Many people argue that Christ’s return is imminent, but the Bible actually declares that at least 25 events must occur before Jesus comes to reign on the earth. This is the 4th blog in a 6-part series on the prophecies that must be fulfilled before the Second Coming. If you missed the introduction, please go back and read Prophecies that must be fulfilled before the Second Coming – Introduction to be sure that you understand the vantage point from which I am coming. After the introduction, we looked at the unfulfilled prophecies related to Israel. Last week, we focused on the geological and astronomical signs that we should be watching for. Today we will be focusing on six political prophecies that are still unfulfilled.
Six Political Prophecies
1. Globalism
Over the past several years, there has been an increased focus on international connectedness and dependency. The Global Citizen events broadcast worldwide since 2015 strive to develop in the world’s citizens an infatuation with globalism. Such global involvement is a precursor to the prophesied one world government yet to come.
In the news today, we read about the United Nations, NATO, and the World Economic Forum. These are all political organizations vying for global authority. You may be aware that this week the World Health Organization will be voting on a recommendation by the Biden administration to give the WHO significant authority to mandate lockdowns, vaccines, and other “medical interventions” in the case of what they determine to be a medical emergency. If you are unaware of this, you may want to watch this video by Nelson Walters.
The Bible tells of at least one end times global government. In Revelation 17:1-2, we read about “the great prostitute” who is seated on many waters, with whom the kings of the earth have committed sexual immorality. Later, in verse 15, we find out that this prostitute is seated on the waters which “are peoples and multitudes and nations and languages.” This prostitute is a government which will attempt to usurp God’s authority as King of the earth. Just like the people after the flood wanted to build a human government that would reach to the heavens and make them like gods, the people of today are falling right into the arms of Mystery Babylon.
2. Advances in Technology
The increase in globalism is possible due to advances in technology. The angel told Daniel to seal up all the prophecies until the time of the end (Daniel 12:4). He went on to describe that time as a time when many will go to and fro, and knowledge will increase. Advances in transportation technology have ushered us into the time of many going to and fro. Advances in electronic and computer technology have thrust us into a time when knowledge is increasing exponentially. People all around the world can now communicate, plan, and connect.
3. The Mark of the Beast
One specific prophecy related to advances in technology is the mark of the beast described in Revelation 13:16-18. Fifty years ago, we could not have imagined what type of mark would be required of people to do buy or sell. Now it is not only possible, but it is actually occurring in various pockets.
The beast will cause all people to be marked so that they can buy and sell (Rev 13:16-17). The fact that those who refuse the mark cannot buy or sell is evidence that people will have a choice in the matter. By informed alertness, Christ followers will endure the great time of temptation that the emergence of the mark of the beast will bring.
4. Wars and Rumors of Wars
“Wars and rumors of war” is probably the most-commonly quoted end times prophecy. This phrase comes from The Olivet Discourse, as the first in the list of birth pains. Wars have persisted, almost continuously, for all of human history, so you might ask, “How is this a sign of the end times?” I’m so glad you asked!
Further down in the Olivet Discourse, Jesus described a specific war. In Luke 21:20-21, we read,
“But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation has come near.”
In the context, as compared to Matthew 24:15-21 and Mark 13:14-20, we understand that this is a battle that will occur just prior to The Great Tribulation. More specifically, when we study the Daniel reference Jesus gave, we know this will happen midway through Daniel’s 70th week. Knowing this detailed information will give Christ followers great insight into the season of Christ’s return. Having a timing for that season will help us to stand firm.
Bible prophecy tells us of other end times wars as well. The most common is the battle of Gog of Magog as presented in Ezekiel 38-39. This battle is orchestrated by God to set the stage for Him to destroy the antichrist and glorify His name in Israel. Having this information, Christ followers will know how to help and encourage the Jews in the very last days before Christ returns.
5. Economic Upheaval
With the increase in wars that will occur during the end times, we should expect economic upheaval. Revelation 6:5-6 gives us the clearest indication of what is to come:
“When the Lamb broke the third seal, I heard the third living being say, “Come!” I looked up and saw a black horse, and its rider was holding a pair of scales in his hand. And I heard a voice from among the four living beings say, “A loaf of wheat bread or three loaves of barley will cost a day’s pay. And don’t waste the olive oil and wine.”
We are currently watching how the war in Ukraine is causing almost the exact fulfillment of this prophecy! Knowing that economic upheaval is ahead, Christ followers can prepare to be as fiscally independent as possible, which will make it easier to endure those days.
6. The Antichrist
There are many opinions about where the antichrist will come from and who he will be. Scripture has plenty of information, so study the Word well before you search other sources. In addition to the Revelation passages referenced above, the Bible has a lot more to say about the coming antichrist. We read about the antichrist in Daniel chapters 7, 9, and 11. Other references to the antichrist are in Zechariah 11 and 2 Thessalonians 2.
The Bible explains that the antichrist will be a future global leader who offers to bring peace to Israel. After 3 1/2 years, he will turn on Israel and set himself up as the focus of worship in the Temple. He will use miraculous signs to deceive people and win them over to his side. He will honor those who honor him and seek to kill those who prefer God over him.
Those who love the truth will not be deceived by the antichrist (2 Thessalonians 2:9-12). Followers of Christ should study to understand the truths about the antichrist.
Study until you understand the six political prophecies that must be fulfilled. Study hard enough to fall in love with the Bible and the fact that God shared the warnings with us. By knowing and loving the truth, you will stand firm and overcome the evil political events that lie ahead.
Lisa Gallington has been studying the Word since she was 12 years old, with a special interest in end times prophecy. She has a passion for preparing the Church and everyone she comes in contact with for the return of Christ. She leads women’s ministry at her church and teaches a Bible study, often connecting the studies to end times prophecies and prophetic headlines. She has authored several books including End Times Preppers Devotionals and the accompanying End Times Preppers Bible Study and Foundation of Faith: Hebrews 11.
