TRIBULATION Part-1

1-THE ANTICHRIST COMES FORTH AND CONFIRMS A COVENANT
THE CONFIRMATION OF THE COVENANT IS DAY ONE OF THE TRIBULATION
9:27. AND HE (the Antichrist)
SHALL CONFIRM (or sign, or agree to)
THE COVENANT (or treaty)
FOR ONE WEEK (or one ‘seven,’ or 7 years):
AND IN THE MIDST (or middle)
OF THE WEEK (of the seven years)
HE (the Antichrist)
SHALL CAUSE THE SACRIFICE AND THE OBLATION (or offering)
TO CEASE (or end), which are taking place at the temple,
AND FOR THE OVERSPREADING OF ABOMINATIONS HE SHALL MAKE IT DESOLATE (or on a wing of the temple, he will set up an abomination that causes desolation-NIV),
EVEN UNTIL THE CONSUMMATION (or complete destruction),
AND THAT DETERMINED (or that is decreed)
SHALL BE POURED UPON THE DESOLATE (or on him, the Antichrist).
DAN 9:27 is the seventieth week of Daniel. It is among the most important Bible prophecy verses for us to understand today. It covers the Antichrist coming forth and the confirmation of a treaty that begins the Tribulation. It shows that the Tribulation consists of two parts. It reveals a temple during the Tribulation, an abomination, and the final prophesied end of the Antichrist.
For today’s student of Bible prophecy, perhaps, no other verse is more important than Dan 9:27.
Dan 9:27 repeated with commentary.
AND HE. This is the Antichrist. Immediately after the Rapture, the Antichrist comes forth. This is the "prince that shall come," in v.26. This is the "little horn," in Dan 7:8. He is also called the "beast," in Rev 13 and others. He is, "the rider on the white horse," in Rev 6:2; as it is written, BEHOLD A WHITE HORSE: AND HE THAT SAT ON HIM HAD A BOW; AND "A CROWN WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM": AND HE WENT FORTH CONQUERING, AND TO CONQUER. It is presumed that he takes over the EEC—the European Economic Community. This man of sin, the son of Satan, cannot do this until God's people are removed.
He SHALL CONFIRM (or sign, or agree to)
THE COVENANT (or treaty, or an agreement of some kind). Some type of covenant, peace treaty, or guarantee for Israel's protection shall emerge. Supposedly, this treaty will come forth from the EEC. As the presumed head of the EEC, the Antichrist shall agree to (or sign, or confirm) this document (or agreement, or covenant)
WITH MANY. Israel is at the heart of this agreement. Some type of covenant shall be confirmed (or agreed to, or signed) with Israel, and with many others (possibly other nations), and with the Antichrist
FOR ONE WEEK, which represents seven years. The length of the covenant or treaty will be seven years. THE CONFIRMATION OR SIGNING OF THIS COVENANT BEGINS THE TRIBULATION. The seventieth week of Daniel is the Tribulation.

2-THE COVENANT
3-(The Seventieth Week)
God warns Israel regarding this treaty and trusting the Antichrist. BECAUSE YE HAVE SAID (Israel has said), WE HAVE MADE (or entered into) A COVENANT (or treaty) WITH DEATH (with the Antichrist), AND WITH HELL (or with the grave) ARE WE AT (or have made an) AGREEMENT. In making a covenant with the Antichrist, Israel, in effect, was in agreement with hell. WHEN THE OVERFLOWING (or overwhelming) SCOURGE SHALL PASS THROUGH (or sweeps by), IT SHALL NOT COME UNTO US (or it cannot touch us): FOR WE (Israel) HAVE MADE LIES (or a lie) OUR REFUGE, AND UNDER FALSEHOOD HAVE WE HID OURSELVES-Isa 28:15. Israel should have trusted God for their protection. Instead, they chose to make falsehood their hiding place, protection, and hope. They have trusted in lies—in the Antichrist—for their security, their refuge, and their hope for peace. Israel believes that, because of the covenant with the Antichrist, when the overwhelming scourge shall pass through, they will be protected. They are blind to the truth of what they have done. As it is written, FOR WHEN THEY SHALL SAY, PEACE AND SAFETY; THEN SUDDEN DESTRUCTION COMETH UPON THEM, AS TRAVAIL UPON A WOMAN WITH CHILD (or as labor pains on a pregnant woman-NIV); AND THEY SHALL NOT ESCAPE-1 Thes 5:3. The Russian-Arab invasion of Israel shall take place.
Jesus foretold that this would happen; as it is written, I AM COME IN MY FATHER’S NAME, AND YE RECEIVE ME NOT: IF ANOTHER SHALL COME IN HIS OWN NAME (which is the Antichrist), HIM YE WILL RECEIVE-Jn 5:43. Israel turns to the Antichrist for protection. Later in the Tribulation, many in Israel shall receive the Antichrist as their Messiah.
God tells Israel, regarding the covenant with the Antichrist, AND YOUR COVENANT WITH DEATH SHALL BE DISANNULLED, AND YOUR AGREEMENT WITH HELL SHALL NOT STAND; WHEN THE OVERFLOWING (or overwhelming) SCOURGE SHALL PASS THROUGH (or sweeps by), THEN YE SHALL BE TRODDEN (or beaten) DOWN BY IT. The very agreement that Israel thought would be their protection is now going to be their downfall. FROM THE TIME THAT IT GOETH FORTH IT SHALL TAKE YOU (or carry you away): FOR MORNING BY MORNING SHALL IT PASS OVER (or sweep through), BY DAY AND BY NIGHT: AND IT SHALL BE A VEXATION (or sheer terror) ONLY TO UNDERSTAND THE REPORT (or message)-Isa 28:18,19. It will bring sheer terror to those that can understand what has happened and the report or message.
FOR THE BED IS SHORTER THAN THAT A MAN CAN STRETCH HIMSELF ON IT: AND THE COVERING NARROWER THAN THAT HE CAN WRAP HIMSELF IN IT-Isa 28:20. The bed and covenant represent the Antichrist. The bed is too short. One cannot wrap himself in it for warmth and protection. Likewise, the covering that the Antichrist offers is not sufficient. It will not accomplish the purpose that Israel thought it would. It will not save them. It cannot protect them. The only true protection that a person can really have is Jesus. All other beds are too short, and all other coverings are too narrow. All other coverings will pass away.
AND IN THE MIDST (or middle) OF THE WEEK (or in the midst of the 7 year Tribulation). This gives a time frame of 3 ½ years, or 42 months from the end of the Tribulation. The last 42 months of the Tribulation is also called the "Great Tribulation." (Note: There are certain verses that indicate the first 3 1/2 years of the Tribulation are cut short in some way.)
HE (the Antichrist) SHALL CAUSE THE SACRIFICE AND THE OBLATION (or offering) TO CEASE (or end). Sometime during the first part of the Tribulation, a temple will be built in Jerusalem. Sacrifices and oblations will begin as in olden times. However, in the midst of the week, the Antichrist shall be killed, but then return to life. He moves into the temple in Jerusalem. Then HE AS GOD SITTETH IN THE TEMPLE OF GOD, SHOWING HIMSELF THAT HE IS GOD-2 Thes 2:4. The Antichrist shall stop the sacrifices and oblations.
AND FOR THE OVERSPREADING OF ABOMINATIONS. Because of the abominations being spread or placed in the temple
HE (the Antichrist) SHALL MAKE IT (the temple) DESOLATE (or on a wing of the temple he will set up an abomination that causes desolation-NIV). This is referred to as the "abomination of desolation," in Mt 24:15. The temple is defiled. The Antichrist, the son of Satan, moves into the temple. Some kind of abomination is set up on a wing of the temple. Perhaps, the image that was made to the beast will be placed there. People will be required to worship it or be put to death-ref Rev 13:14,15. As it is written, THE DAILY SACRIFICE SHALL BE TAKEN AWAY, AND THE ABOMINATION THAT MAKETH DESOLATE SET UP-Dan 12:11.
EVEN UNTIL THE CONSUMMATION (or end)." The Antichrist shall reign for 3 ½ years (or 42 months, or 1260 days) until the end, the time that has been determined for him to reign. Immediately after the Tribulation, Jesus shall return at the time of Armageddon. When Jesus returns,
AND THAT DETERMINED (or that is decreed)
SHALL BE POURED UPON THE DESOLATE (or on him, the Antichrist). What God has decreed in His Word shall be poured upon (or done to) the one that made the temple desolate, the Antichrist. The Antichrist and false prophet shall be cast alive into the lake of fire-ref Rev 19:20. The Antichrist SHALL BE BROKEN-Dan 8:25. For THAT WICKED...THE LORD SHALL CONSUME WITH THE SPIRIT OF HIS MOUTH-2 Thes 2:8.

4-WOE TO THEM THAT REJECT THE LOVE OF THE TRUTH NOW,
BECAUSE THEY CHOOSE PLEASURE IN SIN
The Rapture takes place. Some people are taken, but most are left behind. The unsaved people that are left behind can be divided into two groups.
Group one are those that did not get saved, because they refused to receive the Gospel. They believed not the truth, but had pleasure in wickedness.
Group two are those that did not get saved, however, not for the same reasons as group one. This second group, if they are not killed near the beginning, should have at least one more chance to be saved during the Tribulation. Nevertheless, most who do get saved will be martyred for the name of Jesus.
It is written, AND WITH ALL DECEIVABLENESS OF UNRIGHTEOUSNESS IN THEM THAT PERISH (or in every sort of evil that deceives those who are perishing-NIV, he will enable him to deceive, in all kinds of wicked ways, those who are headed for destruction-JNT35); BECAUSE THEY RECEIVED NOT (or refused) THE LOVE OF THE TRUTH, THAT THEY MIGHT BE SAVED (or that could have saved them-JNT36). AND FOR THIS CAUSE (or reason) GOD SHALL SEND THEM (a) STRONG (or powerful) DELUSION (causing them to go astray-JNT37), THAT THEY SHOULD BELIEVE A (or the) LIE. (The result will be) THAT THEY ALL MIGHT BE DAMNED (or condemned) WHO BELIEVED NOT THE TRUTH, BUT HAD PLEASURE (or delighted) IN UNRIGHTEOUSNESS (or wickedness)-2 Thes 2:10-12.
Verses 10 to 12 all go together. They appear to be speaking to the people of the last church age (the Laodicean age) that will conclude or end with the Rapture. This is the church age that we are now in. These verses give a very stern warning to these people.
This message demonstrates that the unrighteousness and evil, which is in these people, or embraced by them, shall deceive them (deceivableness or deception of unrighteousness in them that perish). Sin deceives. This is because these people would not receive God’s Word, Jesus (the love of the truth or to love the truth), so that they could be saved.
This grave warning goes forth to those that would not receive God’s Word (the love of the truth) and would not believe the truth of God’s Word that they might be saved, but had pleasure (or delight, or fun, or enjoyment) in doing or practicing sin (or wickedness, or unrighteousness).
It might be paraphrased in this way. This extreme warning from God is to those that choose to reject Jesus, because they have fun in doing wickedness.
For this reason, when the Antichrist comes forth, God Himself will send them a strong delusion, or strong thoughts, so that the lie of the Antichrist becomes truth to them, and the truth of God’s Word is perceived as a lie. God does this, so there is no possible way for them to be saved—that they all might be damned and perish for eternity.

5-THE TRIBULATION BEGINS Pt 1
THE 144,000 SEALED
Following the destruction of the Russian military and its allies, which attack Israel during or near the beginning of the Tribulation, 144,000 male, virgin Jews should come to faith in Jesus Christ. There will be 12,000 from each of the twelve tribes of Israel. They will go forth to preach the Gospel. However, it appears, that just prior to the Russian invasion, the 144,000 will be sealed by God. This may be something that both they and the world are unaware of. This sealing may take place before they come to faith in Jesus, by the foreknowledge of God.
It is written, AND AFTER THESE THINGS I SAW. This does not indicate that the next items happened after the seven seals, but rather that John saw them after the seals. John saw FOUR ANGELS STANDING ON (or at) THE FOUR CORNERS OF THE EARTH, representing all four directions, HOLDING THE FOUR WINDS OF THE EARTH. No specific information is given to us about these angels, other than they are controlling the wind. They are holding the wind that it SHOULD NOT BLOW ON THE EARTH, NOR ON THE SEA, NOR ON ANY TREE (or that no wind should blow)-Rev 7:1. Prior to the servants of God being sealed in (or on) their foreheads, all wind on the planet should cease.
AND I SAW ANOTHER ANGEL ASCENDING (or coming up) FROM THE EAST, HAVING THE SEAL OF THE LIVING GOD: AND HE CRIED (or shouted) WITH A LOUD VOICE TO THE FOUR ANGELS, TO WHOM IT WAS GIVEN TO HURT THE EARTH AND THE SEA-Rev 7:2.
SAYING, HURT NOT THE EARTH (or land), NEITHER THE SEA, NOR THE TREES, TILL WE (plural) HAVE SEALED THE SERVANTS OF OUR GOD IN (or on) THEIR FOREHEADS-Rev 7:3. The fifth angel is not identified. Some believe it could be Jesus. The Scriptures indicate, once the servants of God are sealed, great hurt or damage will come forth from the four winds of the earth. It indicates that the sea, the trees, and the earth will go through some form of a great catastrophe. This would indicate that the sealing of God’s servants may come just prior to the Russian invasion of Israel. It may indicate that they will be protected from what is about to come. God’s wrath is about to be unleashed, but certain preordained servants of God will be protected. Some may presume that these become saved at this point. Nevertheless, this is not made clear. By His foreknowledge of knowing who will be saved, God will protect the future saints, even though they have not yet given their life to Jesus. He has specific works ordained for them to do at some future date. The kind of seal that will be used (or if they will even be aware of the seal) is not made clear. It obviously is necessary to protect them, as was already mentioned. This sealing would also indicate ownership and may be necessary for the work that they are called of God to do. Many believe it is the seal of the Holy Spirit, but with no visible evidence. Nevertheless, it is visible to the spiritual realm.
AND I HEARD THE NUMBER (or how many) OF THEM WHICH WERE SEALED: AND THERE WERE SEALED AN HUNDRED AND FORTY AND FOUR THOUSAND (144,000) OF ALL THE TRIBES OF THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL-Rev 7:4. These are Jews. The names "Jew and Israel" are synonymous with each other and are used interchangeably throughout the Scriptures.
Twelve thousand were sealed out of each of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel. These tribes included (1) Juda, (2) Reuben, (3) Gad, (4) Aser, (5) Nepthalim, (6) Manasses, (7) Simeon, (8) Levi, (9) Issachar, (10) Zabulon, (11) Joseph, (12) Benjamin-ref Rev 7:5-8.
Obviously missing is the tribe of Dan. Some speculate that the Antichrist will arise from this tribe; thus, during the Tribulation period, the tribe of Dan is omitted from being sealed-ref Gen 49:17. During the Millennium, however, the tribe of Dan will be included among the children of Israel. Ephraim, the son of Joseph, the second born, is also missing.
The Scriptures indicate that these Jews are single and are virgins. There is no lie in their mouth at all-ref Rev 14:4,5. They will go forth to preach the Gospel of the kingdom-ref Mt 24:14.

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

CLICK HERE FOR THE DETAILS OF THE—RUSSIAN INVASION OF ISRAEL

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

8-THE INVASION CONTINUES
One or more African nations shall engage Israel in battle. Russia will come like a whirlwind with many vehicles, perhaps tanks and artillery. They shall also come with many ships and possibly submarines.
Russia shall also invade other countries and shall sweep through them like a flood. Many shall be overthrown. Russia shall enter into Israel. The chief of Jordan shall escape out of his hand. Russia shall come against many countries. Egypt shall not escape. Russia may double-cross Libya and Ethiopia and be at their steps.

9-WHEN GOG ATTACKS ISRAEL, GOD’S FURY SHALL RISE UP
Once Russia (Gog) has attacked Israel, God will be very angry. He will be jealous for His land.

10-GOD WANTS ISRAEL TO TURN AND TRUST HIM
Israel had turned from God. The Lord then brings the greatest military armada, in the history of the world, upon little Israel. Israel has no chance. God wants Israel to turn and trust Him for deliverance. When they finally are willing to turn to God and to cry out to Him for help, then the Lord will deliver them. This same message may also cover many times in the past for Israel.

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

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

13-NEWS SHALL BOTHER RUSSIA
During the Russian invasion of Israel, Russia apparently hears news (possibly from China and possibly from the EEC or perhaps the North Atlantic Treaty Organization) that troubles him. The USA is a part of NATO as of the writing of this book. It may be that Russia and its allies do not expect the USA or EEC to oppose them.

14-THERE WILL BE A GREAT EARTHQUAKE
God’s fury comes up as a result of the great military armada coming against Israel. An earthquake occurs in the land of Israel at the presence of Almighty God. It may well be, at this time, the Dome of the Rock will crumble, which would clear the way for the building of the Tribulation temple. One might wonder, if this earthquake is actually the beginning of the destruction of these massive forces that came against Israel. One could envision Russian tanks and artillery being swallowed up. Clearly, men will be terrified and utterly shaken.

15-A SWORD AGAINST GOG
The end of this great invasion force is at hand. God destroys them in such a fashion that the world will recognize there really is a God in heaven and that His name is Jesus. We have noted as a result of the earthquake that men will be afraid.
Then the invading soldiers will turn against each other and begin killing each other. God did this in Judges 7:22. All of a sudden, a plague hits the troops, and they begin dropping dead. God did this in 2 Ki 19:35 and Isa 37:36; 185,000 Assyrians died in one night. Great torrential rains and huge hailstones fall upon the invading armies. God also cast down hailstones from heaven in Jos 10:11.
Fire and burning sulfur begin to rain from the sky, perhaps much like it did upon Sodom and Gomorrah. The weapons and ammunition of the invading troops will drop out of their hands. Masses of troops will die upon the mountains and the open fields of Israel.
It will be done by God, for He has spoken it. The world will know that there is a God in heaven.

16-ONE-SIXTH WILL BE LEFT
A huge military force had attacked Israel. Millions of troops were probably involved. Nevertheless, after God unleashes His wrath upon them, only one in six is left alive. Out of every six soldiers, five are now dead, yet their destruction may take only a few hours.

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

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

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

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

Hail and fire mingled with blood

Cast upon the earth

A third part of the trees are burned up

All green grass is burned up

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

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

As a great mountain burning with fire

Cast into the sea

One-third of the sea became blood

One-third of the creatures in the sea died

One-third of the ships were destroyed

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

A great star fell from heaven

Burning as it were a lamp

It fell upon the third part of the rivers

It fell upon the third part of the fountains of water

The name of the star was Wormwood

The third part of the waters became wormwood, or bitter, or poisoned

Many people died

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

One-third of the sun smitten

One-third of the moon smitten

One-third of the stars smitten
(So that)

The third part of them was darkened

The day was without light for a third part of it

The night was without light for a third part of it

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

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

The fourth horse - death

One-fourth of the earth dies, over one billion people

They are killed by war

Through hunger

By plagues or pestilences

By wild animals

All perish to hell

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

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

I will sanctify Myself

I shall be sanctified in Gog before their eyes

Thus, will I magnify Myself

I will be known (or make Myself known) in the eyes of many nations

That the heathen may know Me

The heathen shall know that I am the Lord

They shall know that I am the Lord

I will set My glory among the heathen

They shall see My judgment or punishment

The heathen shall know God is the Holy One in Israel

The heathen shall see My hand that I have laid upon them

The heathen shall know that Israel went into captivity for their iniquity

The heathen shall know Israel was unfaithful

The heathen shall know that I hid My face from them

The heathen shall know that I gave Israel into the hands of their enemies, so they fell by the sword

The heathen shall know that I have done unto them (Israel) according to their uncleanness and transgressions

The heathen shall know I hid My face from Israel

Magog shall know that I am the Lord

They that dwell safely in the isles shall know that I am the Lord


I will make My name known in the midst of My people Israel

So that they will not pollute God’s holy name anymore

The house of Israel shall know that I am the Lord their God from that day and forward

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

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

31-THE MULTITUDE OF DEAD BODIES OF THE ARMIES
WILL BE EATEN BY THE BIRDS AND WILD ANIMALS
The war seems to end as fast as it began. After God has destroyed the massive array of troops that invaded Israel, there will be, perhaps, millions of dead bodies. God will give these to the predatory birds and wild animals to eat.

32-THE WEAPONS ARE BURNED
The weapons of the dead soldiers will be burned for fuel seven years; because of this, Israel will not need to take wood out of the fields or forests.

33-ISRAEL WILL GET THE PLUNDER OF THOSE THAT PLUNDERED THEM
As the invading armies came to rob and steal from Israel; now Israel will seize the plunder from them.

34-THE WORLD IN CONFUSION
Consider what has just happened. People were raptured from all over the world. Nevertheless, one hundred percent of the lukewarm Christian preachers and lukewarm Christians were left behind. All that did not repent and totally trust in Jesus Christ were left behind; this includes most preachers that called themselves a Christian. The number of people raptured may be far fewer than most people realize. How this will be perceived or understood by the world is unclear from the Scriptures. Some will recognize the Rapture took place and that they were left behind. They will be terrified. Others will not understand and can be expected to just shrug it off as nothing. In our own survey in America, out of perhaps six hundred people, approximately fifty percent knew absolutely nothing about what a Rapture was or that it was even coming. In light of all the other events happening at the same time, we might wonder if, after the Rapture happens, the event might be buried in the last page of the newspaper or might not even be carried on the national news at all. If the possibility of a Rapture is carried by the news media, it may be done in such a way as to cause people to disbelieve that it really happened. We might expect that the news media will try to explain it away in some deceptive fashion. It is possible the number of people raptured will be so few that it will not draw much attention.
Following the Rapture, a very charismatic figure should become the head of the EEC. The Bible calls him the Antichrist, but the world will perceive him much differently. A covenant or treaty is confirmed by this man with Israel and other nations.
Russia and its allies attack Israel with the greatest military force ever assembled. The world is plunged into, what we may call, World War III. One-third of the world becomes involved. The war lasts only a very short time. God supernaturally destroys the invading forces. The USA and Russia appear to nearly destroy each other in a nuclear war. The world experiences the greatest famine they have ever known. As a result, one out of every four people die. Over one billion people will be dead. It will take a day’s wages to buy a day’s food.
All of these events happen in rapid succession. At this point, the world will be in a state of shock, unbelief, and confusion. Most of the world will not understand. They were in spiritual blindness before the Rapture, and they are in a spiritual blindness afterward.
From this point on, both Russia and the United States appear to be out of the picture. The center stage now shifts to Europe.

35-A MAIN COMMENTARY OF WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
From this point on, many different events all begin happening at the same time. Throughout the world there should be over one billion bodies to be buried. Senseless, hideous crimes of brutality, murder, stealing, and rape abound; hate, lying, drugs, and other sin continues to increase and get worse and worse. Wars and rumors of wars, famines, earthquakes, diseases, wild beasts killing people, and the like, continue to increase upon the earth. Living conditions, for the three-fourths of the world's population that survived, will be increasingly difficult. There will be fearful sights from heaven. Then there is the EEC, which is a massive economic trading power. Politically, it will have ten kings or rulers. Eventually, it should engulf the whole world becoming a one-world economic or governmental system. It will devour the whole earth. It should break the world into pieces or sections. Nevertheless, there will be divisions, or disagreements, within this empire. The kingdom will be divided. It is from the EEC that the Antichrist comes forth.
Spiritually, many people should be seeking the God of the Bible. Revival comes to both Jew and Gentile, because of the supernatural destruction of Russia and its allies. Some, however, will have no chance of being saved. This is because they rejected Jesus, choosing rather to have fun or pleasure in doing wickedness prior to the Rapture.
Spiritually, there will also be great confusion as never before. Satan can be expected to combine every tactic of persecution and deception he has ever used, from all church ages. Indeed, the devil can be expected to employ these, and even more, to the fullest possible extent.
There are 144,000 male, virgin Jews that come forth and evangelize the world for Jesus; many will be saved. The nations of the world will hate those that turn to Jesus. The followers of Jesus will be betrayed. They will be greatly hated, persecuted, beaten, and most will be killed later on. Under the immense, almost overwhelming pressure, many will turn from their faith in Jesus. One-third of Israel will be saved and refined.
People will deceive others and be deceived themselves. There will be false Christs and false prophets doing great signs and wonders to deceive even the elect, if it were possible. There will be a one-world religious system set up, under the umbrella of the Roman Catholic Church. On the outside it looks beautiful, but on the inside it is full of intoxicating abominations. It will be headquartered in Rome. In addition, there is the Antichrist growing in popularity and fame, much the same as Jesus did before He was crucified. People will also worship their idols of gold and silver.
Israel continues to bury the dead bodies of the invading forces, for seven months. Their weapons will be burned for fuel seven years. Jews throughout the world return to Israel. Israel speedily begins to build a temple in Jerusalem. Sacrifices will begin as they once were thousands of years ago. Israel will do evil in the sight of the Lord, and the Lord will be angry with them. God will continue to bring judgments against them and against their farm crops.
God will continue to make Jerusalem A BURDENSOME (or heavy) STONE (or immovable rock) FOR ALL PEOPLE-Zech 12:3.
All of these things should be taking place after the Russian invasion of Israel is over, but prior to the midst of the Tribulation. The midst of the Tribulation is 1260 days from the end of the Tribulation.
The world and world system will be much different after this devastating war—which we call, World War III.

36-MISCELLANEOUS: THE TRIBULATION WILL BE AS BIRTH PAINS,
THINGS WILL GET WORSE AND WORSE UNTIL THE END
The Tribulation is a period of time that is like the birth pains of a woman in labor. As the many events unfold, they get worse and worse. As the Tribulation progresses, many new dreadful things begin to happen, adding to the already horrible events that are continuing to get worse and worse. It culminates with the Battle of Armageddon, when Jesus Christ returns. The birth pains will have gotten so bad at that point that—if Jesus had not returned exactly when He does—no life on earth would be saved. However, just as a woman in travail brings forth new life, in the same way, the return of Jesus and the saints to the earth begins a new era—one thousand years of peace.
To give just a few examples of the increasing intensity and frequency of events, consider the following. In the beginning of the Tribulation, there are earthquakes. At the time Jesus returns, after the Tribulation of those days, there is the greatest earthquake ever seen, and the cities of the nations fall. Near the beginning of the Tribulation, one-third of the creatures in the sea that had life will die. Near the end of the Tribulation, every living soul in the sea dies. Near the beginning of the Tribulation, one-fourth of humanity dies from the effects of war. Near the end of the Tribulation, one-third of the world's population dies. At Armageddon, nearly all life on earth is killed. Sin will also greatly increase. Diseases can be expected to reach epidemic proportions as the Tribulation progresses. The persecution and murder of those that get saved during the Tribulation will get worse and worse. It will be a most terrifying time in which to live.

37-THE DEAD ARE BURIED THROUGHOUT THE WORLD
The Bible appears to say nothing about burying the dead throughout the world, except in Israel. Consider, in the countries that came against Israel, there may be far more dead than people left alive. Whether or not the dead will ever be buried, in some countries, is questionable. This may well be the same for the United States after the nuclear attack by Russia. In areas that have little or no food reserves, but are heavily dependent upon their farms to survive, the number of people dying, as a result of starvation, may be overwhelming. One out of every four people throughout the entire world will be dead. We may expect that both the domesticated and wild animals, as well as the flesh eating birds, will have a worldwide feast, as the Bible shows they will in Israel. On the average, there should be one dead body to be buried for every three people left alive, including babies and children. Many people that may have had thoughts of waiting to repent—at a later date—will now be dead. They waited too long.

38-SIN ABOUNDS
There is much Scripture covering the wickedness of man during the Tribulation. As bad as crime and sin is now, it will take a giant plunge for the worse once the church has been raptured. As the days of Noah were (ref Mt 24:37), so wickedness shall increase as birth pains prior to the Rapture; they also apply as birth pains, getting even worse and worse, leading up to the return of Jesus Christ at Armageddon. Raw hatred, senseless brutality, killing, rioting, stealing, vandalism, drugs, rape, child molesting, and sinister crimes, which are nearly unimaginable, can be expected to abound in the earth.

39-PEOPLE WILL BE COLD,
THEY WILL BE FULL OF HATE TOWARD EACH OTHER
Once the church is removed, there will be a coldness among many people toward each other. Many will hate each other.

It is written, AND THEN SHALL MANY…HATE ONE ANOTHER-Mt 24:10.

It is written, AND BECAUSE INIQUITY (or wickedness) SHALL ABOUND (or increase), THE LOVE OF MANY (or most) SHALL WAX (or grow) COLD-Mt 24:12. Many people’s love will grow colder and colder. Neighbors will abuse and even kill one another

40-FAMINES INCREASE
Prior to the Russian-Arab invasion of Israel, or what we call World War III, there were already famines in many parts of the world. Millions of people were starving to death. However, as a result of the nuclear exchange, one-third of the living creatures in the sea died; one-third of the trees were burned up, which should also include fruit trees; and all green grass (or farm crops). Global famine takes place. Food prices soar so high that it takes a day’s wages to buy a day’s worth of food. Living conditions become increasingly difficult.

41-EARTHQUAKES SHALL INCREASE
During the Tribulation, earthquakes will continue to increase in both frequency and intensity. It is possible this could have something to do with the nuclear exchange that has taken place also.

42-DISEASES (OR PESTILENCES) INCREASE
During the Tribulation, diseases continue to increase. AIDS and other new diseases can be expected to take more and more lives. Some may be far worse than AIDS, with no known cure. Old diseases, once thought to be eradicated, may return. Some current diseases may develop immunity to existing medicines so that nothing will stop them. These things can be expected to increase as birth pains of a woman in labor.

43-WILD BEASTS
There will also be wild beasts killing people during the first part of the Tribulation.

44-WARS AND RUMORS OF WARS
As already noted, World War III takes place at or near the beginning of the Tribulation. One-fourth of the world's population is killed. However, there will continue to be other smaller wars between nations, tribes, and other factions. There will also be rumors of wars. Hatred and killing will abound.

45-GREAT SIGNS AND FEARFUL SIGHTS FROM HEAVEN
During the Tribulation, there will be fearful sights and great signs from heaven and in the earth. Exactly what these things will be is unclear.

46-LIVING CONDITIONS ARE HORRIBLE
One-fourth of the world's population died, as a result of the war and its aftereffects. The destruction to certain countries should be enormous. The destruction to farm crops, trees, livestock, and the fishing industry, will be devastating. There will be shortages of food. Infectious diseases will be widespread, becoming worse and worse. Living conditions for all levels of society, rich and poor, will rapidly decline. One can hardly imagine how it will be to try to bury over one billion bodies!
Crimes, such as murder and stealing, will be rampant. Surviving will be very difficult. There will be more and more wars and rumors of wars. Hate will be everywhere.
It is written, IN THE LAST DAYS PERILOUS (or difficult, or trying, or terrible) TIMES SHALL COME-2 Tim 3:1.

47-THE ANTICHRIST GROWING IN POPULARITY
The actual ministry of the Antichrist, prior to moving into the temple in Jerusalem (approximately 1260 days before the end of the Tribulation), is not well documented in God's Word. The exact order of certain events that happen regarding the Antichrist, in the first part of the Tribulation, are difficult to pinpoint.
Note, the word "beast" is used in both Daniel and the Revelation. In some instances, this word is used to describe certain creatures or kingdoms. However, for the purpose of clarification in this study, the word "beast" is used to describe the fourth kingdom (or what some call the revived Roman Empire, the EEC, or the kingdom of the Antichrist). As it is written, THE FOURTH BEAST SHALL BE THE FOURTH KINGDOM (that will appear) UPON EARTH…AND SHALL DEVOUR THE WHOLE EARTH-Dan 7:23. This is often referred to as the ten-horned kingdom or kingdom of the ten kings, which the Antichrist takes over. This is believed to be the EEC. In other cases, the word "beast" is used to denote the Antichrist himself, as in Dan 7:11. It is written, I BEHELD EVEN TILL THE BEAST WAS SLAIN, AND HIS BODY DESTROYED, AND GIVEN TO THE BURNING FLAME-Dan 7:11.
The Antichrist comes forth by the working of Satan with all power, signs, and lying wonders. As it is written, EVEN HIM (this man, the lawless one), WHOSE COMING IS AFTER (or in accordance with) THE WORKING OF SATAN WITH ALL POWER AND (to work) SIGNS AND LYING WONDERS (or all kinds of counterfeit miracles-NIV)-2 Thes 2:9.
He goes forth conquering and to conquer-ref Rev 6:2. He increases in popularity. HE SHALL DESTROY WONDERFULLY (or fearfully, or to an extraordinary degree, or astounding devastation)-ref Dan 8:24. By peace, he shall destroy many-ref Dan 8:25. Apparently, he will be a great diplomat with superhuman intelligence, as he is the son of the devil-ref Gen 3:15; 2 Thes 2:3; Ezek 28:3,5. We may expect that, through diplomacy, he will become the hope of the world.
He will speak great things-ref Dan 7:8,20. He will speak great words-ref Dan 7:11. He shall SPEAK MARVELOUS THINGS AGAINST THE GOD OF GODS-Dan 11:36. AND HE (the Antichrist) SHALL SPEAK GREAT WORDS AGAINST THE MOST HIGH-Dan 7:25. The Antichrist shall speak blasphemous words against the God of heaven. As it is written, HE OPENED HIS MOUTH IN BLASPHEMY AGAINST GOD-Rev 13:6. AND THE KING (the Antichrist) SHALL DO ACCORDING TO HIS WILL-Dan 11:36. Note, the Antichrist is called a king.
He will understand the ways of darkness and cause deceit to prosper-ref Dan 8:23-25.
He will come forth as a persuasive man of peace, while, inwardly, he will be a ruthless and deceitful man that will do whatever it takes to achieve his purpose. He has no interest in women-ref Dan 11:37.
He may be a good-looking man-ref Ezek 28:12. His look will be imposing or intimidating-ref Dan 7:20. He will have a fierce look or countenance-ref Dan 8:23.
AND HIS POWER SHALL BE MIGHTY (or very strong)-Dan 8:24; however, the things he will accomplish will not be BY HIS OWN POWER-Dan 8:24. For Satan gives him his power, his seat, and authority-ref Rev 13:2.
He will not regard the God of heaven, that is, the GOD OF HIS FATHERS. He does not regard the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob-ref Dan 11:37. He will honor the god of forces (or fortresses). He will honor Satan-ref Dan 11:37,38. He will consider himself superior-ref Dan 8:25 NIV.
AND (the Antichrist) SHALL WEAR OUT (or oppress) THE SAINTS OF THE MOST HIGH. The saints will be pursued, persecuted, tormented, and killed.
AND (the Antichrist shall) THINK (or try) TO CHANGE (the set) TIMES. This may happen in the first part of the Tribulation or when he moves into the temple in Jerusalem. The Antichrist will seek to change the set times. Is this referring to a change in the dating of our calendar? Today's calendar, for much of the world, uses dating such as B.C. (or before Christ) or A.D. (Anno Domini, which is Latin, in the year of the Lord, or of the Christian era). Or could this be referring to God’s appointed times, the seven feasts? Would he be seeking to disrupt or change them?
The Antichrist will also seek to change the laws throughout the earth; as it is written, AND (the) LAWS-Dan 7:25. It is the aim of the Antichrist to destroy all that follow Jesus.
The Antichrist will reward those that honor him and will divide the land for gain-ref Dan 11:39.
He will prosper in whatever he does-ref Dan 8:24.
As already mentioned previously, the ten kings or rulers of the EEC shall have one mind. They will all be in agreement and shall give their power and strength unto the beast (or Antichrist)-ref Rev 17:12,13. The Antichrist WILL GREATLY HONOR THOSE WHO ACKNOWLEDGE HIM-Dan 11:39 NIV.
He will magnify himself-ref Dan 8:25; 11:37. He will oppose any that exalt themselves against him. He will proceed in the direction of exalting HIMSELF ABOVE ALL (or everything) THAT IS CALLED GOD, OR THAT IS WORSHIPED (or that people call a god or make an object of worship; he will put himself above them all-JNT46)-2 Thes 2:4.
The Antichrist is like:
(1) A LEOPARD. This denotes being quick to seize, swiftness, agility. This was characteristic of the Greek Empire under Alexander-ref Dan 7:6.
(2) AND HIS FEET WERE AS THE FEET OF A BEAR. This denotes something very strong or large. The feet may represent stamping upon his enemies. This was characteristic of the Medo-Persian Empire-ref Dan 7:5.
(3) AND HIS MOUTH AS THE MOUTH OF A LION. This denotes pride. He will be proud and boastful. The Antichrist will have a mouth that speaks great things and blasphemies. This was characteristic of the Babylonian Empire-Rev 13:2.
The ministry of Jesus lasted approximately three and a half years before He was crucified. During that time His reputation grew. He did many wondrous miracles. The Antichrist (which is the son of Satan) appears to come to power and takes over the EEC. He then signs a covenant with Israel, which begins the Tribulation. His fame, reputation, and power can be expected to grow steadily throughout the first part of the Tribulation.
The first part of the Tribulation (which begins at the time the Antichrist confirms the covenant with Israel and lasts until the midst of the Tribulation, when the Antichrist moves into the temple in Jerusalem) is traditionally considered to be three and a half years. However, in some way, the three and a half years may be cut short. The time that the abomination of desolation actually occurs may be sooner than what many expect. Many born-again Jews might be caught by surprise and not be prepared to flee, as they are commanded to do, in what is termed "the midst of the Tribulation."
The number of the name of the Antichrist is 666. It is written, HERE IS WISDOM. LET HIM THAT HATH UNDERSTANDING COUNT THE NUMBER OF THE BEAST (the Antichrist): FOR IT IS THE NUMBER OF A MAN; AND HIS NUMBER IS SIX HUNDRED THREESCORE AND SIX-Rev 13:18.

48-THE EEC AND THE POLITICAL SYSTEM
The precise order of certain events during the Tribulation, concerning the EEC and the one-world government, can be difficult to pinpoint.
As mentioned previously, the word "beast," in both Daniel and the Revelation, sometimes represents the fourth kingdom (or what we call the revived Roman Empire, the EEC, or the kingdom of the Antichrist); in other cases, it denotes the Antichrist himself.

49-EEC HISTORY
The EEC (European Economic Community), or EC (European Community), or EU (European Union), which we also sometimes call the revived Roman Empire, was formed not long after the rebirth of Israel. Israel was reborn in 1948.
In 1949, the Council of Europe was established.
In l951, the European coal and steel community was organized, consisting of six nations—Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and West Germany. It was created to remove barriers and assist in the flow of capital, goods, and services among its member nations.
In 1957, the Treaty of Rome was signed. These six nations became known as the European Community. The same year, they agreed to establish the European Atomic Energy Community.
In 1967, they adopted the name of the European Common Market.
In January of l973, three more nations joined—Denmark, Ireland, and Great Britain. This brought the total to nine.
In 1979, the ECU (European Currency Unit) was established.
On July 17, l979, the European parliament was formed, with 410 delegates and an elected president. It convened in January of l980.
On January 1, l981, Greece became the tenth member.
On January 1, l986, Spain and Portugal became the eleventh and twelfth members.
On January 1, l995, Austria, Finland, and Sweden boosted the number of members to fifteen.
Reportedly, about twelve other nations have made application for membership in the EC, at the time this is being written.
Many other things are taking place to bring about greater solidarity among member nations. Consider that part of Europe is going in the direction of a unified currency, the elimination of borders in regards to trade, unified passports, and other items not mentioned.
During the Tribulation, however, the final outcome will be ten kings, or leaders, or divisions, or nations.
Rev 17:13 shows, the EEC would have a governmental body.

50-THE LAST EMPIRE WOULD BE FROM THE OLD ROMAN EMPIRE NATIONS
The Scriptures show, the empire that would come forth in the latter days (the last empire) would come from the nations of the Old Roman Empire. It is written, AND THE PEOPLE OF THE PRINCE THAT SHALL COME (which is the Antichrist) SHALL DESTROY THE CITY AND THE SANCTUARY-Dan 9:26. The people that came and destroyed the city of Jerusalem and the sanctuary, in approximately 70 A.D., was the Roman Empire. Thus, we know that the revived Roman Empire, the EEC, is the empire that Daniel is referring to. This is further confirmed in Daniel chapter two, the fourth kingdom. We also see that the toes, or the ten nations, or ten kings, are from the Roman Empire. In this last generation, the EEC fits every prediction perfectly.

51-THERE WOULD BE SEVEN MOUNTAINS AND TEN KINGS
Rev 13:1-AND I (or he) STOOD UPON THE SAND OF THE SEA, AND SAW A BEAST RISE (or come) UP OUT OF THE SEA. There is a similar wording in Dan 7:3. Rev 17:15 should be considered, also. Both seem to carry the meaning of "nations in unrest or turmoil." The verse continues, HAVING SEVEN HEADS. The seven heads are the seven mountains of Rome, and there are seven kings. There is debate, however, if the seven kings apply here. The number seven often represents "completeness." The verse continues, AND TEN HORNS. The ten horns are ten kings or kingdoms during the Tribulation. They are also represented by the ten toes of Dan 2:40-45. The ten horns can also represent power. The verse continues, AND UPON HIS HORNS TEN (royal) CROWNS. Each of the horns represent a king or kingdom. Thus, there is a crown for each horn, which is representing kingship or authority. AND UPON HIS HEADS THE NAME OF BLASPHEMY (or blasphemous names). To very briefly summarize Rev 13:1, it is showing us the revived Roman Empire, headed by the Antichrist, during the Tribulation. It is full of blasphemy against God. The word "beast" is sometimes used interchangeably to describe both the kingdom and the Antichrist.
Some of the same terminology is used in Rev 12:3, describing a great red dragon, which is Satan.

52-FROM THE EEC, THE ANTICHRIST COMES FORTH
It is from this organization that the Antichrist appears to come forth immediately after the Rapture. He becomes their leader and confirms the covenant with Israel and others; this begins day one of the Tribulation. At some point, perhaps at the beginning, the Antichrist overthrows three leaders or kings.
Following, what we call, World War III, the United States, Russia, and some Arab nations appear to be greatly cut or pruned; consequently, the EEC seems to become the focal point of an emerging one-world government. It is unclear exactly when, during the first part of the Tribulation, this one-world government will be in place. Scripture seems to indicate the earth is divided up into two groups of five regions, a total of ten, under the leadership of the ten kings.
Such things as the enormous super-computer the EEC already has, the EFT or electronic funds transfer system, and the Trilateral Commission, and many other things—which are seldom publicized—are all indicators that this one-world government, which comes forth during the Tribulation, is close at hand.

53-THE LAST EMPIRE WOULD BE AN ECONOMIC EMPIRE
The Scriptures show this would be an economic empire. It is written, AND THE MERCHANTS OF THE EARTH-Rev 18:11. MAN BUYETH THEIR MERCHANDISE-Rev 18:11. Through this great economic empire, many will become rich. It is written, THE MERCHANTS OF THESE THINGS, WHICH WERE MADE RICH BY HER-Rev 18:15. This empire will have many delicacies. It is written, THE ABUNDANCE OF HER DELICACIES-Rev 18:3. This will be a very strong empire. It is written, THE FOURTH BEAST SHALL BE THE FOURTH KINGDOM UPON EARTH-Dan 7:23; AND STRONG EXCEEDINGLY-Dan 7:7. Trade barriers between member nations have already been lowered as of the writing of this book.
Also, Rev 18:12 and 13, list many items that are sold. The EEC has steadily grown, uniting many of Europe's nations into a great economic and political empire. It also has a military arm called the Western European Union. Many EEC nations are also members of NATO (the North Atlantic Treaty Organization).

54-THE EEC WOULD BECOME A ONE-WORLD GOVERNMENT
The Scriptures show the EEC—from which the Antichrist will arise—will ultimately engulf the entire world, becoming a one-world government. This, in turn, may be divided into two categories: east and west. There could be five eastern regions and five western regions, for a total of ten.
It is written, AND THERE ARE SEVEN KINGS: FIVE ARE FALLEN. The five that had fallen, as of the writing of this passage, were Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia, and Greece. AND ONE IS. The one that existed, at the time the Revelation was written, was the Roman Empire. AND THE OTHER IS NOT YET COME-Rev 17:10. The empire that had not yet come, but is here today, is what we call the revived Roman Empire. This is also called the EC (European Community) or EEC (European Economic Community).
It is written, A FOURTH BEAST, DREADFUL (or terrifying) AND TERRIBLE (or frightening), AND STRONG (or very powerful) EXCEEDINGLY; AND IT HAD GREAT IRON TEETH: IT DEVOURED (or crushed) AND BRAKE IN PIECES (its victims), AND STAMPED (or trampled underfoot) THE RESIDUE (or whatever was left) WITH THE FEET OF IT: AND IT WAS DIVERSE (or different) FROM ALL THE (former) BEASTS THAT WERE BEFORE IT; AND IT HAD TEN HORNS-Dan 7:7.
THE FOURTH KINGDOM UPON EARTH…SHALL DEVOUR THE WHOLE EARTH, AND SHALL TREAD IT DOWN, AND BREAK IT IN PIECES-Dan 7:23; ref Dan 7:19.

55-THERE WOULD BE DIVISIONS, THE KINGDOM WOULD BE DIVIDED
As mentioned, in this fourth kingdom, there would be two major divisions (the two feet) and possibly other divisions between the ten kings; all would not run smoothly. As we should see, the empire of the Antichrist is not without problems.
Dan 2:41-AND WHEREAS THOU SAWEST THE FEET AND TOES, (were) PART OF POTTERS’ (or baked) CLAY, AND PART OF IRON, (so) THE KINGDOM SHALL BE DIVIDED. In the empire of the Antichrist, two divisions appear to exist. The first division is between the two feet. Since the Revelation reveals the advancement of the "kings of the east" and one-third of mankind being killed, it appears, there may be an east-west division. Note the words, "kingdom divided—feet." Dan 2:33,34 mention the feet of iron and clay. Dan 2:41 mentions a division. The feet and toes contain both iron and clay. These toes represent ten kings, or kingdoms, or nations, or divisions that will be allied with or under the Antichrist. This kingdom has the characteristics or elements of the three previous kingdoms: the lion, the bear, and the leopard. The iron from the Roman Empire is also still present in the revived Roman Empire of the Antichrist; however, clay is mixed in with it.
Dan 2:41 continues, BUT THERE SHALL BE IN IT (some) OF THE STRENGTH OF THE IRON, FORASMUCH AS THOU SAWEST THE IRON MIXED WITH MIRY (or common) CLAY.
Also there appears to be a second division, that of the toes, in verses 42 and 43.
Dan 2:42 tells us, AND AS THE "TOES" (there are 2 feet and 5 toes on each foot, a total of 10) OF THE FEET WERE PART OF IRON, AND PART OF CLAY. The ten toes are the ten horns, which are ten kings-ref Dan 7:24,7; Rev 13:1; 17:7. (Note part 5A, Rev 13:5.) SO THE KINGDOM SHALL BE PARTLY STRONG, AND PARTLY BROKEN (or brittle).
Dan 2:43 tells us, AND WHEREAS THOU SAWEST IRON MIXED WITH MIRY (or common) CLAY, THEY (plural, more than one) SHALL MINGLE THEMSELVES (or be a mixture, or combine) WITH THE SEED OF MEN: BUT THEY SHALL NOT CLEAVE ONE TO ANOTHER (or will not remain united), EVEN AS IRON IS NOT "MIXED" WITH CLAY-ref verse 41.
Verse 42 is carried over into verse 43. It is talking about toes.
In verse 42, there appears to be some kind of a brokenness. This is between the ten toes or ten kings. The kingdom is partly strong and partly broken.
In verse 43, "they" shall not cleave together. The reason for this is unclear. The Antichrist is the actual son and seed of Satan. Both the Antichrist and false prophet are described as having an unclean spirit like a frog that comes out of their mouth-ref Rev 16:13.
On the other hand, they are normal human beings by birth. One might wonder, if the differences between them will result in the division—even as iron and clay do not mix—or if there is another reason they will not cleave one to another.

56-IT SHALL DEVOUR THE WHOLE EARTH
Dan 7:19-THEN I WOULD KNOW THE TRUTH (or true meaning) OF THE FOURTH BEAST, WHICH WAS DIVERSE (or different) FROM ALL THE OTHERS, EXCEEDING DREADFUL (and most terrifying), WHOSE TEETH WERE OF IRON, AND HIS NAILS (or claws) OF BRASS; WHICH DEVOURED, BRAKE IN PIECES (or crushed and devoured its victims), AND STAMPED (or trampled) THE RESIDUE (or whatever was left) WITH HIS FEET (or underfoot).
Dan 7:23-THUS HE SAID, THE FOURTH BEAST SHALL BE THE FOURTH KINGDOM (that will appear) UPON (the) EARTH. This is the Roman Empire, which subsequently becomes the revived Roman Empire, from which the Antichrist comes forth.
WHICH SHALL BE DIVERSE (or different) FROM ALL KINGDOMS. It is unlike any of the other kingdoms.
AND SHALL DEVOUR THE WHOLE EARTH. The Antichrist and his empire shall devour and rule over the entire earth.
AND SHALL TREAD (or trample) IT DOWN. The earth shall be trampled down by the Antichrist and his empire.
The one-world government shall be headquartered in Rome; as it is written, AND THE WOMAN (which we have already seen, is Rome) WHICH THOU SAWEST IS THAT GREAT CITY, WHICH REIGNETH OVER THE KINGS OF THE EARTH-Rev 17:18.

57-THE EARTH SHALL BE SPLIT INTO PIECES
AND BREAK IT IN PIECES (crushing it). The earth shall be split up into pieces or regions-Dan 7:23.

58-ABOUT THE FOURTH KINGDOM
THE FOURTH KINGDOM-Dan 2:40
FOURTH BEAST...THE FOURTH KINGDOM-Dan 7:23
DIVERSE FROM ALL THE BEASTS-Dan 7:7; ref Dan 7:19
DIVERSE FROM ALL KINGDOMS-Dan 7:23
A BEAST RISE UP OUT OF THE SEA-Rev 13:1; ref Dan 7:3
A BEAST...HAVING SEVEN HEADS-Rev 13:1; ref 17:7
UPON HIS HEADS THE NAME OF BLASPHEMY-Rev 13:1
FEET PART OF IRON AND PART OF CLAY-Dan 2:33
* TOES...PART OF IRON, AND PART OF CLAY-Dan 2:42
* FEET AND TOES, PART OF POTTERS' CLAY, AND PART OF IRON-Dan 2:41
KINGDOM…DIVIDED-Dan 2:41
PARTLY STRONG, AND PARTLY BROKEN-Dan 2:42
* THEY SHALL MINGLE...WITH THE SEED OF MEN-Dan 2:43
* THEY SHALL NOT CLEAVE ONE TO ANOTHER-Dan 2:43 (AS IRON IS NOT MIXED WITH CLAY)
STRENGTH OF THE IRON-Dan 2:41
STRONG AS IRON-Dan 2:40
STRONG EXCEEDINGLY-Dan 7:7
GREAT IRON TEETH-Dan 7:7; ref Dan 7:19
NAILS OF BRASS-Dan 7:19
DREADFUL AND TERRIBLE-Dan 7:7
EXCEEDINGLY DREADFUL-Dan 7:19
* Some scriptures showing division in the empire

59-SPIRITUAL THINGS: MANY SEEKING THE GOD OF THE BIBLE;
WHAT PROPHESYING SHALL THERE BE BY GOD'S PEOPLE DURING THE TRIBULATION?
The Tribulation will be a time where lying signs, wonders, miracles, false prophets and prophecies, and dreamers will be rampant.
Deception will seemingly be everywhere; truth may be difficult to find. How can a person discern concerning prophets, whether they are right or wrong? God's Word gives us the answer. That answer is, YE SHALL NOT SAY.
Because of the shameful, lying misuse of the Word (or burden, or utterance, or prophecy of the Lord) during the Tribulation, YE SHALL NOT SAY.
It is written, IN THE LATTER DAYS YE SHALL CONSIDER IT PERFECTLY. I HAVE NOT SENT THESE PROPHETS, YET THEY RAN (with their message): I HAVE NOT SPOKEN TO THEM, YET THEY PROPHESIED. BUT IF THEY HAD STOOD IN MY COUNSEL, AND HAD CAUSED MY PEOPLE TO HEAR MY WORDS, THEN THEY SHOULD HAVE TURNED THEM FROM THEIR EVIL WAY, AND FROM THE EVIL OF THEIR DOINGS.
I HAVE HEARD WHAT THE PROPHETS SAID, THAT PROPHESY LIES IN MY NAME, SAYING, I HAVE DREAMED, I HAVE DREAMED. HOW LONG SHALL THIS BE IN THE HEART OF THE (lying) PROPHETS THAT PROPHESY LIES (or delusions)? YEA, THEY ARE PROPHETS OF THE DECEIT OF THEIR OWN HEART; WHICH THINK TO CAUSE MY PEOPLE TO FORGET MY NAME BY THEIR DREAMS WHICH THEY TELL EVERY MAN TO HIS NEIGHBOR, AS THEIR FATHERS HAVE FORGOTTEN MY NAME FOR BAAL. THE PROPHET THAT HATH A DREAM, LET HIM TELL A DREAM; AND HE THAT HATH MY WORD, LET HIM SPEAK MY WORD FAITHFULLY. WHAT IS THE CHAFF TO THE WHEAT? SAITH THE LORD. IS NOT MY WORD LIKE AS A FIRE? SAITH THE LORD; AND LIKE A HAMMER THAT BREAKETH THE ROCK IN PIECES?
THEREFORE, BEHOLD, I AM AGAINST THE PROPHETS, SAITH THE LORD, THAT STEAL MY WORDS EVERY ONE FROM HIS NEIGHBOR. BEHOLD, I AM AGAINST THE PROPHETS, SAITH THE LORD, THAT USE (or wag) THEIR TONGUES, AND SAY, HE SAITH. BEHOLD, I AM AGAINST THEM THAT PROPHESY FALSE DREAMS, SAITH THE LORD, AND DO TELL THEM, AND CAUSE MY PEOPLE TO ERR (or lead my people astray) BY THEIR LIES, AND BY THEIR LIGHTNESS; YET I SENT THEM NOT, NOR COMMANDED THEM: THEREFORE THEY SHALL NOT PROFIT THIS PEOPLE AT ALL, SAITH THE LORD.
AND WHEN THIS PEOPLE, OR THE PROPHET, OR A PRIEST, SHALL ASK THEE, SAYING, WHAT IS THE BURDEN (or Word) OF THE LORD? THOU SHALT THEN SAY UNTO THEM, WHAT BURDEN (or oracle)? I WILL EVEN FORSAKE YOU, SAITH THE LORD.
AND AS FOR THE PROPHET, AND THE PRIEST, AND THE PEOPLE, THAT SHALL SAY, THE BURDEN (or oracle) OF THE LORD, I WILL EVEN PUNISH THAT MAN AND HIS HOUSE. THUS SHALL YE SAY EVERY ONE TO HIS NEIGHBOR, AND EVERY ONE TO HIS BROTHER, WHAT HATH THE LORD ANSWERED? AND, WHAT HATH THE LORD SPOKEN?
AND THE BURDEN (or oracle) OF THE LORD SHALL YE MENTION NO MORE: FOR EVERY MAN'S WORD SHALL BE HIS BURDEN; FOR YE HAVE PERVERTED THE WORDS OF THE LIVING GOD, OF THE LORD OF HOSTS OUR GOD.
THUS SHALT THOU SAY TO THE PROPHET, WHAT HATH THE LORD ANSWERED THEE? AND, WHAT HATH THE LORD SPOKEN?
BUT SINCE YE SAY, THE BURDEN (or oracle) OF THE LORD; THEREFORE THUS SAITH THE LORD; BECAUSE YE SAY THIS WORD, THE BURDEN (or oracle) OF THE LORD, AND I HAVE SENT UNTO YOU, SAYING, YE SHALL NOT SAY, THE BURDEN (or oracle, or utterance, or prophecy) OF THE LORD;
THEREFORE, BEHOLD, I, EVEN I, WILL UTTERLY FORGET YOU, AND I WILL FORSAKE YOU, AND THE CITY THAT I GAVE YOU AND YOUR FATHERS, AND CAST YOU OUT OF MY PRESENCE: AND I WILL BRING AN EVERLASTING REPROACH UPON YOU, AND A PERPETUAL SHAME, WHICH SHALL NOT BE FORGOTTEN-Jere 23:20-22, 25-40.
Burden can also translate as "oracle." Note its usage in Zech 9:1-THE BURDEN OF THE WORD OF THE LORD. It can mean utterance, burden, or desire - prophecy.
This message appears to be extremely important to people during the Tribulation. The understanding of this message could mean life or death to some or even to many.
These verses appear to address the people of Jeremiah's time and also those during the Tribulation.

60-REVIVAL COMES TO THE JEW AND GENTILE,
BECAUSE OF GOD'S SUPERNATURAL DESTRUCTION OF GOG AND ITS ALLIES
As already noted, God brings Russia and its allies against Israel for a very specific purpose. Because of the Rapture, there were no born-again Christians left on the earth. All those who were left had rejected Jesus Christ as their only hope of salvation. Many that claimed they believed on Jesus Christ refused to allow Him to reign over them. Many that were left were only lukewarm.
God needed to do something, at the beginning of the Tribulation, to awaken this sinful world (both Israel and the Gentiles) to the fact that there is a God and Jesus Christ is the Messiah; He is the only way to be saved.
The Lord set up a special situation. God brought the greatest military invasion force, in the history of the world, against the little nation of Israel. Israel had no chance of winning. Therefore, God interceded, supernaturally, and destroyed nearly all of the invasion forces. God did this in such an incredible way that both the people of Israel and the world knew there is a God.
From this point, many will be seeking God. Now the evangelism of the world will begin to take place through 144,000 male, virgin Jews.
Thus, because of God's supernatural destruction of Gog and his allies, there will be a worldwide revival. Many will get saved, both Jews and Gentiles; however, they will have to face horrible persecutions. A short time later, many will be martyred for their faith in Jesus.

61-WHY RUSSIA ATTACKED ISRAEL AT THE BEGINNING OF THE TRIBULATION
Thus, we see some of the reasons why the Russian invasion has to come at the beginning of the Tribulation. God needed to get the world's attention. It is also clear that the revival had not yet happened, because one-fourth of the world's population died as a result of the war; all perished to hell after seal four was opened. Thus, it appears that seal four could not have been fulfilled, if the Russian invasion of Israel had occurred further on in the first part of the Tribulation.

62-SOME HAVE NO CHANCE WHATSOEVER OF BEING SAVED DURING THE TRIBULATION
(Scripture)

In 2 Thes 2:10-12, it is written, AND WITH ALL DECEIVABLENESS OF UNRIGHTEOUSNESS IN THEM THAT PERISH (or in every sort of evil that deceives those who are perishing-NIV) (He will enable him to deceive, in all kinds of wicked ways, those who are headed for destruction-JNT47); BECAUSE THEY RECEIVED NOT (or refused) THE LOVE OF THE TRUTH, THAT THEY MIGHT BE SAVED (or that could have saved them-JNT48). AND FOR THIS CAUSE (or reason) GOD SHALL SEND THEM (a) STRONG (or powerful) DELUSION (causing them to go astray-JNT49), THAT THEY SHOULD BELIEVE A (or the) LIE. (The result will be) THAT THEY ALL MIGHT BE DAMNED (or condemned) WHO BELIEVED NOT THE TRUTH, BUT HAD PLEASURE (or delighted) IN UNRIGHTEOUSNESS (or wickedness).

(Commentary)

Verses 10 to 12 all go together. They appear to be addressing those of the last church age (the Laodicean age). This is our present church age that will end with the Rapture. These verses give a very stern warning.
This message shows that the unrighteousness and evil in these people shall deceive them (deceivableness or deception of unrighteousness in them that perish), because they would not receive God’s Word, Jesus, (the love of the truth, or they refused to love the truth-NIV) so that they could be saved. Sin deceives.
This grave warning goes forth:
for those people that would not receive God’s Word (the love of the truth),
and would not believe the truth of God’s Word that they might be saved,
but had pleasure, or delight, or fun, or enjoyment in doing or practicing sin, or wickedness, or unrighteousness.
In other words, this extreme warning from God is for those that choose to reject Jesus, because they have fun in doing wickedness.
For this reason, those that rejected God’s Word, because they had pleasure in doing wickedness, God Himself will send them a strong delusion or strong thoughts, so that the lie of the Antichrist will be perceived as the truth to them, and the truth of God’s Word will be perceived as a lie. God shall do this so that there is no possible chance for them to be saved; so that they all might be damned and perish for eternity.

63-SPIRITUAL CONFUSION DURING THE FIRST PART OF THE TRIBULATION:
THE SIX CATEGORIES
(Commentary)

Religious deception will abound during the first part of the Tribulation, yet God’s truth will also go forth with power. All of the following will be teaching during this time.
1. God will send forth 144,000 male, virgin Jews to teach His truth.
The following will be deceiving people:
2. False Christs
3. False prophets - many shall follow these false teachers, because of the miracles they will do.
4. The Antichrist
5. The "Great Harlot" - churches around the world should unite under the banner of the Roman Catholic Church.
6. Deceived people will also be deceiving one another.
* During the second part of the Tribulation, two prophets of God should be witnessing. These are not included in this list of six, as they should not appear until approximately the midst of the Tribulation.

64-SATAN'S TACTICS: SPIRITUAL WARFARE
(Commentary)

Let us bring to remembrance the tactics that Satan has used in the past. In the church of Smyrna (the second church), Satan used persecutions to try to destroy the church. It was a poverty-stricken church. The end result, however, was that the church actually grew stronger, even though many of them were killed.
Then Satan switched tactics. In the third church, Pergamos, persecutions greatly decreased. The world moved into the church. They became "married" or joined to the world. False doctrines came into the church. The church got worse. In the fourth church, Thyatira, more ungodly doctrines got mixed in. The church became even worse.
During the Tribulation, those that follow Jesus may undergo the most extreme and hideous persecutions ever devised. To become a true Christian will be to invite a death sentence for most. The Scriptures show us that many who commit to Jesus, during the Tribulation, will turn from their faith under this intense pressure.
However, Satan will also combine, with the persecutions, the most cleverly devised tactics ever used to deceive people. There will be false Christs and false prophets that will be able to do incredible, yet deceptive, miracles. These miracles will be so fantastic that they could deceive even the very elect, if possible. Also, for a while, Satan will use the Catholic church with all of its intoxicating doctrines. It can be expected to become an immense, world church that appears beautiful on the outside; however, inside there is death. The Antichrist will also be causing deception. People will also be deceiving each other. The Scriptures show us that multitudes will be deceived as a result of this overwhelming combination of deceptions.
Yet, despite all this, many will come to faith and trust in Jesus Christ (through the teaching of the 144,000) and will not shrink back or turn away. By God’s grace, some will survive, endure, and escape the clutches of the world that wishes to destroy them. They will ultimately be at the judgment of the nations as the sheep on the right hand of Jesus. These should hear the words, "Well done, good and faithful servants." These will go into the Millennium to repopulate the earth. However, most that trust in Jesus, during the Tribulation, will be martyred. Some will be killed during the first part; most will be killed during the second part.

65-THE 144,000 JEWS
(Commentary)

The 144,000 Jews are sealed with the seal of the living God-ref Rev 7:2-4. They have their FATHER'S NAME WRITTEN IN (or on) THEIR FOREHEADS-Rev 14:1. There are 12,000 from each of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribe of Dan is omitted. They are male, virgin Jews that have not known a woman; no guile is found in their mouth. They are without fault before the throne of God.
Following God's supernatural destruction of the invading forces against Israel, the 144,000 believe and go forth preaching the Everlasting Gospel and the Gospel of the Kingdom over all the earth. They will preach to fear God, to give glory to God, the message of salvation, and the message of the judgments that are now being brought upon the earth.
Many will get saved as a result of the 144,000 anointed ones of God. However, those that do come to Christ, by faith, will suffer horrible persecutions. Many will have to flee for their lives as time progresses. Many will eventually be beheaded for their faith in Jesus.
What ultimately happens to the 144,000 is not clear.

66-MANY BECOME SAVED, MANY SHOULD BE THE RESULT OF THE 144,000
As a result of the teaching of the 144,000, a great multitude of people, during the first part of the Tribulation, will be saved. Many of them, however, will be killed in the second part of the Tribulation. This includes both Jew and Gentile alike. A remnant, that is, one-third of Israel, will also be saved.
AFTER THIS I BEHELD, AND, LO, A GREAT MULTITUDE (or a huge crowd), WHICH NO MAN COULD NUMBER (or too large) (which no one could count-NASB), OF ALL NATIONS, AND KINDREDS (or tribes), AND PEOPLE, AND TONGUES (or language), STOOD BEFORE (or in front of) THE THRONE, AND BEFORE (or in front of) THE LAMB, CLOTHED WITH (or dressed, or wearing) WHITE ROBES, AND PALMS (or palm branches) IN THEIR HANDS…AND HE SAID TO ME, THESE ARE THEY WHICH CAME OUT OF (the) GREAT TRIBULATION (or great persecution), AND (they) HAVE WASHED THEIR ROBES, AND MADE THEM WHITE IN THE BLOOD OF THE LAMB (Jesus). THEREFORE ARE THEY BEFORE THE THRONE OF GOD, AND SERVE HIM DAY AND NIGHT IN HIS TEMPLE: AND HE THAT SITTETH ON THE THRONE SHALL DWELL AMONG THEM (or spread His tent over them-NIV)-Rev 7:9,14,15.

67-ONE-THIRD OF ISRAEL BECOMES SAVED AND REFINED
One-third of Israel will be refined as silver is refined. They will go through many judgments and trials. However, two-thirds of the Jews will not turn to Jesus. Sadly, they will ultimately be cut off and die.

68-CONVERTS PERSECUTED, SOME KILLED
(Commentary)

There have been times, in the past, of great persecution against the church that followed Jesus Christ. However, there has never been anything to compare with the persecution that shall come during the Tribulation.

During the first part of the Tribulation, persecution against those that follow Jesus will be very severe. Those that trust in Jesus will be hated, persecuted, ridiculed, mocked, physically beaten and tortured, arrested and some will be killed. The Bible tells those that are to give a testimony, not to consider beforehand what they shall say, because the Holy Ghost shall speak through them.
However, this is nothing compared to the second part of the Tribulation. During this part, persecution against those that follow Jesus will be devastating. Persecutions, physical abuse, torture, and the most hideous and unthinkable things possible can be expected to happen to the Christian, his possessions, and children. Most true Christians will be beheaded for their faith in Jesus Christ, as they will not be able to escape. The only way to keep from being beheaded is to renounce their faith and worship the image of the beast. The only other alternative, it appears, will be that Christians will have to run for their lives and hide. In addition, all will be required to take the mark of the beast or the number of his name in their right hand or forehead. If a person refuses to do this, they cannot buy or sell anything.
This section of the book is mainly dealing with the first part of the Tribulation.

69-THE NATIONS OF THE WORLD WILL HATE THOSE THAT TURN TO JESUS
THEN SHALL THEY DELIVER YOU UP TO BE AFFLICTED (you will be arrested and handed over to be punished-JNT54), AND SHALL KILL YOU: AND YE SHALL BE HATED OF ALL NATIONS FOR MY NAME’S SAKE (or because of Me)-Mt 24:9; ref Mt 10:22; Mk 13:13; Lk 21:17.

70-MANY WILL TURN FROM THE FAITH
Persecutions, ridicule, even being falsely accused, arrested, tortured and killed lies ahead for many that follow Jesus during the first part of the Tribulation. Under these severe trials, many will turn away from their faith in Jesus Christ to save themselves. If they do, they shall perish for eternity.
AND THEN SHALL MANY BE OFFENDED (or trapped), (at that time many will turn away from the faith-NIV)-Mt 24:10.

71-MANY SHALL BETRAY ONE ANOTHER
During the first part of the Tribulation, hate will be everywhere. People shall betray each other. Brother shall turn against brother. The father shall be against his son. The children shall be against their parents. No one will be able to be trusted. Relatives shall be against each other. Friends shall turn against friends.

72-THE NATIONS OF THE WORLD WILL HATE THOSE THAT TURN TO JESUS
THEN SHALL THEY DELIVER YOU UP TO BE AFFLICTED (you will be arrested and handed over to be punished-JNT54), AND SHALL KILL YOU: AND YE SHALL BE HATED OF ALL NATIONS FOR MY NAME’S SAKE (or because of Me)-Mt 24:9; ref Mt 10:22; Mk 13:13; Lk 21:17. (Repeated)

73-MANY SHALL BETRAY ONE ANOTHER
During the first part of the Tribulation, hate will be everywhere. People shall betray each other. Brother shall turn against brother. The father shall be against his son. The children shall be against their parents. No one will be able to be trusted. Relatives shall be against each other. Friends shall turn against friends.

74-PEOPLE WILL BE DECEIVING PEOPLE
During the Tribulation, evil men and seducers (or impostors) will deceive others; they, themselves, will be deceived. Religious deception of all sorts will abound.
THIS KNOW…THAT IN THE LAST DAYS…EVIL MEN AND SEDUCERS (or impostors) SHALL WAX WORSE AND WORSE, DECEIVING, AND BEING DECEIVED-2 Tim 3:1,13.

75-PEOPLE WILL WORSHIP DEVILS AND IDOLS OF GOLD AND SILVER
(Commentary)

During the Tribulation, some people will turn to deceitful spirits and doctrines of devils. People will worship devils and will not repent of such evil. They will also worship the work of their hands. Some will worship idols of gold, of silver, of brass, of stone, and of wood. Witchcraft, in various forms, shall prosper.

76-THERE WILL BE A ONE-WORLD RELIGIOUS SYSTEM
UNDER THE UMBRELLA OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
(Commentary)

The "great whore," which is the Roman Catholic Church, is shown to be a false religion during the first part of the Tribulation. It will encompass the entire world, including many nations, multitudes of people, many languages, and the kings of the earth.
The Bible never calls it a church, but uses several other names including "the great whore." The name of the false religion, and some of the prophecies, indicate that it is not a new religion, but has been around a long time. The prophecies also depict this false religion as being interwoven with a major, industrialized city: a trading center not far from the sea, which sits on seven hills and dates back to the time before the apostles.
Spiritually, the great prostitute-ref Rev 17:1 NIV, is described as having a golden cup. Every Roman Catholic should be familiar with this cup. The Bible portrays this cup as being full of abominations. Consider a golden cup. On the outside, it is beautiful and glamorous. It seems to illustrate something pure and elegant. The outside of the cup seems to reflect godliness and spirituality. However, this golden cup of the Catholic Church, which is being held in the hand of the city of Rome, is not beautiful on the inside. It is full of death and poison. It is FULL OF ABOMINATIONS (or abominable things). The world will accept the golden cup as beautiful and true-ref Rev 17:4,2. However, God shows it is full of abominations and obscene and filthy things. Note, its biblical name, AND UPON HER FOREHEAD WAS A NAME WRITTEN, (a) MYSTERY (or with a hidden meaning), BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS (or prostitutes, or whores) AND (of the) ABOMINATIONS (or obscenities) OF THE EARTH-Rev 17:5.
The Roman Catholic Church is portrayed as a whore and a fornicator against Jesus Christ. Jesus is the Bridegroom. Those that belong to Jesus are the bride. The saints of God represent a woman or female. As the wife is to be obedient to her husband, so the church is to be obedient to Jesus. The man is the head of the woman. Jesus is the head of the church.
Those in league with this great false religion are referred to as fornicators or adulterers, as they have chosen to follow a false religion of deceit rather than Jesus and the truth. They follow a religion that uses the name of Jesus, but is a deception that has been responsible for killing multitudes of the true followers of Jesus. They are committing "fornication" or spiritual whoredom against Jesus—the true Bridegroom. God’s opinion of this great false religion can be seen in the names He uses to describe it. It is a GREAT WHORE or prostitute. Her sins have reached unto heaven.
Once the Rapture of the true church has taken place, the Scriptures seem to indicate that various religious institutions of the world, including the World Council of Churches, various cults, different denominations, and many others that are left behind, may also become part of the great whore.
Once the true church of Jesus has been taken out of the way, the Roman Catholic Church will experience, what we may call, "a revival." As best as can be determined, the religious institutions and people of the world will unite under the umbrella of this "great whore." They will partake of her false and alluring doctrines, which are descended from Babylon. Many kings of the earth will reject Jesus in favor of the "great whore." Their minds will be taken captive with the whore's deceptive doctrines. The leaders of many nations become allied with this great false religion, the Roman Catholic Church. They will support her and commit spiritual fornication with her.
The Roman Catholic Church corrupts the earth with its false teachings and enticing ways.

77-THE GREAT WHORE, SPIRITUALLY
(Commentary)

The Roman Catholic Church is portrayed as a golden cup full of abominations and filthiness. It is shown as being a whore and a fornicator. Those in league with this great false religion are referred to as fornicators or adulterers, as they have chosen to follow a false religion of deceit, rather than Jesus and the truth. These Scriptures apply to both this present time, as well as the Tribulation.

Commentary)

The Babylonian cult religion became a foundation for the Roman Catholic Church, which inherited the rites of the old Babylonian cult. It may be said that one could take a golden cup and pour in the teachings of the Babylonian cult. Add to this a distorted understanding of the Bible and some other books related to the Bible. Finally, pour in the results of the many councils the Roman Catholic Church has had, in which they have added other things to their teachings. What emerges is a religion that uses some of the Bible without correct understanding, mixed with many other doctrines that directly contradict God’s Word and deceive multitudes of people. This package of deception and abominations, which is called "Christian," is clothed in beauty (represented by the golden cup). Next clothe the priests and others with fine clothing; add beautiful music; majestic cathedrals; and magnificent, well-planned rituals, pomp and majesty; and you have the Roman Catholic Church. Then add to all this the word "holy." Call it the "Holy" Roman Catholic Church. Then lie and deceive people by telling them that the Pope is God’s representative upon the earth, is descended from Peter in his calling of God, and is infallible. The end result is what God refers to as the "Great Whore." Many are deceived and will perish to hell, yet are positive that it is really God’s ordained church.
Neither do they think they will go to hell, because they believe a lie, which the Roman Catholic Church fabricated, called "purgatory."
This name, "Mystery, Babylon the Great," does clearly denote the Roman Catholic Church.
It is written, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS (or prostitutes, or whores) AND (of the) ABOMINATIONS (or obscenities) OF THE EARTH-Rev 17:5. This great false religion has a biblical name. That name is, in part, "The Mother of Harlots and Abominations of the Earth."
The second part of the name that God gives to the Roman Catholic Church is staggering. This church is called "The Mother of Harlots" (or prostitutes, or whores). It is "the great whore," "the mother" of all those that malign God’s Word, who deceive people by distorting God’s Word and, thus, lead them astray. As a harlot or prostitute seduces a person into spiritual death, so this church is portrayed as the mother of all cults and false, deceptive teachings.
This Babylonian cult is now manifested and handed down by the Roman Catholic Church. This false religion is the mother of abominations of the earth. Many people consider this great false religion as true; yet God describes it as the mother of whores and abominations.

78-THE GREAT WHORE AND THE CITY ARE UNITED:
THE ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH AND ROME ARE UNITED
(Commentary)

This worldwide false religion is also pictured as being interwoven with a great city: a center for trading, upon seven hills, near the sea, which has killed saints, prophets, and perhaps apostles. The false religion and the city are so much a part of each other that the description of the one often is the same as the other. The golden cup is shown being held in the hand of the city, which is Rome. It is a vivid portrayal of the city of Rome having the Roman Catholic Church within the city. The city of Rome is indeed one with the Vatican. The city of Rome is shown as having the name of the great whore written upon her forehead. These prophecies fit Rome and the Roman Catholic Church, both today and during the Tribulation.

79-THE CITY OF ROME, SPIRITUALLY
(Commentary)

The city of the "great whore," which is Rome, is portrayed as being full of the names of blasphemy against God. The city is shown to have committed fornication, whoring, or immorality against Jesus. This includes the past as well as during the Tribulation. Spiritually, the Catholic church is clearly a descendant of the Babylonian cult. Thus, spiritually, the city of Rome is a descendant of the same. However, it has been suggested that the Antichrist might change the name of "Rome" to Babylon during the Tribulation. Should this be true (only speculation) then it would be a second reason that the Bible refers to "Rome" by the name of Babylon.

(Scripture)

It is written, AND I SAW A WOMAN (the city that houses the false religion)...FULL OF NAMES OF BLASPHEMY (blasphemy against God)-Rev 17:3.
It is written, BABYLON...HER FORNICATION (or immorality, or whoring)-Rev 18:2,3.

80-DETAILS ABOUT THE CITY OF ROME
(Commentary)

The city of Rome is pictured as a great city, a mighty city, or city of power. It is described as an ancient city that existed in the days of the apostles, yet would still exist during the Tribulation. The Scriptures show that Rome is a unique city with musicians, crafts and craftsmen, grinding apparatus, candles or lamps, and marriages. It would be a rich and beautiful city. Beautiful cloth, gold, and precious stones are all mentioned in connection with this city called Rome. All of these will likewise be true of Rome during the first part of the Tribulation.

81-DETAILS ABOUT ROME'S COMMERCE AND RICHES
(Commentary)

The city of Rome would have great riches, and delicacies, and many types of merchandise. It would be a trading capital. Both merchants and those that own ships would become rich through dealing with this city. These verses apply to the present time, but also to the Tribulation. Rome may become even more of a center of trade, during the Tribulation, than it is at this current time.

82-WHAT THE CITY HAS DONE
(Commentary)

The city of the "great whore," which is Rome, is portrayed in God's Word as having been responsible for the death of many saints, witnesses of Jesus, prophets of God, and apostles. This slaughter of those that follow Jesus will continue during the Tribulation. It is shown to be involved in much sin. It is pictured as glorifying herself. It may be said that Rome is a city of pride, which lives in luxury and believes she will never see sorrow or be destroyed. Many nations have drunk of her fornication and her immorality. No religion or city in the world even begins to fulfill every single one of these prophecies, except the great city of Rome. The great whore is the Roman Catholic Church. The Bible describes Rome and the Roman Catholic Church in the past and during the Tribulation.

83-WARNING TO GOD'S PEOPLE IN ROME AND THOSE INVOLVED WITH THE GREAT WHORE
There is a warning to the saints of God, regarding this church and city, both prior to and including the Tribulation. It is written, AND I HEARD ANOTHER VOICE FROM HEAVEN, SAYING, COME OUT OF HER, MY PEOPLE, THAT YE BE NOT PARTAKERS (or share) OF HER SINS, AND THAT YE RECEIVE NOT (or will not be infected) OF (any of) HER PLAGUES. FOR HER SINS HAVE REACHED (or piled up) UNTO HEAVEN, AND GOD HATH REMEMBERED HER INIQUITIES (or crimes)-Rev 18:4,5.
FLEE OUT OF THE MIDST OF BABYLON, AND DELIVER EVERY MAN HIS SOUL: BE NOT CUT OFF IN HER INIQUITY; FOR THIS IS THE TIME OF THE LORD'S VENGEANCE; HE WILL RENDER UNTO HER A RECOMPENSE-Jere 51:6. Although this verse may have been fulfilled in the past, it also seems to apply to the Tribulation as well.
Ultimately, the Roman Catholic Church and Rome will be destroyed, it appears, during the second part of the Tribulation.

84-THE WICKED WOMAN IN THE BASKET
Zech 5:5-11-THEN THE ANGEL THAT TALKED WITH ME WENT FORTH, AND SAID UNTO ME, LIFT UP NOW THINE EYES (look up), AND SEE WHAT IS THIS THAT GOETH FORTH (that is appearing).
Zech 5:6-AND I SAID, WHAT IS IT? AND HE SAID, THIS IS AN EPHAH (or measuring basket) THAT GOETH FORTH. HE SAID MOREOVER, THIS IS THEIR RESEMBLANCE (or iniquity of the people, or appearance) THROUGH ALL THE EARTH (or land). It is noted that the iniquity is throughout the earth. The ephah here represents a Jewish unit of measure used in commerce. It may have been the largest unit for dry measuring normally used in business.
Zech 5:7-AND, BEHOLD, THERE WAS LIFTED UP A TALENT OF LEAD (or a lead cover was lifted up-NASB): AND THIS IS A WOMAN THAT SITTETH IN THE MIDST (or inside) OF THE EPHAH (or basket). Thus, we see the measuring basket has a lead cover and a woman inside of the basket.
Zech 5:8-AND HE SAID, THIS IS WICKEDNESS. AND HE CAST (or pushed, or threw) IT (or her down) INTO THE MIDST (or middle) OF THE EPHAH (or basket); AND HE CAST THE WEIGHT OF LEAD (cover) UPON THE MOUTH (or opening) THEREOF. The woman in the basket represents wickedness. The angel threw her down into the basket. Thus, we appear to have commerce and wickedness intermixed. The woman in the basket may be representing the "great whore" of Revelation chapter 17. It also seems to represent the commerce of Rev chapter 18.
Zech 5:9-THEN LIFTED I UP MINE EYES, AND LOOKED, AND, BEHOLD, THERE (before me) CAME OUT TWO WOMEN (were coming out), AND THE WIND WAS IN THEIR WINGS; FOR THEY HAD WINGS LIKE THE WINGS OF A STORK: AND THEY LIFTED UP THE EPHAH (or basket) BETWEEN THE EARTH AND THE HEAVEN. The two women are not identified. Their job is to move the basket of wickedness from Israel to Babylon and accomplish what is in verse 11.
Zech 5:10-THEN SAID I TO THE ANGEL THAT TALKED WITH ME, WHITHER DO THESE BEAR (or taking) THE EPHAH (or basket)?
Zech 5:11-AND HE SAID UNTO ME, TO BUILD IT AN HOUSE (or temple) IN THE LAND OF SHINAR (or Babylonia): AND IT SHALL BE ESTABLISHED, AND (she will be) SET THERE UPON HER OWN BASE (or pedestal). It may be said, to build an house for the basket of wickedness in Babylon; when it is built, the basket will be set in its place. The wickedness in Babylon or Rome will have its base of operation there and be firmly established there for part or all of the Tribulation.
As stated in other verses, sometime during the second part of the Tribulation or at Armageddon, Rome will be utterly and completely destroyed forever. Regarding Israel, with the return of Jesus at Armageddon, God will take away their sin and remember it no more.

85-ISRAEL CONTINUES TO BURY THE DEAD BODIES
The people of the land of Israel shall continue to bury the dead bodies of the invasion troops for seven months. After seven months, men shall be employed and the land shall be searched for more bones. This appears to continue throughout the first part of the Tribulation.

86-THE WEAPONS OF THE INVADING ARMIES WILL BE BURNED FOR SEVEN YEARS
The weapons of the dead soldiers will be burned for fuel seven years or for the entire length of the Tribulation. Because of this, Israel will not need to take wood out of the fields or forests. Depending upon when God destroys the invasion forces, and also if the Tribulation is shortened in some way, the seven years may extend into the Millennium.

87-THE JEWS RETURN TO ISRAEL FROM AROUND THE WORLD
Once the forces that invaded Israel are destroyed, those Jews that have not yet returned to Israel can be expected to return from all over the world.

88-ISRAEL BEGINS TO REBUILD THE TEMPLE IN JERUSALEM
(Commentary)

The temple in Jerusalem should be built at the approximate location where the Dome of the Rock currently sits. During the shaking of the land, when Russia is in Israel, the Dome of the Rock may come crashing down. Once God has destroyed the invading forces, we may expect that Israel will "rush" to begin building a new temple. Ultimately, the Antichrist will move into the temple during the midst of the Tribulation.

89-SACRIFICES WILL BEGIN AS IN THE DAYS OF OLD
There have been no "sacrifices and oblations" in Israel since approximately 70 A.D., when they were cut off by Titus. It is written, FOR THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL SHALL ABIDE MANY DAYS (a long time, many years)…WITHOUT A SACRIFICE-Hos 3:4. Once the temple is rebuilt in Jerusalem, during the first part of the Tribulation, the "sacrifices and oblations" are expected to begin again.
Christians acknowledge that Jesus has already come. When He died He said, IT IS FINISHED-Jn 19:30. The veil of the temple in Jerusalem was rent. The sacrifices at the temple no longer meant anything, as Jesus had become the final and ultimate sacrifice for sin.
However, many Jews will not acknowledge that Jesus is the Christ. They are still waiting for the Messiah to come. They will believe and receive the Antichrist as the true Messiah during the Tribulation. As it is written, IF ANOTHER SHALL COME IN HIS OWN NAME, HIM YE WILL RECEIVE-Jn 5:43.
It is written, HOW LONG SHALL BE THE VISION CONCERNING THE DAILY SACRIFICE…UNDERSTAND, O SON OF MAN: FOR AT THE TIME OF THE END SHALL BE THE VISION-Dan 8:13,17. This shows that at the time of the end (which is the seventieth week of Daniel, the Tribulation) the daily sacrifices will be offered. During the midst of the Tribulation, the Antichrist SHALL CAUSE THE SACRIFICE AND THE OBLATION TO CEASE-Dan 9:27. Again, this shows that the sacrifices will be started sometime during the first part of the Tribulation.

90-JERUSALEM
Jerusalem is just one city of many thousands in the world. It only has a few hundred thousand people; yet it is a city of controversy. It is a city that many want to rule over and possess. This is the way God said it would be after Israel was reborn. Jerusalem can be expected to be a controversy during the entire Tribulation. At the time of Armageddon, which is immediately after the Tribulation of those days, the following verse applies.
It is written, BEHOLD, I WILL MAKE JERUSALEM A CUP OF TREMBLING (or a cup that causes reeling-NASB) UNTO ALL THE PEOPLE ROUND ABOUT (or surrounding peoples), WHEN THEY SHALL BE IN THE SIEGE BOTH AGAINST JUDAH AND AGAINST JERUSALEM. AND IN THAT DAY (when all the nations of the earth are gathered against her-NIV) WILL I MAKE JERUSALEM A BURDENSOME (or heavy) STONE (or immovable rock) FOR ALL PEOPLE: ALL THAT BURDEN THEMSELVES WITH IT (or lift it, or try to move it) SHALL BE CUT IN PIECES (or will injure themselves), THOUGH ALL THE PEOPLE OF THE EARTH BE GATHERED TOGETHER AGAINST IT-Zech 12:2,3.

91-JUST PRIOR TO THE MIDST OF THE TRIBULATION
(Commentary)

The "midst" of the Tribulation is 1260 days prior to the end of the Tribulation: The second part of the Tribulation lasts 1260 days, or 42 months, or 3½ years.
Two major events appear to happen just prior to the midst of the Tribulation (or just slightly more than 1260 days before the end of the Tribulation). One is the Antichrist will be killed with some sort of a weapon, wounding him in the head. The other event is the two prophets or witnesses of God appear.

92-DEFINITION OF THE TERM "THE MIDST OF THE TRIBULATION"
The Tribulation appears to be clearly defined by Daniel as being 7 years long, or 84 months, or 2520 days. The term "the midst of the week" (or Tribulation) appears in Dan 9:27. This is generally defined as the precise middle point of the Tribulation. This means it is 3½ years, or 42 months, or 1260 days from both the signing of the covenant (which began the Tribulation) and the last day of the Tribulation. It is the exact center of the seven year period.
Nevertheless, the first part of the Tribulation (3½ years) may be shortened in some way.

93-THE ANTICHRIST IS KILLED, BUT COMES BACK TO LIFE
(Commentary)

Just prior to the midst of the Tribulation, the Antichrist is killed by a wound in his head with some sort of a weapon. The Scriptures do not give us the details of how the wound is inflicted, but it is speculated that someone assassinates him.
Remember that, perhaps, four days after Jesus entered Jerusalem, He was crucified; but three days later, He rose from the dead.
Shortly thereafter (possibly three days later), the Antichrist comes back to life. The world is astonished and follows the Antichrist. He declares himself to be God.
The world will worship Satan, which gives power to the Antichrist, and they will worship the Antichrist openly. They ascribe to him deity. They will say, "Who is like the beast? Who can fight against him?" They will be fully persuaded that the Antichrist is really the true Christ, and that Satan is really God. Billions will be deceived.
Next, he moves into the rebuilt temple in Jerusalem and stops the sacrifices in the midst of the Tribulation. At this point, the time period should be 1260 days from the end of the Tribulation. Thus, it appears, the Antichrist is killed just prior to the "midst" of the Tribulation.

94-TWO WITNESSES OF GOD APPEAR
The other event expected to happen just prior to the midst of the Tribulation is that the two prophets or witnesses of God appear. One is Elijah, and the other appears to be Moses.

95-WHEN WILL THE TWO WITNESSES BE UPON THE EARTH?
The second part of the Tribulation is 1260 days. When the two witnesses appear upon the earth, their ministry will last 1260 days. Then they will be killed. Their bodies will lie in the street three and a half days. After the three and a half days, they shall stand upon their feet and ascend up to heaven. Combine the length of their ministry with the three and a half days and it equals 1263½ days. This would lead us to believe that they will appear just prior to the midst of the Tribulation or, perhaps, about the same time that the Antichrist shall be killed. Their resurrection must occur prior to the Battle of Armageddon, which is immediately after the Tribulation of those days.
The Scriptures show that they have the power to shut heaven that it rain not in the days of their prophecy.
Many scriptures mention the rain being shut off during the Tribulation. They seem to reveal that this happens during the second part of the Tribulation. We have no scriptural evidence that the rains will be shut off during the first part of the Tribulation. Quite the contrary, we do have evidence from the Scriptures that the springs of waters will flow, and the crops will still be growing. Rain is needed to grow crops. Thus, it seems clear that the two prophets are upon the earth during the second part of the Tribulation, as they have the power TO SHUT HEAVEN, THAT IT RAIN NOT IN THE DAYS OF THEIR PROPHECY-Rev 11:6.
The rain resumes during the first month of the Millennium. This is also a clear indication that the two prophets of God will be upon the earth during the second part of the Tribulation. It is written, BE GLAD THEN, YE CHILDREN OF ZION, AND REJOICE IN THE LORD YOUR GOD: FOR HE HATH GIVEN YOU THE FORMER RAIN MODERATELY, AND HE WILL CAUSE TO COME DOWN FOR YOU THE RAIN, THE FORMER RAIN, AND THE LATTER RAIN IN THE FIRST MONTH. AND THE FLOORS SHALL BE FULL OF WHEAT, AND THE VATS SHALL OVERFLOW WITH WINE AND OIL-Joel 2:23,24. The rain that was held back during the second part of the Tribulation shall come down during the very beginning of the Millennium.
As the Scriptures are studied, regarding some of the vial judgments, it is clear they are brought forth by the two prophets of God and that these judgments are during the second part of the Tribulation. Thus, it seems clear that the two prophets of God are upon the earth during the second part of the Tribulation (the worst part). This is the same time that Jerusalem shall be overrun by the Gentiles. The Antichrist will be in the temple; people will be taking the mark and worshiping the image of the beast. These prophets will be hated by the unbelieving world. Elijah, as mentioned previously, shall come BEFORE…THE GREAT AND DREADFUL DAY OF THE LORD (which is Armageddon). Again, this would put him upon the earth during the second part of the Tribulation.

96-WHO ARE THE TWO WITNESSES?
Who are these two witnesses? Does God give us the answer to this question? Some say we do not know who either is. Some say one is Enoch, or Elijah, or Moses, or a combination of these. The Scriptures clearly show us who one is. Through God’s Word, we should be able to determine the identity of the other, also.

97-WITNESS ONE
There is absolutely no question that one witness is Elijah. It is written, BEHOLD, I WILL SEND YOU ELIJAH THE PROPHET BEFORE THE COMING OF THE GREAT AND DREADFUL DAY OF THE LORD: AND HE SHALL TURN THE HEART OF THE FATHERS TO THE CHILDREN, AND THE HEART OF THE CHILDREN TO THEIR FATHERS, LEST I COME AND SMITE THE EARTH WITH A CURSE-Mal 4:5,6. The "great and dreadful day of the Lord" is the day Jesus Christ returns. It is the time of the Battle of Armageddon. Before that day, Elijah will, indeed, come. This is also taught in the Passover feast, as the youngest child is taught to go and look for the prophet.

98-WITNESS TWO
There seems to be very little doubt that the second witness is Moses. The Scriptures indicate that both witnesses have to be a Jew. Both Elijah and Moses were Jews. It is written, THESE ARE THE TWO OLIVE TREES, AND THE TWO CANDLESTICKS STANDING BEFORE THE GOD OF THE EARTH-Rev 11:4. The olive tree represents the Jews or Israel; as it is written, THE LORD CALLED THY NAME, A GREEN OLIVE TREE-Jere 11:16.
These two witnesses are prophets. Moses fulfills this prophecy. It is written, THEY SHALL PROPHESY-Rev 11:3; IN THE DAYS OF THEIR PROPHECY-Rev 11:6. God talked to Moses face to face. Aaron was given to Moses to be his prophet-ref Ex 7:1.
Many of the miracles that will be done, during the Tribulation, by the two witnesses were also done by Moses previously.

Some say the second witness is Enoch, because he was translated-ref Heb 11:5. However, this cannot be accepted, because he was not a Jew, as he lived before the flood. The two witnesses need to be "olive trees" or Jews. Neither does he fulfill many of the other prophecies relating to the two witnesses. There appears to be no other scriptural evidence to support this view.
There is no question that one of the two witnesses is Elijah. The biblical evidence that Moses is the other witness is very strong. The idea that we do not know who either witness is has to be discounted in view of the Scriptures.

99-SUMMARY OF THE TWO WITNESSES
The two witnesses will prophesy 1260 days

Elijah will be a sign to the Jew

They will shut off the rain

They will turn the heart of the fathers to the children

They will turn the heart of the children to the fathers

They will turn the disobedient to the wisdom of the just

They will make the people ready for the coming of the Lord

They will announce that Jesus is returning

They will restore things

They will announce that Armageddon is coming

They will warn the people of what lies ahead

They will warn the people not to take the mark

They will warn the people not to worship the beast

They will warn the people not to worship the image

They will warn the people of the wrath of God's judgment for those that take the mark, or worship the beast, or his image

They will turn the waters to blood

They will smite the earth will all plagues as often as they will

By their power, they will show that the Antichrist is not the real God

They will bring plagues upon men, so that they will give glory to God; however, men will not repent to give God glory-ref Rev 16:9

After 1260 days, they will be killed

They will rise from the dead

They will ascend up to heaven in a cloud

100-THE MIDST OF THE TRIBULATION
(Commentary)

During this one day period and the few days that follow this time, called the "midst" of the Tribulation, many extremely important events occur. There may be more Scripture relating to various events occurring during this particular time than any other part of the Tribulation.
Many of the following events will be happening at the same time, or, perhaps, within hours of each other, or, in some cases, only a few days apart. Nearly all of them happen or begin to happen 3 ½ years, or 42 months, or 1260 days from the end.
Jesus' disciples thought that He would restore the kingdom to Israel-ref Acts 1:6. Jesus told them, IT IS NOT FOR "YOU" TO KNOW THE TIMES OR THE SEASONS, WHICH THE FATHER HATH PUT IN HIS OWN POWER-Acts 1:7. The Jews are back in their land. They are waiting for the Messiah to come. The Antichrist comes forth to fill this void, this anticipation, this hope.
After the Antichrist is killed (presumably in Jerusalem), he comes back to life. At this time, a spirit from the pit enters into him. The world is astonished. He proclaims himself to be God and moves into the temple in Jerusalem. The sacrifices and oblations at the temple are stopped. This is the midst of the Tribulation. He is given power to continue for 42 months.
He has all power, after the working of Satan, and is able to do signs and lying wonders.
The Antichrist speaks great things. He blasphemes God.
He acknowledges, glorifies, and honors Satan with gifts.
The world worships the Antichrist. Deceit and craft prosper. Power is given to him over all.
The temple court that is without is given to the Gentiles. They shall trample under their feet the holy city for 42 months.
The Antichrist shall make war with the saints, and they will be given into his hand for 3 ½ years. He shall have finished scattering the power of the holy people in 3 ½ years.
He shall think to change the times and the laws.
A false prophet appears; he does great signs and wonders.
The mark is initiated. All that dwell upon the earth must receive a mark in, or on, their forehead or right hand. If they refuse, they cannot buy or sell. Some also believe this will include not being allowed to work a job. It appears that anything, which involves a financial transaction, will become nearly impossible for those that do not take the mark, making it extremely difficult for these people to survive.
There is war in heaven. Satan and his angels fought, but lost. Satan was cast down to the earth. He is furious. He knows that he has only a short time left. Satan makes war against the saints.
The abomination of desolation occurs. An image of the Antichrist is set up on a wing of the temple. Those that will not worship it will be beheaded. The temple is defiled or made unholy.
From henceforth, there is great Tribulation.
The Jews that keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ are told to flee fast, without any hesitation, when they see the abomination of desolation. Those that do not obey this command can expect to be caught, persecuted, and killed. Satan tries to kill them while they are fleeing, but God protects them. God has a place prepared to take care of them, to nourish and feed them, for the last 3 ½ years or 1260 days. For then shall be "Great Tribulation."
Multitudes will be slain for their faith in Jesus; however, many others will shrink back in their faith under this intense pressure. Persecutions against the true Christians will become almost indescribable.

101-THE ANTICHRIST COMES BACK TO LIFE
The Antichrist had been growing in fame and popularity, since the approximate time of the beginning of the Tribulation. His rise to prominence was supernatural. He came in his own name. His position, power, and authority was given to him by Satan. At the time he is killed, just prior to the midst of the Tribulation, he may be the most famous and beloved man on the earth.
We might speculate that much of the world will be watching by satellite television or listening by radio as the funeral of the Antichrist is held, possibly in Jerusalem. The whole world may be given a day off from work just to watch or listen.
But then, while, perhaps, millions or billions of people are watching or listening, the Antichrist, which had the deadly wound to his head, sits up or stands up alive. The world is absolutely shocked and astonished. The Antichrist's DEADLY (or fatal) WOUND WAS HEALED-Rev 13:3. The Antichrist comes back to life. It is written, AND (yet) DID LIVE (that was struck by the sword but came alive again-JNT61)-Rev 13:14.
As a result of being healed, ALL THE WORLD (or the whole earth) WONDERED (or was astonished) (and followed) AFTER THE BEAST (in amazement)-Rev 13:3.

102-A SPIRIT FROM THE PIT COMES INTO THE BODY OF THE ANTICHRIST
It appears that, at the time the Antichrist is killed and his deadly wound is healed, a spirit will come up out of the bottomless pit to occupy the body of the Antichrist. This spirit was once alive before this was written, in approximately 96 or 97 A.D. (once WAS), but was dead at the time this was written (now IS NOT), and "shall come up out of the bottomless pit" at some future date (SHALL ASCEND). Nevertheless, the Antichrist will ultimately go into "perdition" (or destruction)-ref Rev 17:8,11 KJV, NIV. The people of the earth, who will ultimately perish, shall be astonished when they see the Antichrist that was in the past (before 96 A.D.) and yet is before them during the Tribulation.
It is written, THE BEAST (which, in this case, is the Antichrist) THAT THOU SAWEST (once) WAS, AND (now) IS NOT; AND SHALL ASCEND (or come up) OUT OF THE BOTTOMLESS PIT (or Abyss), AND GO INTO PERDITION (or he goes to destruction)-Rev 17:11.
AND THEY (the inhabitants) THAT DWELL ON THE EARTH SHALL WONDER, WHOSE NAMES WERE NOT WRITTEN IN THE BOOK OF LIFE FROM THE FOUNDATION (or founding, or creation) OF THE WORLD (or will be astonished), WHEN THEY BEHOLD (or see) THE BEAST THAT (once) WAS, AND (now) IS NOT, AND YET IS (to appear or will come)-Rev 17:8.
There is much speculation who this person (that appears to have lived either during the time of Christ or before) might be. Some believe it is Nebuchadnezzar. Some believe it could be Judas, because the Antichrist is called the "son of perdition" in 2 Thes 2:3, and Judas was also called the "son of perdition" in Jn 17:12. Some believe it is Satan; others think it may be Antiochus Epiphanes. At this point in time, we do not know who it is.
AND HERE IS THE MIND WHICH HATH WISDOM (or this calls for a mind with wisdom-NIV). THE SEVEN HEADS (which were mentioned back in Rev 17:3), ARE SEVEN MOUNTAINS (or hills), ON WHICH THE WOMAN (or city) SITTETH-Rev 17:9. Rome sits on seven hills or mountains. It is reported that ancient Babylon sat on a plain, not on mountains.
AND THERE ARE SEVEN KINGS: FIVE ARE FALLEN, AND ONE IS (living now), AND THE OTHER IS NOT YET COME (the Antichrist); AND WHEN HE COMETH, HE MUST CONTINUE A SHORT SPACE (or a little while)-Rev 17:10. Seven kings are mentioned here. The date that the Revelation was written was around 96 or 97 A.D. This verse speaks of five kings that "are fallen." These represent five kings, or possibly kingdoms, that fell prior to this being written. The one "that is," refers to a king that existed at the time this was written. The other that "is not yet come" is referring to the Antichrist. The Antichrist must continue a short space (or a short time) after he comes. He will reign in Jerusalem for three and a half years.
The following are the seven kings or kingdoms.
Five are fallen:
1. Egypt
2. Assyria
3. Babylon
4. Medo-Persia
5. Greece

One is (in existence at the time John was given the Revelation):
6. Roman Empire

One is yet to come:
7. Revived Roman Empire (the EEC)
8. The Antichrist is the eighth and is of the seven
Some believe that the seven represent seven emperors of the Roman Empire. Five were dead, one existed at the time this was written, and another was yet to come. Others believe that the seven represent seven forms of government in the Roman Empire.
AND THE BEAST THAT (once) WAS, AND (now) IS NOT, EVEN HE IS THE EIGHTH (king), AND IS OF (or comes from) THE SEVEN. The Antichrist is the eighth king, but comes from one of the seven AND GOETH INTO PERDITION (or is on its way, or going to his destruction)-Rev 17:11. Dan 9:26 shows that the Antichrist shall be of the people that would come and destroy Jerusalem; this happened approximately 70 A.D. Those that came were of the Roman Empire.
It might be noted that the first beast (the Antichrist) came out of the sea-ref Rev 13:1. This may denote the nations. He may have been born and raised in a place other than Israel. His rise to power seems to come through the EEC. He comes from the old Roman Empire nations, yet he is probably a Jew. It would seem impossible for the Jews to accept any person as their Messiah, if he were not from the seed of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

103-THE WORSHIP OF SATAN AND THE ANTICHRIST
As a result of this supernatural event of the Antichrist rising from the dead, THEY WORSHIPED THE DRAGON (or Satan) WHICH GAVE POWER UNTO THE BEAST (which is the Antichrist) (or because he had given his authority to the beast-JNT62): AND THEY WORSHIPED THE BEAST (which is the Antichrist), SAYING, WHO IS LIKE UNTO THE BEAST? WHO IS ABLE TO MAKE WAR (or fight) WITH HIM?-Rev 13:4. AND ALL (or everyone, or all inhabitants) THAT DWELL UPON THE EARTH SHALL WORSHIP HIM (the beast), (all) WHOSE NAMES ARE NOT WRITTEN IN THE BOOK OF LIFE OF THE LAMB SLAIN (or slaughtered) FROM THE FOUNDATION (or creation) OF THE WORLD. IF ANY MAN HAVE AN EAR, LET HIM HEAR-Rev 13:8,9. All the world, except those whose names are in the book of life, will submit to the Antichrist. They will worship him.
Jesus had said, I AM COME IN MY FATHER'S NAME, AND YE RECEIVE ME NOT: IF ANOTHER (the Antichrist) SHALL COME IN HIS OWN NAME, HIM YE WILL RECEIVE-Jn 5:43.
Satan craves worship. He said, I WILL BE LIKE THE MOST HIGH-Isa 14:14. The devil told Jesus that he would give Him all the kingdoms of the world, if He would fall down and worship him-ref Mt 4:9. Jesus told the devil, IT IS WRITTEN, THOU SHALT WORSHIP THE LORD THY GOD, AND HIM ONLY SHALT THOU SERVE-Mt 4:10. He refused. However, the Antichrist, which is the great counterfeit, will accept this invitation. Satan will give him ALL the kingdoms of the world; however, his rule will only last 1260 days. Satan seeks to receive the worship that is only reserved for God the Father.

104-THE ANTICHRIST MOVES INTO THE TEMPLE IN JERUSALEM:
HE PROCLAIMS THAT HE IS GOD, HE EXALTS HIMSELF
The Antichrist moves into the temple in Jerusalem. This may occur within hours of coming back to life. As it is written, THAT MAN OF SIN (the Antichrist)…OPPOSETH AND EXALTETH HIMSELF ABOVE ALL THAT IS CALLED GOD, OR THAT IS WORSHIPED; SO THAT HE AS GOD SITTETH IN THE TEMPLE OF GOD, SHEWING HIMSELF THAT HE IS GOD-2 Thes 2:3,4.
HE (the Antichrist) SHALL MAGNIFY HIMSELF IN HIS HEART (he will consider himself superior-NIV)-Dan 8:25. AND HE (the Antichrist) SHALL EXALT HIMSELF, AND MAGNIFY HIMSELF ABOVE EVERY GOD-Dan 11:36. (He) will not REGARD ANY GOD: FOR HE SHALL MAGNIFY (or exalt) HIMSELF ABOVE ALL (them)-Dan 11:37.
NEITHER SHALL HE (the Antichrist) REGARD THE GOD OF HIS FATHERS-Dan 11:37. This may indicate he is a Jew from one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The "God of his fathers" may be talking about the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
As God the Father gave His only begotten Son authority from heaven, so Satan has given the Antichrist HIS POWER, AND HIS SEAT, AND GREAT AUTHORITY-Rev 13:2.

105-THE ANTICHRIST STOPS THE SACRIFICES AND OBLATIONS
During the first part of the Tribulation, a temple will be built in Jerusalem. Sacrifices and oblations will begin as in olden times. However, in the midst of the week, the Antichrist shall be killed, but then returns to life. He moves into the temple in Jerusalem and stops the sacrifices and oblations.
It is written, IN THE MIDST OF THE WEEK (which is the Tribulation) HE (the Antichrist) SHALL CAUSE THE SACRIFICE AND THE OBLATION (or offering) TO CEASE (or end)-Dan 9:27.

106-GOD HAD WARNED ISRAEL: YOUR AGREEMENT WOULD NOT STAND
God tells Israel, regarding the covenant with the Antichrist, AND YOUR COVENANT WITH DEATH SHALL BE DISANNULLED (or canceled), AND YOUR AGREEMENT (or pact) WITH HELL (or the grave) SHALL NOT STAND; WHEN THE OVERFLOWING (or overwhelming) SCOURGE SHALL PASS THROUGH (or sweeps by), THEN YE SHALL BE TRODDEN (or beaten) DOWN BY IT (you become its trampling place-NASB). The very agreement that Israel thought would be their protection is now going to be their downfall. FROM THE TIME THAT IT GOETH FORTH (or as often as it passes through-NASB) IT SHALL TAKE (or seize) YOU (or carry you away): FOR MORNING BY MORNING SHALL IT PASS OVER (or sweep through), BY DAY AND BY NIGHT: AND IT SHALL BE A VEXATION (or sheer terror) ONLY TO UNDERSTAND THE REPORT (or message) (to understand what it means-NASB)-Isa 28:18,19. For those that can understand what has happened, for those that can understand the report (or message), it will bring sheer terror. The fulfillment of this prophecy appears to happen at this point.
FOR THE BED IS SHORTER THAN THAT A MAN CAN STRETCH HIMSELF ON IT (the bed is too short-NASB): AND THE COVERING (or blanket) NARROWER (or too small) THAN THAT HE CAN WRAP HIMSELF IN IT-Isa 28:20. The Antichrist and the covenant represent the bed. The bed is too short. It will not accomplish the purpose that Israel thought it would. It will not save them. It cannot protect them. The covering that is supplied by the Antichrist is too narrow. A person cannot wrap himself in it for protection. The only true protection a person can really have is Jesus. All other beds are too short, and all other coverings are too narrow. All other coverings will pass away.

107-THE ANTICHRIST SHALL PROSPER AND DO THESE THINGS
AND THROUGH HIS POLICY ALSO (or shrewdness) (or through what he does, or decrees) HE SHALL CAUSE CRAFT (or deceit) TO PROSPER (or succeed) IN HIS HAND (or by his influence). This can also denote the powers of the darkness. Supernatural powers will be manifested and will prosper. AND BY PEACE (or while they are at ease-NASB) (the Antichrist) SHALL DESTROY MANY-Dan 8:25.
It appears this man of sin will be a diplomat of sorts that will bring forth great wisdom and knowledge. The world will welcome this evil person.
AND THE KING (which is the Antichrist) SHALL DO ACCORDING TO HIS WILL (or as he pleases)-Dan 11:36.
AND (the Antichrist) SHALL PROSPER (or be successful). During "his" time (the Tribulation), the Antichrist shall succeed. His success will continue, TILL THE INDIGNATION (or time of wrath, which is the Tribulation) BE ACCOMPLISHED (or completed, or finished)-Dan 11:36.
Neither does the Antichrist have THE DESIRE OF WOMEN-Dan 11:37. The wording in some other translations appears slightly different. This could indicate he does not desire women. He may be single. We can expect him to try to duplicate many of the scriptures pertaining to Jesus.
AND HE (the Antichrist) SHALL…THINK (or try) TO CHANGE (the set) TIMES AND (the) LAWS-Dan 7:25.

108-HOW LONG WILL THE ANTICHRIST CONTINUE IN POWER?
The Antichrist, once he moves into the temple, will continue in power a short time. He will continue for forty-two months, until the end that is determined for him to reign. He will continue until the time of wrath is completed. The saints shall be given into his hand for 3 ½ years.
It is written, AND WHEN HE (the Antichrist) COMETH, HE MUST CONTINUE A SHORT SPACE (or a little while)-Rev 17:10.
AND POWER (or authority) WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM TO CONTINUE (or exercise his authority for) FORTY AND TWO MONTHS-Rev 13:5.
AND THEY (the saints) SHALL BE GIVEN INTO HIS HAND (or handed over to him) UNTIL A TIME AND TIMES AND THE DIVIDING OF TIME-Dan 7:25.
EVEN UNTIL THE CONSUMMATION (or end)-Dan 9:27. The Antichrist shall reign for 3 1/2 years, or 42 months, or 1260 days, until the end of the time that is determined for him to reign.
The Antichrist shall prosper TILL THE INDIGNATION (or time of wrath) BE ACCOMPLISHED (or completed)-Dan 11:36.

109-THE KINGDOM OF THE ANTICHRIST SHALL BE GREAT
It is written, THE GREATNESS OF THE KINGDOM-Dan 7:27.

110-HE HAS SATAN’S POWER AND DOES SIGNS AND LYING WONDERS
The Antichrist originally comes forth as a result of the working of Satan. It is through Satan that he has his power, position, and authority. He has power to work all kinds of false miracles. He is able to do things that are beyond human ingenuity and ability. He is able to do supernatural feats. His power will be mighty. People will be amazed. Through these miracles, people will be fully persuaded that he really is God.
It is written, EVEN HIM (this man, the lawless one) (which is the Antichrist), WHOSE COMING IS AFTER (or in accordance with) THE WORKING OF SATAN WITH ALL POWER (to work all kinds of false miracles-JNT63) AND SIGNS AND LYING WONDERS-2 Thes 2:9. These are to persuade or deceive people into believing that the Antichrist is really God and is speaking the truth.
AND HIS (the Antichrist's) POWER SHALL BE MIGHTY (or very strong), BUT NOT BY HIS OWN POWER-Dan 8:24.
THE DRAGON (which is Satan) GAVE HIM HIS POWER, AND HIS SEAT, AND GREAT AUTHORITY-Rev 13:2.
God's Word warns us, THERE SHALL ARISE FALSE CHRISTS…AND SHALL SHOW GREAT SIGNS AND WONDERS. These signs and wonders shall be so great, so miraculous, so incredible, that God's Word tells us, INSOMUCH THAT, IF IT WERE POSSIBLE, THEY SHALL DECEIVE THE VERY ELECT-Mt 24:24.

111-POWER GIVEN TO THE ANTICHRIST OVER ALL
Satan gives the Antichrist authority over all tribes, languages, and nations of the world.
It is written, AND POWER (or authority) WAS GIVEN HIM OVER ALL KINDREDS (or every tribe, or people), AND TONGUES (or language), AND NATIONS-Rev 13:7.

112-THE ANTICHRIST BLASPHEMES GOD
The Antichrist shall speak proud or arrogant words. He can be expected to accuse God of all manner of things. He will blaspheme and speak great things against the God of heaven that have never been heard. He will slander His name, His tabernacle, and those that dwell in heaven.
It is written, AND THERE WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM A MOUTH SPEAKING GREAT THINGS (or proud words) AND (arrogant) BLASPHEMIES-Rev 13:5.
AND HE (or it) OPENED HIS MOUTH IN BLASPHEMY AGAINST GOD, TO BLASPHEME (or slander, or insult) HIS NAME, AND HIS TABERNACLE (or dwelling place), AND THEM THAT DWELL (or live) IN HEAVEN-Rev 13:6.
HE SHALL SPEAK GREAT WORDS AGAINST THE MOST HIGH-Dan 7:25.
HE SHALL...SPEAK...AGAINST THE GOD OF GODS-Dan 11:36.
THE KING (or the Antichrist)…SHALL SPEAK MARVELLOUS (or unheard-of) THINGS AGAINST THE GOD OF GODS-Dan 11:36.

113-THE ANTICHRIST HONORS SATAN
The Antichrist shall honor the god of forces. He will honor Satan with gold, silver, precious stones, and costly gifts. He will glorify the devil.
It is written, BUT IN HIS ESTATE (or instead of them) SHALL HE HONOR THE GOD OF FORCES (or fortresses): AND A GOD WHOM HIS FATHERS KNEW NOT (which is Satan)-Dan 11:38.
In Dan 11:37, it reads, "THE GOD OF HIS FATHERS." Here the words appear, a god whom "his fathers" knew not. This could reinforce the possibility that the Antichrist is a Jew. The false god here is the Dragon, which is Satan-ref Rev 13:2,4; 20:2. He is called a "strange god" in Dan 11:39.
This "strange god" SHALL HE HONOR WITH GOLD, AND SILVER, AND WITH PRECIOUS STONES, AND PLEASANT (or costly) THINGS (or gifts)-Dan 11:38. The Antichrist shall honor Satan; the world will also worship the Dragon, which is Satan-Rev 13:3,4.

114-THE ANTICHRIST MAKES WAR AGAINST THE SAINTS:
HE SHALL DESTROY THE HOLY PEOPLE
The Antichrist will be given power and authority to make war against the saints of God, to overcome or prevail against them. The saints will have no power to defeat the Antichrist. For 3 ½ years he shall greatly oppress those that have been born-again until Jesus returns. The saints will have to flee for their lives. Many of those that do flee will be betrayed by their closest friends or relatives. Many can expect to be caught, greatly persecuted, humiliated, beaten, tortured, and then beheaded. Many will turn from their faith under this immense pressure. A remnant will escape and repopulate the earth during the Millennium. For those misled people that think there shall be no Rapture before the Tribulation, these verses should have a terrifying effect. The only power the saints will have to overcome the Antichrist will be, THEY LOVED NOT THEIR LIVES UNTO THE DEATH-Rev 12:11. Satan shall also destroy the "holy" people.
It is written, AND IT WAS GIVEN (or allowed) UNTO HIM (the Antichrist) TO MAKE WAR WITH THE SAINTS (or God's holy people), AND TO OVERCOME (or conquer, or defeat) THEM-Rev 13:7.
I BEHELD (or watched), AND THE SAME HORN (this is the Antichrist) MADE (or was waging) WAR WITH (or against) THE SAINTS. The Antichrist wishes to abolish all Christianity. All that follow Jesus, he wants to kill. AND PREVAILED AGAINST THEM (defeating them)-Dan 7:21. UNTIL THE ANCIENT OF DAYS CAME-Dan 7:22. This is Jesus returning.
AND (the Antichrist) SHALL WEAR OUT (or oppress) THE SAINTS OF THE MOST HIGH…AND THEY (the saints) SHALL BE GIVEN INTO HIS HAND (or handed over to him) UNTIL A TIME (one year) AND TIMES (two years) AND THE DIVIDING OF TIME (½ year), which equals 3 ½ years-Dan 7:25.
The Antichrist SHALL DESTROY THE MIGHTY AND THE HOLY PEOPLE-Dan 8:24.

115-SATAN CAST DOWN TO THE EARTH: HE IS ENRAGED
(Commentary)

There was a war in heaven: Satan and his angels, fought against the archangel Michael and his angels. The devil and his angels are defeated. They are cast out of heaven. Satan, which deceiveth the whole world and accused the brethren day and night, has fallen from heaven. There is rejoicing in heaven; however, it is very bad news for the people of the earth. The devil is now among the inhabitants of the earth. He is furious and has great wrath. He is like a wild, raging animal with great power. He understands, at this time, that his days are numbered. He knows that he has only a short time left, which is 3 ½ years. He goes forth to utterly destroy anyone upon the face of the earth that follows Jesus.

(Scripture with commentary)

It is written, AND THERE APPEARED ANOTHER WONDER (or sign) IN HEAVEN; AND BEHOLD (there was) A GREAT (or enormous) RED DRAGON (which is Satan). The word "great" denotes something of importance and power. The word "red" may depict that he is a murderer, a shedder of blood. It may signify the incredible amount of the saint’s blood that will be shed during the Tribulation. This term "red dragon" is used only in the Revelation denoting Satan. The word "dragon" denotes "a fabulous winged monster, a fierce person," reference The New Webster’s Dictionary. The word "serpent," as is often applied to Satan, indicates great deceptive powers and can also denote being wise or wisdom-ref Mt 10:16.
Satan is portrayed as HAVING SEVEN HEADS AND TEN HORNS, AND SEVEN (royal) CROWNS UPON HIS HEADS-Rev 12:3. The number seven often refers to completeness.
* The seven heads are seven mountains, and there are seven kings. Also see Rev 17:3,9,10; 13:1. There is debate, if the seven kings apply here or not.
* The ten horns are ten kings (or kingdoms) during the Tribulation. Also see Rev 17:3,12; Dan 7:7,20,24. They are also referred to as the ten toes of Dan 2:40-45. The ten horns can also symbolize power.
* The seven crowns may represent seven kings, which represent seven empires. Also see Rev 17:10. They may also stand for Satan’s authority during the Tribulation. Note, in Rev 13:1, the description of the beast is nearly identical to the description of Satan in this verse.
AND HIS TAIL (note the tail of Satan) DREW (or swept) THE THIRD PART OF THE STARS (or angels) (out) OF HEAVEN, AND DID CAST (or threw) THEM (down) TO THE EARTH-Rev 12:4.
AND THERE WAS WAR (or a battle) IN HEAVEN. When the war began is not stated; however, the culmination of the war should take place at approximately the midst of the Tribulation. MICHAEL AND HIS ANGELS FOUGHT AGAINST THE DRAGON (which is Satan); AND THE DRAGON (which is Satan) FOUGHT (back) AND HIS ANGELS-Rev 12:7. It may be noted that Satan has angels that follow him.
(A note of interest). The angel, Michael, is mentioned as ONE OF THE CHIEF PRINCES. He came to assist Daniel and to help him know certain things-ref Dan 10:13,14. Also note Dan 10:20. Michael is, also, mentioned as THE GREAT PRINCE WHICH STANDETH FOR THE CHILDREN OF THY PEOPLE (Israel)-Dan 12:1. Michael is called THE ARCHANGEL. He contended WITH THE DEVIL HE DISPUTED ABOUT THE BODY OF MOSES, but he did not BRING AGAINST HIM A RAILING ACCUSATION, BUT SAID, THE LORD REBUKE THEE-Jude 9. In the Revelation, Michael is shown to have angels. He fought against Satan and his angels. Michael won, Hallelujah! It appears he will be present at the Rapture-ref 1 Thes 4:16. The name Michael means, "Who is like God?"
AND (Satan) PREVAILED NOT (he was not strong enough-NIV) (to win); NEITHER WAS THEIR PLACE FOUND ANY MORE IN HEAVEN (they lost their place in heaven-NIV)-Rev 12:8. Satan's access to heaven, from this time, is forever cut off. Up to this time, Satan has had access to heaven; as it is written, NOW THERE WAS A DAY WHEN THE SONS OF GOD CAME TO PRESENT THEMSELVES BEFORE THE LORD, AND SATAN CAME ALSO AMONG THEM. AND THE LORD SAID UNTO SATAN, WHENCE COMEST THOU? THEN SATAN ANSWERED THE LORD, AND SAID, FROM GOING TO AND FRO IN THE EARTH, AND FROM WALKING UP AND DOWN IN IT-Job 1:6,7. THE ACCUSER OF OUR BROTHERS, WHO ACCUSES THEM BEFORE OUR GOD DAY AND NIGHT, HAS BEEN HURLED DOWN-Rev 12:10 NIV.
Verse 9 is also covering spiritual warfare and deception.
AND THE GREAT DRAGON (which is Satan) WAS CAST (or thrown) OUT (or down), THAT OLD (or ancient) SERPENT, (also) CALLED THE DEVIL, AND SATAN (the adversary), WHICH DECEIVETH THE WHOLE WORLD (who leads the whole world astray-NIV)-Rev 12:9. At this time, Rev 9:1 may take place: I SAW A STAR FALL FROM HEAVEN. Jesus said, I BEHELD SATAN AS LIGHTNING FALL FROM HEAVEN-Lk 10:18.
Rev 12:7,8-THE DRAGON...NEITHER WAS THEIR PLACE FOUND ANY MORE IN HEAVEN.
Rev 12:9-THE...DRAGON WAS CAST OUT.
Rev 12:9-HE WAS CAST OUT INTO THE EARTH.
Rev 12:9-HIS ANGELS WERE CAST OUT WITH HIM.
Rev 12:10-THE ACCUSER OF OUR BRETHREN IS CAST DOWN.
Rev 12:12-WOE TO THE...EARTH. THE DEVIL IS COME DOWN UNTO YOU.
Rev 12:13-THE DRAGON SAW THAT HE WAS CAST UNTO THE EARTH.
Isa 14:12-Then a statement is made, HOW ART THOU FALLEN FROM HEAVEN, O LUCIFER, SON OF THE MORNING! HOW ART THOU CUT DOWN TO THE GROUND, WHICH DIDST WEAKEN THE NATIONS!

AND I HEARD A LOUD VOICE SAYING IN HEAVEN, NOW IS COME SALVATION (or God's victory), AND STRENGTH (or power), AND THE KINGDOM OF OUR GOD (or kingship), AND THE POWER (or authority) OF HIS CHRIST (or Messiah): FOR THE ACCUSER OF OUR BRETHREN (or brothers) IS CAST (or thrown, or hurled) DOWN-Rev 12:10. The saints in heaven are rejoicing. Satan has, once and for all, been cast out of heaven. Verses 10 through 12 are taking place in heaven. The devil has been cast down; this occurs at the approximate time of the midst of the Tribulation. This gives us the timing of these three verses.
The verse continues, WHICH ACCUSED THEM BEFORE OUR GOD DAY AND NIGHT-Rev 12:10. Satan had accused the brethren before God, day and night. The saints of all ages have undergone the slander and abusive accusations of the devil. However, Jesus our High Priest sits at the right hand of God, making intercession for the saints. Because of their faith in Jesus and through His shed blood, no accusation against the saints can reach God. For Jesus is the propitiation for the sins of the saints. As it is written, AND HE IS THE PROPITIATION FOR OUR SINS: AND NOT FOR OURS ONLY, BUT ALSO FOR THE SINS OF THE WHOLE WORLD-1 Jn 2:2. THERE IS THEREFORE NOW NO CONDEMNATION TO THEM WHICH ARE IN CHRIST JESUS, WHO WALK NOT AFTER THE FLESH, BUT AFTER THE SPIRIT. FOR THE LAW OF THE SPIRIT OF LIFE IN CHRIST JESUS HATH MADE ME FREE FROM THE LAW OF SIN AND DEATH-Ro 8:1,2. The saints are justified by the blood of the Lamb-ref Ro 5:9.
THEREFORE REJOICE, YE HEAVENS, AND YE THAT DWELL (or live) IN THEM-Rev 12:12. There is rejoicing, because Satan has been cast down.
Verse 12 now continues with the same thought as v.9. (But) WOE TO THE INHABITERS OF THE EARTH AND OF THE SEA! FOR THE DEVIL (the adversary) IS COME DOWN UNTO YOU, HAVING GREAT WRATH (he is very angry), BECAUSE HE KNOWETH THAT HE HATH BUT A SHORT TIME (he knows that his time is short!-JNT64). God is giving the inhabitants of the earth and the sea a stern warning. "Woe." This is because the devil has been cast out of heaven. It appears he is now confined to the earth. He is very angry. He might be compared to a raging, wild animal with enormous power. He goes forth in great fury to destroy anyone that follows Jesus and rejects the Antichrist. Once Satan is cast down, he then understands that he has a short time left. That short time is approximately three and a half years. It would appear that he understands, at this point, that his imprisonment in the pit is only about twelve hundred and sixty days away. The demons also appear to know of their allotted time, as they asked Jesus, ART THOU COME HITHER TO TORMENT US BEFORE THE TIME?-Mt 8:29. The greatest slaughter of Christians, in the history of the church, is about to begin.

116-THE TEMPLE COURT WITHOUT IS GIVEN TO THE GENTILES
The court outside the temple is given to the Gentiles for 42 months.
It is written, AND THERE WAS GIVEN ME A REED LIKE UNTO A (measuring) ROD: AND THE ANGEL STOOD, SAYING, RISE, AND MEASURE THE TEMPLE OF GOD, AND THE ALTAR, AND (count) THEM THAT WORSHIP THEREIN-Rev 11:1. Israel has not had a temple since approximately 70 A.D. However, sometime during the first part of the Tribulation a temple will be built and sacrifices reinstituted. During the midst of the Tribulation, these sacrifices will be stopped-ref Dan 9:27, as the Antichrist will proclaim himself to be God and will move in. As it is written, HE (the Antichrist)…SITTETH IN THE TEMPLE OF GOD, SHEWING HIMSELF THAT HE IS GOD-2 Thes 2:4. John is given a measuring instrument and told to measure the temple and the altar and to count those that worship therein. "Those that worship therein" may be representing some godly Jews.
BUT THE COURT WHICH IS WITHOUT (or outside) THE TEMPLE LEAVE OUT, AND MEASURE IT NOT; FOR IT IS GIVEN UNTO THE GENTILES-Rev 11:2. John is told not to measure the court outside the temple, for it has been given to the Gentiles. Since the temple, itself, is measured, this could be yet another indication that the Antichrist will not be a Gentile.

117-JERUSALEM TRODDEN DOWN OF THE GENTILES
Jerusalem shall be trodden under the feet of the Gentiles for 42 months.
It is written, JERUSALEM SHALL BE TRODDEN (or trampled) DOWN OF THE GENTILES, UNTIL THE TIMES (or age) OF THE GENTILES BE FULFILLED (or run its course)-Lk 21:24.
THE GENTILES (or Goyim, or nations): AND THE HOLY CITY SHALL THEY TREAD (or trample) UNDER FOOT FORTY AND TWO MONTHS-Rev 11:2. John is told that the Gentiles shall trample the holy city (Jerusalem) for 42 months, which represents the second part of the Tribulation. The court without and the city is given to the Gentiles or the ungodly.

118-THE FALSE PROPHET
(Commentary)

A false prophet comes forth. He is the third person of Satan's trinity. Exactly when he first appears does not seem clear in the Scriptures. He seems to first be mentioned at the midst of the Tribulation. He is portrayed as having horns like a lamb, as being innocent and harmless, but he speaks as the Antichrist does. He has all the power or authority of the Antichrist and causes people to worship the Antichrist, much as the Holy Spirit glorifies Jesus. The false prophet does great miracles or miraculous signs and makes fire to come down from heaven. Through these miracles, he deceives the people of the earth.

(Scripture with commentary)

It is written, AND I BEHELD ANOTHER BEAST COMING UP OUT OF THE EARTH (or land)-Rev 13:11. Some believe that "coming out of the earth" means that he comes from the land of Israel. It is possible he may be a Jew. The second beast is called a false prophet in Rev 16:13; 19:20; and 20:10. His spirit is the spirit of a devil in Rev 16:14. There is no mention of this false prophet prior to the Antichrist being killed and having his deadly wound healed. It may be said, he masquerades as light, but he is darkness. During the approximate time of the midst of the Tribulation, the Antichrist moves into the temple. This being the case, it would appear that the entire known ministry of the false prophet will be in Israel.
The second beast, HE HAD TWO HORNS LIKE A LAMB-Rev 13:11. One would think of a lamb as being harmless. The Scriptures warn of such as this; as it is written, BEWARE OF FALSE PROPHETS, WHICH COME TO YOU IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING, BUT INWARDLY THEY ARE RAVENING WOLVES-Mt 7:15. This false prophet seemingly has the outward appearance of purity and great power, of meekness and humility as a lamb. There are varied opinions of the meaning of the two horns.
John the Baptist said of Jesus, BEHOLD THE LAMB OF GOD-Jn 1:29. However, while this beast (or false prophet) may take on the appearance of a lamb, HE SPAKE AS A DRAGON-Rev 13:11. He speaks as the Antichrist. He is a counterfeit of the Holy Spirit. He is an actual person.

119-THE TRINITY OF GOD, THE TRINITY OF SATAN
The Trinity of God: The trinity of Satan:
God the Father Satan
God the Son The Antichrist
God the Holy Spirit The false prophet

AND HE EXERCISETH ALL THE POWER (or authority) OF THE FIRST BEAST (which is the Antichrist) BEFORE HIM (or in its presence, or on his behalf), AND CAUSETH (or makes) THE EARTH AND THEM WHICH DWELL THEREIN (or its inhabitants) TO WORSHIP THE FIRST BEAST, WHOSE DEADLY (or fatal) WOUND WAS HEALED-Rev 13:12. The false prophet brings glory to the Antichrist. He causes the people of the world to worship the Antichrist. He is the third person of Satan's trinity.
Consider the Holy Spirit. He is the third Person of the Trinity of God. It is written, HOWBEIT WHEN HE, THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH, IS COME, HE WILL GUIDE YOU INTO ALL TRUTH: FOR HE SHALL NOT SPEAK OF HIMSELF; BUT WHATSOEVER HE SHALL HEAR, THAT SHALL HE SPEAK: AND HE WILL SHOW YOU THINGS TO COME. HE SHALL GLORIFY ME: FOR HE SHALL RECEIVE OF MINE, AND SHALL SHOW IT UNTO YOU-Jn 16:13,14.
In verse 12, once again, the deadly wound of the Antichrist is mentioned; this causes the world to be amazed. As a result, people worship the Antichrist and Satan-ref Rev 13:3,4. AND HE (the false prophet) DOETH GREAT WONDERS (or miracles, or miraculous signs), SO THAT HE MAKETH (or causing) FIRE (to) COME DOWN FROM HEAVEN ON THE EARTH IN THE SIGHT OF MEN (or as people watch, in full view of men-NIV)-Rev 13:13.
Elijah also called down fire from heaven in the Old Testament. He also did many miracles. The Jews look for the coming of Elijah, prior to the coming of the Messiah, as a seat is left vacant for him at the Passover feast. The false prophet may also be some sort of a counterfeit Elijah or John the Baptist. John the Baptist was filled with the Spirit of God from the womb.
AND (the false prophet) DECEIVETH THEM THAT DWELL ON THE EARTH (or the inhabitants of the earth-NIV) BY THE MEANS OF THOSE MIRACLES (or signs) WHICH HE HAD POWER TO DO IN THE SIGHT (or on behalf) OF THE (first) BEAST (which is the Antichrist)-Rev 13:14.
Jesus did great miracles. As a result, many believed on Him. The Antichrist will do great wonders as will the false prophet. Because of these miracles, many will be deceived and will believe that the Antichrist is the real Christ.

120-THE FALSE PROPHET'S PURPOSE FROM THE REVELATION
Has the spirit of a devil-ref 16:13,14

To speak as the Antichrist-ref 13:11

To exercise the power or authority of the Antichrist-ref 13:12

To cause the earth to worship the Antichrist-ref 13:12

To do great wonders or miracles-ref 13:13; 19:20

To make fire come down from heaven-ref 13:13

To deceive the people on the earth-ref 13:14; 19:20

To say to the people THAT THEY SHOULD MAKE AN IMAGE TO THE BEAST-13:14

TO GIVE LIFE UNTO THE IMAGE-13:15

To cause ALL...TO RECEIVE A MARK-13:16

To stop anyone from buying or selling, unless they have the mark-ref 13:17

To go forth to gather the people to the battle of the great day, which is Armageddon-ref 16:14

121-THE FALSE PROPHET SAYS TO MAKE AN IMAGE
It is written, AND I BEHELD ANOTHER BEAST (this is the false prophet-ref Rev 16:13; 19:20; 20:10)…SAYING TO THEM THAT DWELL ON THE EARTH, THAT THEY SHOULD MAKE AN IMAGE TO THE BEAST-Rev 13:11,14.

122-THE ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION: THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST
(Commentary)

The event of the "abomination of desolation," for the Jew that is born-again, can mean life or death. The Antichrist, the son of Satan, moves into the temple. Some form of an abomination is set up on a wing of the temple. It may be that the image to the beast could be placed there. People will be required to worship it or be put to death-ref Rev 13:14,15.
Daniel mentions the sanctuary and then the ABOMINATION THAT MAKETH DESOLATE-Dan 11:31; 12:11. The ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION is also mentioned in Mt 24:15 and Mk 13:14. The Antichrist moving into the temple is certainly an abomination. However, setting up an image of the beast, which has Satan in it, and causing the people to worship it in the temple, God forbid! This is an abomination!
This desolation shall continue until the complete destruction occurs. As it is written, Dan 9:27-AND FOR THE OVERSPREADING OF ABOMINATIONS HE SHALL MAKE IT DESOLATE (or on a wing [of the temple] he will set up an abomination that causes desolation-NIV) EVEN UNTIL THE CONSUMMATION (or complete destruction).

(Scripture with commentary)

The abomination of desolation is referred to in Dan 9:27. "AND FOR THE OVERSPREADING OF ABOMINATIONS," because of the abominations being spread (or placed) in the temple, "HE (the Antichrist) SHALL MAKE IT (the temple) DESOLATE" (or on a wing [of the temple] he will set up an abomination that causes desolation-NIV)-ref Dan 9:27; ref Mt 24:15 NIV. A different NIV translation states, AND ONE WHO CAUSES DESOLATION WILL PLACE ABOMINATIONS ON A WING OF THE TEMPLE. (Note part 5B, Dan 9:27.) This is also called the "abomination of desolation" in Mt 24:15. The temple is defiled. As it is written, THE DAILY SACRIFICE SHALL BE TAKEN AWAY, AND THE ABOMINATION THAT MAKETH DESOLATE SET UP-Dan 12:11.
The false prophet shall say TO THEM (he ordered them) THAT DWELL ON THE EARTH, THAT THEY (the people) SHOULD MAKE AN IMAGE TO THE BEAST (honoring the beast). The false prophet orders the people to make some type of an image honoring the Antichrist. No description of the image is given. Some believe it might resemble the image that Nebuchadnezzar saw in his dream. However, it is more likely to resemble the Antichrist himself.
The verse continues, WHICH HAD THE WOUND BY A SWORD, AND (yet) DID LIVE (or that was struck by the sword but came alive again-JNT65)-Rev 13:14. This is the third time the wound is mentioned.
AND HE (the false prophet) HAD POWER TO GIVE LIFE (or breath) UNTO (or into) THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST-Rev 13:15. At this point, it appears, the image of the beast is completed. The false prophet had the power of Satan to actually give "life, breath, or spirit" to the image. The image of the Antichrist comes alive. The power of Satan will be invoked through the false prophet.
Some believe this image is some form of a computerized robot that can speak. There is no great power or miracle needed, in this generation, to make such an object. Such things already exist.
Nevertheless, when the Scripture tells us that the false prophet gives the image "life," it means exactly what it says. It is a supernatural event, and supernatural power is involved.
The Antichrist is killed. People are amazed when he comes back to life. People are amazed at the great wonders and signs that are done by the false prophet. We might anticipate that people will be further terrified, amazed, and even awestruck at the image of the beast receiving life and by the awesome powers they see. Undoubtedly, they will think that this is the great power of God. They will believe that Satan is the true God and the Antichrist is the real Christ.

123-THE WORSHIP OF THE IMAGE
The word "life" is from the Greek word "pneuma." This word means "a current of air, such as breath, even spirit; or demon, life, spirit." It is written, the false prophet HAD POWER TO GIVE LIFE UNTO THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST, THAT THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST (that is the image of the Antichrist) SHOULD (or even) BOTH SPEAK, AND CAUSE THAT AS MANY AS WOULD NOT WORSHIP THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST SHOULD BE KILLED (or put to death)-Rev 13:15.
The image comes alive and is able to speak. Note carefully, the image causes those that would not worship the image to be put to death. The image causes people to worship itself. The image has life. It craves worship. It desires worship so much that anyone who refuses to worship it is put to death.
Satan craves worship. Satan is a spirit. Remember the trinity of Satan? Satan, the Antichrist, and the false prophet-ref Rev 16:13. The false prophet is directing worship to the Antichrist. The Antichrist honors Satan. The spirit of Satan appears to enter the image of the beast. The image receives life and speaks. Thus, when the verse says the image causes people to be put to death, it seems to be saying that Satan is causing the people to be put to death, because they refuse to worship him. Again, the spirit of Satan appears to occupy the image of the beast. We may say, the image itself is Satan. How it will be possible for the vast number of the world’s population to be able to worship the image, during this time, is not stated.
By worshiping the beast and his image, the people seem to be attributing the work of God (the creation) to the devil. They appear to be acknowledging that the devil is deity.
Nevertheless, those that follow Jesus will get the victory over Satan. As it is written, AND THEY OVERCAME (or defeated) HIM BY (or because of) THE BLOOD OF THE LAMB, AND BY (or because of) THE WORD OF THEIR TESTIMONY (or message of their witness); AND THEY LOVED NOT THEIR LIVES UNTO THE DEATH (even when facing death they did not cling to life-JNT66). THEY DID NOT LOVE THEIR LIVES SO MUCH AS TO SHRINK FROM DEATH-Rev 12:11 NIV. It is written, Lk 9:24-FOR WHOSOEVER WILL SAVE HIS LIFE SHALL LOSE IT: BUT WHOSOEVER WILL LOSE HIS LIFE FOR MY SAKE, THE SAME SHALL SAVE IT.

124-FOR THEN SHALL BE GREAT TRIBULATION
(Commentary)

The term "Great Tribulation" is used in Mt 24:21; Rev 2:22; and 7:14. The term "affliction" (or worst trouble) is used in Mk 13:19.
This term seems to be referring to the second part of the Tribulation, that is, the part beginning at the "midst" of the Tribulation, the last 3 ½ years.
Daniel 9:27 outlines the Tribulation as being seven years long. It is further shown to be divided into parts. The dividing point, evidently, is the sacrifices being stopped at the temple in Jerusalem and the abomination of desolation occurring. From this point on, the Tribulation is also called the "Great" Tribulation. The first part of the Tribulation saw at least one-fourth of the world’s population killed. The second part will see one-third or more of the remaining world’s population killed. In addition, famines or starvation, pestilences or horrible diseases, earthquakes, and many other things will continue to increase as the birth pains of a woman get worse and worse. The world conditions will be so bad that, since the beginning of the creation, there has not been such a horrible time.
This horrible time of God’s wrath upon the earth and against the unbelievers, coupled with the furious and uncontrollable wrath of Satan against both Jewish and Gentile believers, makes this last 1260 days unparalleled since the creation. Never again, will there be such a time of both natural and supernatural plagues upon the world, terror, brutal beatings, persecutions, and martyrdom. Just how dreadful and how terrifying this time will be may be difficult to comprehend.

(Scripture)

It is written, WHEN YE THEREFORE SHALL SEE THE ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION…FLEE…FOR THEN SHALL BE GREAT TRIBULATION (or great distress), SUCH AS WAS NOT SINCE THE BEGINNING OF THE WORLD TO THIS TIME, NO, NOR EVER SHALL BE-Mt 24:15,16,21. (For there will be trouble then worse than there has ever been from the beginning of the world until now, and there will be nothing like it again-JNT.67)
FOR IN THOSE DAYS (the Great Tribulation) SHALL BE AFFLICTION (or worse trouble), SUCH AS WAS NOT FROM THE (very) BEGINNING OF THE CREATION (or the world) WHICH GOD CREATED UNTO THIS TIME, NEITHER SHALL BE (there will be nothing like it again-JNT68)-Mk 13:19.
BEHOLD, I WILL CAST HER INTO A BED (of suffering), AND THEM THAT COMMIT ADULTERY WITH HER INTO GREAT TRIBULATION (or suffer intensely), EXCEPT THEY REPENT OF THEIR DEEDS (or ways)-Rev 2:22.
AND I SAID UNTO HIM, SIR, THOU KNOWEST (or you know). AND HE SAID TO ME, THESE ARE THEY WHICH CAME OUT OF (the) GREAT TRIBULATION (or great persecution), AND (they) HAVE WASHED THEIR ROBES, AND MADE THEM WHITE IN THE BLOOD OF THE LAMB (Jesus)-Rev 7:14.

125-THE BORN-AGAIN (ELECT) JEWS ARE TOLD TO FLEE
(Commentary)

God tells the born-again Jews to pray that their flight be not in the winter, neither on the Sabbath Day.
The elect of Israel, born-again Jews, are told that when they see the "abomination of desolation" that they are to flee without any hesitation of any kind. They are to flee to the mountains. They are warned not to turn back from the field. They are not to go into their house for anything. It may be cold, but they are not to even go and get a jacket. The message is clear. They are to obey God and not their emotions or desires.
It may be said that those who are totally obedient in fleeing without hesitation, will be rewarded by being provided some method to quickly flee or fly to the place God has for them in the wilderness. They will escape and, ultimately, be protected by God for the last 42 months of the Tribulation. Those that hesitate can expect to be caught and executed unless they renounce their faith by worshiping the image. Obedience is better than sacrifice. How they shall be able to "see" the "abomination" is not covered in the Scriptures.
Those that have children will be in a very difficult situation. If they go and get their child, they may be caught and executed. In addition, when they are fleeing, the child may slow them down, which can result in their capture. If they leave their child, they may escape with their life, but what will happen to their child?
Consider a pregnant woman. Can she "flee" or run? And what of the husband, or wife, or person who attempts to notify someone else before they flee? They may be caught, because they delayed.
These verses seem to imply that when the "abomination of desolation" occurs, at that very instant, there may already be police and soldiers approaching the houses of the followers of Jesus to arrest them. If a person even stops for a few minutes to consider what to do, they may be captured and destroyed. They need to understand this. They need to obey.
This event seems to happen at the "midst" of the Tribulation. From this point on, there will be 3 1/2 years, or 42 months, or 1260 days left in the Tribulation. Persecution against the Jews and Gentiles, who follow Jesus, will be beyond anything the world has ever seen. Death lies ahead for many, as Satan will go forth in great fury to utterly destroy all the followers of Jesus.
Again, it needs to be emphasized that the abomination of desolation seems to come as a surprise, taking place sooner than expected. It may not be possible for a person to count 1260 days from the covenant between the Antichrist and Israel and others (which begins the Tribulation).

(Scripture with commentary)

BUT PRAY YE THAT YOUR FLIGHT (or escape) BE NOT (or will not take place) IN THE WINTER, NEITHER ON THE SABBATH DAY-Mt 24:20. AND PRAY YE THAT YOUR FLIGHT BE NOT IN THE WINTER-Mk 13:18.
God answers prayer. The converted Jews are to pray that, when the time comes that they are to "flee or escape," it will not be in the winter or on the Sabbath Day. The cold of the winter could make it very difficult for them. It can also be a rainy season; rivers can rise.
Anyone running for their life on the Sabbath could easily be spotted, because there may be very few people out and very few vehicles moving. Travel on the Sabbath can be restricted.

It is written, WHEN YE THEREFORE SHALL SEE THE ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION (or abomination that causes desolation), SPOKEN OF BY DANIEL THE PROPHET, STAND IN THE HOLY PLACE. The "holy place" is the temple.
(WHOSO READETH, LET HIM UNDERSTAND)-Mt 24:15. Note the word, "readeth." It did not say, "whoso heareth." There will be no true church during the Tribulation. Reading the Bibles that already exist will be one way a person can learn; however, anyone caught having a Bible might be arrested or even killed. It can be surmised that Bibles will be destroyed when found by those following the Antichrist. God is telling the Jew, to "understand."
THEN LET THEM WHICH BE IN JUDAEA FLEE INTO THE MOUNTAINS (or hills): LET HIM WHICH IS ON THE HOUSETOP NOT COME DOWN TO TAKE ANY THING (from) OUT OF HIS HOUSE: NEITHER LET HIM WHICH IS IN THE FIELD RETURN BACK TO TAKE HIS CLOTHES (or coat)-Mt 24:16-18.
Again, the message is repeated in Mark's Gospel. BUT WHEN YE SHALL SEE THE ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION (or that causes desolation), SPOKEN OF BY DANIEL THE PROPHET, STANDING WHERE IT OUGHT NOT, (LET HIM THAT READETH UNDERSTAND)-Mk 13:14. Once more, the words "readeth" and "understand" are used rather than "hearing," signifying that open preaching regarding these things may not exist at this time.
The Scriptures seem to indicate that when this happens it will come as a surprise to the people. They will not be expecting it to happen when it does, or else they could have left a few days earlier and would not have had to "flee" for their lives. There seems to be no way for them to determine the number of days from the covenant of Dan 9:27, so that they would know when this event was to take place.
AND LET HIM THAT IS ON THE HOUSETOP NOT GO DOWN INTO THE HOUSE, NEITHER ENTER THEREIN, he must not (go down or enter the house-NIV), TO TAKE ANY THING OUT OF HIS HOUSE: AND LET HIM THAT IS IN THE FIELD NOT TURN BACK AGAIN FOR TO TAKE UP HIS GARMENT (or coat)-Mk 13:15,16.
IN THAT DAY, HE WHICH SHALL BE UPON THE HOUSETOP, AND HIS STUFF (or belongings) IN THE HOUSE, LET HIM NOT COME DOWN TO TAKE IT AWAY: AND HE THAT IS IN THE FIELD, LET HIM LIKEWISE NOT RETURN BACK (for anything). REMEMBER LOT’S WIFE. Lot’s wife hesitated. She looked back and died. WHOSOEVER SHALL SEEK (or tries) TO SAVE HIS LIFE SHALL LOSE IT. A person may seek to save his own life, but, in doing so, he disobeys God in some way. That hesitation or disobedience to God, by trying to save his own life, may cause him to lose his life. AND WHOSOEVER SHALL LOSE HIS LIFE SHALL PRESERVE IT-Lk 17:31-33. The person that loses his life for Jesus shall keep it for eternity. It may also be said, who ever will "die" to his own desires, or deny himself, shall preserve his life for eternity.
AND WOE (or how dreadful it will be-NIV) UNTO THEM THAT ARE WITH CHILD (or for pregnant women), AND TO THEM THAT GIVE SUCK (or nursing mothers) IN THOSE DAYS!-Mt 24:19.
BUT WOE (or what a terrible time, or how dreadful) TO THEM THAT ARE WITH CHILD (or pregnant), AND TO THEM THAT GIVE SUCK (or nursing mothers) IN THOSE DAYS!-Mk 13:17.

126-HERE IS SPIRITUAL WARFARE
Consider the other group. This is the group that has a thought or hears a voice such as, "Surely, there will be no harm to delay just one minute to grab a coat, or a pair of shoes, or a quick snack. It will only take a few seconds." But that short delay will, undoubtedly, cost them their lives. They grab a shirt and then flee. However, they are just a bit behind the faithful and obedient group. When the special way comes from God that enables the obedient group to fly into the wilderness, this group is just a bit too late—they miss the flight.
It is like the person that knows their airplane is about to leave, but they run down to the bathroom just for a moment. They then run back to the airplane, only to find that the door has been closed, and it is pulling out. They may have been only a few seconds too late.

127-THE ELECT FLEE; SATAN MAKES WAR WITH THE REMNANT OF HER SEED
(Commentary)

Satan is cast to the earth. He is enraged. The abomination of desolation occurs. Those in Judea are told to flee into the mountains. The elect flee for their lives.
At the time that the obedient elect flee, a series of events begin to take place. The Bible does not specify where they will ultimately be going. Some speculate that it will be Petra.
God enables them to flee fast; this appears to be symbolized by the "TWO WINGS OF A GREAT EAGLE"-Rev 12:14. As they flee, Satan evidently speaks, and a flood of water rushes after those fleeing, so that they might be carried away and killed by the flood. However, God opens up the earth, and the flood is swallowed up. The elect escape to the wilderness where God has a place prepared for them. For the next 1260 days, God will feed and sustain them. The length of time God will take care of them seems to correspond with the length of time the Antichrist is allowed to continue.
Satan is absolutely infuriated that these escaped. He goes forth to destroy those who did not escape, those who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.

(Scripture with commentary)

AND WHEN THE DRAGON (which is Satan) SAW THAT HE WAS CAST (or hurled) UNTO THE EARTH, HE PERSECUTED THE WOMAN (or he pursued the woman-NIV, which is Israel) WHICH BROUGHT FORTH THE MAN CHILD (Jesus)-Rev 12:13. Satan pursues and persecutes Israel.
It is written, WHEN YE THEREFORE SHALL SEE THE ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION, SPOKEN OF BY DANIEL THE PROPHET, STAND IN THE HOLY PLACE, (WHOSO READETH, LET HIM UNDERSTAND:) THEN LET THEM WHICH BE IN JUDAEA FLEE INTO THE MOUNTAINS: LET HIM WHICH IS ON THE HOUSETOP NOT COME DOWN TO TAKE ANY THING OUT OF HIS HOUSE: NEITHER LET HIM WHICH IS IN THE FIELD RETURN BACK TO TAKE HIS CLOTHES. FOR THEN SHALL BE GREAT TRIBULATION, SUCH AS WAS NOT SINCE THE BEGINNING OF THE WORLD TO THIS TIME, NO, NOR EVER SHALL BE-Mt 24:15-18,21; ref Mk 13:14-19; Ezek 20:35.

As Israel is fleeing for her life, THE SERPENT (which is Satan) CAST (or spewed) OUT OF HIS MOUTH WATER AS A FLOOD (or river) AFTER (or to overtake) THE WOMAN, THAT HE MIGHT CAUSE HER TO BE CARRIED (or sweep her) AWAY OF THE FLOOD (or torrent)-Rev 12:15. A flood is mentioned, and then the kind of flood is actually specified. It is a flood of water. How it comes forth is also stated. The flood and water, here, are not believed to be symbolic but an actual flood of water. Satan speaks the words that a flood of water should come forth to swallow up and drown those fleeing. This is what it means when it says that Satan should "cast out of his mouth water." It is even as when Elijah called down fire from heaven. The words came out of his mouth, and the fire came down.
There may be an army also trying to catch the fleeing Jews, which will be close behind them. Those that disobeyed God and went to get some things, first, can expect to be caught.
AND THE EARTH HELPED THE WOMAN (or the land came to her rescue-JNT69), AND THE EARTH OPENED HER MOUTH, AND SWALLOWED UP THE FLOOD (or river) WHICH THE DRAGON (which is Satan) CAST (or spewed) OUT OF HIS MOUTH-Rev 12:16. Satan caused the flood of water to come forth to drown the fleeing Israelis. However, as the water was about to overtake them, the earth opened up, and the flood of water went down into the earth or it was swallowed up. Thus, the remnant of Israel that obeyed God and ran as He had commanded them escape to the place that God had ordained; there they will be under the protection of God for the last 1260 days. Such a miracle as the earth opening up also happened in the days of Moses. It is written, AND THE EARTH OPENED HER MOUTH, AND SWALLOWED THEM UP-Num 16:32; ref Num 16:27-35.
As already mentioned, some believe the place they will flee to will be Petra. Petra, located in Edom, is a fortress which has buildings built into the rock cliffs. It has a narrow entrance way that opens up into a large canyon. Some believe the flood that will come to carry them away will be from the Jordan River, which is east of Jerusalem. Jordan lies on the other side, and Petra is in Jordan. Scriptures do seem to indicate that this is possible; however, Petra is not specifically mentioned as the place that God will lead them to. Only the Lord knows for sure.

Israel is commanded to flee fast. AND TO THE WOMAN WERE GIVEN TWO WINGS OF A GREAT EAGLE, THAT SHE MIGHT FLY INTO THE WILDERNESS, INTO "HER PLACE" (to the place prepared for her in the desert-NIV)-Rev 12:14. The wings of a great eagle would be symbolic of something large and would also indicate speed. In some manner, which is not made clear, God is going to enable those of Israel that keep the commandments of God to quickly escape or even fly to the place which God has for her. Through God's divine intervention, those that have the testimony of Jesus Christ will sense, or somehow know, in which direction to go. They have been forewarned by God's Word when to flee. As it is written in Mt 24:15-WHOSO READETH, LET HIM UNDERSTAND.
THE WOMAN (which is Israel) FLED INTO THE WILDERNESS (or desert), WHERE SHE HATH A PLACE PREPARED OF GOD, THAT THEY SHOULD FEED HER THERE (or where she might be taken care of-NIV) (for) A THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED AND THREESCORE DAYS (or 1260 days)-Rev 12:6. Thus, Israel goes to her place, WHERE SHE IS NOURISHED (or taken care of) FOR A TIME, AND TIMES, AND HALF A TIME (or for a season and two seasons and half a season-JNT,70 or 3 ½ years), FROM THE FACE OF THE SERPENT (or out of the serpent's reach-NIV)-Rev 12:14. The term "time" means one year. The term "times" means two years. The term "half a time" means one-half of a year. Thus, 1 year + 2 years + 1/2 a year equals 3 1/2 years. Three interchangeable terms are used in the Scriptures denoting the last part of the Tribulation. They are 3 ½ years, 1260 days, or 42 months.
It is written, THE THIRD SHALL BE LEFT THEREIN-Zech 13:8; ref verse 9. We might expect that the number which will escape could be one-third of Israel.
AND THE DRAGON (which is Satan) WAS WROTH (or infuriated, or enraged, or we might say, insanely mad) WITH THE WOMAN (which is Israel), AND WENT TO MAKE WAR (or fight) WITH THE REMNANT (or the rest) OF HER SEED (or children, or offspring), WHICH KEEP (or obey) THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD, AND HAVE (or hold to) THE TESTIMONY (or bear witness) OF JESUS CHRIST (or Yeshua)-Rev 12:17.
It is written, THE LORD ALSO WILL BE A REFUGE FOR THE OPPRESSED, A REFUGE IN TIMES OF TROUBLE. AND THEY THAT KNOW THY NAME WILL PUT THEIR TRUST IN THEE: FOR THOU, LORD, HAST NOT FORSAKEN THEM THAT SEEK THEE-Ps 9:9,10.

128-THE MARK OF THE BEAST: SIX HUNDRED THREE SCORE AND SIX (666)
The false prophet causes all people to receive a mark, or the name of the Antichrist, or the number of the Antichrist's name, in or on their right hand or forehead. Anyone that refuses to take the mark will not be able to buy or sell. It appears that people will not be able to trade or make any kind of a financial transaction.
The number of the name of the Antichrist is 666.
What a temptation it will be as the people come face to face with choosing either death or worshiping the image of the beast. What a temptation it will be to have a newborn baby starving in the mother's arms. The mother cannot buy or sell. Will the mother watch her baby slowly starve to death or give in and take the mark?
Consider, people will not be able to buy food for themselves or their families, neither gasoline, clothes, or anything. They may not be able to make payments of any kind. This may include their taxes, mortgage or rent on their house, electric, utilities, and auto payments. They will not be able to trade, buy, or sell anything. A person might not be able to receive his wages without the mark.
It is written, HERE IS WISDOM (this is where wisdom is needed-JNT71). LET HIM THAT HATH UNDERSTANDING (or insight) (should) COUNT (or calculate) THE NUMBER OF THE BEAST: FOR IT IS THE NUMBER OF A MAN (or person); AND HIS NUMBER IS SIX HUNDRED THREESCORE AND SIX (or 666)-Rev 13:18.
This number has been calculated by many Bible scholars. Apparently, the Holy Spirit has not yet given us the understanding of who "666" (or 600 60 6) is.
Many maintain that the number representing man is 6.
The number of the name of the Antichrist is 666.
Many maintain that God’s number is 7.
Those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life will get the victory over HIS MARK, AND OVER THE NUMBER OF HIS NAME-Rev 15:2.
The purpose of the mark is THAT NO MAN MIGHT BUY OR SELL (or preventing anyone from buying or selling-JNT72), SAVE (or unless) HE THAT HAD

THE MARK, OR (that is, or which is)

THE NAME OF THE BEAST,

OR THE NUMBER OF HIS NAME-Rev 13:17.

Three items are mentioned here. However, some translations appear to limit it to two items by saying that the "mark" is the name of the beast, or the number of his name. Rev 15:2 mentions two, as it is written, HIS MARK, AND…THE NUMBER OF HIS NAME. It is possible there could be two or three types of a mark. If so, each could have a particular purpose. Remember, the Scriptures have said that the Antichrist comes in his own name.
A system that could be used for such a thing is already partially in place in many areas. As of the time this book is written, many stores use scanners to ring up purchases. On most items a person may buy, there is a bar code. This Universal Products Code contains the number 6-6-6. At the time this book is being written, the center bars and two end bars represent the number 6. Even in India and Africa, these bar codes appear on products. It can be expected that even the remote market places in Africa will come under this system during the Tribulation.
Some believe that many transactions may, in some way, go through a giant computer. Such computers do exist today. The speed and amount of information that computers are able to process seems to be increasing at an incredible rate. Indeed, technology is advancing rapidly.
It is possible that the world will come under a global money or credit system and the use of money, as we know it today, may disappear. It may be that all financial transactions will be done by some other method, which is related to the mark. Various forms of computer chips and other types of marks are already being experimented with that can go on top of the skin or even implanted beneath the skin.
It is possible that when a person goes to buy something, their right hand or forehead will be scanned with a special scanner, then the transaction can take place. The EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer) system is operational in many places. Such organizations as the Trilateral Commission are already at work. The number of things leading to this one-world system, which are unknown to most people, is incredible.
Exactly how this will all come about is not made clear by God's Word. What is clear is, if a person does not take the mark, they cannot buy or sell anything. This system will continue for approximately 3 1/2 years, through the end of the Tribulation.
HERE IS WISDOM (this is where wisdom is needed-JNT73). LET HIM THAT HATH UNDERSTANDING (or insight) (should) COUNT (or calculate) THE NUMBER OF THE BEAST: FOR IT IS THE NUMBER OF A MAN (or person); AND HIS NUMBER IS SIX HUNDRED THREESCORE AND SIX (or 666)-Rev 13:18.

129-A ONE-WORLD RELIGION, GOVERNMENT, AND ECONOMIC SYSTEM
There will be a one-world religion.
There will be a one-world government.
There will be a one-world economic system. Even while these things are being written, as we watch world events, this is the direction that the world is heading in these latter days.

130-THE REWARD FOR TAKING THE MARK AND WORSHIPING THE IMAGE
(Commentary)

The reward for being deceived, and taking the mark, and worshiping the image is as follows. The person can buy and sell during the second part of the Tribulation. The person will not be persecuted, ridiculed, beaten, or put in prison for following Jesus. The person will not have to flee to keep from being beheaded.
However, even taking the mark and worshiping the image will not keep many of these people from being killed as the end of the Tribulation approaches. This is because one-third of the world's population will be killed. Neither will it protect them when the multitude of plagues come upon the earth. The end result of being deceived, taking the mark, and worshiping the image is the eternal lake of fire.

(Scripture)

AND THE BEAST…AND…THE FALSE PROPHET…DECEIVED THEM THAT HAD RECEIVED THE MARK OF THE BEAST, AND THEM THAT WORSHIPED HIS IMAGE-Rev 19:20.
AND THE FIRST (angel) WENT, AND POURED OUT HIS VIAL UPON THE EARTH; AND THERE FELL A NOISOME AND GRIEVOUS SORE UPON THE MEN WHICH HAD THE MARK OF THE BEAST, AND UPON THEM WHICH WORSHIPED HIS IMAGE-Rev 16:2.

131-WARNING ABOUT TAKING THE MARK AND WORSHIPING THE IMAGE
(Commentary)

The 144,000 male, virgin Jews should be warning people, in advance, about taking the mark and worshiping the image during the first part of the Tribulation.
The two witnesses of God should be warning the people about taking the mark and worshiping the image during the second part of the Tribulation.
Those that read God's Word should be warned about taking the mark and worshiping the image from the Book of the Revelation. In addition, there will be other ways that people can expect to be warned.
The warnings are terrifying. For those that receive the mark and worship the image, God's wrath will be upon them. Ultimately, they shall be tormented with fire and brimstone for eternity. They will never have any rest from their suffering. There will never be any hope of escape. There will never be any parole. Their loved ones that are in heaven will not remember them, but it appears they will remember all things. The smoke of their torment will ascend up for ever and ever.

(Scripture with commentary)

It is written, AND THE THIRD ANGEL FOLLOWED THEM, SAYING WITH A LOUD VOICE. The message is to be proclaimed loudly, so that all can hear. That clear message is, IF ANY MAN WORSHIP THE BEAST AND HIS IMAGE, AND RECEIVE HIS MARK IN (or on) HIS FOREHEAD, OR IN (or on) HIS HAND, THE SAME SHALL DRINK OF THE WINE OF THE WRATH (or fury) OF GOD, WHICH IS POURED OUT WITHOUT MIXTURE (or undiluted, or full strength) INTO THE CUP OF HIS INDIGNATION (or rage, or wrath)-Rev 14:9,10.
Those who choose to ignore God's warning, God is clearly and loudly telling them, His full wrath (or fury) shall be poured into the cup of His rage (or wrath). Then these people will have to drink of the full, undiluted contents of this cup.
These people SHALL BE TORMENTED WITH FIRE AND BRIMSTONE (or sulfur)-Rev 14:10. Regarding the degrees or severity of punishment for eternity, these can be expected to receive the most severe punishment possible. These should receive the same punishment as the Antichrist, false prophet, and Satan himself.
The verse continues, IN THE PRESENCE OF (or before) THE HOLY ANGELS, AND IN THE PRESENCE OF (or before) THE LAMB-Rev 14:10.
Consider, the loud voice seems to indicate that every person will know this message, before he worships the beast and his image and receives the mark. The false prophet will deceive the world by his miracles. However, the two prophets of God will prove they are the true ones of God, as no one, including the false prophet and the Antichrist, will be able to stop or overcome them until their ministry is finished (after 1260 days).
It may be compared to Moses and Aaron in Egypt. AARON CAST DOWN HIS ROD BEFORE PHARAOH...IT BECAME A SERPENT. THE MAGICIANS OF EGYPT, THEY ALSO DID IN LIKE MANNER-Ex 7:10,11. From this, the people might have wondered who was really of God. But then, AARON'S ROD SWALLOWED UP THEIR RODS-Ex 7:12. This left no doubt that Moses and Aaron were of God, and the magicians were not. Yet they still did not believe.
Thus, verses 9 and 10, serve as both an example and a vital warning. However, during the Tribulation, when the Lord sends forth an unmistakably clear warning, most of the earth will choose to ignore and not believe what He says. Though they choose not to believe, God’s Word does, indeed, come to pass—just as it is written. During the Tribulation, this is the unpardonable sin.
AND THE SMOKE OF THEIR TORMENT ASCENDETH (or goes, or rises) UP FOR EVER AND EVER: AND THEY HAVE NO REST DAY NOR NIGHT. These are those WHO WORSHIP THE BEAST AND HIS IMAGE, AND WHOSOEVER RECEIVETH THE MARK OF HIS NAME-Rev 14:11.

132-THE REWARD FOR NOT TAKING THE MARK AND WORSHIPING THE IMAGE
Those that refuse to take the mark will not be able to buy or sell. It will be almost impossible for them to survive during the second part of the Tribulation.
Those that refuse to worship the image of the beast will, undoubtedly, have to flee for their lives. If they are caught, they can expect to be persecuted, beaten, and ultimately beheaded. Many will be betrayed by their close friends, their relatives, even their own children or parents. In being killed, however, they will get the victory. They shall have eternal life with Jesus. They shall return with Jesus, at the time of Armageddon, in their new spiritual bodies and shall reign and rule with Jesus for one thousand years. They will forever be with the Lord. They will never have any more tears.
A few will manage to escape, by the grace of God, and will survive. These will go into the Millennium and will begin to repopulate the earth.

It is written,
Rev 15:2-AND I SAW AS IT WERE A SEA OF GLASS MINGLED WITH FIRE: AND THEM THAT HAD GOTTEN THE VICTORY

OVER THE BEAST,

AND OVER HIS IMAGE,

AND OVER HIS MARK,

AND OVER THE NUMBER OF HIS NAME, STAND ON THE SEA OF GLASS, HAVING THE HARPS OF GOD. Rev 20:4-AND I SAW THRONES, AND THEY SAT UPON THEM, AND JUDGMENT WAS GIVEN UNTO THEM: AND I SAW THE SOULS OF THEM THAT WERE BEHEADED

FOR THE WITNESS OF JESUS,

AND FOR THE WORD OF GOD,

AND WHICH HAD NOT WORSHIPED THE BEAST,

NEITHER HIS IMAGE,

NEITHER HAD RECEIVED HIS MARK UPON THEIR FOREHEADS, OR IN (or on) THEIR HANDS; AND THEY LIVED AND REIGNED WITH CHRIST A THOUSAND YEARS. These were killed, but they had gotten the victory.

Mt 25:32-34-AND BEFORE HIM (Jesus) SHALL BE GATHERED ALL NATIONS: AND HE SHALL SEPARATE THEM ONE FROM ANOTHER, AS A SHEPHERD DIVIDETH HIS SHEEP FROM THE GOATS: AND HE SHALL SET THE SHEEP ON HIS RIGHT HAND, BUT THE GOATS ON THE LEFT. THEN SHALL THE KING SAY UNTO THEM ON HIS RIGHT HAND, COME, YE BLESSED OF MY FATHER, INHERIT THE KINGDOM PREPARED FOR YOU FROM THE FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD. These followed Jesus and survived the Tribulation. These will go into the Millennium.

The second part of the Tribulation begins with the temple sacrifices being stopped and the abomination of desolation occurring.
Many events will be going on at the same time. Satan is infuriated that he was cast down to the earth and the elect Jews escaped. He, the Antichrist, and the false prophet have one mind. They wish to exterminate every living Christian, both Jew and Gentile, from the face of the earth. Throughout the earth, all that refuse to take the mark can no longer buy or sell. All that will not worship the image of the beast are to be beheaded. Persecutions, beatings, imprisonment, and martyrdom await most, who profess that Jesus is the Christ. A great multitude will be slaughtered for their faith in Jesus. However, many will renounce their faith when persecuted and beaten. Many will turn from their faith when they are starving. Many will renounce their faith when their children are starving or being tortured in order to save them. Many will give in and worship the Antichrist rather than lose their head.
It may be said, when people are about to be beheaded, they could be facing upward, looking at the guillotine before the blade comes down. Why might this be? Satan and the Antichrist want their worship. They want them to give in and forsake their faith in Jesus. They can be expected to do everything possible to deceive the people or, if necessary, to force them to acknowledge that the Antichrist is really God.
Brother will betray brother and children will betray their parents, even causing them to be put to death. Parents will betray their children. Relatives and friends will betray each other.
The Antichrist continues to blaspheme the God of heaven.
The two witnesses of God go forth to shut off the rain so that it does not rain during the 1260 days of their ministry. They bring all sorts of plagues upon the earth as God's wrath is poured out.
As the end of the Tribulation approaches, the outpouring of the last seven vials of God's wrath are about to begin.

133-SATAN MAKES WAR WITH THE REMNANT OF ISRAEL THAT FOLLOW JESUS
The Jews that hesitated in fleeing, when they saw the abomination of desolation, may now be caught. Satan makes war with them. They will be persecuted and beaten; should they refuse to worship the image of the beast, they can expect to be killed by having their head removed. All who profess Jesus as their Lord and Savior shall suffer. The Antichrist sets out to destroy the mighty and the holy people.
It is written, AND THE DRAGON (which is Satan) WAS WROTH (or infuriated, or enraged, or we might say, insanely mad) WITH THE WOMAN (which is Israel), AND WENT TO MAKE WAR (or fight) WITH THE REMNANT (or the rest) OF HER SEED (or children, or offspring), WHICH KEEP (or obey) THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD, AND HAVE (or hold to) THE TESTIMONY (or bear witness) OF JESUS CHRIST (or Yeshua)-Rev 12:17.
AND HE (the Antichrist)…SHALL DESTROY THE MIGHTY (men) AND THE HOLY PEOPLE (which is Israel)-Dan 8:24.

134-MANY CONTINUE TO SHRINK BACK IN THEIR FAITH
This falling away from the faith, or departing from the faith, continues as birth pains throughout the Tribulation. During the Tribulation, many will come to faith in Jesus Christ. Nevertheless, many will turn away from Jesus because of fear, or offenses, or deception, or the threat of persecutions, beatings, imprisonment, or other such devices that Satan uses—including death.
It is written, AND THEN SHALL MANY BE OFFENDED (or trapped) (at that time many will turn away from the faith-NIV)-Mt 24:10.
Those that persevere, resist the temptations to worship the image or the beast, resist the mark or the number of his name, hold firm in the faith, endure to the end, keep the faith, stand steadfast, finish the race, and die in faith, will ultimately be with Jesus.

135-CHRISTIANS BETRAYED
Those that choose to follow Jesus will not be able to trust anyone. Betrayal shall become a common occurrence. A person may think they are safe hiding out with a brother or friend, but are not. A parent may think their children will not betray them, but they shall. Hate will abound-ref Mt 24:9,10. These verses apply to the first part of the Tribulation; however, as birth pains, they will progressively get worse into the second part of the Tribulation.
It is written, AND THE BROTHER SHALL DELIVER UP THE BROTHER TO DEATH, AND THE FATHER THE CHILD: AND THE CHILDREN SHALL RISE UP AGAINST THEIR PARENTS, AND CAUSE THEM TO BE PUT TO DEATH-Mt 10:21.
NOW THE BROTHER SHALL BETRAY THE BROTHER TO DEATH, AND THE FATHER THE SON; AND CHILDREN SHALL RISE UP AGAINST THEIR PARENTS, AND SHALL CAUSE THEM TO BE PUT TO DEATH-Mk 13:12.
AND YE SHALL BE BETRAYED BOTH BY PARENTS, AND BRETHREN, AND KINSFOLKS, AND FRIENDS; AND SOME OF YOU SHALL THEY CAUSE TO BE PUT TO DEATH-Lk 21:16.

136-THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST CAUSES MANY THAT WILL NOT WORSHIP THE IMAGE
TO BE PUT TO DEATH
It is written, THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST SHOULD BOTH SPEAK, AND CAUSE THAT AS MANY AS WOULD NOT WORSHIP THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST SHOULD BE KILLED-Rev 13:15.

137-MULTITUDES KILLED (OR BEHEADED)
FOR THE SAKE OF THE WORD OF GOD; A VIEW OF HEAVEN
Spiritual Warfare
(Commentary)
As a result of the 144,000 Jews, many came to Jesus during the first part of the Tribulation. Some were killed.
However, during the second part of the Tribulation, Christians will be slaughtered. They shall be hunted down, arrested, persecuted, beaten, tormented, tortured, and finally killed, unless they renounce their faith in Jesus Christ and worship the image. As the cries rang out against Jesus, "CRUCIFY HIM, CRUCIFY HIM," so the cries shall ring out against the Christians that get saved during the Tribulation. The cry may be, "Kill them, kill them." Multitudes shall be beheaded.
Yet as a result of God's Word and also because of the two witnesses of God, many will come to faith during the second part of the Tribulation.
In our walk with Jesus, we are called to be obedient and never deny Him. We are to overcome all things: even the threat of going without food, even the threat of losing our job, even the threat of being killed for our faith in Jesus Christ. These, and many other things are brought about by the devil against Christians, because of their faith in Jesus Christ. Through overcoming, our faith is proved genuine. During the Tribulation, the saints will have to make a choice of taking the mark of the beast or not being able to buy and sell. They will have to make the choice of worshiping the image of the beast or possibly being beheaded. By worshiping the image, they may save their physical life for a short time, but they shall lose it for eternity. They may have had faith in Jesus. They may have been baptized. They may have confessed Jesus as their Savior. Nevertheless, if their faith fails and they take that mark and worship the image—they will perish for eternity. As it is written, WHOSOEVER SHALL SEEK TO SAVE HIS LIFE SHALL LOSE IT; AND WHOSOEVER SHALL LOSE HIS LIFE SHALL PRESERVE IT-Lk 17:33.

Rev 12:11 tells us, THEY OVERCAME HIM BY (or because of) THE BLOOD OF THE LAMB. The significance of the blood is best described by God's Word:
BLOOD-shed for the remission of sins-ref Mt 26:28
BLOOD-Redemption through His blood-Eph 1:7; ref Heb 9:12; 1 Pe 1:18,19; Rev 5:9
BLOOD-Justified by His blood-Ro 5:9
BLOOD-Washed us from our sins in His blood-ref Rev 1:5
BLOOD-Entered into the holiest by His blood-ref Heb 10:19
BLOOD-The church is purchased by the blood-ref Acts 20:28
BLOOD-Sanctify the people by the blood-ref Heb 13:12
BLOOD-Cleansed from all sin by the blood-ref 1 Jn 1:7
BLOOD-Propitiation through faith in His blood-Ro 3:25
BLOOD-Overcame Satan by the blood-ref Rev 12:11
BLOOD-Eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, dwelleth in Me, and I in him-Jn 6:56
Rev 12:11 also tells us, THEY OVERCAME HIM (the Antichrist) BY (or because of)…THE WORD OF THEIR TESTIMONY (or message of their witness-JNT76). No matter what came against these saints, they would not shrink back from their faithfulness in obeying God and their testimony of Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Even if their children were taken from them and tortured; even if their children might go hungry; even if they were slandered, tortured, and ridiculed; or even if they were killed, they would not turn from obeying God or their testimony of Jesus.
Rev 12:11-AND THEY LOVED NOT THEIR LIVES UNTO THE DEATH (even when facing death they did not cling to life-JNT77) (they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death-NIV).
The Christians, during the Tribulation, will understand this verse in Phili 1:21-FOR TO ME TO LIVE IS CHRIST, AND TO DIE IS GAIN. Those that are martyred for their faith in Jesus shall understand what Paul meant, when he said, TO BE WITH CHRIST; WHICH IS FAR BETTER-Phili 1:23.
Many saints were martyred in the first part of the Tribulation. The second part of the Tribulation will see the greatest massacre of saints in the history of the world.
HERE IS THE PATIENCE (or when perseverance is needed on the part-JNT78) OF THE SAINTS (or God's people). The saints can rest assured that the disobedient shall receive the just reward for their actions. HERE ARE THEY THAT KEEP (or obey) THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD, AND THE FAITH OF JESUS (or remain faithful to Jesus)-Rev 14:12. The true saints do keep God's commandments, which testifies of their love for God-ref Jn 14:15. The true Christians do remain faithful to Jesus, even when confronted with death. Note the words, WHICH KEEP THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD, AND HAVE THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS CHRIST-Rev 12:17.

AND I SAW AS IT WERE (or what looked like) A SEA OF GLASS MINGLED (or mixed) WITH FIRE: AND (standing beside the sea) THEM THAT HAD GOTTEN THE VICTORY OVER (or defeating, or been victorious over)
(1) THE BEAST,
(2) AND OVER HIS IMAGE,
(3) AND OVER HIS MARK, AND
(4) OVER THE NUMBER OF HIS NAME, STAND ON THE SEA OF GLASS, HAVING THE HARPS OF GOD (or which God had given them-JNT79)-Rev 15:2. Also note the sea of glass as mentioned in Rev 4:6. Harpers are mentioned in Rev 14:2. A great multitude is mentioned in Rev 7:9-11 that came out of the Great Tribulation. The saints have harps in this verse, and singing is mentioned in v.3.
AND THEY SING THE SONG OF MOSES THE SERVANT OF GOD, AND THE SONG OF THE LAMB, SAYING, GREAT AND MARVELLOUS (or wonderful) ARE THY WORKS (or the things you have done-JNT80), LORD GOD ALMIGHTY (or Adonai, God of heaven's armies-JNT81); JUST AND TRUE ARE THY WAYS, THOU KING OF SAINTS (or nations, or ages)-Rev 15:3. The singing of the song of Moses (the Old Testament) and the song of the Lamb (the New Testament) can show there is no conflict between the Old and New Testaments. It has been considered that the singing of the “song of Moses” could indicate that these are martyred Jews.
WHO SHALL NOT FEAR THEE, O LORD (Adonai), AND GLORIFY THY NAME? FOR THOU ONLY ART HOLY-Rev 15:4. Once again, fearing God is mentioned.

138-A LIST OF WHAT THE MARTYRED SAINTS OVERCAME AND HOW
They were killed, because of, or for, or they had not given in to these:

THE WITNESS OF JESUS-Rev 20:4

They HAVE THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS-Rev 12:17

FOR THE WORD OF GOD-Rev 20:4

They HAD NOT WORSHIPED THE BEAST-Rev 20:4

They had not WORSHIPED THE…IMAGE-Rev 20:4

They had not received his mark UPON THEIR FOREHEADS, OR IN THEIR HANDS-Rev 20:4; ref Rev 15:2

They had not received THE NUMBER OF HIS NAME-Rev 15:2

They KEEP THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD-Rev 12:17; 14:12

They kept THE FAITH OF JESUS-Rev 14:12

They got the victory:

OVER THE BEAST-Rev 15:2
They overcame:

BY THE BLOOD OF THE LAMB-Rev 12:11

BY THE WORD OF THEIR TESTIMONY-Rev 12:11

THEY LOVED NOT THEIR LIVES UNTO THE DEATH-Rev 12:11

And

They WASHED THEIR ROBES-Rev 7:14

They MADE THEM WHITE IN THE BLOOD OF THE LAMB-Rev 7:14

139-HE THAT LEADETH INTO CAPTIVITY SHALL GO INTO CAPTIVITY
HE THAT LEADETH INTO (or is destined for) CAPTIVITY SHALL GO INTO CAPTIVITY: HE THAT KILLETH WITH THE SWORD MUST BE KILLED WITH THE SWORD. Whatever a person does to a saint must, in turn, be done to them. If a person leads a saint into captivity, they, themselves, will go into captivity. If a person kills a saint with a sword, they, in return, will be killed by a sword. HERE IS THE PATIENCE AND THE FAITH OF THE SAINTS (this is when God's holy people must persevere and trust!-JNT82)-Rev 13:10. Let us run the race that is set before us with patience. God's Word can be trusted. What has been said will surely come to pass. This exhorts the saints to be patient and endure by faith.

140-PERSECUTIONS AGAINST CHRISTIANS BECOME ALMOST INDESCRIBABLE
(Commentary)

Sin shall increase more and more during the Tribulation. An atmosphere of "every man for himself" should prevail. The hatred of people, one for another, will be great. But above all, the hatred toward those that profess Jesus should be vicious.
During the second part of the Tribulation, the authorities should be looking for Christians, as they have not worshiped the image. They have not pledged their allegiance to the Antichrist. These Christians are considered enemies of the state and of all people. They will be hunted down as criminals. Once caught they can expect to be arrested, persecuted, brutally beaten and tortured; if they do not give in and worship the image, they should finally be beheaded. People betraying people will be commonplace. Satan and his Antichrist intend to rid the earth of every living Christian. The government, the military, the police, and most people will all be on their side. Very few Christians will survive the Tribulation. Most will either renounce their faith or be brutally murdered. In addition to this, living conditions will be extremely difficult for everyone.

141-THE TRIBULATION WILL CONTINUE TO BE AS BIRTH PAINS OF A WOMAN IN LABOR:
THINGS WILL GET WORSE AND WORSE UNTIL THE END
The Tribulation is a period of time that is much like the birth pains of a woman in labor. As the many events unfold, the situation gets worse and worse. As the Tribulation progresses, many new terrible things occur, adding to the already horrible events that are ongoing. It culminates with the Battle of Armageddon, when Jesus Christ returns. At that point, the birth pains will have gotten so bad that—if Jesus had not returned exactly when He does—no life on earth would be saved. However, as a woman in travail brings forth new life, in the same way, the return of Jesus and His saints to the earth begins a new era—one thousand years of peace.
Consider these few examples. In the beginning of the Tribulation, there are earthquakes. At the time Jesus returns, after the Tribulation of those days, there will be the greatest earthquake ever seen, and the cities of the nations fall. Near the beginning of the Tribulation, one-third of the creatures in the sea that had life will die. Near the end of the Tribulation, every living soul in the sea dies. Near the beginning of the Tribulation, one-fourth of humanity dies from the effects of war. Near the end of the Tribulation, one-third of the world's population dies. At Armageddon, nearly all life on earth is killed. Sin will also continue to increase. The spread of diseases should blanket the earth. The persecution and murder of those, who get saved during the Tribulation, will be far worse during the second part.
It is written, AND THEY SHALL BE AFRAID: PANGS AND SORROWS SHALL TAKE HOLD OF THEM; THEY SHALL BE IN PAIN AS A WOMAN THAT TRAVAILETH: THEY SHALL BE AMAZED ONE AT ANOTHER; THEIR FACES SHALL BE AS FLAMES. BEHOLD, THE DAY OF THE LORD COMETH, CRUEL BOTH WITH WRATH AND FIERCE ANGER, TO LAY THE LAND DESOLATE: AND HE SHALL DESTROY THE SINNERS THEREOF OUT OF IT-Isa 13:8,9.
UNTO THEE SHALL IT COME, EVEN THE FIRST DOMINION; THE KINGDOM SHALL COME TO THE DAUGHTER OF JERUSALEM. NOW WHY DOST THOU CRY OUT ALOUD? IS THERE NO KING IN THEE? IS THY COUNSELOR PERISHED? FOR PANGS HAVE TAKEN THEE AS A WOMAN IN TRAVAIL. BE IN PAIN, AND LABOR TO BRING FORTH, O DAUGHTER OF ZION, LIKE A WOMAN IN TRAVAIL-Mic 4:8-10.
NATION WILL RISE AGAINST NATION, AND KINGDOM AGAINST KINGDOM. THERE WILL BE FAMINES AND EARTHQUAKES IN VARIOUS PLACES. ALL THESE ARE THE BEGINNING OF BIRTH PAINS-Mt 24:7,8 NIV. The NIV and JNT both use the term "birth pains" in this verse. The NASB uses "birth pangs," and the KJV uses "sorrows."

142-FALSE CHRISTS AND PROPHETS CONTINUE: THEY SHOW GREAT SIGNS AND WONDERS
(Commentary)

False Christs are mentioned in the first part of the Tribulation as being many-ref Mt 24:5. False prophets are also mentioned in the first part of the Tribulation as being many-ref Mt 24:11.
However, during the second part of the Tribulation, this should increase. The false Christs and false prophets will be doing absolutely incredible, yet deceptive, wonders and miracles. These incredible signs will be so fantastic that, if it were possible, even the very elect would be deceived. Deceivers will be saying to go here or there to find Christ. Religious deception will abound.

(Scripture with commentary)

THEN IF ANY MAN SHALL SAY UNTO YOU, LO, HERE IS CHRIST, OR THERE; BELIEVE IT NOT (don’t believe him)-Mt 24:23.
AND THEN IF ANY MAN SHALL SAY TO YOU, LO (or look), HERE IS CHRIST (or Messiah); OR, LO, HE IS THERE; BELIEVE HIM NOT-Mk 13:21.
There will be those that will try to mislead others into believing that Christ is here or there. The Scriptures warn, when this happens, do not to believe it.
FOR THERE SHALL ARISE (or appear) FALSE CHRISTS, AND FALSE PROPHETS, AND SHALL SHOW GREAT SIGNS AND WONDERS (performing great miracles—amazing things!-JNT83); INSOMUCH THAT, IF IT WERE POSSIBLE, THEY SHALL DECEIVE (even) THE VERY ELECT (or chosen, if possible)-Mt 24:24.
FOR FALSE CHRISTS (or messiahs) AND FALSE PROPHETS SHALL RISE (or appear), AND SHALL SHOW SIGNS AND WONDERS (or miracles), TO SEDUCE (or deceive), IF IT WERE POSSIBLE, EVEN THE ELECT (or chosen)-Mk 13:22.
False Christs and false prophets shall come forth. These shall bring forth "great" signs and "great" wonders or miracles. The power of Satan will be behind these signs and miracles; they will be so wondrous that, if it were possible, even the elect or chosen saints of God could be deceived or misled.
BEHOLD, I HAVE TOLD YOU BEFORE (or in advance, or ahead of time)-Mt 24:25.
BUT TAKE YE HEED (or be on your guard): BEHOLD, I HAVE FORETOLD YOU ALL THINGS (in advance)-Mk 13:23. Jesus is telling His people what to expect in advance.
WHEREFORE IF THEY SHALL SAY UNTO YOU, BEHOLD (listen), HE IS IN THE DESERT; GO NOT FORTH (do not go out): BEHOLD, HE IS IN THE SECRET CHAMBERS (or hidden away in a secret room-JNT84); BELIEVE IT NOT (do not believe it)-Mt 24:26.
AND THEY (the) (people) SHALL SAY TO YOU, SEE HERE; OR, SEE THERE: GO NOT AFTER THEM, NOR FOLLOW THEM-Lk 17:23.
Every kind of religious deception possible appears to exist during the Tribulation, especially during the second part.
There will be those waiting for Christ to return. Others will try to deceive them into believing that Christ is in the desert, or secret chambers, or He is here, or there. One can expect that every conceivable trap will be awaiting to deceive those that seek for the true Messiah. God’s Word warns, do not believe these people. Do not follow them.
FOR AS THE LIGHTNING COMETH (or flashes) OUT OF THE EAST, AND SHINETH (or fills the sky) EVEN UNTO THE WEST; SO SHALL ALSO THE COMING OF THE SON OF MAN BE-Mt 24:27.

143-SIN CONTINUES TO GROW AS BIRTH PAINS
(Commentary)

As the Tribulation continues, sin will get worse and worse. The wickedness of man shall continue to increase. Ultimately, men, women, and children will be so wicked, there may not be words to adequately describe it. Crimes and violence that are even beyond what most people can imagine will be taking place. Unimaginable brutality can be expected to overshadow the earth. It will become so bad, as the end of the Tribulation approaches, that sin will become completely full. The grapes will be fully ripe. In other words, sin will have reached its maximum. It will be as it was in the day when the flood came upon the earth. It will be as the days of Lot, when Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed.
Many that will become this way will be those that once followed Jesus as their Lord and Savior, but Satan deceived them, and they fell.
Some of these people were those whom GOD sent (a) STRONG (or powerful) DELUSION, (causing them to go astray-JNT85) THAT THEY SHOULD BELIEVE A (or the) LIE: (The result will be) THAT THEY ALL MIGHT BE DAMNED (or condemned) WHO BELIEVED NOT THE TRUTH, BUT HAD PLEASURE (or delighted) IN UNRIGHTEOUSNESS (or wickedness). They chose to do their own will and refused to let Jesus reign over them. THEY RECEIVED NOT (or refused) THE LOVE OF THE TRUTH, which is God's Word (that could have saved them-JNT86)-ref 2 Thes 2:10-12.
Many, in this present generation, are the same people the Scriptures are referring to during the Tribulation.

(Scripture)

It is written, regarding the time of the Tribulation, NEITHER REPENTED THEY OF THEIR MURDERS, NOR OF THEIR SORCERIES, NOR OF THEIR FORNICATION, NOR OF THEIR THEFTS-Rev 9:21.
AS...IN THE DAYS OF LOT...THUS SHALL IT BE IN THE DAY...THE SON OF MAN IS REVEALED-Lk 17:28,30.
It shall be EVEN AS SODOM AND GOMORRHA. They gave THEMSELVES OVER TO FORNICATION-Jude 7.
They will DECLARE (or parade) THEIR SIN AS SODOM, THEY HIDE IT NOT-Isa 3:9.
The earth will be filled with violence-ref Gen 6:11; Mt 24:37; Lk 21:26.
THE WICKEDNESS OF MAN shall be GREAT IN THE EARTH-ref Gen 6:5.

144-HATE CONTINUES TO GROW AS BIRTH PAINS
Hatred abounded during the first part of the Tribulation, however, as birth pains, hatred increases even more during the second part of the Tribulation.
It is written, THEN SHALL MANY…HATE ONE ANOTHER-Mt 24:10. AND BECAUSE INIQUITY (or wickedness) SHALL ABOUND (or increase), THE LOVE OF MANY (or most) SHALL WAX (or grow) COLD-Mt 24:12.

145-FAMINES CONTINUE TO GROW AS BIRTH PAINS
It is written, THE DISCIPLES said...WHAT SHALL BE THE SIGN OF THY COMING? JESUS...SAID...THERE SHALL BE FAMINES...IN DIVERS PLACES-Mt 24:3,4,7; ref Mk 13:8; Lk 21:11.
Lam 5:10 gives a picture of famine. It is written, OUR SKIN WAS BLACK LIKE AN OVEN BECAUSE OF THE TERRIBLE FAMINE.

146-NO RAIN
The two witnesses of God have the power to shut up heaven that it rain not in the days of their prophecy. Exactly what area will not receive rain is not clearly shown. It may be surmised that it will include Israel and some other parts of the Middle East. Living conditions will become increasingly difficult.

147-DISEASES (OR PESTILENCES) CONTINUE TO INCREASE
During the second part of the Tribulation, diseases continue to increase. AIDS may take more and more lives. New diseases will likely come forth. Some may be far worse than AIDS with no known cures. Old diseases, once thought to be eradicated, are expected to return. Some current diseases may develop immunity to existing medicines so that nothing will stop them. These things will increase as birth pains of a woman in labor.

148-LIVING CONDITIONS ARE HORRIBLE
During the second part of the Tribulation, the living conditions will continue to be horrible. In addition, the two witnesses of God will bring many plagues upon the earth, making conditions even worse. There will be food shortages, numerous killings and thefts, hate, and disease will abound with much suffering. There will be earthquakes increasing, wars and rumors of wars, an increase in sin, and religious deception.

149-THE THREE WOES
Rev 8:13-AND I BEHELD (or watched), AND HEARD AN ANGEL (or an eagle) FLYING THROUGH THE MIDST OF HEAVEN (or in midair). Note, the eagle may denote swiftness. The angel was SAYING WITH A LOUD VOICE, WOE, WOE, WOE, TO THE INHABITERS (or people) OF THE EARTH. The angel was warning of three woes that were yet to come. These woes were BY REASON OF (or because of) THE OTHER VOICES (or blasts) OF THE TRUMPET OF THE THREE ANGELS, WHICH ARE YET TO SOUND (their shofars or trumpets)!
The first four trumpets were confined to the first part of the Tribulation. They appear to give us details about the Russian-Arab invasion of Israel and its results upon the earth.
The last three trumpets (five, six, and seven) occur at a later time than the first four. They are each referred to as a "woe." These are even worse than what had preceded them. The last three trumpets appear to come after the midst of the Tribulation. Trumpet five appears to be during the second part of the Tribulation. Trumpet six is nearing the end of the Tribulation. Trumpet seven is the Battle of Armageddon.

150-THE FIFTH TRUMPET: LOCUSTS THAT STING LIKE SCORPIONS APPEAR FOR FIVE MONTHS
(Commentary)

During or near the beginning of the second part of the Tribulation, the bottomless pit is opened. A great smoke comes forth, and out of the smoke comes a form of locust. These locusts go forth as a massive army all over the earth. They are instructed not to hurt any vegetation, but only the people that do not have God's seal in their forehead. They do not kill; instead, they torment the people of the earth for five months with a sting like a scorpion.
It will be so agonizing that people will seek to die, but death shall flee from them.

151-Summary of the Locusts
Some form of a locust

Ascended out of the smoke that came out of the bottomless pit

They have a type of sting like a scorpion

They do not hurt the grass, or any green thing nor any tree

They hurt only people for five months that do not have the seal of God in their foreheads

The sting does not kill

The sting hurts so badly that men will seek death, but shall not find it

These locusts have a mission; they are prepared to battle

They have the power and authority to hurt men

They have what appears to be a gold-colored crown on their heads

They have faces like men

They have hair like a woman, possibly indicating long hair

They have big, strong teeth

They have some kind of armor, which is like iron

Because of this armor, it may be very difficult to kill them

They have wings, they can fly

Their wings make much noise

There will be many of them

They will go quickly to accomplish their mission

Their tails may curve upward

Their stings are in their tails like a scorpion

152-THE TWO PROPHETS OF GOD CONTINUE: NO RAIN,
AND OTHER PLAGUES, AND THE WARNING
(Commentary)

The two prophets of God were introduced just prior to the midst of the Tribulation. One is Elijah, and the other appears to be Moses. God gives them power to fulfill their mission. They should prophesy 1260 days or until near the end of the Tribulation. They shall bear witness of the things that God gives them to say and will stand for the truth in the face of the lies of the Antichrist, false prophet, and other false witnesses.
They will be clothed in sackcloth. During their ministry, it can be expected that many will come against them to try to hurt or kill them. However, those who try will find that they will be devoured and killed by fire, which comes forth through the speaking of the two witnesses. Their lives are protected by God. Despite the great power of the Antichrist, they cannot be killed until the days of their prophecy are fulfilled.
During the 1260 days that they are witnessing and prophesying, there should be no rain. This may only pertain to Israel or parts of the Middle East. One could only imagine how horrible the conditions will be in Israel with no rain for the last three and a half years of the Tribulation. This also accounts for why the Euphrates is dried up, in Rev 16:12, near the end of the second part of the Tribulation.
They will also bring upon the earth all sorts of plagues as often as they wish. They will be able to turn the waters to blood. This also accounts for the rivers and fountains becoming blood, in Rev 16:4, during the second part of the Tribulation.
They will be greatly hated by the world, because they tormented the people of the earth with the many plagues that they brought.

153-THE WHORE, THE ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, IS BURNT WITH FIRE
(Commentary)

The "whore," as has already been covered, is the Roman Catholic Church, which encompasses the entire world during the first part of the Tribulation.
Sometime during the second part of the Tribulation, this "one-world church" shall be destroyed. She shall be hated by the ten kings and possibly the Antichrist, also. They shall burn her with fire. Her judgment is from the Lord. Exactly when it happens, during the second part of the Tribulation, seems very difficult to pinpoint. It may be when the Antichrist moves into the temple. Some others believe it could be at the end of the Tribulation. Both positions seem possible.
In the Scriptures, the words "Babylon is fallen" are repeated together twice. The first "is fallen" represents the whore of Rome. The second "is fallen" is that great city of Rome, but may also denote the Babylon of old. Some, who may not understand the Babylonian cult becoming part of the Roman Catholic Church, have mistakenly thought the Babylon mentioned here would be a rebuilt Babylon, in Iraq, where it once was. However, careful study, of Revelation chapters 17-19, should show clearly that the old Babylon does not fit the description given in the Revelation. Any attempt to rebuild the Babylon of old would not nullify that this is Rome.
The ten kings shall utterly or completely destroy the Roman Catholic Church. Some believe the Roman Catholic Church shall try to compete with the Antichrist. Consequently, they believe that when the Antichrist moves into the temple in Jerusalem and proclaims himself to be God, at that time, the "great whore" shall be destroyed. Others believe that it will occur at the time of the seventh vial—the approximate time that Jesus returns.
The wording of other translations appear to indicate that it is the ten kings and the Antichrist that hate the whore and shall destroy her.

154-The Destruction of the Whore
The ten kings and Antichrist hate the whore.
No wailing or mourning of the people is mentioned.
The length of time for her destruction is not specifically given.
She is destroyed by the ten kings and possibly the beast-ref Rev 17:16.
Her judgment is of the Lord-ref-Rev 19:2.
She is destroyed by fire-ref Rev 17:16.
The whore may be destroyed about the time that the Antichrist declares himself to be God; however, this is not made clear in the Scriptures.

155-The Destruction of the Woman (or city)
No mention is made of the woman being hated by the ten kings.
There is great mourning.
Her judgment comes in one hour-ref Rev 18:10.
The Lord God judges her-ref Rev 18:8.
She shall be burned with fire-ref Rev 18:8.
She shall be thrown down with violence-ref Rev 18:21.
The destruction of the whore and the destruction of the city are similar, but there are certain differences. It is possible that these could be two separate events, at two different times. There is no mention that the ten kings shall destroy Rome as they do the great whore. Should the great whore be destroyed around the beginning of the second part of the Tribulation, it appears the ten kings would be present in Rome to destroy her with fire; however, the Antichrist should be in Jerusalem at the temple. (Note Rev 18:8.)
The destruction of Rome may not come until later in the Tribulation. However, it seems certain that it will not be at the time of Armageddon, because the merchants and shipmasters are crying over her. If it were at the time of Armageddon, they should be fleeing for their lives, and saying, TO THE MOUNTAINS AND ROCKS, FALL ON US, AND HIDE US FROM THE FACE OF HIM THAT SITTETH ON THE THRONE, AND FROM THE WRATH OF THE LAMB-Rev 6:16. Again, the Scriptures are not clear regarding the exact time that Rome shall be destroyed, but it could possibly be near the end of the Tribulation.

156-THE LAST FEW DAYS BEFORE THE END OF THE TRIBULATION
(Commentary)

There are many verses that deal with the last few days immediately before the end of the Tribulation. There are many verses pertaining to the short period immediately after the Tribulation, but prior to the actual Battle of Armageddon. There are a great many verses referring to the actual Battle of Armageddon and the physical return of Jesus Christ to the earth as the King of kings and Lord of lords. This period is one day long. Then there are more verses dealing with the days immediately after the Battle of Armageddon, including the judgment of the nations.
It would seem impossible to put these hundreds of verses into a chronological order, since the time period involved is of such a short duration. There may be more verses in the Bible dealing with these few days, than any other comparable period of time. The events happen in rapid succession.
There appear to be several "key" verses that God's Word gives us. These verses, through "His wisdom," enable us to rightly divide much of this brief period into a chronological order.
One person might comment, "What difference does it make if every verse could be put in an accurate chronological order, as long as they are simply all included?" The fact that God's Word enables us to do it, gives an indication that He, in His mercy, may have some special "pearls of wisdom and knowledge" for those that diligently labor in "His" beautiful Word.
In the following verses, the "key phrases" appear in bold print. These "key phrases" can be joined with the same phrases in other verses to give an order of events, in some cases, expanding God's message on this time period. Within some of these verses, God gives an order of events. Some of these "key phrases" occur:
at the end of the Tribulation,
or just after the Tribulation but before Armageddon,
or during Armageddon, etc.
By putting these various verses together, other "key" phrases appear that enable us to bring in many other verses. Through this process, the entire chronological picture finally emerges.

157-FROM NEAR THE END OF THE TRIBULATION TO THE END OF THE TRIBULATION
158-(Previous to the Last Few Days of the Tribulation)
The spirits of Satan, the Antichrist, and the false prophet go forth to gather the nations of the world for the Battle of Armageddon

Two hundred million horsemen are advancing; they are called the kings of the east

One-third of men are killed

The Euphrates River is dried up

159-(The Last Few Days of the Tribulation)
The power of the holy people will be broken

The two prophets of God are killed; the earth rejoices

Their bodies lay in the street of the great city for three and one-half days

The judgment of Israel during the Tribulation

* He that endures to the end shall be saved

160-(Before the Great and Terrible Day of the Lord)
Approaching the Battle of Armageddon

There are signs in the heavens, the sun, the moon, the stars, and in the earth

After three days and an half, the spirit of life enters into the two prophets of God, and they stand up

Great fear fell upon them which saw them

They ascend up to heaven, and their enemies beheld them

The same hour there was a great earthquake

The tenth part of the city fell; seven thousand were killed; the second woe is past

There appears to be another great earthquake (the sixth seal)

The sun is dark, the moon as blood, before the day of the Lord

The host of heaven dissolved

The seven thunders

There should be time no longer

The Tribulation ends

161-FROM THE END OF THE TRIBULATION TO THE BATTLE OF ARMAGEDDON
162-(Immediately After the Tribulation of Those Days)
The sun is dark, and the moon does not give her light

163-(The Day of the Lord Cometh)
(The Day of the Lord is Near) (The Day of the Lord is at Hand)
The sun and the moon shall be dark, and the stars shall withdraw their shining

The sea and waves are roaring

Men's hearts are failing them for fear for looking after what is coming

Multitudes in the valley of decision

The stars of heaven fall (angels)

The heavens shall tremble: The powers of heaven shall be shaken

The heavens depart as a scroll

Every mountain and island moved

Men hide in the rocks of the mountains, and say, "Fall on us and hide us from Him that sits on the throne"

There is silence in heaven (the seventh seal)

164-THE BATTLE OF ARMAGEDDON
(The Return of Jesus)
The sign of the Son of Man appears

All the tribes of the earth shall mourn

Heaven opens

Jesus Christ returns on a white horse

Jesus comes in the clouds with power and glory

Jesus comes with fire

Jesus comes with lightnings

Every eye shall see Him

Jesus’ feet shall stand on the Mount of Olives

Who shall be able to stand?

The saints return with Jesus

They shall look upon Jesus Whom they have pierced

The mystery of God should be finished (the beginning of the seventh trumpet)

The seventh trumpet

The wrath of Jesus has come


The temple of God opens

Lightnings, voices, thunderings, earthquake, and great hail

The kings of the earth and the Antichrist are gathered to make war against Jesus

The Battle of Armageddon is at hand

The land is full of silver, gold, and idols

It is done

The day of the Lord is darkness

The judgment of Israel at His coming

The judgment of the heathen at Armageddon

165-(The Day of the Lord)
Nothing shall deliver them in the day of the Lord; sin shall be removed from the land in one day

Everything shall be brought low

Jesus has waited a long time

It is neither light nor dark

Jesus asks, "When the Son of Man cometh, shall He find faith?"

166-(The Battle)
The Lord goes forth to fight

The Lord’s feet stand upon the Mount of Olives

The end of the Antichrist

The kingdom of the Antichrist is destroyed

How the Lord fights: with His Word

With fire; the earth and people are burned

With volcanoes

With earthquakes

With lightnings, thunders, the world’s greatest earthquake, and hail; (Jerusalem splits into three parts, the cities of the nations fall) (every island fled away, the mountains were not found)

With whirlwinds

The great winepress, the earth is reaped

The great winepress, Israel (the blood came unto the horses’ bridles)

The earth melts and changes; the earth reels back and forth like a drunkard; the earth is moved exceedingly

God’s enemies submit

A great number of people are dead

The birds gather to eat the flesh of the dead bodies

The number of people left alive are just a few

Satan is bound for 1000 years; he is cast into the bottomless pit; a seal is set upon him that he should deceive the nations no more till the thousand years should be fulfilled

The kingdoms of the world are become the kingdoms of Jesus

167-THE LAST FEW WEEKS OF THE TRIBULATION: THE FIRST SIX VIALS
(Commentary)

As the Tribulation is gradually nearing the end, God unleashes seven bowl or vial judgments. As they are poured out, it may be that Elijah and Moses will execute them, in much the same manner, as Moses did thousands of years ago.
The first vial: sores that come upon men.
The second vial: the sea becomes as the blood of a dead man. Every living soul in the sea died.
The third vial: the rivers and fountains of waters become as blood. People now have blood to drink.
The fourth vial: it is poured out upon the sun. Men are scorched with great heat and fire.
The fifth vial: darkness upon the seat of the Antichrist.
The sixth vial: the Euphrates River is dried up, so the way of the kings of the east might be prepared.

168-THE TWO HUNDRED MILLION TROOPS: ONE-THIRD
OF THE WORLD'S POPULATION IS KILLED
(Commentary with Scripture)

A massive military force of two hundred million troops, from the east, head for Israel during the latter portion of the second part of the Tribulation (or the Great Tribulation). This military force appears to be from China and other eastern nations. Meanwhile, four angels are bound at the great river Euphrates. When they are let loose, one-third of the world’s population will be killed, apparently, by this huge military force.
Some have speculated that it is a war between the eastern and western parts of the empire, that is, between the two separate feet of the image of Nebuchadnezzar. The kingdom shall be divided. The kingdom is partly strong and partly broken. The iron and clay do not cleave to each other or mix together-ref Dan 2:41-43. As the kings of the east march to Israel, they are met with the forces of the west or north.

169-THE THREE SPIRITS GATHER THE WORLD TO THE BATTLE; THE SIXTH TRUMPET:
THE TWO HUNDRED MILLION TROOPS, ONE-THIRD OF THE WORLD'S POPULATION IS KILLED
(Commentary with Scripture)

A massive military force of two hundred million troops, from the east, head for Israel during the latter portion of the second part of the Tribulation (or the Great Tribulation). This military force appears to be from China and other eastern nations. Meanwhile, four angels are bound at the great river Euphrates. When they are let loose, one-third of the world’s population will be killed, apparently, by this huge military force.
Some have speculated that it is a war between the eastern and western parts of the empire, that is, between the two separate feet of the image of Nebuchadnezzar. The kingdom shall be divided. The kingdom is partly strong and partly broken. The iron and clay do not cleave to each other or mix together-ref Dan 2:41-43. As the kings of the east march to Israel, they are met with the forces of the west or north.
While this appears to be true, it is actually a gathering of the forces of the world to the place of the Battle of Armageddon. The spirits of Satan, the Antichrist, and the false prophet go forth to gather the armies of the world.

170-Statistics: A Chart for Speculation
Using this chart as a guideline, you may speculate and fill in your own figures.

Estimated world population at the time of the Rapture. 6,000,000,000
Rapture, not as many as most believe. ?
Tribulation, 1st part, ¼ world's population killed. ?
Many others also die, murdered, earthquakes,diseases, famines, etc.
Total people left at the midst of the Tribulation. ?
Tribulation, 2nd part, many martyred. ?
Many others also die, murdered, earthquakes, diseases, etc.
?
1/3rd of the world's population is killed. ?
Total people left at the end of the Tribulation. ?
Battle of Armageddon, many are killed. ?
After Armageddon, few people are left alive. How many? ?

During the first part of the Tribulation, one-fourth of the world’s population was killed as a result of war.
During the second part, it is even worse, as one-third of what is left of the world’s population is now killed. The four angels were released. Note the wording, THE…ANGELS WERE LOOSED...TO SLAY (or kill). Consequently, masses of people are killed. Some may contend that the angels do the killing. However, it would appear that the actual slaying is accomplished by the massive army and their weapons-ref Rev 16:12; 9:16-18.
Rev 9:16-AND THE NUMBER OF THE ARMY OF THE HORSEMEN (or cavalry soldiers, or mounted troops) WERE TWO HUNDRED THOUSAND, THOUSAND (or two hundred million): AND I HEARD THE NUMBER OF THEM. John did not count them, but rather heard the number of how many there were. It is interesting to note, China has boasted that they can field an army of two hundred million troops. The huge military armada goes forth into Israel. They do not know what awaits them. They do not realize that the Battle of Armageddon lies ahead, at which time they will be as grapes trampled in a winepress.

171-THE SIXTH VIAL: THE EUPHRATES RIVER DRIED UP
As the sixth vial is poured out, the end of the Tribulation should be approaching.
Rev 16:12-AND THE SIXTH ANGEL POURED OUT HIS VIAL UPON THE GREAT RIVER EUPHRATES; AND THE WATER THEREOF WAS DRIED UP. Rev 11:6, had shown that the two witnesses HAVE POWER TO SHUT HEAVEN, THAT IT RAIN NOT IN THE DAYS OF THEIR PROPHECY. The days of their prophecy are 1260. It appears the rain has been stopped for nearly 42 months. As a result, the great river Euphrates has finally dried up.
It is also written, THE NEW WINE IS DRIED UP...THE HARVEST OF THE FIELD IS PERISHED. THE VINE IS DRIED UP...EVEN ALL THE TREES OF THE FIELD, ARE WITHERED…THE HERDS OF CATTLE ARE PERPLEXED, BECAUSE THEY HAVE NO PASTURE...THE RIVERS OF WATERS ARE DRIED UP, AND THE FIRE HATH DEVOURED THE PASTURES-Joel 1:10-12,18,20. Note vial four, TO SCORCH MEN WITH FIRE-Rev 16:8.
Why has the river Euphrates dried up? It is written, (in order) THAT THE WAY OF THE KINGS OF (or from) THE EAST MIGHT BE PREPARED-Rev 16:12; ref Rev 9:14. A two hundred million man army has been advancing toward Israel from the east-ref Rev 9:16. They finally arrive at the great river Euphrates, but because there has been no rain for a long period of time, the river has dried up. Thus, "the way of the kings of the east" is now prepared. They can cross the river. The Tribulation is almost over. The Battle of Armageddon is very close.
It is reported that the Euphrates River is approximately 1700 to 1800 miles long, ranging up to about two-thirds of a mile wide.
As mentioned previously, the lack of rain, during the second part of the Tribulation, is one of the items which make it clear that the two witnesses are here on the earth during the second part.
The seventh vial should be listed under the section dealing with the Battle of Armageddon.

172-VIALS, MOSES AND ELIJAH
Trumpet 5 Locusts Moses had brought a different kind of locust
Vial 1 Sores Moses brought boils on the Egyptians
Vial 2 Sea becomes as Moses turned waters to blood in Egypt blood
Vial 3 Rivers and fountains Moses turned waters to blood in Egypt become blood
Vial 4 Men scorched with heat and fire
Vial 5 Darkness Moses brought darkness in Egypt
Vial 6 Euphrates dried up Elijah caused it not to rain in the past

173-THE LAST FEW DAYS OF THE TRIBULATION
174-THE POWER OF THE HOLY PEOPLE WILL BE BROKEN
(IT WILL BE FOR THREE AND A HALF YEARS)
(Commentary)

From the time that the Antichrist moves into the temple in Jerusalem through the end of the Tribulation (which is 3 ½ years), he will have scattered or broken the power of the holy people. Then all these things will be finished.
God's anger is aroused against Israel. He hides His face from them. Israel shall be devoured. Many evils and troubles shall come upon them. God will provoke Israel to anger with a foolish nation.
The Lord does these things, because they are a very froward generation. They have done much evil. They have turned to other gods. They have turned aside from the ways of God and corrupted themselves. They have done much evil in the sight of the Lord and have provoked Him to anger with the work of their hands. They have moved Him to jealousy with that which is not God and with their vanities; they do not understand what their latter end will be. They have no faith.
The meat offering and the drink offering is cut off from the house of the Lord.
During the second part of the Tribulation, there is no rain upon Israel and surrounding areas. Thus, the fields are wasted, and the crops have perished. The vines are dried up, and the trees are withered away. The wild animals are crying. The rivers have dried up; fires have burned up much of the wilderness.
In vial four (ref Rev 16:8,9), men shall be scorched with great heat. Perhaps, as a result of this and the lack of rain, the fires have burned all the trees of the field.
The invaders of Israel have cast lots for and sold the children of Israel.
The day of the Lord is at hand.
The Lord will have compassion on His servants, when He sees that their power is gone.

175-THE TWO PROPHETS ARE KILLED: THE EARTH REJOICES
(Commentary)

The time period may be approximately one to three and a half days before the end of the Tribulation. The two prophets of God have been witnessing for 1260 days. They have been standing for the truth. Most of the world has rejected their message. The Revelation foretold how they would be killed, but then rise from the dead.
Once the two prophets of God (Elijah and presumably Moses) have finished their witnessing, they are killed by the Antichrist. Their dead bodies shall lie in the street of Jerusalem and will not be put into a grave. All the world should be able to see that the Antichrist overcame them and killed them. This will further prove to the world that the Antichrist is really God, and that taking the mark and worshiping the image was the right thing to do.
The people of the world will be happy. These two prophets brought numerous plagues against the world and tormented the people. They had shut off the rain; it rained not in the days of their prophecy. Now that they are dead, the people of the world will give gifts one to another and rejoice. They, undoubtedly, think that the rain will return and the plagues will cease.
For 3 ½ days, the bodies of the two prophets shall remain in the street.

176-THE JUDGMENT OF ISRAEL DURING THE TRIBULATION (JIT)
(Commentary)

The Scriptures have given many reasons why the Tribulation will come. Some of these include: to feed Israel with judgment, to execute judgment, to destroy the fat and strong of Israel, because Israel has forgotten the God of their salvation, and they have not keep in mind the Rock of their strength (which is Jesus), to cause Israel to seek Jesus and be obedient to His Word, and to destroy the sinners out of the land.
During this time, two-thirds of Israel will be cut off and die, but one-third shall be refined and brought through this horrible period.
This is a judgment upon Israel during the Tribulation. Israel is the focal point of what is happening during this period. As a result of this judgment upon Israel, multitudes will come to Jesus.
Jesus shall come unto them that turn from their transgressions. Upon the house of David and Jerusalem, the Lord will pour out the Spirit of grace and of supplications. It is written, SO ALL ISRAEL SHALL BE SAVED-Ro 11:26.
Then Jesus will reign over and rule the entire earth, from Jerusalem, for one thousand years.

177-HE THAT ENDURES TO THE END SHALL BE SAVED
BUT HE THAT SHALL ENDURE (or holds out, or stands firm) UNTO THE END, THE SAME SHALL BE SAVED (or delivered)-Mk 13:13.
There will be numerous troubles and obstacles during the Tribulation for the person that desires to follow Jesus, including being hated, persecuted, thrown into prison, and killed. Further obstacles will include false religions, false Christs, and misuse of God’s Word or religious deception, just to mention some. Nevertheless, the person that endures to the end will be delivered. If, by God’s mercy, they survive to the end, they will enter the Millennium in their physical bodies when Jesus Christ returns.
Many, however, will be killed for their faith in Jesus during the Tribulation. They will return with Jesus, at Armageddon, in their new spiritual bodies. It is written, Lk 21:19-IN YOUR PATIENCE POSSESS YE YOUR SOULS (by standing firm you will save yourselves-NIV). Patience is needed for the follower of Jesus. We need to learn to be patient, to trust in Jesus, and wait upon Him.

178-THE TWO PROPHETS COME BACK TO LIFE
Satan will do everything possible to stop what is about to happen. For 3 ½ days, the dead bodies of the two prophets shall remain in the street. Then, all of a sudden, something incredible happens. The two witnesses come back to life; they stand upon their feet while their enemies actually witness this happening. Tremendous fear and terror grips all who see this. Suddenly, their enemies seem to recognize that these two prophets really were of God and that the Antichrist is not God. They now realize that the Battle of Armageddon is close at hand and that they may soon perish and be eternally lost.
Then there is a voice from heaven, which says, "Come up hither." The two prophets of God ascend up to heaven in a cloud in the sight of their enemies. This appears to happen at the end of the Tribulation, or immediately after the Tribulation.
Consider the following. Here you are laughing and celebrating, because the Antichrist (whom you believe to be the true God) has killed the two witnesses. Then, all of a sudden, the two witnesses come back to life as was prophesied. All of a sudden you understand that the Antichrist is really of Satan and that you were deceived. You now realize that you have taken the mark of the Antichrist, and there is no forgiveness—you have committed an unforgivable sin. You cannot be forgiven. You will perish to hell. There is no way out. You now realize the Battle of Armageddon is about to explode and that the return of the true Messiah, Jesus Christ, is about to take place; you will be dead in a few days. You begin to panic. Tremendous terror will now come into the hearts of those that see the two witnesses come back to life. Some may begin to scream, "No, no, it isn’t possible!" But it will be too late.
The same people, who were giving gifts one to another, are now so terrified, some fall over dead from fear of what is soon to happen.

179-THE PEOPLE ARE SURPRISED
Armageddon is about to explode. As the days of Noah were, so shall it be at this time. Right up to near the very end, people will not believe what is about to transpire. However, just before the end, they seem to realize what is about to happen, but, by then, it is too late.

180-THE GREAT EARTHQUAKE: THE SECOND WOE IS PAST
Rev 11:13-AND THE (very) SAME HOUR WAS THERE A GREAT EARTHQUAKE, AND THE TENTH PART OF THE CITY (of Jerusalem) FELL (or collapsed), AND IN THE EARTHQUAKE WERE SLAIN (or killed) OF MEN SEVEN THOUSAND. It appears that, within minutes of the two witnesses being raptured, a great earthquake will strike Jerusalem. The temple of the Antichrist could be one of the structures to crumble. A tenth of Jerusalem falls, and seven thousand people are killed in the earthquake. This will only add to people’s fears.
AND THE "REMNANT" (some translate this word as "rest") WERE AFFRIGHTED (or awestruck, or terrified), AND GAVE GLORY TO THE GOD OF HEAVEN. Who is this "remnant"? Some think they are unbelievers that were spared and gave glory to God, but did not repent. However, would the wicked, who have committed an unforgivable sin and are doomed to eternal death, give glory to God at this time and under these circumstances?\
The Scriptures show, during the midst of the Tribulation, Satan goes forth to make war WITH THE "REMNANT" OF HER SEED (Israel), WHICH KEEP THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD, AND HAVE THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS CHRIST-Rev 12:17. It is further written, THOUGH THE NUMBER OF THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL BE AS THE SAND OF THE SEA, A "REMNANT" SHALL BE SAVED-Ro 9:27. We presume this to be the remnant that is giving glory to God, as they understand that Jesus, their Lord and Savior, is about to return with glory and great power.

Rev 11:14-THE SECOND WOE IS PAST; AND, BEHOLD, THE THIRD WOE COMETH (or is coming) QUICKLY. The sixth trumpet is past or finished. This seems to place the death of the two prophets between the sixth and seventh trumpets. We have already seen that the sixth trumpet is nearing the end of the Tribulation and the seventh trumpet is the Battle of Armageddon, which is immediately after the Tribulation of those days. This would further confirm that the death of the two witnesses is at, approximately, the end of the Tribulation.

181-A GREAT EARTHQUAKE, THE SUN IS DARK, THE MOON
AS BLOOD, BEFORE THE DAY OF THE LORD
The "sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood" is another key phrase. These words denote the period just "before" the great and terrible day of the Lord, which is the Battle of Armageddon. With these verses, the Tribulation appears to be coming to an end.
There shall be a great earthquake. This is followed by the sun becoming darkened so much that it is as if it were night, and the moon can be expected to have a red color. This may be a transition period, as AFTER THE TRIBULATION…THE MOON WILL NOT GIVE ITS LIGHT-Mk 13:24 NASB; ref Joel 3:15.
It is written, Joel 2:31-THE SUN SHALL BE TURNED INTO DARKNESS, AND THE MOON INTO BLOOD, BEFORE THE GREAT AND THE TERRIBLE DAY OF THE LORD COME.
Rev 6:12,17-AND I BEHELD WHEN HE HAD OPENED THE SIXTH SEAL, AND, LO, THERE WAS A GREAT EARTHQUAKE; AND THE SUN BECAME BLACK AS SACKCLOTH OF HAIR, AND THE MOON BECAME AS BLOOD…FOR THE GREAT DAY OF HIS WRATH IS COME.
Acts 2:20-THE SUN SHALL BE TURNED INTO DARKNESS, AND THE MOON INTO BLOOD, BEFORE THAT GREAT AND NOTABLE DAY OF THE LORD COME.

182-THE TRIBULATION ENDS
183-THERE SHOULD BE TIME NO LONGER
The end of the Tribulation is at hand.
It is written, Rev 10:5-AND THE ANGEL WHICH I SAW STAND UPON THE SEA AND UPON THE EARTH (or land) LIFTED (or raised) UP HIS HAND TO HEAVEN,
Rev 10:6-AND SWARE BY HIM THAT LIVETH FOR EVER AND EVER. Note the fact that God lives forever and ever is reiterated. And it is He WHO CREATED HEAVEN, AND THE THINGS THAT THEREIN ARE, AND THE EARTH, AND THE THINGS THAT THEREIN ARE (or what is in it), AND THE SEA, AND THE THINGS WHICH ARE THEREIN (or what is in it). Again, the fact that God created all things is restated. This can also reflect the omnipotence of God, as He deals in judgment with a world that is in rebellion to Him. He then swears THAT THERE SHOULD BE TIME NO LONGER (there will be no more delay-JNT110).
The meaning of "time no longer" is not clearly defined. In carefully studying the order of events, these verses seem to apply to the very end of the Tribulation, just prior to the events that take place "after the Tribulation of those days." The words, "time no longer" may denote the end of the Tribulation. Armageddon is on the horizon, and Jesus Christ is about to return in vengeance and judgment upon a rebellious world. A new age, the Millennium, is close at hand.

184-THE END OF THE TRIBULATION, A SUMMARY
The Tribulation ends. Approximately one-half or more of the world's population has died. The armies of the world are gathering for the Battle of Armageddon. Approximately seven years prior to this time, people were mocking about such a thing as "a Tribulation" and multitudes dying. Many of those mockers are now dead.
The birth pangs are now at their strongest. A thousand years of peace is about to be born. Jesus is about to return. Much of what is left of the world's population is about to be killed.

185-IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE TRIBULATION OF THOSE DAYS
(Commentary)

It is a common mistake for people to say that the Battle of Armageddon will take place at the end of the Tribulation. This is incorrect. First, the Tribulation must end. Then there are several events that will take place "immediately after the Tribulation," before Armageddon explodes and Jesus returns. First, the sun becomes darkened. Along with this, the moon shall not give her light. This could indicate that the sky becomes clouded all over the world, as the sun may be on one side of the earth and the moon on the other side. What causes the clouds to do this is not mentioned. However, numerous earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and other phenomena should be occurring around this time, which could explain the sky being heavily overcast.

God’s Word says the people should blow a trumpet in Zion. Sound an alarm. Let all the inhabitants of the earth tremble, for the day of the Lord cometh. There is a great and strong people. The sea and the waves are roaring. Huge tidal waves can be expected.
Just a few days before, people were confident that the one sitting in the temple in Jerusalem, the Antichrist, was God. During the last 3 ½ years, nearly all people had taken his mark. They had worshiped the image of the beast. But then, the two prophets of God rose from the dead and ascended into heaven. The people have become terrified, as they now seem to realize they have chosen the Antichrist over the Christ. They are so fearful that many of them will have heart attacks and fall over dead for fear of what is about to come. The Battle of Armageddon is about to explode. Even the mighty men shall cry. People’s hands will be faint. They will be afraid.
All nations are gathered against Jerusalem. The houses shall be ransacked and the women raped.
A great multitude of people are gathered in Israel and the "valley of decision." They have come from far away. God is about to judge the heathen. The day of the Lord is coming. It is cruel. God’s wrath and fierce anger will cause the land to be desolate. The sinners are about to be destroyed.
Then there are a series of verses using some of the following wording, "the stars of heaven fall, the powers of heaven shall be shaken, the heavens depart as a scroll, and every mountain and island were moved." As the Battle of Armageddon is approaching, Satan and his angels can be expected to come against Jesus as He returns. A host of angels (represented by stars) fall from the sky, as figs fall from a fig tree when it is shaken by a great wind. The powers of the heavens will be shaken.
The heaven (or sky) will depart (or recede) like a scroll when it is rolled up. Mountains and islands will move out of their places.
Throughout the world, those that are able will be hiding in the mountains. They will be afraid, as they will now understand that the great day of the Lord’s wrath is come.
In heaven, there is silence for about half an hour. The great and terrible day of the Lord is at hand. The heavens open. Jesus is about to return.

186-MEN’S HEARTS ARE FAILING THEM FOR FEAR
Lk 21:26-MEN'S HEARTS FAILING THEM FOR FEAR, AND FOR LOOKING AFTER THOSE THINGS WHICH ARE COMING ON THE EARTH.

Zeph 1:14-THE GREAT DAY OF THE LORD IS NEAR, IT IS NEAR, AND HASTETH GREATLY, EVEN THE VOICE OF THE DAY OF THE LORD: THE MIGHTY MAN SHALL CRY THERE BITTERLY.

187-MULTITUDES IN THE VALLEY OF DECISION
Zech 14:1,2-BEHOLD, THE DAY OF THE LORD COMETH, AND THY SPOIL SHALL BE DIVIDED IN THE MIDST OF THEE. FOR I WILL GATHER ALL NATIONS AGAINST JERUSALEM TO BATTLE; AND THE CITY SHALL BE TAKEN, AND THE HOUSES RIFLED (or ransacked), AND THE WOMEN RAVISHED (or raped); AND HALF OF THE CITY SHALL GO FORTH INTO CAPTIVITY (or exile), AND THE RESIDUE (or rest) OF THE PEOPLE SHALL NOT BE CUT OFF (or taken) FROM THE CITY.

Joel 3:2-I WILL ALSO GATHER ALL NATIONS, AND WILL BRING THEM DOWN INTO THE VALLEY OF JEHOSHAPHAT, AND WILL PLEAD (or enter into judgment) WITH (or against) THEM THERE FOR MY PEOPLE AND FOR MY HERITAGE ISRAEL, WHOM THEY HAVE SCATTERED AMONG THE NATIONS, AND PARTED (or divided up) MY LAND.

Joel 3:12-15-LET THE HEATHEN BE WAKENED, AND COME UP TO THE VALLEY OF JEHOSHAPHAT: FOR THERE WILL I SIT TO JUDGE ALL THE HEATHEN ROUND ABOUT. PUT YE IN THE SICKLE, FOR THE HARVEST IS RIPE: COME, GET YOU DOWN; FOR THE PRESS IS FULL, THE VATS OVERFLOW; FOR THEIR WICKEDNESS IS GREAT. MULTITUDES, MULTITUDES IN THE VALLEY OF DECISION: FOR THE DAY OF THE LORD IS NEAR IN THE VALLEY OF DECISION. THE SUN AND THE MOON SHALL BE DARKENED, AND THE STARS SHALL WITHDRAW THEIR SHINING.

Isa 13:4-10-THE NOISE OF A MULTITUDE IN THE MOUNTAINS, LIKE AS OF A GREAT PEOPLE; A TUMULTUOUS NOISE OF THE KINGDOMS OF NATIONS GATHERED TOGETHER: THE LORD OF HOSTS MUSTERETH THE HOST OF THE BATTLE. THEY COME FROM A FAR COUNTRY, FROM THE END OF HEAVEN, EVEN THE LORD, AND THE WEAPONS OF HIS INDIGNATION, TO DESTROY THE WHOLE LAND. HOWL YE; FOR THE DAY OF THE LORD IS AT HAND; IT SHALL COME AS A DESTRUCTION FROM THE ALMIGHTY. THEREFORE SHALL ALL HANDS BE FAINT, AND EVERY MAN'S HEART SHALL MELT: AND THEY SHALL BE AFRAID: PANGS AND SORROWS SHALL TAKE HOLD OF THEM; THEY SHALL BE IN PAIN AS A WOMAN THAT TRAVAILETH: THEY SHALL BE AMAZED ONE AT ANOTHER; THEIR FACES SHALL BE AS FLAMES. BEHOLD, THE DAY OF THE LORD COMETH, CRUEL BOTH WITH WRATH AND FIERCE ANGER, TO LAY THE LAND DESOLATE: AND HE SHALL DESTROY THE SINNERS THEREOF OUT OF IT. FOR THE STARS OF HEAVEN AND THE CONSTELLATIONS THEREOF SHALL NOT GIVE THEIR LIGHT: THE SUN SHALL BE DARKENED IN HIS GOING FORTH, AND THE MOON SHALL NOT CAUSE HER LIGHT TO SHINE.

Joel 1:15-ALAS FOR THE DAY! FOR THE DAY OF THE LORD IS AT HAND, AND AS A DESTRUCTION FROM THE ALMIGHTY SHALL IT COME.

188-THE STARS OF HEAVEN FALL, THE POWERS OF HEAVEN SHALL BE SHAKEN,
THE HEAVENS DEPART AS A SCROLL, EVERY MOUNTAIN AND ISLAND WERE MOVED
As the Battle of Armageddon approaches, the host of angels fall down from heaven. The powers of the heavens are shaken. (We wonder if this could be the beginning of the Battle of Armageddon in the heavens, before Jesus reaches the earth—a battle in the spiritual realm.) Satan knows that he has but a short time left. He and his angels can be expected to fight viciously. Satan does not want to be cast into the bottomless pit.
The angels shall fall from the sky. The powers of the heavens shall be shaken.
The heaven (or sky) departs (or recedes) as a scroll is rolled up, and every mountain and island move out of their places. We might consider that the mountains and islands moving may be the result of a great earthquake. (During the actual Battle of Armageddon, which will be far worse, every island fled away and the mountains were not found-ref Rev 16:20.)

It is written, Mt 24:29-AND THE STARS (which is denoting angels) SHALL FALL FROM HEAVEN (or the sky), AND THE POWERS OF (or in) THE HEAVENS SHALL BE SHAKEN.
Lk 21:26-FOR THE POWERS OF HEAVEN SHALL BE SHAKEN.
Rev 6:13-AND THE STARS (or angels) OF HEAVEN (or sky) FELL UNTO THE EARTH, EVEN AS A FIG TREE CASTETH (or drops) HER UNTIMELY FIGS, WHEN SHE IS SHAKEN OF A MIGHTY (or strong) WIND.
Isa 34:4-AND ALL THEIR HOST (or angels) SHALL FALL DOWN, AS THE LEAF FALLETH OFF FROM THE VINE, AND AS A FALLING FIG FROM THE FIG TREE. Four verses later, the words are used, "IT IS THE DAY OF THE LORD’S VENGEANCE." This is the time approaching Armageddon.
Rev 6:14-AND THE HEAVEN (or sky) DEPARTED (or receded) AS A SCROLL WHEN IT IS ROLLED TOGETHER (or rolled up); AND EVERY MOUNTAIN AND ISLAND WERE MOVED OUT OF (or from) THEIR PLACES.
Note the words of Rev 6:14, in comparison with Isa 34:4-AND THE HEAVENS (or sky) SHALL BE ROLLED TOGETHER AS A SCROLL.

189-MEN HIDE IN THE ROCKS OF THE MOUNTAINS AND SAY, "FALL ON US
AND HIDE US FROM HIM THAT SITS ON THE THRONE"
Rev 6:15-AND THE KINGS OF THE EARTH. Here are those that reigned over men, but now all their earthly authority will do them no good. AND THE GREAT MEN (or princes), AND THE RICH MEN. Consider, all their money will do them no good at this time. AND THE CHIEF CAPTAINS (or generals). Their authority over the military will do them no good at this time. AND THE MIGHTY MEN, AND EVERY BONDMAN (or slave), AND EVERY FREE MAN, HID THEMSELVES IN THE DENS AND IN THE ROCKS OF THE MOUNTAINS. Here are the greatest men of the earth, as well as the slaves. They are fearful, terrified, and trying to hide.
Rev 6:16-AND (they) SAID TO THE MOUNTAINS AND ROCKS, FALL ON US, AND HIDE US FROM THE FACE OF HIM THAT SITTETH ON THE THRONE (which is God the Father), AND FROM THE WRATH (or fury) OF THE LAMB (which is Jesus). When Jesus came the first time, He came as the Lamb of God to give His life a ransom for many. His forgiveness, His mercy has been available to all that would open the door of their heart and receive it by faith. However, now, He comes as the Lion of the tribe of Judah. He comes with wrath and fury against those that refused His forgiveness and mercy. The two prophets of God had been telling people what was going to happen, but they would not believe. As a result of the two prophets being raised from the dead and ascending to heaven, in the sight of multitudes, the people now know the things they said were true.
Rev 6:17-FOR THE GREAT DAY OF HIS (or Their) WRATH IS COME; AND WHO SHALL BE ABLE TO STAND? That great day, covered by numerous Scripture, is Armageddon. They know that Jesus is about to return. They know Armageddon is about to explode. They know that their future is sealed—a future that includes hell and the lake of fire. For once they have taken that mark and worshiped the image, there is no forgiveness. There is no repenting. There is no hope.
Ja 5:1-God tells the rich men, GO TO NOW, YE RICH MEN, WEEP AND HOWL FOR YOUR MISERIES THAT SHALL COME UPON YOU.
Note the wording from the previous verses:

AND THE KINGS OF THE EARTH (this includes the whole earth),
AND THE GREAT MEN,
AND THE RICH MEN,
AND THE CHIEF CAPTAINS,
AND THE MIGHTY MEN,
AND EVERY BONDMAN (note the word, "every"),
AND EVERY FREE MAN,
HID THEMSELVES.
Isa 2:10,19,20 covers the period just before Armageddon. It is written, ENTER INTO THE ROCK, AND HIDE THEE IN THE DUST, FOR FEAR OF THE LORD, AND FOR THE GLORY OF HIS MAJESTY. AND THEY SHALL GO INTO THE HOLES OF THE ROCKS, AND INTO THE CAVES OF THE EARTH, FOR FEAR OF THE LORD, AND FOR THE GLORY OF HIS MAJESTY, WHEN HE ARISETH TO SHAKE TERRIBLY THE EARTH. IN THAT DAY A MAN SHALL CAST HIS IDOLS OF SILVER, AND HIS IDOLS OF GOLD, WHICH THEY MADE EACH ONE FOR HIMSELF TO WORSHIP, TO THE MOLES AND TO THE BATS.
Isa 2:21 NIV-THEY WILL FLEE TO CAVERNS IN THE ROCKS AND TO THE OVERHANGING CRAGS FROM DREAD OF THE LORD.
Multitudes of mocking and scoffing people that didn’t believe a short time before are now fleeing for their lives. They are terrified. They are trying to escape the wrath of Jesus as He returns. But where can they hide? The greatest earthquake, since man has been alive, is about to occur. The entire earth is about to be shaken.
Note, these verses are in perfect harmony with Rev 6:15-17. As Jesus returns, He will shake terribly the earth.
The scriptural evidence, particularly the wording of the sixth seal, seems to leave little doubt that it represents the period just prior to Jesus returning at Armageddon.

190-THERE IS SILENCE IN HEAVEN (THE SEVENTH SEAL)
Rev 8:1-AND WHEN HE HAD OPENED (or broke) THE SEVENTH SEAL (Jesus breaks the seventh seal), THERE WAS SILENCE IN HEAVEN ABOUT THE SPACE OF (or what seemed like) HALF AN HOUR. The seventh seal follows the sixth seal. The sixth seal was at, approximately, the end of the Tribulation. With the introduction of the seventh seal, the Battle of Armageddon is at hand. There is silence. The great and terrible day of the Lord is at hand. The heavens are preparing to open. The mystery of God is nearly finished. The temple of God is about to open, and the ARK OF HIS TESTAMENT (or covenant) will be seen-Rev 11:19.

191-THE HEAVENS ARE ABOUT TO OPEN
Jesus is about to return.

192-SUMMARY OF ITEMS IN THE PRECEDING VERSES
The sun is darkened; the moon does not give her light

The day of the Lord is near, even at hand

The stars withdraw their shining

A strong people; men of war

They run back and forth in the city

The sea and the waves are roaring

Men’s hearts fail them for fear

All hands will be faint

Every man’s heart shall melt

They shall be afraid

The mighty men cry

Their faces shall be as flames

The nations are brought to the Valley of Jehoshaphat

Their wickedness is great

Multitudes in the valley of decision

The kingdoms of nations are gathered together

They come from the end of heaven

The day of the Lord cometh, cruel, with wrath and fierce anger

The sinners shall be destroyed

The stars (or angels) fall from heaven

Their host shall fall down

The powers of the heavens shall be shaken

The heaven departed as a scroll

Every mountain and island were moved

Kings, great men, chief captains, mighty men, every bondman, every free man hide in the rocks

They say, "Hide us from (the Father and Jesus)"

The great day of His wrath is come

He ariseth to shake terribly the earth

There is silence in heaven (the seventh seal)