October 19, 2024

Part I: US Sends Troops & THAAD to Israel

Part II: China, the European Union and Prophetic Implications

To Access the Full Video and/or Audio:
https://web.sermonaudio.com/sermons/1019241856173761

U.S. Sends 100 Troops and New THAAD Defense System to Israel
The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict has seen a notable shift in U.S. policy under
President Biden's administration. Initially, the administration had indicated it
would not deploy troops to Israel. However, recent developments have changed
this stance. The U.S. announced the delivery of a new missile defense system
to Israel, specifically the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system,
along with the deployment of 100 American troops to operate it. 1

This deployment is particularly significant given the current geopolitical
tensions, including a recent barrage of 180 ballistic missiles fired from Iran
toward Israel on October 1st. As Israel contemplates a retaliatory strike against
Iran, the introduction of the THAAD system is intended to enhance its defensive
capabilities against such threats.

The THAAD system is one of the United States' most advanced air defense
systems, designed to intercept short, medium, and intermediate-range ballistic
missiles. It consists of six truck-mounted launchers with eight interceptors each
and a radar system to detect incoming threats. The operational requirements for
the system typically involve around 100 troops, indicating a substantial
commitment of resources.

In the context of Israel's existing missile defense, which includes the Iron Dome
and other systems for various threat ranges, the THAAD unit adds an essential
layer to the defense network. Historically, these systems have proven effective
in protecting Israeli citizens from missile attacks, thus playing a crucial role in
national security.

The announcement of the THAAD deployment comes at a time when Israel is
responding to recent Iranian aggression, which included over 200 missiles fired
at the country. While many of these missiles were intercepted, the threat
remains significant, underscoring the necessity for enhanced defensive
measures.

In conclusion, the U.S. decision to deploy the THAAD system and troops to
Israel signals a pivotal moment in its support for Israeli security. This move
aligns with longstanding U.S. policy, rooted in historical and biblical contexts,
regarding support for Israel. As the conflict continues to evolve, the implications
of U.S. military involvement and international negotiations will be critical to
monitor.

China, the European Union, and the Roman Empire

There are broad implications regarding global geopolitical dynamics, particularly
concerning the European Union (EU) and China. The EU is currently engaged
in negotiations with China, highlighting the intricate relationships and economic
considerations at play. This intersection between Europe and China may not
directly relate to the conflict but reflects the complex web of international
relations influencing the situation. 2

A comparison of contemporary Europe to the first-century Roman Empire
reveals significant similarities. A visual representation illustrates the current
borders of the EU, which closely resemble the extent of Roman territorial
influence. This connection raises questions about prophetic interpretations,
particularly regarding the emergence of a future leader, often referred to as the
Antichrist, from this region.
In Daniel 9, the prophecy regarding the "70 weeks" serves as a framework for
understanding key historical and eschatological events. The passage foretells
the coming of the Messiah and the subsequent destruction of Jerusalem in AD
70 by the Romans. These historical events highlight the prophetic significance
of the Roman Empire and its potential contemporary successor, the EU.

The Antichrist and the European Union

Biblical scholars speculate that the Antichrist will emerge from the people
associated with the Roman Empire, linking to the EU's modern political
landscape. Revelation 17 references a coalition of ten nations that will align with
the Antichrist upon his rise to power. While the specific identities of these
nations are speculative, many believe they could derive from current EU
member states, suggesting a direct line between ancient prophecies and
modern geopolitics.

Prophetic Judgment and Global Dynamics
Furthermore, Revelation 16 introduces significant judgments tied to the
Euphrates River, which implies a prophetic role for nations surrounding this
geographical landmark. These events are part of a broader narrative
concerning divine judgment and the eventual culmination of the prophetic
timeline.

As these geopolitical realities unfold, it is critical to analyze them through a
biblical lens, especially considering the implications for Israel and its neighbors.
The interplay between modern nations and ancient prophecies underscores the
relevance of scriptural in understanding current events.

In summary, the connections between biblical prophecy and contemporary
geopolitical developments invite a deeper examination of how biblical texts
inform our understanding of present and future events. The European Union’s
historical alignment with the Roman Empire, coupled with the prophetic insights
from Daniel and Revelation, creates a compelling framework for interpreting the
current situation in the Middle East and beyond.

Summary of Biblical Judgments and Prophetic Implications
In biblical prophecy, particularly in the Book of Revelation, a series of judgments
are outlined that reflect significant eschatological events. These judgments are
divided into four main sets:
1. Seal Judgments
2. Trumpet Judgments
3. Thunder Judgments: The third set judgments is revealed in Revelation
     10, but God does not reveal the scope of this set of judgments.
4. Bowl/Vial Judgments

A pivotal moment occurs in Revelation 16, where the sixth angel pours out a
bowl judgment on the Euphrates River, causing it to dry up. This drying up
prepares the way for the kings of the East, which is a reference to nations like
China. This event highlights the prophetic connections between current global
powers and biblical narratives.

The Role of the Kings of the East

The mention of the kings of the East signifies their involvement in the final battle
known as Armageddon. In this prophetic context, these nations, influenced by
demonic forces, will unite against Israel. Revelation describes a satanic trinity
composed of Satan, the Antichrist (the Beast), and the False Prophet,
orchestrating events leading to this climactic confrontation.

As the timeline progresses toward the second coming of Jesus, all nations will
gather against Israel, culminating in the battle of Armageddon (Zech. 14:1-4).
This prophecy mandates that the geopolitical landscape is not merely random
but deeply intertwined with spiritual and prophetic realities.

The Return of Christ and the Millennial Kingdom

Following the tribulation and the battle of Armageddon, Revelation 19:11-21
describes the return of Jesus Christ. He will defeat the nations gathered against
Israel, establish His millennial kingdom—a period of peace and divine rule on
Earth (Rev. 20:1-7). This prophetic narrative reinforces the notion that current
events can be viewed through the lens of scripture, particularly as they relate to
Israel's central role in God’s plan.

Current Relevance and the Last Days
In light of these prophecies, 2 Timothy 3:1 serves as a reminder of the perilous
times currently unfolding in the last days of the church age.. As these prophetic
events come closer to fruition, believers are urged to remain vigilant and
prepared.

In conclusion, the judgments described in Revelation serve as critical
component of biblical prophecy that resonate with contemporary geopolitical
tensions. The interactions of nations, particularly in relation to Israel, reflect a
prophetic nexus that reminds us that current events are setting the stage for
Bible prophecy to be fulfilled.
______________________________
1 Brad Dress and Ellen Mitchell, Why US Is Sending Troops, Prized Air Defense System To Israel, The Hill, October 14, 2024https://thehill.com/policy/national-security/4933042-us-deploys-thaad-troops-israel/
2 EU 'Wants Level Playing Field', But Still Negotiating With China On Car Tariffs, REUTERS, October 14, 2024, https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/eu-wants-level-playing-field-still-negotiating-with-china-car-tariffs-2024-10-14/

Richard Schmidt

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