Coronavirus Cases Pass 5 Million (Second Coming Watch Update #919)

Gospel Light Society Podcasts · Coronavirus Cases Pass 5 Million (Second Coming Watch Update #919)

This is Daniel Whyte III with the Second Coming Watch Update. This is update #919. Let’s take a quick look at today’s prophecy-related headlines which point towards the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ and the end of the world as we know it.

First, today, under the Sign category of PESTILENCES & FATAL EPIDEMIC DISEASES — According to Reuters, Global coronavirus cases surpassed 5 million on Wednesday, with Latin America overtaking the United States and Europe in the past week to report the largest portion of new daily cases globally. Latin America accounted for around a third of the 91,000 cases reported earlier this week. Europe and the United States each accounted for just over 20%. A large number of those new cases came from Brazil, which recently surpassed Germany, France and the United Kingdom to become the third-largest outbreak in the world, behind the United States and Russia. Cases in Brazil are now rising at a daily pace second only to the United States.

Second, today, under the Sign category of EARTHQUAKES IN DIVERS PLACES — According to VOA News, At least four people are dead and 23 others injured after a strong earthquake struck southwest China late Monday. Geologists at the China Earthquake Networks Center said a 5.0-magnitude earthquake struck in Qiaojia [KEE-OH-JEE-AH] county in Yunnan [YOON-NAN] province. China is prone to earthquakes, especially in its mountainous western and southwestern regions. One of the worst disasters of its kind occurred in 2008, when nearly 90,000 were killed when a strong earthquake struck Sichuan [SECH-U-AHN] province.

Third, today, under the Sign category of FAMINES — According to the New York Post, scientists say our sun has gone into lockdown, which could cause freezing weather, earthquakes and famine. The sun is currently in a period of “solar minimum,” meaning activity on its surface has fallen dramatically. Experts believe we are about to enter the deepest period of sunshine “recession” ever recorded as sunspots have virtually disappeared. Astronomer Dr. Tony Phillips said: “Solar Minimum is underway and it’s a deep one. Sunspot counts suggest it is one of the deepest of the past century. The sun’s magnetic field has become weak, allowing extra cosmic rays into the solar system.” NASA scientists fear it could be a repeat of the Dalton Minimum, which happened between 1790 and 1830 — leading to periods of brutal cold, crop loss, famine and powerful volcanic eruptions. Temperatures plummeted by up to 2 degrees Celsius over 20 years, devastating the world’s food production. On April 10, 1815, the second-largest volcanic eruption in 2,000 years happened at Mount Tambora [TAM-BOR-AH] in Indonesia, killing at least 71,000 people. It also led to the so-called Year Without a Summer in 1816 when there was snow in July.

Fourth, today, under the Sign category of EARTHQUAKES IN DIVERS PLACES — According to NBC News, A 6.5-magnitude earthquake struck a remote part of western Nevada. The temblor occurred around 4 a.m. near the California border, in an isolated part of Nevada near Tonopah, about 120 miles southeast of Carson City and midway between Reno and Las Vegas. The initial quake struck about 4.7 miles deep, the USGS said, causing at least six aftershocks, including two with a magnitude of around 5.4. No injuries were reported, but Nevada Highway Patrol photos revealed cracks on U.S. 95, the main highway between Las Vegas and Reno, that were caused by the earthquake. The quake was felt by people from Salt Lake City to California’s Central Valley.

Fifth, today, under the Sign category of TURMOIL IN THE MIDDLE EAST — According to Ynet News, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas announced that Ramallah will no longer be bound by agreements it has signed with Israel and the United States. Abbas made the announcement during an emergency meeting of the Palestinian leadership in Ramallah to coordinate the PA response to Israel’s declared intention to extend its sovereignty over West Bank settlements and the Jordan Valley. Abbas said: “The Palestine Liberation Organization and the State of Palestine are absolved, as of today, of all the agreements and understandings with the American and Israeli governments and of all the obligations based on these understandings and agreements, including the security ones.” The declaration extends to Ramallah’s security cooperation with Israel, seen as vital to keeping violence at a minimum across the area.

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The prophetic passage of Scripture that we are looking at today is Ezekiel 33. Ezekiel 33:33 reads: “And when this cometh to pass, (lo, it will come,) then shall they know that a prophet hath been among them.”

Allow me to share with you some commentary on this passage from Exploring Bible Prophecy from Genesis to Revelation, by Tim LaHaye and Ed Hindson.

Ezekiel lists six covenantal violations that continued to condemn the nation and their consequences, with an additional admonition to heed the prophetic word as truth to be obeyed. The chapter concludes with a restatement of the purpose of prophetic revelation: to authenticate the messenger (prophet) as having a message from God (prophecy). This reassertion of the validity of the prophetic program at the opening of the final division of the book–which centers on the restoration of national Israel–affirms for us that what is promised in these chapters will be fulfilled. It is not apocalyptic idealism or wishful thinking or symbols of spiritual realities, but like the former prophecies that received historical confirmation, so these prophecies made to Israel will find their fulfillment in Israel’s future.

If the Lord tarries His Coming and we live, we will continue looking at the prophetic passages of the Bible in our next broadcast / podcast.

Our Second Coming quote for today is from Billy Graham. He said, “We are to wait for the coming of Christ with patience. We are to watch with anticipation. We are to work with Zeal. We are to prepare with urgency. Scripture says Christ is coming when you’re least expecting him. Coming as a thief. He said, ‘Be prepared. Get Ready. Prepare to meet thy God. Are you prepared?’”

Let’s Pray

***

If you are not ready for the return of Jesus Christ, may I encourage you to get ready today by receiving Him as your Savior. Here is how.

First, accept the fact that you are a sinner, and that you have broken God’s law. The Bible says in Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.”

Second, accept the fact that there is a penalty for sin. The Bible states in Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death…”

Third, accept the fact that you are on the road to hell. Jesus Christ said in Matthew 10:28: “And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” Also, the Bible states in Revelation 21:8: “But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.”

Now that is bad news, but here is the good news. Jesus Christ said in John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

Just believe in your heart that Jesus Christ died for your sins, was buried, and rose from the dead by the power of God for you so that you can live eternally with Him. Pray and ask Him to come into your heart today, and He will. Romans 10:13 says, “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

Keep looking up for your redemption draweth nigh. Let us join in the prayer of John the Revelator — “Even so, come, Lord Jesus.” God bless you.

Netanyahu Suggests Microchipping Children (Second Coming Watch Update #918)

This is Daniel Whyte III with the Second Coming Watch Update. This is update #918. Let’s take a quick look at today’s prophecy-related headlines which point towards the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ and the end of the world as we know it.

First, today, under the Sign category of THE MARK OF THE BEAST — According to The Jerusalem Post, While speaking at a press conference, Netanyahu suggested the Health Ministry use new technology to help Israel adjust to its new routine as the state is lifting the coronavirus lockdown. He said, “That is, technology that has not been used before and is allowed under the legislation we shall enact. I spoke with our heads of technology in order to find measures Israel is good at, such as sensors. For instance, every person, every kid – I want it on kids first – would have a sensor that would sound an alarm when you get too close, like the ones on cars.” Cyber resilience expert Einat [EE-NAHT] Meron said “microchipping children will not pass any test – both practically and legally.”

Second, today, under the Sign category of THE RISE OF GOG AND MAGOG — According to The Associated Press, Russia’s U.N. ambassador said Tuesday that Moscow will oppose any attempts by the United States to extend the arms embargo on Iran and reimpose U.N. sanctions against the Islamic Republic. The ambassador’s comments at a video news conference made clear that the Trump administration will have a tough time advancing any measures to impose further punishment on Iran in the U.N. Security Council, where Russia has veto power. The United States circulated a draft U.N. resolution that would indefinitely extend the U.N. arms embargo on Iran, which expires in October, to a small number of council members in late April. Russia has made no secret of its desire to resume conventional weapons sales to Tehran.

Third, today, under the Sign category of HOSTILITY TOWARD ISRAEL — According to Reuters, Jews in the United States suffered the largest number of anti-Semitic incidents last year since the Anti-Defamation League began collecting records 40 years ago. The 2,107 anti-Semitic incidents recorded in 2019 in the United States included deadly attacks by gunmen at a California Synagogue and a New Jersey kosher grocery store, and a fatal stabbing at a rabbi’s home in New York. It marked a 12% rise from 1,879 incidents in 2018. Previously, the highest number was recorded in 1994, when the ADL reported multiple unsolved arsons, cross burnings and a drive-by shooting.

Fourth, today, under the Sign category of PESTILENCES & FATAL EPIDEMIC DISEASES — According to The Jerusalem Post, An 11th man tested positive last week for a rat strain of hepatitis E, since it was discovered in 2018 that rats are able to infect humans, but doctors have yet to discover how. According to CNN, the outbreak began in Hong Kong when a 56-year-old man had post-transplant “abnormal liver functions with no obvious cause.” Hepatitis E attacks the liver and causes a fever, jaundice and makes the vital organ increase in size. Although he displayed such symptoms, the human strain of the illness was not found in his system. That is when researchers re-developed a broader test which came back with results showing that he has the rat strain of hepatitis E.

Fifth, today, under the Sign category of TURMOIL IN THE MIDDLE EAST — According to The Jerusalem Post, The Iranian parliament approved a bill on Tuesday including a list of measures against the State of Israel, including the establishment of an Iranian consulate or embassy in Jerusalem to ‘Palestine’, boycott measures and bans on contact and agreements between Iran and Israel. The bill, featuring 14 articles, passed with 43 votes in favor and no votes against, according to the Iranian IRNA news agency. The bill bans the use of Israeli flags, symbols or signs for “propaganda purposes in favor of the regime”; direct and indirect financial assistance from Iranian nationals to the State of Israel is prohibited. The bill emphasized that the “historical and integrated land of Palestine belongs to the original Palestinian peoples, including Muslims, Christians and Jews,” adding that the Iranian government is obliged to treat Jerusalem as the “permanent capital of Palestine.”

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The prophetic passage of Scripture that we are looking at today is Ezekiel 33. Ezekiel 33:1-3 reads: “Again the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Son of man, speak to the children of thy people, and say unto them, When I bring the sword upon a land, if the people of the land take a man of their coasts, and set him for their watchman: If when he seeth the sword come upon the land, he blow the trumpet, and warn the people;”

Allow me to share with you some commentary on this passage from Exploring Bible Prophecy from Genesis to Revelation, by Tim LaHaye and Ed Hindson.

Ezekiel had first been appointed by God as a “watchman” to warn the rebellious house of Israel of the certainty of coming judgment. Now the prophet is reminded of his watchman role, which requires personal accountability from each person who hears the warning if deliverance is to be realized. The action required of each Israelite was repentance. In verse 21 the announcement of the conquest of Jerusalem was received by the prophet “in the twelfth year of [the] exile, on the fifth of the teth month”, some six months after the city’s fall to the Babylonians. This announcement marked a turning point in the prophetic career of Ezekiel, removing his prior condition of speechlessness and inaugurating his new message of consolation regarding Israel’s restoration.

If the Lord tarries His Coming and we live, we will continue looking at the prophetic passages of the Bible in our next broadcast / podcast.

Our Second Coming quote for today is from William Freel. He said, “As Christians, we should not be exitists, looking for our going, but adventists, looking for his coming.”

Let’s Pray

***

If you are not ready for the return of Jesus Christ, may I encourage you to get ready today by receiving Him as your Savior. Here is how.

First, accept the fact that you are a sinner, and that you have broken God’s law. The Bible says in Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.”

Second, accept the fact that there is a penalty for sin. The Bible states in Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death…”

Keep looking up for your redemption draweth nigh. Let us join in the prayer of John the Revelator — “Even so, come, Lord Jesus.” God bless you.

Over 10,000 New Coronavirus Cases in Russia in 24 Hours (Second Coming Watch Update #917)

This is Daniel Whyte III with the Second Coming Watch Update. This is update #917. Let’s take a quick look at today’s prophecy-related headlines which point towards the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ and the end of the world as we know it.

First, today, under the Sign category of PESTILENCES & FATAL EPIDEMIC DISEASES — According to Al Jazeera, The number of new coronavirus cases in Russia rose by 10,559 over the past 24 hours, bringing the nationwide tally to 165,929, the coronavirus crisis response centre said on Wednesday. It was the fourth consecutive day that cases had risen by more than 10,000. It also reported 86 new fatalities from COVID-19, bringing the total death toll in Russia to 1,537. Russia has said its lower mortality rate was because its outbreak occurred later than in many other countries which gave the authorities more time to prepare, as well as widespread testing and tracking of infections, but critics have cast doubt on the numbers.

Second, today, under the Sign category of TURMOIL IN THE MIDDLE EAST — According to Ynet News, An Israeli security official said Iran has begun pulling troops out of Syria for the first time since its involvement in the civil war. “The Iranians are reducing their troop deployment and vacating bases,” officials said citing the cost to Syria for Iran’s presence on their soil as the reason. The source said, “Iran is fighting its own war and has become a liability for Syria. Israel will increase its pressure to push Iran out.” The official briefed journalists 12 hours after a rocket attack on a Syrian military facility for the production of long-range missiles near Aleppo that was attributed to Israel. According to international media reports, 14 Iranian and Iraqi fighters were killed in the raid. Tehran has not commented on the reports.

Third, today, under the Sign category of PESTILENCES & FATAL EPIDEMIC DISEASES — According to The Jerusalem Post, The Western Wall plaza reopened to worshipers on Tuesday as coronavirus regulations were lifted. Worshipers will need to have their temperature checked and their personal details recorded before entering and are asked to maintain two meters distance from others and wear masks. The plaza will be split into a number of prayer complexes that will follow Health Ministry regulations. 300 worshipers will be allowed in the plaza at a time while wearing masks. If the maximum number of worshipers is reached, worshipers will need to wait outside while keeping two meters distance from others until room becomes available. The Rabbi of the Western Wall, Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz, reminded worshipers that according to Jewish law, those who have not seen the Temple Mount in the past 30 days should tear their clothing and say, “Our holy Temple, our pride, Where our fathers praised You, Has been consumed by fire: And all that was dear to us is ruined”.

Fourth, today, under the Sign category of ARAB HOSTILITY TOWARD ISRAEL — According to Israel National News, Palestinian Arab NGOs are coordinating their moves in a joint action meant to thwart Israel’s attempt, they claim, to ‘take advantage of the coronavirus crisis to establish facts on the ground and to continue its military escalation policy against the Palestinian people.’ At a meeting held by the secretaries of these organizations, and attended by senior representatives of the Fatah and the PLO, ways of action were discussed in response to Israel’s planned application of sovereignty over Judea and Samaria and what Palestinian Arabs perceive as the green light given by the US for such a move. The participants emphasized the importance of the boycott of Israel, acting to isolate in on the international level, and taking its leaders to justice in the International Criminal Court.

Fifth, today, under the Sign category of FAMINES — According to The Wall Street Journal, the coronavirus pandemic has disrupted production at U.S. meatpacking plants, leading to higher prices and scarcity for popular items like ground beef and chicken breasts in supermarket meat cases. Grocers, seeking to head off panic buying, have begun limiting purchases and say they are preparing for intermittent shortages through May if not longer. These shortages may intensify in the coming weeks given the lag between production at the slaughterhouses and distribution to stores. That means shoppers can expect higher prices, slimmed-down selections and nudges to choose plant-based meat alternatives or less popular cuts like sirloin steak.

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Allow me to share with you some commentary on this passage from Exploring Bible Prophecy from Genesis to Revelation, by Tim LaHaye and Ed Hindson.

The final division of Ezekiel, chapters 33-48, contains prophecies of hope for the exilic community and the nation of Israel thereafter. The same righteous God who executed judgment will also mercifully grant restoration. The end of the divine purpose is to glorify His sovereign grace by acting for His own name’s sake to regather, regenerate, restore, and finally rule over Israel according to His prophetic promise. In these chapters it will be seen that the course of divine judgment during human history will come to a close with Israel’s repentance (chapter 33). God will destroy all the nations who threaten Israel as a prelude to the final regathering of His people from the nations (chapters 35, 38-39). Then the Messiah, Israel’s true Shepherd (chapter 34), will return, regather and reunite His people as a nation, and dwell in their midst in the land of Israel and sanctify them (chapters 36, 37) so they can mediate the laws of the New Covenant to the nations during the kingdom age as a kingdom of priests at the messianic temple (chapters 40-48).

If the Lord tarries His Coming and we live, we will continue looking at the prophetic passages of the Bible in our next broadcast / podcast.

Our Second Coming quote for today is from John Chrysostom. He said, “There are two advents of Christ: that which has been, and that which is to be. And the two are not for the same purpose; the first came to pass not that He might search into our actions, but that He might pardon; the object of the second will be not to pardon, but to judge.”

Let’s Pray

***

If you are not ready for the return of Jesus Christ, may I encourage you to get ready today by receiving Him as your Savior. Here is how.

First, accept the fact that you are a sinner, and that you have broken God’s law. The Bible says in Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.”

Second, accept the fact that there is a penalty for sin. The Bible states in Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death…”

Keep looking up for your redemption draweth nigh. Let us join in the prayer of John the Revelator — “Even so, come, Lord Jesus.” God bless you.

US May be Ready to Recognize Israeli Annexation (Second Coming Watch Update #916)

Gospel Light Society Podcasts · US May be Ready to Recognize Israeli Annexation (Second Coming Watch Update #916)

This is Daniel Whyte III with the Second Coming Watch Update. This is update #916. Let’s take a quick look at today’s prophecy-related headlines which point towards the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ and the end of the world as we know it.

First, today, under the Sign category of RE-ESTABLISHMENT OF ISRAEL — According to Israel Hayom, local media reported a US State Department official said that Washington was ready to recognize Israel’s annexation of parts of Judea and Samaria. A US State Department spokesperson was quoted by The Times of Israel as saying, “As we have made consistently clear, we are prepared to recognize Israeli actions to extend Israeli sovereignty and the application of Israeli law to areas of the West Bank that the vision foresees as being part of the State of Israel.” According to the report, the move would be “in the context of the government of Israel agreeing to negotiate with the Palestinians along the lines set forth in President Trump’s vision. … The annexation would be in the context of an offer to the Palestinians to achieve statehood based upon specific terms, conditions, territorial dimensions and generous economic support. This is an unprecedented and highly beneficial opportunity for the Palestinians.”

Second, today, under the Sign category of TURMOIL IN THE MIDDLE EAST — According to Al Jazeera, At least a dozen Lebanese banks across the country were torched and vandalised during the second consecutive night of angry protests fuelled by frustration over the national currency’s unfettered depreciation. Hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets from Beirut [BAY-ROOT] to southern Sidon [SY-DON] along with Nabatieh [NAH-BAH-TEE-AH], the Bekaa [BEH-KAH] Valley, and Tripoli and Akkar [AHK-KAR] in the north. The largest and most violent protests took place in the northern city of Tripoli – Lebanon’s second-largest, and poorest, city, after a protester died from wounds sustained while protesting the night before.

Third, today, under the Sign category of EARTHQUAKES IN DIVERS PLACES — According to Daily Mail, New Zealand has recorded its most powerful earthquake of 2020 in a remote corner of the South Island. Dunedin [DUN-AY-DIN], Queenstown and Invercargill residents were among thousands of Kiwis to report rattling from a 5.6 magnitude earthquake in Southland at 10:52am on Monday. The epicentre was about 40km north of Te Anau and the same distance southwest of Milford Sound. Monitoring agency GNS Science charted a similar earthquake in the same place nine days ago.

Fourth, today, under the Sign category of WARS & RUMOURS OF WARS — According to Daily Star, The US military has scrambled three fighter jets to intercept a patrolling Russian warplane flying near to an American aircraft carrier. The Russian IL-38 had managed to get within 30km of the USS George Washington aircraft carrier without being detected. According to reports, the Russian anti-submarine aircraft was escorted to a safe distance after which the American fighters returned back to the nuclear-powered George Washington aircraft carrier.

Fifth, today, under the Sign category of WARS & RUMOURS OF WARS — According to SpaceWar.com, France and Germany joined the United States in condemning Iran’s launch of a military satellite, suggesting it was a violation of a United Nations resolution. Iran launched its Nour-1 [NOOR] military satellite on a Qased [KASED] ballistic missile last week, announcing that the satellite was successfully installed in orbit 264 miles above the earth. U.S. officials condemned the launch, suggesting the missile used to send Nour-1 [NOOR] to space is the same as those used for ballistic missiles. The action could be interpreted as a violation of Resolution 2231, adopted by the U.N. Security Council as part of the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and six world powers.

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The prophetic passage of Scripture that we are looking at today is Ezekiel 25:3. It reads: “And say unto the Ammonites, Hear the word of the Lord God; Thus saith the Lord God; Because thou saidst, Aha, against my sanctuary, when it was profaned; and against the land of Israel, when it was desolate; and against the house of Judah, when they went into captivity;”

Allow me to share with you some commentary on this passage from Exploring Bible Prophecy from Genesis to Revelation, by Tim LaHaye and Ed Hindson.

The judgment of the aforementioned nations lays the theological foundation for understanding the future judgment of the nations at the end of the Tribulation. Their removal from a position of domination (“the times of the Gentiles,”) prepares the way for the regathering of Israel from “the four corners of the world” and the restoration of Israel in the land at the beginning of the millennial kingdom. It also aids in the interpretation of Christ’s judgment of the nations after He has established His rule on earth. Without understanding the principle in Ezekiel that God holds the nations responsible for their treatment of national Israel, in whatever condition it may be found (in the Diaspora or in the land), it will be difficult to understand Christ’s standard for judgment in Matthew 25:35-46.

If the Lord tarries His Coming and we live, we will continue looking at the prophetic passages of the Bible in our next broadcast / podcast.

Our Second Coming quote for today is from William Barclay. He said, “The best way to prepare for the coming of Christ is never to forget the presence of Christ.”

Let’s Pray

***

If you are not ready for the return of Jesus Christ, may I encourage you to get ready today by receiving Him as your Savior. Here is how.

First, accept the fact that you are a sinner, and that you have broken God’s law. The Bible says in Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.”

Second, accept the fact that there is a penalty for sin. The Bible states in Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death…”

Keep looking up for your redemption draweth nigh. Let us join in the prayer of John the Revelator — “Even so, come, Lord Jesus.” God bless you.

Hamas Operatives Arrested in Israel (Second Coming Watch Update #915)

Gospel Light Society Podcasts · Hamas Operatives Arrested in Israel (Second Coming Watch Update #915)

This is Daniel Whyte III with the Second Coming Watch Update. This is update #915. Let’s take a quick look at today’s prophecy-related headlines which point towards the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ and the end of the world as we know it.

First, today, under the Sign category of TURMOIL IN THE MIDDLE EAST — According to The Jerusalem Post, The Shin Bet, in cooperation with the IDF and Israel Police, arrested three Hamas operatives who were planning to commit several terror attacks against security forces and civilians in the Jerusalem and Ramallah area. 27-year-old Ahmed Sjadiyeh, 26-year-old Mohammad Hamed and 24-year-old Omer Eid met during their studies at Bir Zeyt University and were a part of Hamas’ central student’s union in the West Bank. The three attempted to created homemade explosive devices by downloading instructions from the internet and buying several chemicals and metals. Their plans included bombing the Beitar Jerusalem soccer stadium in Jerusalem as well as several other terror attacks against Israeli security forces in the West Bank.

Second, today, under the Sign category of FAMINES — According to BBC, the UN has warned that the world is at risk of widespread famines “of biblical proportions” caused by the coronavirus pandemic. David Beasley, head of the World Food Programme, said urgent action was needed to avoid a catastrophe. A report estimates that the number suffering from hunger could go from 135 million to more than 250 million. Those most at risk are in 10 countries affected by conflict, economic crisis and climate change. Addressing the UN Security Council during a video conference, Mr Beasley said the world had to “act wisely and act fast”. He said, “We could be facing multiple famines of biblical proportions within a short few months. The truth is we do not have time on our side.”

Third, today, under the Sign category of PESTILENCES & FATAL EPIDEMIC DISEASES — According to The Jerusalem Post, Saudi Arabia extended the suspension of praying in the Grand Mosque and Prophet’s Mosque during the fasting month of Ramadan to stem the spread of the coronavirus. The two mosques, which are considered the holiest places in Islam, will have Ramadan prayers but without worshippers as a precautionary measure and to intensify disinfection operations.

Fourth, today, under the Sign category of TURMOIL IN THE MIDDLE EAST — According to The Times of Israel, Syrian state media reported that air defenses were activated against Israeli missiles over the ancient city of Palmyra in the Homs province. The reports claimed missiles were shot down. SANA said, “Air defenses confronted an Israeli aggression over Palmyra and intercepted several hostile missiles.” The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based war monitor, said the targets were “military posts for Iranian militias in the Palmyra desert.”

Fifth, today, under the Sign category of WARS & RUMOURS OF WARS — According to SpaceWar.com, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards announced they had successfully launched the country’s first military satellite on Wednesday, at a time of fresh tensions with US forces in the Gulf. The United States alleges Iran’s satellite programme is a cover for its development of missiles, while the Islamic republic has previously insisted its aerospace activities comply with its international obligations. Tensions between the arch foes escalated last week with the US Department of Defense accusing Iranian vessels of harassing its ships in the Gulf. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps hailed the surprise satellite launch as a ‘great success’.

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Allow me to share with you some commentary on this passage from Exploring Bible Prophecy from Genesis to Revelation, by Tim LaHaye and Ed Hindson.

This section of judgment against the nations serves as a prophetic preview of the time of Jacob’s trouble and the nations’ attitude toward Israel in the future. Its historical fulfillment should warn those nations that will surround Israel in the future that they will likewise be destroyed if they come against her. It should inform them that despite God’s continuing judgment on Israel they are not to assume that Israel has lost its covenantal status as the people of God or that God has been powerless to protect them. The nations surrounding Israel have pursued an agenda to wipe it off the map of the Middle East, arrogantly assuming that Israel’s minority status is the consequence of its inferior heritage. Such intransigence will one day provoke the invasion of Israel predicted in the “Gog of Magog” war and the program of genocide launched against Israel during the Tribulation. For this reason the wrath of God will again be poured out on the nations, climaxing in the battle of Armageddon, during which Christ Himself returns to “strike down the nations”.

If the Lord tarries His Coming and we live, we will continue looking at the prophetic passages of the Bible in our next broadcast / podcast.

Our Second Coming quote for today is from Anthony Ashley Cooper. He said, “The only remedy for all this mass of misery is the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. Why do we not plead for it every time we hear the clock strike?”

Let’s Pray

***

If you are not ready for the return of Jesus Christ, may I encourage you to get ready today by receiving Him as your Savior. Here is how.

First, accept the fact that you are a sinner, and that you have broken God’s law. The Bible says in Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.”

Second, accept the fact that there is a penalty for sin. The Bible states in Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death…”

Keep looking up for your redemption draweth nigh. Let us join in the prayer of John the Revelator — “Even so, come, Lord Jesus.” God bless you.

Israel Set to Enter Another Lockdown (Second Coming Watch Update #914)

This is Daniel Whyte III with the Second Coming Watch Update. This is update #914. Let’s take a quick look at today’s prophecy-related headlines which point towards the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ and the end of the world as we know it.

First, today, under the Sign category of PESTILENCES & FATAL EPIDEMIC DISEASES — According to Ynet News, Thousands of police officers and IDF soldiers have been deployed across the country as Israel is set to enter another nationwide lockdown for the end of the Passover holiday in order to combat the spread of coronavirus. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Monday evening the lockdown will begin at 5pm Tuesday and last until Thursday at 5am, covering the end of Passover on Wednesday but not the mimouna [MI-MO-NA] celebrations traditionally held by Jews of North African origin after the final day of the holiday.

Second, today, under the Sign category of EARTHQUAKES IN DIVERS PLACES — According to Breaking Israel News, The earth seems to be waking up as seismic activity is being reported around the globe. Last month, a 6.5 magnitude earthquake shook Idaho, generating a multitude of avalanches. According to the U.S. Geological Survey website, there have been 238 earthquakes in Idaho in the last week. Two weeks before, Salt Lake City, Utah, was hit by a 5.7 magnitude earthquake. Since then, there have been 886 smaller earthquakes and aftershocks in the Salt Lake area. Yellowstone also experienced 111 earthquakes in March. The Yellowstone Volcano Observatory released its monthly report on Wednesday, declaring its current alert level “normal” and its aviation color code “green.” This green light was issued despite a large section of the Yellowstone caldera called the Norris Geyser Basin, the hottest, oldest, and most dynamic of Yellowstone’s thermal areas, being discovered as pulsating, inflating and deflating by several inches in erratic bursts. In 2013, the Norris basin rose 5.9 inches for two consecutive years, rising an astonishing five inches in the last 20 years.

Third, today, under the Sign category of WARS & RUMOURS OF WARS — According to Israel National News, The Associated Press reports a group of 11 Iranian naval vessels made ‘dangerous and harassing’ maneuvers near U.S. ships in the Persian Gulf near Kuwait yesterday, in one case passing within ten meters of a Coast Guard cutter. In a statement, the U.S. Navy’s Bahrain-based 5th Fleet said Revolutionary Guard vessels repeatedly crossed the bows and sterns of several American ships at close range and high speed. The statement said the “dangerous and provocative actions increased the risk of miscalculation and collision … and were not in accordance with the obligation under international law to act with due regard for the safety of other vessels in the area.”

Fourth, today, under the Sign category of PESTILENCES & FATAL EPIDEMIC DISEASES — According to The Jerusalem Post, The first two patients who tested positive for the novel COVID-19 have shown significant improvement after receiving a newly-developed Israeli treatment for coronavirus, with one of them even being removed from the intensive care unit within days of treatment. Israeli biopharmaceutical RedHill Biopharma administered their experimental drug, o-pa-ga-nib, in Israel for the first time last week. The first two patients treated, according to the company, have demonstrated significant improvement through clinical trial within mere days of treatment. Dr. Mark L. Levitt, Medical Director at RedHill, said, “We are very encouraged by the preliminary findings showing clinical improvement in the first COVID-19 patients treated with o-pa-ga-nib, which further supports its safety and potential benefit to patients.”

Fifth, today, under the Sign category of WARS & RUMOURS OF WARS — According to SpaceWar.com, according to the South Korea’s military, North Korea fired several suspected cruise missiles towards the sea, with analysts saying Pyongyang was demonstrating the breadth of its arsenal. The ‘multiple projectiles’ fired from Munchon in the east of the country were believed to be ‘short-range cruise missiles’. The test comes a day before the South holds parliamentary elections, and at a time when the world’s attention has been largely focused on the coronavirus pandemic, which Pyongyang insists it has so far escaped.

——–

Allow me to share with you some commentary on this passage from Exploring Bible Prophecy from Genesis to Revelation, by Tim LaHaye and Ed Hindson.

Once the announcement had been received that the judgment against Jerusalem had begun, the focus shifts from the sins of Judah to the surrounding nations. Ezekiel reveals that God will use the Babylonian Empire as an instrument of divine punishment not only against Israel but also against the foreign nations of Ammon, Moab, Edom, Philistia, Tyre, Sidon, and Egypt–which in times past had been adversaries of Israel and now mockingly rejoiced over Judah’s exile and Jerusalem’s fall. Therefore, the prophet pronounces divine retribution on each of these nations because of their profanation of God’s sanctuary and their failure to recognize that these judgments had demonstrated God’s holiness and power. Upon the fulfillment of these prophecies the nations will recognize that Israel’s God, called here by His covenantal name, Yahweh (“the Lord”), is the one and only God.

If the Lord tarries His Coming and we live, we will continue looking at the prophetic passages of the Bible in our next broadcast / podcast.

Our Second Coming quote for today is from Augustine. He said, “He who loves the coming of the Lord is not he who affirms it is far off, nor is it he who says it is near. It is he who, whether it be far or near, awaits it with sincere faith, stead-fast hope and fervent love.”

Let’s Pray

***

If you are not ready for the return of Jesus Christ, may I encourage you to get ready today by receiving Him as your Savior. Here is how.

First, accept the fact that you are a sinner, and that you have broken God’s law. The Bible says in Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.”

Second, accept the fact that there is a penalty for sin. The Bible states in Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death…”

Keep looking up for your redemption draweth nigh. Let us join in the prayer of John the Revelator — “Even so, come, Lord Jesus.” God bless you.

Coronavirus Patients Developing Heart Problems (Second Coming Watch Update #913)

This is Daniel Whyte III with the Second Coming Watch Update. This is update #913. Let’s take a quick look at today’s prophecy-related headlines which point towards the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ and the end of the world as we know it.

First, today, under the Sign category of PESTILENCES & FATAL EPIDEMIC DISEASES — According to Kaiser Health News, While the focus of the coronavirus pandemic has been on respiratory problems and securing enough ventilators, doctors on the front lines are grappling with a new medical mystery. In addition to lung damage, many coronavirus patients are also developing heart problems — and dying of cardiac arrest. As more data comes in from China and Italy, as well as Washington state and New York, more cardiac experts are coming to believe the coronavirus can infect the heart muscle. An initial study found cardiac damage in as many as 1 in 5 patients, leading to heart failure and death even among those who show no signs of respiratory distress.

Second, today, under the Sign category of DISTRESS & PERPLEXITY AMONG PEOPLE — According to USA Today, The U.S. may still be battling the coronavirus outbreak when hurricane season officially begins June 1, and waves of infections could follow during peak months for storms in late summer and early fall. Emergency officials say major storms could severely strain the ability of states and the federal government to protect lives. Emergency managers find themselves preparing for hurricane season in the midst of a months-long pandemic sapping resources globally from aid groups and governments while much of the nation is shut down, self-isolating and unemployed. Forecasters predict this hurricane season will be the fifth consecutive year of above-normal activity. A forecast released Thursday suggests we could see four major hurricanes develop.

Third, today, under the Sign category of WARS & RUMOURS OF WARS– According to SpaceWar.com, Tensions between Iran and the United States flared in Iraq where the U.S. deployed Patriot air defence missiles prompting neighbouring Iran to warn of consequences and demand a US withdrawal. Both countries have been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has claimed more than 14,000 lives in the United States and more than 4,000 in Iran. Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted that “unlike the US — which surreptitiously lies, cheats & assassinates — Iran only acts in self-defence. Don’t be misled by usual warmongers, AGAIN. Iran starts no wars but teaches lessons to those who do.” Trump warned Iran on Wednesday that it would pay a “heavy price” in the event of further attacks on US troops.

Fourth, today, under the Sign category of SIGNS & GREAT WONDERS IN THE HEAVENS — According to Breaking Israel News, A massive storm is brewing over the Western Atlantic Ocean, perhaps biding its time to build strength or perhaps the opposite. Experts are confused as the structure of the storm is a complex mixture of opposing elements. An unusual hybrid subtropical storm, the edges of the storm are currently battering New England with unseasonal freezing rain and snow but the interior of the storm is a warm tropical storm with severe lightning. The storm itself comes early, preceding the hurricane season which begins in two months. The storm is pounding the region with heavy surf and higher-than-average tides. Coming as it does during Passover, the storm is reminiscent of the seventh plague against Egypt that appeared with its elemental opposite: fire, in Exodus 9:24.

Fifth, today, under the Sign category of PESTILENCES & FATAL EPIDEMIC DISEASES — According to New York Post, At least 51 patients diagnosed as having fully recovered from the coronavirus in South Korea have tested positive a second time after leaving quarantine. The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the patients from Daegu [DAY-GOO] all tested positive in a “relatively short time” after they were given the all-clear from their initial infections. A specialist team has been sent to conduct an epidemiological investigation in the city, which is the epicenter of the epidemic in South Korea. For now, the KCDC’s director-general believes it is likely the infection was re-activated after remaining dormant in the patients, as opposed to them being reinfected.

——–

The prophetic passage of Scripture that we are looking at today is Ezekiel 20:33-36. It reads: “As I live, saith the Lord God, surely with a mighty hand, and with a stretched out arm, and with fury poured out, will I rule over you: And I will bring you out from the people, and will gather you out of the countries wherein ye are scattered, with a mighty hand, and with a stretched out arm, and with fury poured out. And I will bring you into the wilderness of the people, and there will I plead with you face to face. Like as I pleaded with your fathers in the wilderness of the land of Egypt, so will I plead with you, saith the Lord God.”

Allow me to share with you some commentary on this passage from Exploring Bible Prophecy from Genesis to Revelation, by Tim LaHaye and Ed Hindson.

In preparation for the fulfillment of this prophecy, the Jews comprising the modern state of Israel have been brought out from the nations in unbelief, and therefore into divine judgment, as evidenced today in the coninuing Middle East conflict centered on Israel. However, the final purpose of this judgment is not to destroy, but to provoke national repentance, which will bring the remnant (“the whole house of Israel, all of them”) into the “bond of the covenant”. This is the New Covenant that will govern Israel throughout the millennial kingdom. Its placement in this text after the Tribulation and Israel’s national repentance further affirms the prophetic order of these events.

Finally, the progression of eschatological events in this prophecy clearly follows a pre-millennial timetable: the regathering of Israel in unbelief to the land of Israel, followed by “the time of Jacob’s [Israel’s] distress”, during which the rebels would be purged from the faithful remnant, resulting in Israel’s national repentance, regathering and restoration to the land, and worship of the messianic king, during the millennial kingdom.

If the Lord tarries His Coming and we live, we will continue looking at the prophetic passages of the Bible in our next broadcast / podcast.

Our Second Coming quote for today is from J C Ryle. He said, “I can only say, that I am more and more convinced, as I grow older — that to keep our eyes steadily fixed on the second coming of Christ is one great secret of Christian peace.”

Let’s Pray

***

If you are not ready for the return of Jesus Christ, may I encourage you to get ready today by receiving Him as your Savior. Here is how.

First, accept the fact that you are a sinner, and that you have broken God’s law. The Bible says in Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.”

Second, accept the fact that there is a penalty for sin. The Bible states in Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death…”

Keep looking up for your redemption draweth nigh. Let us join in the prayer of John the Revelator — “Even so, come, Lord Jesus.” God bless you.

1000 Americans Die of Coronavirus in One Day (Second Coming Watch Update #912)

This is Daniel Whyte III with the Second Coming Watch Update. This is update #912. Let’s take a quick look at today’s prophecy-related headlines which point towards the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ and the end of the world as we know it.

First, today, under the Sign category of PESTILENCES & FATAL EPIDEMIC DISEASES — According to USA Today, The U.S. topped 1,000 coronavirus deaths in a single day for the first time, a daily death toll more than double that of two of America’s most deadly illnesses – lung cancer and the flu. Death counts from the virus are difficult to keep up to date, but the Johns Hopkins coronavirus database shows that the U.S. hit 1,040 cases Wednesday at 10:25 p.m. Since the virus’ first appearance in the U.S. in late January, 5,116 people have died and more than 215,000 have been infected. Some researchers say the daily death toll could more than double – to 2,200 or more – by mid-April. That figure would eclipse heart disease, the nation’s No. 1 killer with about 1,772 deaths per day.

Second, today, under the Sign category of FAMINES — According to The Economic Times, The heads of three global agencies warned of the risk of a worldwide “food shortage” if authorities fail to manage the ongoing coronavirus crisis properly. Many governments around the world have put their populations on lockdown causing severe slow-downs in international trade and food supply chains. Panic buying by people going into confinement has already demonstrated the fragility of supply chains as supermarket shelves emptied in many countries. The joint text signed by heads of UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization, the World Health Organization, and the World Trade Organization, said: “Uncertainty about food availability can spark a wave of export restrictions, creating a shortage on the global market. In the midst of the COVID-19 lockdowns, every effort must be made to ensure that trade flows as freely as possible, specially to avoid food shortage(s)” from developing.

Third, today, under the Sign category of PESTILENCES & FATAL EPIDEMIC DISEASES — According to NBC News, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is self-isolating for a week after the country’s health minister and his wife tested positive for the coronavirus. Netanyahu’s office said the prime minister was put in isolation on the advice of his personal physician and following instructions from the Health Ministry. The ministry has earlier confirmed that Health Minister Yaakov Litzman [YAA-KOV LEETZ-MAN] and his wife tested positive for the coronavirus, and are feeling well.

Fourth, today, under the Sign category of EARTHQUAKES IN DIVERS PLACES — According to The Associated Press, An earthquake struck north of Boise [BOY-SEE], Idaho, Tuesday evening, with people across a large area reporting shaking. The U.S. Geological Survey reports the magnitude 6.5 temblor struck just before 6 p.m. It was centered 73 miles northeast of Meridian, near the rural mountain town of Stanley. There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries. More than 2 million live in the region that could feel the Idaho quake, with reports of shaking coming in from as far away as Helena, Montana, and Salt Lake City, Utah.

Fifth, today, under the Sign category of TURMOIL IN THE MIDDLE EAST — According to Israel National News, Syrian media reported on Tuesday evening an attack allegedly carried out by Israeli aircraft on Syrian territory. According to the Syrian news agency SANA, Israel Air Force fighter jets fired missiles from Lebanese skies towards an area near the city of Homs in western Syria. The report said that Syria’s air defense systems were activated against ‘hostile targets’ over the Homs sky. At the beginning of March, Syria’s official news agency claimed that Israel had carried out strikes in both Homs and Quneitra [KUU-NY-TRAH]. Israel did not comment on those reports.

——–

Allow me to share with you some commentary on this passage from Exploring Bible Prophecy from Genesis to Revelation, by Tim LaHaye and Ed Hindson.

In this text a time of judicial deliverance is predicted through the figure of the Lord’s “mighty hand and outstretched arm.” This divine intervention will result in God’s theocratic rule being reestablished over Israel. The process of reestablishing theocratic rule begins with a regathered remnant of Israel being brought to national repentance and restoration and the rebuilding of the temple on the Temple Mount and the restoring of the sacrificial service. The reason for God’s restored rule over a restored Israel is two-fold: 1) as a witness to Israel and the nations of God’s sovereignty, and 2) to give Israel grounds for glorifying God’s grace throughout the age of the millennial kingdom.

The time of fulfillment is in the future (eschatological) age rather than in the near return from the Babylonian captivity in the Persian period. This can be seen from the description of the events of redemption and restoration in verses 40-44, where the redemption is universal (“the whole house of Israel,” not a portion, as in the return to Jerusalem). Also, the regathering is worldwide (“from the peoples and…from the lands,” not localized, as from Babylon). Moreover, the deliverance here is not effected by a human king (such as the Persian king Cyrus), but directly by God Himself. In keeping with the primary usage of the deliverance figure in verse 33, the historical pattern for this event is the divine deliverance from Egypt, with its climax in the possession of the land of Israel.

If the Lord tarries His Coming and we live, we will continue looking at the prophetic passages of the Bible in our next broadcast / podcast.

Our Second Coming quote for today is from Oswald Chambers. He said, “The only way to wait for the Second Coming is to watch that you do what you should do, so that when he comes is a matter of indifference. It is the attitude of a child, certain that God knows what he is about. When the Lord does come, it will be as natural as breathing. God never does anything hysterical, and he never produces hysterics.”

Let’s Pray

***

If you are not ready for the return of Jesus Christ, may I encourage you to get ready today by receiving Him as your Savior. Here is how.

First, accept the fact that you are a sinner, and that you have broken God’s law. The Bible says in Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.”

Second, accept the fact that there is a penalty for sin. The Bible states in Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death…”

Keep looking up for your redemption draweth nigh. Let us join in the prayer of John the Revelator — “Even so, come, Lord Jesus.” God bless you.

China Could be Hiding Coronavirus Death Toll of Millions (Second Coming Watch Update #911)

This is Daniel Whyte III with the Second Coming Watch Update. This is update #911. Let’s take a quick look at today’s prophecy-related headlines which point towards the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ and the end of the world as we know it.

First, today, under the Sign category of PESTILENCES & FATAL EPIDEMIC DISEASES — According to The Daily Star, Fears China could be hiding its true coronavirus death toll have been sparked as 21.5 million people failed to register for the country’s artificial intelligence software. Citizens in China cannot buy food, or log in online without using their facial recognition, suggesting the disappearance, quarantine, or death of 21.5 million people. In the months of January and February the coronavirus bulldozed its way through China, causing much of the country to go into lockdown. The virus itself originated in China, with wet markets in Wuhan [WOO-HAHN], in the country’s Hubei [HOO-BAY] province, said to be the original epicentre of the outbreak. China is slowly coming out of the government-imposed lockdown, and life is going back to normal, but the Artificial Intelligence Organisation reports nearly 21.5 million people have failed to register their mobile phones. The country requires its citizens to use their mobiles to travel, shop online and activate social media. Chinese officials have not explained the large hole in mobile registrations, prompting some to theorise it could be altering death tolls of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Second, today, under the Sign category of FAMINES — According to The Daily Star, footage has shown millions of locusts forming small groups in the desert to battle high winds as a plague continues to sweep across east Africa, the Middle East and Asia. Billions of locusts have ravaged crops in Kenya, Somalia and Ethiopia in recent months – leading to food shortages in countries that already suffer severe poverty. Swarms as big as 60 kilometres across have also spread to Saudi Arabia, India, Pakistan and even China. Apocalyptic footage has surfaced showing skies turning black as the bugs swarm over cities. Authorities in Saudi Arabia have desperately tried to stem the locust invasion by spraying thousands of litres of pesticides in agricultural regions. Fears have mounted, though, that a second wave of locusts could soon arrive after they were seen hatching in Kenya.

Third, today, under the Sign category of PESTILENCES & FATAL EPIDEMIC DISEASES — According to CNN, Spain has now seen more deaths from the coronavirus pandemic than any other country except Italy, with officials warning that the peak of its outbreak has still not been reached. The Ministries of Health and Science announced Wednesday the nation has recorded 3,434 deaths from COVID-19, pushing it above China in total fatalities. The numbers are up 27% on the day before. Spain is under a countrywide lockdown, and top health official Fernando Simon predicted the nation had still not reached the crest of its outbreak.

Fourth, today, under the Sign category of EARTHQUAKES IN DIVERS PLACES — According to Newsweek, A 7.5 magnitude earthquake has been recorded beneath the northern Pacific Ocean near Russia’s Kuril [KU-RILL] Islands. The quake struck at 2:49 a.m. on Wednesday at a depth of around 37 miles. The epicenter was located 136 miles south-southeast of Severo-Kurilsk [SEH-VER-OH KU-RILL-ISK] on the island chain, and 870 miles northeast of the Japanese city of Sapporo [SAH-PUR-ROH].

Fifth, today, under the Sign category of PESTILENCES & FATAL EPIDEMIC DISEASES — According to Haaretz, Major Orthodox Jewish organizations in the United States are asking community members to limit preparations for Passover to essentials only, in light of government health guidelines. They wrote in a letter, “We are accustomed to honoring Pesach to the fullest degree, including getting haircuts, purchasing new clothing and tableware, and preparing the fullest menus. This year’s public health crisis mandates us to significantly limit all of the above.” Essential Passover purchases are to be done by “one family member only – who is neither ill, vulnerable, nor of known exposure to COVID-19 – as rarely and as briefly as possible.” In addition, the organizations called for people to cancel Passover travel plans.

——–

The prophetic passage of Scripture that we are looking at today is Ezekiel 16:60-63. It reads: “Nevertheless I will remember my covenant with thee in the days of thy youth, and I will establish unto thee an everlasting covenant. Then thou shalt remember thy ways, and be ashamed, when thou shalt receive thy sisters, thine elder and thy younger: and I will give them unto thee for daughters, but not by thy covenant. And I will establish my covenant with thee; and thou shalt know that I am the Lord: That thou mayest remember, and be confounded, and never open thy mouth any more because of thy shame, when I am pacified toward thee for all that thou hast done, saith the Lord God.”

Allow me to share with you some commentary on this passage from Exploring Bible Prophecy from Genesis to Revelation, by Tim LaHaye and Ed Hindson.

This prophecy follows Ezekiel’s most severe denunciation and condemnation of national Israel. In these verses the prophet describes the origin of Israel and its moral defection. The condition of the nation is described as “harlotry,” which refers to ceremonial uncleanness communicated by contact with whatever is ritually impure or polluting–for example, illicit sexual activity and unclean animals. Sometimes the simile of a “menstruous (unclean) woman” is employed to depict the “unapproachableness” of Israel. This condition is said to have been incurred by bad “moral conduct” and “reckless deeds.” Therefore, just as the ceremonial impurity of the menstruous woman separates her from the sphere of that which is considered holy, so the conduct of Israel has caused her to be removed from the Holy Land. The analogy of menstruation occurs in Ezekiel 18:6, 22:10, and 36:17, and may have had further intention of showing the Lord’s spatial separation (that is, withdrawal of the divine presence), just as a man was commanded to distance himself from a menstruating woman.

If the Lord tarries His Coming and we live, we will continue looking at the prophetic passages of the Bible in our next broadcast / podcast.

Our Second Coming quote for today is from Vance Havner. He said, “Some of the saints are SINGING about the Second Coming, but it is one thing just to sing the national anthem during the war and quite another to go into battle. The best evidence that the Lord’s return has really gotten hold of us is when we occupy till He come, do business for God, buy up the opportunities, because the days are evil.”

Let’s Pray

***

If you are not ready for the return of Jesus Christ, may I encourage you to get ready today by receiving Him as your Savior. Here is how.

First, accept the fact that you are a sinner, and that you have broken God’s law. The Bible says in Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.”

Second, accept the fact that there is a penalty for sin. The Bible states in Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death…”

Keep looking up for your redemption draweth nigh. Let us join in the prayer of John the Revelator — “Even so, come, Lord Jesus.” God bless you.

Rabbi Says Coronavirus is Punishment for Homosexuality (Second Coming Watch Update #910)

This is Daniel Whyte III with the Second Coming Watch Update. This is update #910. Let’s take a quick look at today’s prophecy-related headlines which point towards the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ and the end of the world as we know it.

First, today, under the Sign category of INCREASED HOMOSEXUALITY AND SEXUAL IMMORALITY — According to The Times of Israel, Rabbi Meir Mazuz [MEER MAH-ZOOZ], an Orthodox Israeli rabbi, has claimed the spread of the deadly coronavirus in Israel and around the world is divine retribution for gay pride parades. On Saturday night he gave a talk at the yeshiva, during which he said a pride parade is “a parade against nature, and when someone goes against nature, the one who created nature takes revenge on him.” Mazuz [MAH-ZOOZ] said that countries all over the world are being called to account because of their gay pride events, “except for the Arab countries that don’t have this evil inclination.” The outbreak in Iran, one of the most serious in any country, he explained as being due to the wicked ways of Iranians and “their hatred of Israel.”

Second, today, under the Sign category of FAMINES — According to The Times of Israel, Rome-based Senior Locust Forecasting Officer Keith Cressman said a plague of locusts the likes of which have been unseen for over 30 years is about to hit Africa and the Middle East. Adding to the perfect biblical storm, the current coronavirus pandemic is affecting travel of international experts and in-country gatherings for training to combat the locust threat. Cressman works at Locust Watch, a division of the United Nation’s Food and Agriculture Organization. According to the organization’s most recent forecast report, there are new “extremely alarming” swarms forming in Horn of Africa. The Locust Watch website says while one locust may not seem a major eater, the swarms can grow to millions of individuals, “with the capacity to consume the same amount of food in one day as 35,000 people.” The current widespread breeding in Kenya, Ethiopia, and Somalia represents “an unprecedented threat to food security and livelihoods at the beginning of the upcoming cropping season.”

Third, today, under the Sign category of EARTHQUAKES IN DIVERS PLACES — According to CBS News, A 5.7-magnitude earthquake struck near Magna, Utah, Wednesday morning. The temblor knocked out power for tens of thousands and operations at Salt Lake City International Airport came to a halt. It is the largest earthquake to hit the state since a 5.9 magnitude quake struck southern Utah in 1992, according to Utah Emergency Management. The quake was felt across Salt Lake County and in Ogden and as far away as Wyoming. According to the governor, the earthquake damaged both the state’s department of health lab and its coronavirus hotline. According to Johns Hopkins, Utah has 51 confirmed cases of the coronavirus.

Fourth, today, under the Sign category of RE-ESTABLISHMENT OF ISRAEL — According to Breaking Israel News, As the COVID-19 crisis worsens worldwide, the Nation of Israel requests that the Vatican immediately return to Jerusalem the Temple vessels that have been stored in Rome for nearly 2000 years. Rabbi Levi Sudri [SU-DRI], an award-winning Bible expert, noted that a divine message must surely be contained within the coronavirus. He pointed out that the coronavirus began in China and very quickly took hold of Italy in a counter-intuitive manner. “What is the connection between China and Italy? They are geographically distant from each other. That is true but they have a spiritual connection in that they are both centers of two different types of idolatry. In Daniel’s vision, he spoke of the feet of the idol which is Rome.” Rabbi Sudri [SU-DRI] noted that the distinctive boot shape of Italy hints at this Biblical reference and is referred to in Hebrew as er-etz ham-a-gaf; land of the boot. Rabbi Sudri [SU-DRI] noted that the word ma-gaf; boot shares the same root as the word ma-ge-fa; epidemic. Rabbi Sudri [SU-DRI] said, “The word ‘corona’ means crown and that is precisely the issue. Rome stole the crown from Israel, the utensils from the Temple, so they are being struck by the crown virus.”

Fifth, today, under the Sign category of ARAB HOSTILITY TOWARD ISRAEL — According to The Jerusalem Post, according to the Middle East Media Research Institute, some members of Turkey’s press and public have said, the coronavirus is a Zionist plot spread by Jews to decrease the world population. MEMRI, which specializes in translating Middle Eastern media into English, has uncovered a number of incidences of Turks blaming the coronavirus epidemic on Jews and Zionism. In a video posted to Twitter on March 13, a minibus driver and his passengers can be heard engaging in antisemitic conspiracy theories. On March 6, Fatih Erbakan [FAH-TEE UR-BAH-KAN], head of Refah Party and the son of former prime minister Necmettin Erbakan, was reported to have said in a speech: “Though we do not have certain evidence, this virus serves Zionism’s goals of decreasing the number of people and preventing it from increasing, and important research expresses this.”

——–

The prophetic passage of Scripture that we are looking at today is Ezekiel 17:22-24. It reads: “Thus saith the Lord God; I will also take of the highest branch of the high cedar, and will set it; I will crop off from the top of his young twigs a tender one, and will plant it upon an high mountain and eminent: In the mountain of the height of Israel will I plant it: and it shall bring forth boughs, and bear fruit, and be a goodly cedar: and under it shall dwell all fowl of every wing; in the shadow of the branches thereof shall they dwell. And all the trees of the field shall know that I the Lord have brought down the high tree, have exalted the low tree, have dried up the green tree, and have made the dry tree to flourish: I the Lord have spoken and have done it.”

Allow me to share with you some commentary on this passage from Exploring Bible Prophecy from Genesis to Revelation, by Tim LaHaye and Ed Hindson.

The interpretation that Israel will be restored and the temple will be rebuilt can be understood only in light of the ruin of Judah, which was tied to the problem of temple desecration. From the perspective of Ezekiel’s audience, it should be obvious that the prophet’s exhortation to his people of a literal national destruction would be coupled to the prophet’s encouragement of a literal national restoration. Nothing less would meet the need and expectation of the vanquished nation. And nothing less would demonstrate that the Lord was the sovereign and gracious deliverer of His people. The transformation of the restoration promises by the symbolic symbol as merely the spiritual blessings of the New Covenant transferred to the church violates the fundamental law of biblical interpretation, which demands texts to be interpreted within their context. If national Israel received divine restoration, national Israel must receive divine restoration. This is also true of the messianic prophecies woven throughout the first division of Ezekiel, which, though part of the church’s heritage of faith, were exclusively given to national Israel.

If the Lord tarries His Coming and we live, we will continue looking at the prophetic passages of the Bible in our next broadcast / podcast.

Our Second Coming quote for today is from Charles Spurgeon. He said, “Apart from the second advent of our Lord, the world is more likely to sink into a pandemonium than to rise into a millennium.”

Let’s Pray

***

If you are not ready for the return of Jesus Christ, may I encourage you to get ready today by receiving Him as your Savior. Here is how.

First, accept the fact that you are a sinner, and that you have broken God’s law. The Bible says in Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.”

Second, accept the fact that there is a penalty for sin. The Bible states in Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death…”

Keep looking up for your redemption draweth nigh. Let us join in the prayer of John the Revelator — “Even so, come, Lord Jesus.” God bless you.