Assyria for the boasting that
comes from his proud heart and from reveling in his arrogant looks.’
For he (the King of Assyria) says, ‘with my own strong arm I have done this,
and with my wisdom, because I'm so clever! I erased the boundaries
between the peoples, I plundered their stores for the future; as a mighty
man, I subjugated (put down) the inhabitants. My hand found the riches of the
peoples like a nest; and as one gathers abandoned eggs, I gathered the whole
earth! Not one wing fluttered, not one beak opened or even let out a chirp!’ ‘Should
the axe glorify itself over the one who chops with it? Should the saw magnify
itself over the one who moves it? It's as if a stick could wave the hand that
raises it up, or as if a wooden staff could shake itself as though it were not made
of mere wood.’2” - (Isaiah 10:12-15)
1At this
juncture we are either to assume that the Lord has finished executing judgment
against Jerusalem or these events are still to come. It will be clear as we
continue that these events are still to come.
2Yahweh
laughs at the foolish boasting that proceeds from the heart of the King of
Assyria and all the while Yahweh considers him an instrument of judgment. A
tool, in whose hand is Yahweh’s indignation (wrath). He is a tool that shall be
broken when it is no longer necessary. I find it rather comical. Here we have
the most powerful dictator on earth and Yahweh laughs at him. Arrogance and
boasting cannot exist in the presence of Yahweh. He alone will be exalted.
“The Lord of hosts hath sworn,
saying, surely as I have thought, so it shall come to pass; and as I have
purposed, so it shall stand: That I will break the Assyrian in my land, and
upon my mountains tread him underfoot1: then shall his yoke
depart from off them, and his burden from off their shoulders. This is the
purpose that is purposed upon the whole earth: and this is the hand that is
stretched out upon all the nations2. For the Lord of hosts
hath purposed, and who can annul it? And his hand is stretched out, and who shall turn it back?” -
(Isaiah 14:24-27)
1We clearly
have an individual being singled out for personal punishment from the Lord of
hosts, Yeshua. The Lord of hosts is going to “tread him underfoot”. This in no
way applies to any event in the past, but is still yet future. The location of
this judgment couldn’t be clearer. It is in Yeshua’s land.
2I think it
is important to point out the broad scope of judgment. This is clearly
occurring alongside the judgment of all the nations at Yeshua’s return.
“Behold, the name of the Lord
cometh from far, burning with his anger, and the burden thereof is heavy: his
lips are full of indignation, and his tongue as a devouring fire: And his
breath, as an overflowing stream, shall reach to the midst of the neck, to sift
the nations with the sieve of vanity (futility): and there shall be a bridle in
the jaws of the people, causing them to err (stumble). Ye shall have a song, as
in the night when a holy solemnity is kept; and gladness of heart, as when one
goeth with a pipe to come into the mountain of the Lord, to the mighty One of Israel. And the Lord shall cause his glorious voice to be heard, and shall show the
lighting down of his arm, with the indignation of his anger, and with the
flame of a devouring fire, with scattering, and tempest, and hailstones1. For through the voice of the Lord shall the Assyrian be beaten down2,
which smote with a rod. And in every place where the grounded staff shall pass,
which the Lord shall lay upon him3, it shall be with tabrets (tambourines) and harps4: and in battles of shaking will He fight with it. For Tophet5 is ordained of old; yea, for the king (the King of Assyria) it is prepared; He
hath made it deep and large: the pile thereof is fire and much wood; the breath
of the Lord, like a stream of brimstone, doth kindle it”. - (Isaiah 30:27-33)
1This is
clearly paralleled in Revelation 11:19. The apocalyptic overtones can hardly be
trivialized. 2Here we
have a direct assault on the King of Assyria. He is being beaten down by the voice
of the Lord, Yeshua. This is paralleled in many locations. Paul writes
concerning “the man of sin” being slain by the breath of Yeshua and destroyed at
the brightness of His coming in 2 Thessalonians 2:8.
3The Lord’s
recipient of judgment in this passage is a single individual, The Assyrian.
4The joyous
harps and tabrets (tambourines) are noted in Revelation 14. The reason for the
celebration is the judgment of the Lamb of God, Yeshua...the Christ. He is
finally pouring out judgment on those who hate Him, the wicked.
5The Hebrew
word (Tophet) means - a place of burning or cremation. Yahweh has
already prepared The Antichrist’s place of torment. It is important to touch on
the topic of predestination at this point. Yahweh does not put people on earth
to go to Hell. He is a loving father. On the other hand, Paul tells us in 2
Thessalonians 2 that the “son of perdition” is doomed for destruction. So what
are we to believe? Are we to believe that this man was created for a
predestined place of burning? Certainly not! Yeshua cast a vote for him
by the shedding of His blood. On the other hand, Satan continually accuses him
before Yahweh. Satan is the accuser of the brethren, constantly broadcasting
our sins and failures in front of Yahweh. So it stands to reason, the vote that
breaks the tie must belong to the individual...to us. I am thankful that Yahweh
loves us enough to write down the destruction that would come from this wicked tyrant,
The Assyrian. Yahweh is not bound by time. Time exists in Yahweh. This is how
He knows the end from the beginning.
“For thus hath the Lord spoken
unto me, Like as the lion and the young lion roaring on his prey, when a
multitude of shepherds is called forth against Him, He will not be afraid of
their voice, nor abase (concern) Himself for the noise of them: so shall the
Lord of hosts come down to fight for mount Zion, and for the hill
thereof. As birds flying, so will the Lord of hosts defend Jerusalem;
defending also He will deliver it; and passing over He will preserve it1.
Turn ye unto Him from whom the children of Israel have deeply revolted. For in
that day every man shall cast away his idols of silver, and his idols of gold,
which your own hands have made unto you for a sin2. Then
shall the Assyrian fall with the sword, not of a mighty man; and the sword,
not of a mean man, shall devour him: but he shall flee from the sword3,
and his young men shall be discomfited. And he shall pass over to his
stronghold for fear, and his princes (officers) shall be afraid of the ensign
(anointing), saith the Lord, whose fire is in Zion, and his furnace in
Jerusalem”. - (Isaiah 31:4-9)
1Liberal
scholars can’t even deny this immutable truth. There can be absolutely no
question as to the timing of, or circumstances surrounding, this event. It
clearly states that the Lord shall “come down to fight for Mount Zion”.
These events have not occurred in the past in any way. They are still to
come…soon.
2Every man
has not yet cast away his idols; therefore, this event can in no way apply to
the past. Idolatry is still rampant.
3In
Revelation 19:11-20, Yeshua is implementing judgment at His return. The objects
of His wrath in the passage are The Antichrist and The False Prophet, as well
as the remaining ungodly. The instrument of wrath is a “sword” that is
proceeding from His mouth. This “sword” mentioned above is clearly not
the sword of a man. The reason Yahweh distinguishes between the “sword”
of a man and this “sword” is for clarity. Sennacherib was an Assyrian
King in the past that was slain by a literal “sword” of a man. This “sword” is a judgment spoken in truth. Just as the Lord spoke the world into existence,
so He will speak The Antichrist out of existence.
“For the word of God is quick, and
powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the
dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a
discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart”. - (Hebrews 4:12)
“And out of his mouth goeth a sharp
sword, that with it He should smite (strike) the nations: and He shall rule
them with a rod of iron: and He treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and
wrath of Almighty God…And the remnant were slain with the sword of Him
that sat upon the horse, which sword proceeded out of his mouth”. - (Revelation
19:15, 21)
The Assyrian and The Antichrist are slain by the same
person…Yeshua, in the same place, at the same time, with the same mechanism
(the sword), and for the same reasons. Two of the many reasons are his proud
heart and arrogant looks. This reveals that The Antichrist and The
Assyrian are one and the same. The influence of The Assyrian Empire spread into
what is modern day Turkey, Iraq, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Syria and Egypt. Isaiah
prophesied seven hundred years before the birth of Yeshua. As time passed, the
Assyrian peoples began to migrate northwest along the Tigris and Euphrates
Rivers, finally settling into what is modern day Syria, north of Israel. Syria
is the willful “King of the North” mentioned throughout Daniel Chapter 11. Daniel’s
visions go through a systematic process, covering what is known as “the times
of the Gentiles”. The book of Daniel details the time frames in which these
Gentile nations will be allowed to rule over the Israelites. In Daniel 11:35
the focus jumps to “the time of the end”.
READ THE
NEXT PARAGRAPH A FEW TIMES SO YOU WILL KNOW WHAT TO LOOK FOR!
The process works like this. The Antichrist is “The
Assyrian” or “The King of Assyria” in numerous locations throughout the book of
Isaiah. Ezekiel calls him the prideful “Prince of Tyre”, Tyre is in Lebanon and
Lebanon is Syria’s puppet. Syria is the primary power broker in the Middle
East. This influence will continue to increase to the point where the
inhabitants of the earth will say, “Who can make war with him”. Daniel gives us
a general backdrop of all the Gentile empires in Daniel Chapter 2 and Daniel
Chapter 7. Daniel Chapter 7 gives us the first mention of The Antichrist in
Daniel, or the “little horn” and the “ten kings” out of the landmass of the old
Roman Empire that will give him their power to rule. Next, Daniel Chapter 8
sharpens the focus to four nations out of the Grecian Empire (the third Empire
from Daniel’s time), down to the division that was southeast of Greece and
close to the “beautiful land (palestine) ”, or Syria. Finally, Daniel brings closure to the
matter in Chapter 11, where we have a description of the willful “King of the
North” or the Antichrist, from Syria. Keep your eyes peeled and refer back to
this section if needed. This section is a general summary and brief overview of
this rather complex process. Daniel narrows the possibilities down to one
nation and one nation only, Syria. It fits together like concentric circles,
where the smallest movement creates vicissitudes throughout the scriptures.
Ezekiel calls him The Prince of Tyre
In
Ezekiel Chapter 28 he is called the “Prince of Tyre”. Tyre is in Lebanon, and
Lebanon is controlled by a puppet government that operates in submission to
Syria. Lebanon and Syria are collectively a part of what is called “Greater
Assyria”. In this section pertaining to Ezekiel Chapter 28 Yahweh speaks to The
Antichrist as well as the governing force that he yields to, Satan. In the first
half of the passage Yahweh addresses the “Prince of Tyre” or the Antichrist.
During the second half of the passage Yahweh speaks to the satanic influence
that governs him, the “King of Tyre”. The prince\king relationship denotes a
hierarchy. It is a reference to The Antichrist and the ultimate authority that
governs him, Satan. It is important to note, that throughout history tyrants
have almost always considered their tyranny as being ordained by god. Such will
be the case with The Antichrist. He acknowledges Allah, the god that contributes
to The Antichrist’s success. He will acknowledge this god (Allah) and advance
its glory while considering himself superior in his heart according to Daniel
11:38-39. Take time to study this passage. It gives us insight into the corrupt
nature of The Antichrist.
“The word of Jehovah (Yahweh) came
again unto me, saying, Son of man, say unto the Prince of Tyre, Thus saith the
Lord Jehovah (Yahweh): Because thy heart
is lifted up, and thou hast said, I am a god, I sit in the seat of God, in the
midst of the seas; yet thou art man, and not God, though thou didst set thy
heart as the heart of God;--behold, thou art wiser than Daniel; there is no
secret that is hidden from thee; by thy wisdom and by thine understanding thou
hast gotten thee riches, and hast gotten gold and silver into thy treasures; by
thy great wisdom and by thy traffic (trading) hast thou increased thy riches,
and thy heart is lifted up because of thy riches; therefore thus saith the Lord
Jehovah (Yahweh): Because thou hast set thy heart as the heart of God (Yahweh),
therefore, behold, I will bring strangers (foreigners) upon thee, the terrible
(mightiest) of the nations; and they shall draw their swords (metaphor for
violence) against the beauty of thy wisdom, and they shall defile thy
brightness. They shall bring thee down to the pit; and thou shalt die the death
of them that are slain, in the heart of the seas. Wilt thou yet say before him
that slayeth thee, I am God? but thou art man, and not God, in the hand of Him
(Yeshua) that woundeth thee. Thou shalt die the death of the uncircumcised by
the hand of strangers (foreigners): for I have spoken it, saith the Lord
Jehovah (Yahweh). Moreover the word of Jehovah (Yahweh) came unto me, saying,
Son of man, take up a lamentation over the king of Tyre, and say unto him, Thus
saith the Lord Jehovah (Yahweh): Thou sealest up the sum, full of wisdom, and
perfect in beauty. Thou wast in Eden, the garden of God; every precious stone
was thy covering, the sardius, the topaz, and the diamond, the beryl, the onyx,
and the jasper, the sapphire, the emerald, and the carbuncle, and gold: the
workmanship of thy tabrets and of thy pipes was in thee; in the day that thou wast created they were prepared. Thou wast the anointed cherub that covereth:
and I set thee, so that thou wast upon the holy mountain of God (Yahweh); thou
hast walked up and down in the midst of the stones of fire. Thou wast perfect
in thy ways from the day that thou wast created, till unrighteousness was found
in thee. By the abundance of thy traffic (trading or commerce) they filled the
midst of thee with violence (he becomes filled with violence), and thou hast
sinned: therefore have I cast thee as profane out of the mountain of God
(Yahweh); and I have destroyed thee, O covering cherub, from the midst of the
stones of fire. Thy heart was lifted up because of thy beauty; thou hast
corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness: I have cast thee to the
ground; I have laid thee before kings, that they may behold thee. By the
multitude of thine iniquities, in the unrighteousness of thy traffic (trade or
commerce), thou hast profaned thy sanctuaries; therefore have I brought forth a
fire from the midst of thee; it hath devoured thee, and I have turned thee to
ashes upon the earth in the sight of all them that behold thee. All they that
know thee among the peoples shall be astonished at thee: thou art become a terror
and thou shalt nevermore have any being”. - (Ezekiel 28:1-19)
Daniel calls him The
Little horn and the King of the North
As we study
the books of Daniel and Revelation, it is imperative that we understand how Yahweh
uses these various Gentile empires with respect to Israel. We read in Daniel
10:20, that the angel Gabriel visits Daniel to explain a vision. However, the
angel Gabriel was delayed twenty-one days by the Prince of Persia until the archangel
Michael (Israel’s guardian angel) was dispatched to Gabriel. After the prince
of Persia was bound and defeated, Gabriel told Daniel that the Prince of Grecia
would soon come. He did, the Grecian Empire with the help of the Grecian
prince1 was the next empire. You will hear more about this in
Daniel Chapter 8. It is important to note that each empire is listed several
times throughout scripture. Therefore, we have no need for extra-biblical
sources, unless we wish to study each of these empires in depth.
1This Grecian prince is the same type of spiritual
principality as the “beast out of the Abyss” in Revelation. The divisions of
the Grecian Empire were eventually absorbed into the Roman Empire.
As you read
this booklet there are spiritual wars going on in high places, the results of
which transpire into events on earth. When an empire begins to overstep Yahweh’s
plan for Israel and humanity in general, He sends angels to bind the spiritual forces
fighting for control over that empire…then the empire diminishes. These wars continue
even as I type.
Daniel Chapter 2 - a magnificent statue or image
I have
chosen to keep the scriptural references concise for Daniel Chapter 2, as well
as, Daniel Chapter 7. The bulk of the material regarding The Antichrist is in
Daniel Chapter 8 and Daniel Chapter 11. However, there are a few very important
physical attributes listed in Daniel Chapter 7. Be sure to remain attentive, so
as not to miss some key features related to this wicked abomination of a man.
In Daniel Chapter 2, Daniel interprets a vision for the Babylonian king,
Nebuchadnezzar. It is a vision of a statue containing five main components.
Notice that the strength of the metals increase as did the empires military
might. The dates listed do not represent the entire duration of the empire,
just the amount of time they were used by Yahweh to chasten Israel. Any good
father disciplines his children.
Daniel explains what King Nebuchadnezzar saw:
Head (Gold) -
(Daniel 2:32)
Breast and
Arms (Silver) - (Daniel 2:32)
Waist and
Thighs (Bronze or Brass) - (Daniel 2:32)
Legs (Iron) -
(Daniel 2:33)
Feet and
toes (Iron and Clay) w/ the rock cut out of it - (Daniel 2:33-34)
“Thou, O king, sawest, and behold a great image. This great
image, whose brightness was excellent, stood before thee; and the form thereof
was terrible. This image's head was of fine gold1 (Babylonian
Empire), his breast and his arms of silver2 (Medo-Persian
Empire), his belly and his thighs of
brass3 (Grecian Empire), His legs of iron4 (Roman Empire), his feet partly of iron
and partly of clay5 (the Antichrist’s Revised Roman Empire).
Thou sawest till that a stone was cut
out without hands6 (Yeshua’s
Millennial Kingdom on earth), which smote the image upon his feet that were of iron and clay, and broke them
to pieces. Then was the iron, the clay, the brass, the silver, and the
gold, broken to pieces together7, and became like the chaff of
the summer threshing floors; and the wind carried them away, that no place was
found for them: and the stone that
smote the image became a great mountain, and filled the whole earth”. - (Daniel
2:31-35)
1The
Babylonian Empire reigned over the Israelites from approximately 606 BC - 536
BC. See Jeremiah 25:11 for confirmation regarding the 70 year time frame that
the Jews were to serve under Babylonian captivity. The Babylonian Empire is the
first of the four empires Daniel describes in succession. The seat of the
Babylonian Empire is modern day Iraq.
2Here
we have the second empire from Daniel’s time and its two divisions, the
Medo-Persian Empire. The Medo-Persian Empire was not nearly as grandiose as the
Babylonian Empire (i.e. silver is the lesser when compared to gold, yet not as
strong); however, the Medes and the Persians overthrew the Babylonian Empire by
sheer numbers. Cyrus Artaxerxes of Persia granted the Israelites the right to
return to Jerusalem. The overwhelming majority (over 90%) of the Israelites
stayed in Babylon and adopted pagan customs.
3This
is the third empire from Daniel’s time, the Grecian Empire under Alexander the
Great, the first king and son of Phillip of Macedon. This empire trampled the
Medes and the Persians very quickly. Adolph Hitler used many tactics Alexander
the Great used.
4The
fourth empire from Daniel’s time was the Roman\Byzantine Empire. The legs are the longest
portion of the statue and are also composed of the strongest metal, the iron.
This Roman Empire lasted the longest and was the mightiest. The Roman armies (10th Legion from Syria)
destroyed the temple in Jerusalem in 70 AD, precisely as Yeshua prophesied in
Matthew 24:2. There was not one stone left on another. When the temple was
burned, the gold décor melted and ran into the cracks between the large stones.
The Roman soldiers actually turned the stones over to retrieve the gold that
had melted from the fire. In doing so, they fulfilled Yeshua’s prophetic
exclamation with surgical precision.
5Feet
and toes are merely extensions of the legs. The ten toes (ten assumed) correspond
to the ten kings you will hear about in the next section. These ten kings are
to come out of the landmass of the old Roman Empire (Europe, the Middle East,
and North Africa). They will give The Antichrist their power to rule for 42
months. That is enough for the time being, this will be clear as we progress.
6The
stone that was cut out without hands is Yeshua’s Millennial Kingdom, wrought by
the hand of Yahweh.
7It
is absolutely imperative that we understand the following statements, so as to
bring clear understanding and revelation to the timing of these events. The
stone (Yeshua’s Millennial Kingdom) strikes the statue on the feet (The
Antichrist’s Empire) and not the legs (the old Roman Empire). Some
scholars have missed this simple concept. This is a representation of the
physical kingdom on earth. There is one more very important factor that needs
to be pointed out. When this stone strikes the statue on the feet, every
attribute is crushed at the same time or “together”. This is fundamental if we
hope to get a clear picture of the composition of The Antichrist’s Kingdom. His
kingdom possesses the traits of all of the kingdoms mentioned in this passage.
All of the precious metals were destroyed by Yeshua’s Millennial Kingdom, so
too, all characteristics must be in existence at the time of its implementation.
Daniel explains the meaning of what King Nebuchadnezzar saw:
The following will verify what I pointed out in the previous
paragraphs. Please read slowly…
“This is the dream; and we will
tell the interpretation thereof before the king. Thou, O king, art a king of
kings: for the God of heaven hath given thee a kingdom, power, and strength,
and glory. And wheresoever the children of men dwell, the beasts of the field
and the fowls of the heaven hath He given into thine hand, and hath made thee
ruler over them All. Thou art this head of gold (King Nebuchadnezzar is the
head of gold). And after thee shall arise another kingdom inferior to thee (the
Medo-Persian Empire), and another third kingdom of brass (the Grecian Empire),
which shall bear rule over all the earth. And the fourth kingdom shall be
strong as iron (the Roman Empire): forasmuch as iron breaketh in pieces and
subdueth all things: and as iron that breaketh all these, shall it break in
pieces and bruise. And whereas thou sawest the feet and toes, partly of
potters' clay, and partly of iron, the kingdom shall be divided (the Roman
Empire was divided); but there shall be in it of the strength of the iron,
forasmuch as thou sawest the iron mixed with miry clay. And as the toes of the
feet were part of iron, and part of clay, so the kingdom shall be partly
strong, and partly broken (or brittle). And whereas thou sawest iron mixed with
miry clay, they shall mingle themselves with the seed of men: but they shall
not cleave one to another, even as iron is not mixed with clay. And in the days
of these kings (during the ten toes or ten kings under The Antichrist) shall
the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the
kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and
consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever. Forasmuch as thou
sawest that the stone was cut out of the mountain without hands, and that it
brake in pieces the iron, the brass, the clay, the silver, and the gold; the
great God hath made known to the king what shall come to pass hereafter: and
the dream is certain, and the interpretation thereof sure”. - (Daniel
2:36-45)
Head of
Gold - the Babylonian Empire: under King Nebuchadnezzar and
others - (Daniel 2:38)
Breast and
Arms - the Medo-Persian Empire: was inferior to Babylon yet
overthrew them by brute force - (Daniel 2:39a)
Waist and
Thighs - the Grecian Empire: overthrew the Medo-Persian Empire and trampled it
quickly - (Daniel 2:39b)
Legs - the
Roman Empire: absorbed the others (Mediterranean Region) including modern
day Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa - (Daniel 2:40-43)
Feet and
Toes - Antichrist Empire: the distant
future with respect to Daniel’s time (our present era) - (Daniel
2:40-43)
The two
legs - two divisions of the old Roman Empire: Just as
Iron won’t mix with clay, this Roman Empire would not remain united. The
landmass of the old Roman Empire yielded the most fragmented portion of the
earth. This took place precisely as prophesied, hundreds of years earlier in
Daniel’s writings. Just as there are two legs, so there were two primary
influences, spiritually speaking.
West - ruled by the Papal Church (Roman Catholicism)
East - ruled by the Byzantine Greek Church (Anglican)
The ten
toes - ten individual nations within the territory controlled by
the old Roman Empire. These ten kingdoms are to come out of the landmass of these former kingdoms and remain for “a little while”. Just as toes and feet are merely
extensions of the legs (the old Roman Empire). They will be of like mind regarding their view of Israel
and they give their power to The Antichrist, who will come from an eleventh
nation. The Antichrist’s whereabouts will be made abundantly clear as we
progress.
The rock that
destroyed the statue - Yeshua’s Millennial Kingdom
“And in the days of these
kings (or the ten toes of the Revised Roman Empire under The Antichrist) shall
the God of heaven set up a kingdom (the rock), which shall never be destroyed:
and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces
and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever”. - (Daniel
2:44-45)
The Antichrist’s Empire is described as a composite
beast in Revelation 13, possessing the traits of all of the empires before it.
It will possess traits that are Babylonian, Medo-Persian, Grecian, and Roman & Islamic.
Likewise, it will cover the same landmass. I am not going to expound on
Revelation Chapter 13 until later. I will touch on Revelation Chapter 13 after
the exposition of Daniel is complete. Yeshua’s Millennial Kingdom kicks into high gear
when He sets foot on the Mount of Olives, binds The Antichrist and The False
Prophet, casting them alive into a lake of fire (Revelation 17:19-21). Isaiah
called it “Tophet”, or the ordained place of burning.
If the empires mentioned throughout Daniel were in
existence today, they would possess the following landmass. This is important
if we wish to understand the strategic alignment of powers under The Assyrian
Antichrist. His empire will possess the traits of all of the empires mentioned
in Daniel.
The central location or seat of each empire is listed first and the
principle influence of these empires is as follows:
Babylonian Empire: Iraq, Syria,
Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Egypt.
Medo-Persia Empire: Iran,
Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Syria.
Grecian Empire: Greece,
Macedonia, Turkey, Pakistan, Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt, and Syria.
Roman Empire: most of Europe, the Middle East,
and North Africa including Egypt, Sudan, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco.
Daniel Chapter 7 - four beasts
The purpose of Daniel Chapter 7 is to show that what man
(King Nebuchadnezzar) views as a magnificent statue, Yahweh views as beastly.
Daniel has a vision of his own in this chapter. In this chapter we have the same
four empires mentioned earlier. However, the focus is on The Antichrist and his
ten kings out of the landmass of the old Roman Empire (Europe, the Middle East,
and North Africa), or the fourth nondescript beast. It is important to note,
all of these empires rising and falling happened with incredible precision.
Daniel received these visions detailing the events that would come to pass,
hundreds of years in advance.
Daniel explains what he saw:
1. Lion - the Babylonian Empire - “and a
man's heart was given to it1” - (Daniel 7:4)
2. Bear - the Medo/Persian
Empire - “raised up itself on one side2, and
it had three ribs3…” - (Daniel 7:5)
3. Leopard - the Grecian Empire
- “four wings and four heads4” - (Daniel
7:6)
4. The Terrifying Beast - the Roman
Empire - “iron teeth5” - (Daniel 7:7)
Ten horns out of the fourth beast -
ten kingdoms out of the landmass of the old Roman Empire - (Daniel
7:7)
The Little Horn - The Antichrist - (Daniel
7:8 & Daniel 7:20) 1This is a reference to the
restoration of King Nebuchadnezzar’s sanity after he was made to live like the
beasts of the field. Yahweh turned him over to his reprobate and rebellious
mind because of his wickedness. Then Yahweh restored sanity to him after he
acknowledged Yahweh by turning his eyes to Him, thus restoring his human heart
\countenance. - (Daniel Chapter 4)
2This is a reference to the dominating force of the
Medo-Persian Empire, the Persians. Persia is modern day Iran.
3The three ribs correspond to Egypt, Lydia, and
Babylonia. These smaller kingdoms stood together for a short time to resist
being pummeled by the Persians; their cooperation was a failure and the
Persians triumphed.
4A reference to the four military divisions and four
commanders of the Grecian Empire after Alexander the Great: Cassander,
Lysimachus, Seleucus, and Ptolemy. The Grecian Empire was the third empire from
Daniel’s time. Likewise, it is represented by the third beast, the leopard.
5The iron corresponds to the iron legs (the old Roman
Empire) of the statue in Daniel Chapter 2, previously discussed. This passage
draws together the sequential order of the empires, as well as the symbolism
(various metals) mentioned in the last section pertaining to Daniel Chapter 2.
Now for the interpretation of what Daniel saw:
PAY SPECIAL ATTENTION TO THE
ANTICHRIST’S PHYSICAL ATTRIBUTES
“These great beasts, which are four, are four kings which
shall arise out of the earth (in succession: Babylonian, Medo-Persian, Grecian
and Roman). But the saints of the Most High shall take the kingdom, and possess
the kingdom for ever, even for ever and ever”. - (Daniel 7:17-18)
“Then I would know the truth of the fourth beast, which was diverse1 from all the others, exceeding dreadful, whose teeth were of iron,
and his nails of brass (or bronze)2; which devoured, brake in
pieces, and stamped the residue with his feet; And of the ten horns that were
in his head, and of the other3 which came up, and before whom three fell; even of that horn
that had eyes4, and a mouth that spoke very great (boastful\pompous)
things, whose look was more stout than his fellows5”. -
(Daniel 7:19, 20)
1It is different because it had purpose in the distant
future as well. The ten horns on its head represent ten nations that would form
within the old Roman Empire and give their power to The Antichrist.
2The final empire under The Antichrist possesses traits
that are both Grecian and Roman. These empires were the third and fourth
empires from Daniel’s time. They were also the third and fourth precious metals
(brass and iron, respectively) described in the statue mentioned in Daniel
Chapter 2.
3Daniel clearly distinguishes between the “ten horns”
and this “little horn” coming up among the ten. He is an eleventh horn. It is
also clear that this “little horn” is different, so we must keep looking for
answers. The answer is in the next chapter. So for the time being, just
remember that the “little horn” is different from the “ten horns”.
4This is the second reference to The Antichrist in the
book of Daniel. The first mention of The Antichrist is in Daniel 7:8.
The phrase “had eyes” comes from two root words:
1. a supplied verb usually meaning - to perceive,
understand, have insight into or contemplate with pleasure
2. (ayin) the noun meaning - eyes, vision or sight
Hence, he will perceive, understand, have insight into, or
contemplate with pleasure: eyes, vision or sight.
5The word rendered “stout” is the Hebrew word (rab) and it means - sizeable, lengthy, upright or abundant.
His appearance is to be more
sizeable, more upright, more abundant, or lengthier than his fellows,
associates or peers.
“I beheld, and the same horn1 made war
with the saints, and prevailed against them; Until the Ancient of days came,
and judgment was given to (in favor of) the saints of the Most High; and the
time came that the saints possessed the kingdom. Thus he said, the fourth beast
shall be the fourth kingdom upon earth, which shall be diverse from all
kingdoms, and shall devour the whole earth, and shall tread it down, and break
it in pieces. And the ten horns out of this kingdom are ten kings that shall
arise: and another shall rise after them; and he shall be diverse
from the first2, and he shall subdue three kings3.
And he shall speak great (blasphemous) words against the Most High, and shall
wear out the saints of the Most High, and think to change times and laws4:
and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the
dividing of time5 (3.5 years). But the judgment (court) shall
sit, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and to destroy it unto
the end. And the kingdom6 and dominion, and the greatness of
the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints
of the Most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions
shall serve and obey Him”. - (Daniel 7:20-27)
1Once again, we have a reference to the “little horn”, The Antichrist.
2Notice that scripture distinguishes between the first
“ten kings” and the other king, he also arrives after the ten kingdoms
have formed within the confines of the Middle
East, and North Africa.
3This is a clear reference to The Antichrist rising to
power after the ten kings and subduing three of the ten kings. These three
kingdoms will either be subdued by war or crafty diplomacy.
4The appointed feasts (holidays) outlined in Torah. These
feasts are outlined in Exodus, Leviticus and described throughout the Hebrew scriptures.
The changing or abolition of these prescribed Hebrew festivals will be part of
an effort by Satan to thwart Yahweh’s prophetic schedule largely propagated by Syria,
and many other Islamic nations with help from Christopaganism.
5The Antichrist is seen in John’s vision (Revelation
13:5) as having dominion over all ten of the kings. Biblical time frames are
always based on the Hebrew calendar. The word “time” is the Hebrew word (iddan) and means - literally one year. Now read verse 25 replacing “time” with “1
year” - year (1) + years (2 plural) + (1\2) of a year. The three and one half
years, correspond to “the Great Tribulation”. Yeshua’s triumphant return to the Mount of Olives is after Israel forms
a bitter covenant with The Antichrist. This covenant will be under duress and
international pressure where The Antichrist will divide the “land for gain”
(Daniel 11:39). It will be “a land for peace” deal. His direct dominion
consists of ten kingdoms although his mandate is nearly global. The Antichrist
is granted power to rule Jerusalem for 3.5 years.
6This is a reference to the millennial reign under the
rule of Yeshua (my savior), from the city of Jerusalem.
Let us take one last glance back to the
fourth beast...the old Roman Empire and The Antichrist’s Empire.
“…And it was diverse from all the beasts that were before
it; and it had ten horns. I considered the horns (the ten), and, behold, there
came up among them another little horn (an eleventh), before whom there were
three of the first horns (three of the first ten) plucked up by the roots: and,
behold, in this horn were eyes (Aramaic - understanding of vision) like the eyes of man, and a mouth speaking
great (blasphemous) things”. - (Daniel 7:7c-8)
When
carefully studying this we clearly see that The Antichrist will rise up after
the ten separate kingdoms have formed within the confines of the Middle East, and North Africa; and he will subdue three of
the ten, either by war or diplomacy, but his nation is separate from the ten.
It is an eleventh nation.
Daniel Chapter 8 - a ram and a rough male goat
For the purpose of easy reading, I chose to use The American
Standard Version for the majority of the body text for Daniel Chapter 8. It is
imperative that we draw attention to a few simple facts. These facts are more
difficult to point out using the Queen’s English of the King James Version,
although they are present. The focus of Daniel Chapter 8 with respect to the
coming of The Antichrist is to show that the nation that will bring forth The
Antichrist is within the confines of the Grecian Empire. When Alexander the
Great died, the Grecian Empire began to diminish in power. His empire was
divided among four commanders into four main areas: Macedonia, Thrace or Asia
Minor (modern Turkey), Syria, and Egypt. Daniel starts by describing the
overthrow of the Medo-Persian Empire by the Grecian Empire centuries before the
miraculous incarnation of Yeshua. Then, the focus changes to “the time of the
end”.
The puzzle regarding the “little horn” of Daniel Chapter 7
is solved in this section as well. The “little horn” mentioned in the last
chapter was clearly diverse from the ten horns that rise out of the landmass of
the old Roman Empire. We find out in this section that the “little horn” arises
from one of the four divisions of the Grecian Empire, as will be clear shortly.
These divisions of the Grecian Empire were eventually placed under Roman rule,
nearer to the time of Yeshua’s birth. In the last chapter we were told that The
Antichrist will uproot three of the ten horns (ten kingdoms), but he was said
to be different from the ten.
Once again, the Grecian Empire was the third empire from
Daniel’s time, the empire that was portrayed as a leopard with four heads and
four wings. Daniel received these visions during his service in Babylon under
the Babylonian kings; or the first empire mentioned in the book of Daniel. The
heart of Babylon is modern day Iraq. Saddam Hussein actually used several of
the bricks with King Nebuchadnezzar’s inscription to rebuild his many palaces.
Daniel envisioned himself in the Citadel in Shushan. Shushan is in Elam, a
province of Persia, or modern day Iran. This is the region north of the Persian
Gulf.
When the phrase “time of indignation”, “time of wrath”, or
“time of the end” is used; it references the end of the dispensation of the
Gentiles and their trampling over Israel. This is the primary focus of the book
of Daniel. The timing for the arrival of the “little horn” or The Antichrist is
made clear in numerous locations throughout this chapter. I have listed a few
of them below.
“So he came near where I stood;
and when he came, I was affrighted, and fell upon my face: but he said unto me,
Understand, O son of man; for 1) the vision belongeth to the time of the
end. Now as he was speaking with me, I fell into a deep sleep with my
face toward the ground; but he touched me, and set me upright. And he said,
Behold, 2) I will make thee know what shall be in the latter time
of the indignation; 3) for it belongeth to the appointed
time of the end”. - (Daniel 8:17-19)
Daniel explains what he saw:
The Ram - the Medo-Persian Empire
The Rough Goat - the Grecian Empire
“In the third year of the reign of
King Belshazzar a vision appeared unto me, even unto me, Daniel, after that
which appeared unto me at the first. And
I saw in the vision; now it was so, that when I saw, I was in Shushan the
palace, which is in the province of Elam; and I saw in the vision, and I was by
the river Ulai. Then I lifted up mine eyes, and saw, and, behold, there stood
before the river a ram which had two horns: and the two horns were high; but
one was higher than the other, and the higher came up last1. I
saw the ram pushing westward, and northward, and southward2;
and no beasts could stand before him, neither was there any that could deliver
out of his hand; but he did according to his will, and magnified himself. And
as I was considering, behold, a he-goat came from the west over the face of
the whole earth, and touched not the ground: and the goat had a notable horn
between his eyes3. And he came to the ram that had the two
horns, which I saw standing before the river, and ran upon him in the fury of
his power. And I saw him come close unto the ram, and he was moved with anger
against him, and smote the ram, and brake his two horns; and there was no power
in the ram to stand before him; but he cast him down to the ground, and
trampled upon him; and there was none that could deliver the ram out of his
hand. And the he-goat magnified himself exceedingly: and when he was strong,
the great horn was broken; and instead of it there came up four notable horns4 toward the four winds of heaven. And out of one of them came forth
a little horn5, which waxed (grew) exceeding great, toward the
south, and toward the east, and toward the glorious land6. And
it waxed (grew) great, even to the host of heaven; and some of the host and
of the stars it cast down to the ground, and trampled upon them7.
Yea, it (the little horn) magnified itself, even to the prince of the host8;
and it took away from Him the continual burnt offering, and the place of his
sanctuary was cast down. And the host was given over to it together with the
continual burnt offering through transgression (rebellion); and it cast down
truth to the ground, and it did its pleasure and prospered. Then I heard a holy
one speaking; and another holy one said unto that certain one who spake, How
long shall be the vision concerning the continual burnt offering, and the
transgression that maketh desolate, to (literally - until) give both the
sanctuary and the host to be trodden under foot9. And he
said unto me, Unto two thousand and three hundred evenings and mornings10;
then shall the sanctuary be cleansed”.
- (Daniel 8:1-14)
1This is a
reference to the two divisions of the Medo-Persian Empire (Media and Persia), with emphasis on the second horn (Persia). The Persian influence of the
Medo-Persian Empire started later but grew to be the major influence of that
empire.
2This is a
clear reference to the growth pattern of the Medo-Persian Empire with respect
to Daniel’s location in the vision, Elam or modern day Iran.
3This is a reference to Alexander the
Great and the speed in which the Grecian Empire attacked. The seat of the
Grecian Empire (Greece) is west of Persia and the Grecian Empire crushed the
Persians approximately 330 BC.
4This is a reference
to the four divisions listed above that sprang up at the height of the Grecian
Empire precisely as prophesied by Daniel. Alexander the Great, the son of
Phillip of Macedon, died in 323 BC at the age of 33. Four of his commanders:
Cassander, Lysimachus, Seleucus, and Ptolemy; divided his kingdom after he
died.
5The riddle in the previous chapter
regarding the location of the “little horn”, or The Antichrist is solved.
Scripture clearly and emphatically states that he is to come “out of one
them”, when referencing the four divisions of the Grecian Empire. If we
believe in the literal instruction of scripture, we have no basis to search
anywhere outside of the four divisions listed above. This is also within the
confines of what Isaiah established by calling him, The Assyrian and The King
of Assyria. Later prophetic revelation never contradicts earlier revelation; it
operates within the confines of the previous revelation.
6It grew up to the south and east with
respect to the last point of reference, Greece, or the seat of the Grecian
Empire. The passage clearly states that he is to come “out of” one of
the four divisions of the Grecian Empire. He comes from the division that is
south and east of Greece and toward the beautiful land, or Palestine (presently
Israel). This location only applies to Syria and no other nation. Scripture
will further substantiate this as we progress.
7The “stars” are a
reference to the twelve stars, or twelve tribes of Israel mentioned in
Revelation Chapter 12. In that passage we have Israel portrayed as a woman
fleeing from the persecution of the Dragon, or Satan and his instrument of
wrath, The Antichrist. He is the result of man’s sin and rebellion. He is not
the cause of it. The events regarding Satan being cast down and his transfer of
greater power and authority to The Antichrist and The False Prophet takes place 1260 days before the return of the
Yeshua (Revelation 12:6).
8This is paralleled in
numerous locations throughout scripture. One instance resides in the next
section covering Daniel Chapter 11. The Antichrist is called the willful “King
of the North”, or Syria. His actions are described in greater detail in that
chapter. You will notice many of the same words describing his actions.
9The “transgression
that maketh desolate”, which is more commonly known as “the abomination of
desolation”, is described in numerous locations throughout scripture. The
Antichrist will post an image of himself on Temple Mount in Jerusalem. The Holy
of Holies is the place where man “ought not stand”. The word “image” is the
Greek word (eikon),
or a copy derived directly from the prototype, or the original. The False
Prophet, or second beast mentioned in Revelation Chapter 13 calls on the world
to make an image or likeness of the first beast, The Antichrist. He received
the wound by a “sword”, which is the Greek word (machaira). This word is used metaphorically throughout scripture to
represent general dissension from peace or an act of violence.
10The abomination of
desolation and the giving of the host (Israel) to be trampled underfoot occur
at the same time. In Matthew 24:15, Yeshua spoke concerning these matters.
Now for the interpretation of what Daniel saw:
“The ram which thou sawest, that had the
two horns, they are the kings of Media and Persia (modern Iran), near the
Persian Gulf. And the rough he-goat (male goat) is the king of Greece: and the
great horn that is between his eyes is the first king (Alexander the Great).
And as for that which was broken (Alexander the Great dying), in the place
whereof four stood up, four kingdoms shall stand up out of the nation (regions
mentioned earlier), but not with his (Alexander’s) power. And in the
latter time of their kingdom1, when the transgressors are come to the
full2, a king
of fierce countenance3, and understanding dark sentences4, shall stand up. And his power shall be mighty, but not by his own
power (Satan’s gives him his authority in Revelation 13:4-5); and he shall
destroy wonderfully (fearfully), and shall prosper and do his pleasure
(according to his own will); and he shall destroy the mighty ones and the holy
people. And through his policy (and cunning) he shall cause craft (deceit) to
prosper in his hand; and he shall magnify himself in his heart, and in their
security shall he destroy many: he shall also stand up against the Prince of
princes5; but he shall be broken without hand. And
the vision of the evenings and mornings, which hath been told is true: but shut
thou up (seal up) the vision; for it belongeth to many
days to come6. And I, Daniel,
fainted, and was sick certain (many) days; then I rose up, and did the king's
business: and I wondered at the vision, but none understood it”. - (Daniel
8:20-27)
1Here we have another
clear reference to the latter time of those four kingdoms.
2I prefer the New
International Version for this passage. It reads - “when rebels have grown
completely wicked”. The Living Bible reads - “when they have become morally
rotten”
3I prefer the Morris
Literal Translation for this passage. It reads - “strong of face, skilled in
intrigue”. The New King James Version reads - “having fierce features”
4I decided on the New
King James Version for this passage. It reads - “who understands sinister
schemes”
5The name above all
names, Yeshua…the Messiah.
6Yet another clear
reference detailing the timing of the events described. Daniel prophesied
approximately six centuries before the incarnation of Yeshua and all of these
empires rose to power within that time frame. However, the coming of this
“little horn” warranted the use of the phrase “many days to come”, what is
considered “the distant future” in many translations. This passage clearly
propels these events into the present era, or the “time of the end”.
If we believe scripture to be the authoritative word of Yahweh, then we
have to stand in awe of a creator that loves us enough, to give us written
instructions detailing the very location of “the beast” that will cause such
astounding devastation. I praise a Yahweh; He loves me despite my sinful
nature. He is truly poised for forgiveness and always waiting with open arms
for those who chose to love Him. Until this exposition of Daniel Chapter 8, the
nation that The Antichrist comes from was somewhat mysterious. However, as we
are seeing throughout this study, Yahweh is righteous and just to warn us.
Satan, The Antichrist, and The False Prophet are separate throughout scripture.
So far we have determined that The Antichrist is to come “out of” one
of the four divisions of the Grecian Empire. He comes from the division that is
southeast of Greece and toward the beautiful land, or Syria (Daniel 8:9). But
this can be further solidified…in the next section. It is important to note
that all four divisions of the Grecian Empire were eventually placed under
Roman rule. So you know, each and every empire listed in this exposition can be
found in scripture. We don’t even have to look to another source. If you
insist, the encyclopedia would be a wonderful place to start. History, science,
and understanding in general are all headed to the same location. That location
is truth, made manifest in the person of Yeshua. He cannot be studied as merely
a figure in history, or separately as a spiritual figure. For to seriously
consider one is to ultimately discover the other. The two cannot be studied
apart from one another because they are in fact one and the same.
Daniel Chapter 11 - the willful King of the North
I chose to use the American Standard Version for this section covering
Daniel Chapter 11, unless noted otherwise. The purpose of the prophecies in
Daniel Chapter 11 is to show the series of wars and retreats that took place between
the “King of the North”, Syria, and the “King of the South”, Egypt. Daniel Chapter 11 focuses on these
to nations, as well as “the glorious land”, or Israel. It details the various
conflicts that were yet future from Daniel’s day between the Ptolemaic
(Egyptian) and Seleucid (Syrian) dynasties. These events transpired between
Alexander’s death and the rise of the old Roman Empire, from approximately 323
BC until 165 BC. However, prophecy takes a huge leap to “the time of the end”
in verse 35. These sporadic leaps into the distant future are commonplace among
prophetic passages. This chapter also clearly identifies the nation that brings
forth The Antichrist, Syria - the willful “King of the North”. Many of the
actions of the “King of the North”, or Syria will be familiar by this time.
They are heralded throughout this exposition and throughout scripture in
general. I know this process is lengthy, but the benefits are long lasting when
considering the edification of the believer.
Since the focus of this brief commentary is The Antichrist, I will refrain
from exhausting the history behind the battles that took place between Syria
and Egypt. You are welcome to blow the dust off of your encyclopedia and check it out if you so desire. I anticipate that you would rather I
spend time explaining the future than resurrecting the past. It is a fine line
the teacher of prophecy must walk. Too much history will bore most readers. Too
little history lacks continuity and is therefore deemed unscholarly. I hope and
pray that this is a happy medium. When Alexander the Great died, Syria and Egypt
were settled by two of his four commanders, Seleucus and Ptolemy, respectively.
This chapter covers what is called the wars between the “Kings of the North” (Syria)
and the “Kings of the South” (Negev - southern Israel).The willful “King of the North” appears and becomes the focus of the
rest of the chapter. North of Israel is Syria of course, still within the confines of Assyria as desribed by Isaiah. The word in
verse 40 is the Hebrew word (negev), or southern
Israel. The timing is also made clear in verse 40 where once again we have the
phrase “the time of the end”. It is the end of Gentile rule on the earth.
“…even until the time of the end; because it is yet for the time
appointed. And the king shall do according to his will; and he shall
exalt himself, and magnify himself above every god, and shall speak marvelous
things against the God of gods; and he shall prosper till the indignation be
accomplished; for that which is determined shall be done1. Neither shall he regard the gods of his fathers, nor the god desired
by women, nor any god, for he shall magnify himself above all. But in their
place shall he honor the god of fortresses2; and a god
whom his fathers knew not, shall he honor with gold, and silver, and with
precious stones, and pleasant things. And he shall deal with the strongest
fortresses by the help of a foreign god: whosoever acknowledges him he will
increase with glory; and he shall cause them to rule over many, and shall
divide the land for a price3. And at the
time of the end shall the king of the south4 (negev - Israel) contend with (attack) him; and the king of the north (Syria)
shall come against him (Israel) like a whirlwind, with chariots, and with
horsemen, and with many ships; and he shall enter into the countries, and shall
overflow and pass through. He shall enter also into the glorious
land5, and
many countries shall be overthrown; but these shall be delivered out of his hand: Edom,
and Moab, and the chief of the children of Ammon6. He shall stretch forth his hand also upon the countries; and the land
of Egypt shall not escape. But he shall have power over the treasures of gold
and of silver, and over all the precious things of Egypt; and the Libyans and
the Ethiopians shall be at his steps (some translations say “follow at his
heels”). But tidings (news) out of the east and out of the north shall trouble
him; and he shall go forth with great fury to destroy and utterly to sweep away
many. And he shall plant the tents of his palace between the seas and the
glorious holy mountain7, yet he shall
come to his end, and none shall help him”. - (Dan 11:36-45)
1These actions should be familiar by now.
This is closely paralleled in 2 Thessalonians 2 in the person known as Paul’s
“man of sin”, as well as Ezekiel’s “Prince of Tyre”. Tyre is in Lebanon
(Ezekiel 28). Lebanon is part of “Greater Assyria” and is currently a Syrian
puppet. It is another clear reference to The Antichrist or the willful “King of
the North”. The nation of Syria is the “King of the North” throughout the
entire chapter, a literal truth without exception.
2This word comes from the Hebrew word (mauz) and means - a military stronghold of munitions. Thus, he will honor or
pay lip service to a god propelled by the military force of men, while in his
heart considering himself superior to any god. This is of course the god of
Islam, Allah.
3I prefer the New King James Version for
this passage. It reads: “…and divide the land for gain”. It will be a land for
peace deal where the nation of Syria is a major beneficiary. Once again, Israel
will look to a Gentile ruler for peace, instead of Yahweh and His Son,
Yeshua…the Prince of Peace. The framework of this agreement is already well underway.
The lands that are annexed are the Golan Heights, the West Bank and of course
Jerusalem.
4The word “south” is the Hebrew word (negev), or southern Israel.
5Most translations
say Philistia or Palestine, which is presently Israel, as it should
be.
6Edom, Moab, and Ammon are locations
in Jordan. Amman (Ammon) is the capital of Jordan.
7The “Holy Mountain” is between the
Mediterranean Sea, the Dead Sea, and the Sea of Galilee. Upon Yeshua’s return,
he will slay The Antichrist by His spoken word and implement his physical
dominion on earth. No votes in the United Nations will be required or requested
at this juncture.
Paul calls him the man of sin and the son of perdition
In 2
Thessalonians Chapter 2 the apostle Paul calls The Antichrist a horrible
name. He is called “the man of sin”. What a name. He is the representation of
all that is evil, crafty, and arrogant. He is the fullness of rebellion against
Yahweh in one individual. He is the result of sin and not the cause of sin. It
is important to note, The Antichrist is elected and approved by an overwhelming
majority of the nations. Many nations appease him in order to broker a false
peace with Israel. This land for peace treaty will ultimately be a covenant
with death. It is a covenant which will not remain standing. Yeshua will crush
the nations who come against Israel at His return. Carefully examine the
sequence of events and the reason for the judgment of Yahweh.
“Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering1 together
unto him, That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by
spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at
hand. Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling
away first2, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition3; Who
opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called god, or that is
worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself
that he is God. Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you
these things? And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his
time. For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth
(restrains) will let (restrain), until he be taken out of the way (restrains no
longer). And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume
with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his
coming: Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and
signs and lying wonders, And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them
that perish; because
they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this
cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie4: That
they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in
unrighteousness”. - (2 Thessalonians 2:1-12)
1This
corresponds to the passage in 1 Thessalonians Chapter 4 regarding the resurrection
of the saints to meet Yeshua in the air. The dead in Messiah Yeshua rise first,
then those who are alive are changed into a heavenly body.
2Here we have a prerequisite prior to the “gathering” or the resurrection
of the righteous in Messiah. Paul clearly states the “falling away” must take
place first. Many translations say “the rebellion” or “the apostasy” in place
of “the falling away”. It is a reference to a global revolt against Yahweh and
Yeshua. The result of this global revolt against Yahweh and Yeshua is the rise
and reception of the “man of sin”.
3A second prerequisite
is the revelation of the man of sin, the son of perdition.
4The reason for the judgment is made clear in this segment. Yahweh
allows men to believe a lie because they refuse to receive the love of truth.
Regardless of how this deception might transpire, it is clear that there will
be immense deception when Satan (the adversary) is cast down to earth.
As promised earlier, I will compare the visions John saw to the visions
Daniel saw. These visions cannot be understood apart from one another. They are
intertwined, although they were penned nearly centuries apart. As we have seen
throughout this study, Yahweh uses various Gentile kingdoms to chasten Israel
because of her disobedience and refusal to look to Him for sustenance. Until
this section, the focus was on the empires from the time of Daniel (approx. 606
BC forward). I purposely disregarded the two empires prior to Daniel’s service
under the Babylonian Empire. I did this in order to cut down on some of the
imagery and history until it was necessary. Now it is necessary if we wish to
understand Revelation Chapter 13 and Revelation Chapter 17. The two empires
that I left out are the Egyptian (at the time of Moses) and the Assyrian
empires prior to Daniel’s prophetic service in Babylon, or modern day Iraq.
Below is a list of the empires Yahweh used to chasten Israel from her creation
until the present. The final empire is developing as you read and will submit
to The Antichrist.
1. Egyptian (before Daniel)
2. Assyrian (before Daniel)
3. Babylonian
4. Medo-Persian
5. Grecian
6. Roman1 (Byzantine -Eastern)
7. Ummayad Caliphate - Built The Dome of The Rock in Jerusalem and was centered in Damascus, Syria.
8. Antichrist’s Kingdom - a composite
kingdom that possess traits of all of the others before it. A revived caliphate...in the heart of Ancient Babylon.
1The Roman Empire was the empire at John’s time during
the end time Revelation of the person of Yeshua.
In
Revelation Chapter 17, John had a vision of a beast with a harlot (whore)
sitting on it. The vision of the Beast and the harlot is a description of
several things. Now we can dismember all of the various components of this
beast, or The Antichrist’s Kingdom.
The Antichrist & the beast out of the sea
This beast
that the harlot sits on is The Antichrist’s empire. It is composed of the
following traits.
1) Seven
heads, 2) ten horns having ten crowns, 3) like unto a leopard, 4) with feet
like a bear, 5) and a mouth like a lion.
The harlot
is the system of worship that has committed spiritual adultery.
The bible describes the true church as “the bride of Christ”. The harlot
or whore is the pretender\imposter. The whore is “the apostate church” that has
committed spiritual adultery and fornicated with other religions, compromising
the truth of Yeshua. She is not the real deal just as a man’s mistress is not
his real wife.
“And I stood upon the sand of the sea,
and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having 1) seven heads and 2) ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy. And the beast which I saw
was 3) like unto a leopard, and 4) his feet were as the feet of
a bear, and 5) his mouth as the mouth of a
lion: and the dragon (Satan) gave him his power, and his
seat, and great authority”. - (Revelation 13:1-2)
1) Seven heads - seven kingdoms
“The seven heads are seven hills on which the woman
(harlot) sits1. They are also seven kings2.
Five have fallen (before John’s time) - 1) Egyptian, 2) Assyrian, 3)
Babylonian, 4) Medo-Persian, and 5) Grecian, one is (at John’s time) - 6)
Roman (Byzantine), the other has not yet come or 7) Ummayad Caliphate, but when he
does (Umayyad)he must remain for a little while. The beast who once was (before John’s
time - the Umayyad Caliphate), and now is not (because he
was bound at John’s time) is an eighth king - 8) Revived Caliphate (in the heart of Ancient Babylon). He
belongs to (proper translation “is out of”) the seven3 (because
he (Caliphate) existed already and will be resurrected to revive the Babylonian influence of The Antichrist’s Kingdom) and is going to his destruction”. -
(Revelation 17:9-14)
1Rome is the city on “seven hills” as well as “the
great city that rules over the kings of the earth” (at John’s time) spoken of
in Revelation 17:18. Roman Catholicism is that Babylonian Harlot / Prostitute
mentioned earlier. Roman Catholicism is deeply rooted in Babylonian worship,
many customs dating back to the Tower of Babel and Nimrod…the church that has committed
spiritual adultery by fornicating with other world religions. The church that
appeases and as a result denies the power of Yahweh yet has an outward
appearance of godliness. This includes many Protestant practices which carried
over from the “mother church” of Rome. Remember, she is the “Mother of
Harlots”. In order to be a mother you have to have offspring. The beast and his
ten kings will hate the whore (the false church, mothers and daughters) and burn her with fire (Revelation
17:16). Remember, the majority of the beast’s influence is Islamic. They have
never forgotten the Crusades…they desire revenge. It is also important to note
that apostate Jerusalem is also described as a whore as well. The Antichrist’s Kingdom
will burn her with fire and trample her down as well. She too, has committed
spiritual adultery by fornicating with the enemies of Yahweh.
2The word “kings” is the Greek word (basileus) - a sovereign foundation of power or kingdom.
3Here we have seven spiritual principalities that
Satan uses to gain control of the empires listed above. The eighth is the out
of the first five. This Satanic principality will be released from bondage in
“the Abyss” to revive the final influence of this final empire under The Antichrist.
Hence, “the beast that was (before John’s time), and now is not (at John’s
time) is the eighth”. Yahweh has structure in His kingdom and so does Satan. You
can read about how spiritual principalities fight for control in Daniel Chapter
10.
2) Ten horns
with ten crowns - ten kings out of the landmass of the old Roman Empire who
will give The Antichrist their power to rule
“And the ten horns which thou sawest are ten kings, which
have received no kingdom as yet; but receive power as kings one hour with the
beast1. These have one mind (are of the same
mindset), and shall give their power and strength unto the beast (The Antichrist).
These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for He is
Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with Him are called, and
chosen, and faithful”. - (Revelation 17:12-14)
1They have received no kingdom at John’s
time or Daniel’s time. They give their authority to the beast as one kingdom.
The consolidation of The Antichrist’s empire is complete 3.5 years prior to the
return of Yeshua.
Let us quickly refer back to Revelation Chapter 13 for clarity.
“And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and
blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two
months1. And he
opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his
tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven”. - (Revelation 13:5-6)
1The Antichrist’s Kingdom is consolidated
and ordained to rule for “forty and two months” on the Hebrew calendar.
3) The
primary beastly feature is described as being like unto a leopard
The Grecian Empire was the third leopard-like beast or empire described
in Daniel Chapter 7 and the third precious metal described in Daniel Chapter 2.
The Grecian Empire was the fifth empire in succession: Egyptian, Assyrian,
Babylonian, Medo-Persian, Grecian. This explains why the preponderating
feature (the body) of The Antichrist’s Kingdom is leopard like, the third beast
and third empire from Daniel’s time. As a refresher let us examine the proper
scripture.
“After this I beheld, and lo another (the third), like a leopard, which
had upon the back of it four wings (four divisions of the Grecian Empire) of a
fowl; the beast had also four heads (Alexander’s four commanders); and dominion
was given to it”. - (Daniel 7:6)
4) Having
feet like the feet of a bear
The word “foot” is the Greek word (pous) and means - a foundation on which to stand, as well as a literal foot.
The Antichrist’s Kingdom was described as having feet like a bear. In Daniel
Chapter 7, the second beast or empire was the Medo-Persian Empire and was
described as a bear. Hence, the foundation on which The Antichrist and his
empire will stand is Medo-Persian. Medo-Persia is modern day Iran (Shia Islam),
near the Persian Gulf. Iran and Syria are the closest of friends. Don’t forget
that the foundation of The Antichrist’s Kingdom is Persia. This will be
important if we wish to determine the location that The False Prophet will come
from. The Antichrist is exalted and lifted up by the miracle working power of The
False Prophet, likely the Islamic “Isa” or Jesus. Miracles are not always
evidence of Yahweh’s hand. Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the
evidence of things not seen according to Hebrews 11:1. Without faith it is
impossible to please Yahweh according to Hebrews 11:6. The deceit at the hand
of The False Prophet will be unparalleled. It will be physically tangible and
visually stimulating so as to deceive those who refuse to receive the love of Yeshua
in their hearts, but are yet carnally minded and guided by sight, miracles,
signs and wonders. This will serve to deceive the overwhelming majority of the
sensual and apostate charismatic church who left the God of Israel a long time
ago. The scripture reference is listed here…
“And behold another beast, a second, like to a bear, and it raised up
itself on one side (the Persian influence was stronger), and it had three ribs
in mouth of it between the teeth of it: and they said thus unto it, Arise,
devour much flesh”. - (Daniel 7:5)
5) A mouth
as the mouth of a lion
The lion was the first beast or empire mentioned in Daniel Chapter 7.
It was the empire at the time of Daniel, the Babylonian Empire.
“The first was like a lion, and had eagle's wings: I beheld till the
wings thereof were plucked, and it was lifted up from the earth, and made to
stand upon the feet as a man, and a man's heart was given to it”. - (Daniel
7:4)
We clearly see that The Antichrist’s Kingdom will possess traits that
are Babylonian, Medo-Persian, Grecian and Roman. His ten kingdoms will come
from the same area. This explains why every precious metal was destroyed by Yeshua’s
Millennial Kingdom during the vision in Daniel Chapter 2. That statue was a
parallel containing all of the attributes of The Antichrist’s Kingdom mentioned
in Revelation. The description of The Antichrist’s Empire in Revelation Chapter
13 and Revelation Chapter 17 is a conglomeration of all of the empires
mentioned in Daniel Chapter 7.
The Babylonian Empire is the
Lion in Daniel Chapter 7 and the Gold Head in Daniel Chapter 2
The Medo-Persian Empire is the Bear in Daniel
Chapter 7, the Silver Breast and Arms in Daniel Chapter 2, and the Ram in
Daniel Chapter 8:
The Grecian Empire is the
Leopard in Daniel Chapter 7, the Bronze Waist and Thighs in Daniel Chapter 2,
and the Male Goat in Daniel Chapter 8:
The Roman Empire is the
terrible beast with ten horns in Daniel Chapter 7 and the Iron Legs and Feet in
Daniel Chapter 2:
The feet and toes (ten toes assumed) were to come
out of the legs or the landmass under the old Roman Empire. They correspond to
the ten horns out of the fourth beast in Daniel Chapter 7. They are also
paralleled in the ten horns of The Antichrist’s composite empire mentioned in
the above passages regarding Revelation Chapter 13 and Revelation Chapter 17.
The False Prophet & the beast out of the earth
As
we discovered in the previous section regarding The Antichrist’s Kingdom or the
“Beast out of the Sea”, the foundation or “feet” of that empire was described
as “like a bear” or Medo-Persian - the second beast and second empire described
in Daniel Chapter 7. Once again, Persia is modern day Iran. The False Prophet
is the “Beast out of the Earth” mentioned in the last half of Revelation
Chapter 13. His purpose will be to exalt The Antichrist, a political dignitary.
The False Prophet will be a religious leader and will be Islamic, most likely
out of Shia Islam supported by Persia or Iran. The False Prophet will likely be
the Islamic version of Jesus…the Son of Mary or Isa. Both Syria and Iran are
Islamic nations. The religious system under The False Prophet (Islam) will
serve as a foundation for The Antichrist’s political rule. The Antichrist comes
from Syria and The False Prophet supports him with miracles that deceive those
who perish. Let us look into the scriptures for increased understanding. The
Islamic Mahdi (guided one) is The Antichrist and the Islamic Isa (Jesus…Son of
Mary) will likely be The False Prophet.
“And I beheld another beast coming up out of the
earth (The False Prophet); and he had two horns1 like a lamb,
and he spake as a dragon2.
And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast (The Antichrist) before him
(in The Antichrist’s presence), and causeth the earth and them which dwell
therein to worship3 the first beast (The Antichrist), whose
deadly wound was healed. And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire
come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, and deceiveth them that
dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in
the sight of (in the presence of) the beast (The Antichrist); saying to them
that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast4, which had the wound by a sword5, and did live. And he
had power to give life6 unto the image (copy or likeness) of
the beast, that the image (copy or likeness) of the beast should both speak,
and cause as many as would not worship the image of the beast (likeness of The
Antichrist) should be killed. And he causeth all, both small and great, rich
and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark7 in their right hand, or in their foreheads: And that no man might buy or sell,
save (unless) he had the mark..”. - (Revelation 13:11-17) 1The only other prophetic mention of “two
horns” is in Daniel Chapter 8. The two horns were Media and Persia, modern day Iran,
near the Persian Gulf. The Antichrist’s and The False Prophet’s whereabouts are
both revealed in Daniel Chapter 8.
2The dragon is Satan.
This is clearly stated in Revelation 12:9.
3The word “worship” is the Greek word (proskuneo) and it means - to fawn over, to crouch to, or to submit to. A good
example is a dog licking out of his master’s hand. Sometimes it means to fall
prostrate in someone’s presence.
4The word “image” is the Greek word (eikon) and it means - a copy derived directly from the original or prototype,
a representation, or likeness. Hence, The False Prophet will call on the world
to make a copy or likeness of the first beast, or The Antichrist.
5The word “sword” is the Greek word (machaira) and it means - any form of violence of dissension from peace. This
word is used metaphorically throughout scripture as a reference to violence.
6The word “life” is the Greek word (pnuema) and it means - the vital principle of life, spirit, or mind.
7The word “mark” is the Greek word (charagma) and it means - a scratch, etching, stamp, insertion, prick or incision. This
will be in the form of a radio frequency identification device. This technology
is widely available and has been for years. This is one of the many ways we
identify The Antichrist, his championing of this mark. This will be in place of
money as a means of exchange under his rule.
The Antichrist, the willful King of the North, The Little
Horn, the son of perdition, the man of sin, and the
beast are the same and can be proven by examining the following scripture
references:
1. All do according to their own will
for the same length of time -
Dan 7:25; 8:14; 11:36; 2 Thes 2:10-12; Rev 13:5-7
2. All will exalt themselves above
every god -
Dan 7:25; 8:25; 11:36-37; 2 Thes 2:4; Rev 13:1-18
3. All are conquerors in the same
territory at the same time -
Dan 7:8, 20-24; 8:23-25; 11:40-45; Rev 13:1-18
4. All speak blasphemies against Yahweh
at the same time -
Dan 7:8,11,20-25; 8:23-25; 11:36; 2 Thes 2:4; Rev 13:15
5. All prevail against the saints
during the tribulation -
Dan 7:21-26; 8:24; 11:40-41; 12:1-7; Matthew 24:15-22; Rev 13:1-18;
14:9-11; 15:1-4; 20:4-6
6. All come to power among ten
kingdoms of Revised Rome, get power over them, and reign over them until they
are destroyed at Armageddon1 -
Dan 7:7,8,23,24; 8:9,22-25; 11:40-45; Rev 13:1-4; 17:9-17; 19:19-21
7. All change times and set laws (feasts)
for a time -
Dan 7:11,21-27; 8:22-25; 11:35-45; 12:7; 2 Thes 2:1-13; Rev 13:1-8
8. All reign until the second coming
of Christ -
Dan 2:44, 7:11-14,18,21-26; 8:23-25; 9:27; 11:36-45; 12:7-13; 2 Thes
2:8-12; Rev 17:9-17; 19:19-21
9. All continue the same duration -
Dan 7:21-26; 8:22-25: 9:27; 11:40-45: 12:7-13; 2 Thes 2:8-13; Rev 13:5;
17:9-17; 19:19-21
10. All will be alive when Yeshua
comes to set up His kingdom -
Dan 2:44; 7:11-14,18-26; 8:22-25; 9:27; 11:40-45; 12:7-13; 2 Thes
2:8-13; Rev 17:14; 19:19-21; 20:1-10
11. All cause the greatest tribulation
that ever will be on earth -
Dan 7:21-27; 8:19,24,25; 9:27; 12:1,7; Matt 24:15-22; 2 Thes 2:1-12;
Rev 7:14; 13:1-18; 14:9-11; 15:2-4; 20:4-6; Jer 30:3-7
12. All will blaspheme Yahweh in Israel
-
Dan 8:9-14; 9:27; 11:45; 12:7; 2 Thes 2:4; Rev 11:1,2; 13:1-18
13. All will disregard the god of
their ancestors -
Dan 7:11, 19-25: 8:22-25; 9:27; 11:38-39; 2 Thes 2:1-12; John 5:43; Rev
13:1-8
14. All get their power from Satan -
Dan 8:24; 11:35-45; 2 Thes 2:9; Rev 13:1-4
15. All will do away with the daily
sacrifice and cause the abomination of desolation -
Dan 7:25; 8:11-14; 9:27; 11:35-45; 12:11; Matt 24:15-22; 2 Thes 2:4;
Rev 13:1-18
16. All will be slain by Yeshua at His
return -
Dan 2:44,45; 7:11,21-26; 11:45; 2 Thes 2:8-12; Rev 19:19-21
1Har-Megiddo in the Hebrew or the hill of Megiddo
is between Damascus, Syria and Jerusalem, Israel. This is the final
battleground for the many nations at war during the tribulation. This is where
we get the term Armageddon.
The apostle John referred to The Antichrist as “the beast”,
and we know from numerous locations that he is a Syrian Arab. In Arabic “the
beast” is Al-Wahash (the-beast). The current tyrant of Damascus, Syria is of
the Al-Wahash (the beast) family line. The family name was changed
to Al-Asad (the lion). Apparently, “the beast” was unbecoming of an
international dignitary.This teaching is strict and literal but it does not stand alone. Yahweh
is smarter than that. Clarence Larkin, in his book Dispensational
Truth (approximately one hundred years ago) and Finis Jennings Dake in the Dake Annotated Reference Bible (more than 50 years ago) stuck to literal interpretation of scripture
when it wasn’t popular. I highly recommend either of these books for a balanced
and disciplined approach to prophecy. Israel wasn’t even a nation when these
men completed their works.
We are supposed to view the world through the eyes of Yahweh in light
of the atonement provided by His Son, Yeshua. Needless to say, in an era where
we are more interested in how God manifests than who He is, sensationalism can
take the place of disciplined understanding. Now we find ourselves in a
condition where this message straight from Yahweh’s word is treated with
uncertainty. It is my prayer that you take this to heart. Pray over it and
share it with someone you love!
Blessings in Yeshua,
Scot Dryer