02 - EXPOSITORY SERMONS ON END TIMES EVENTS
Title: Is the War Between Israel and Iran an Indicator of the End of Our Age?
Part One:
Understanding Israel in Prophecy
Text: Genesis 12:1–3; Ezekiel 37:21–22; Matthew 24:32–34; Romans 11:25–26
Introduction
Beloved Church, many headlines today flash with alarming news: missiles in the Middle East, threats exchanged between Israel and Iran, and global leaders warning of a wider war. Naturally, people ask, “Is this the sign that the end of our age is near?”
Before we delve deeper, let’s first equip ourselves with a few essential keys to guide our quest in understanding God’s prophetic plan for Israel, Iran, and the end of this age. These timeless truths will help us interpret world events through the lens of Scripture, not fear :
1. Israel: Chosen by Covenant (Genesis 12:1–3)
The LORD had said to Abram, ‘Go from your country... I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing... and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.’”
Genesis 12:1–3 (NIV)
God chose one man, Abraham, to father a nation that would reveal Himself to the world. This covenant is the backbone of Israel’s existence — it guarantees that Israel will never disappear, no matter how many nations rise against her.
Historical Note:
In history, powerful empires — Egypt, Babylon, Rome — tried to wipe out the Jewish people. Hitler’s Holocaust tried the same in the 20th century. Yet Israel still stands because God’s Word cannot fail.
Illustration:
Once, a skeptic asked King Louis XIV of France, “Prove that the Bible is true!” He answered, “The Jews, your Majesty — the Jews.” Their survival against all odds is living proof that God keeps His promises.
2. Israel Scattered and Miraculously Regathered (Ezekiel 37:21–22)
“I will take the Israelites out of the nations where they have gone. I will gather them from all around and bring them back into their own land. I will make them one nation in the land…”
Ezekiel 37:21–22 (NIV)
For nearly 2,000 years, the Jewish people were scattered worldwide, with no homeland. No other people in history have been dispersed so long yet preserved their identity. In 1948, in one day, Israel was reborn — fulfilling prophecy before the eyes of the whole world.
Historical Note:
Mark Twain visited the Holy Land in 1867 and described it as desolate and empty. Who could imagine that barren place would become the vibrant modern state of Israel? But God said it
and so it was.
3. Jesus and the Parable of the Fig Tree (Matthew 24:32–34)
“Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. Even so, when you see all these things, you know that it is near, right at the door.”
Matthew 24:32–34 (NIV)
Many Bible scholars believe the fig tree often symbolizes Israel. Jesus said, when you see it bud — when you see Israel come alive again — know that the end is drawing near.
Illustration:
Think of Israel as the hands of God’s clock. When the Jews returned and their nation revived, the clock hands moved closer to midnight.
4. The Unfinished Plan (Romans 11:25–26)
“…Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come in. And in this way all Israel will be saved…”
Romans 11:25–26 (NIV)
Right now, Israel’s heart is still hard toward Jesus. But Paul says this will not last forever. One day, a national spiritual awakening will come. God has not abandoned His people — He is preparing to fulfill every word He spoke.
Application: What Should We Do?
1. Pray for Israel. Psalm 122:6 says, “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem.”
2. Proclaim the Gospel. We are living in the age of grace — let’s bring salvation to the nations while there is time.
3. Live Ready. If the fig tree has budded, then summer is near. Are you ready to meet the Lord?
Prayer Points:
1. Thank God for His faithfulness and unchanging promises.
2. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and protection for the people of Israel.
3. Ask the Holy Spirit to remove the veil from Jewish hearts so they may see Jesus as Messiah.
4. Pray for boldness and urgency to share Christ while there is still time.
Discussion Questions:
1. Why is Israel called God’s prophetic clock?
2. How did the rebirth of Israel in 1948 fulfill Bible prophecy?
3. What does the fig tree parable teach us about recognizing the signs of the times?
4. How can we practically pray and support Israel today?
