What will precede before the Establishment of the Kingdom? When? And How? The Fate of Jerusalem
Part 5
When God Establishes His Kingdom
Learn how prophecy points to the establishment of God’s Kingdom in Jerusalem harmony with His Word.
Prayer Thought:
Past history will be repeated. A determined conflict is to be waged in the Christian world. People who are disloyal to the commandments of the living God will, in their supposed self-importance, be inspired by Satan to war against those who follow the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world. . . . The result will be that people will become inhuman in their actions toward other people. . . . {CTr 271.2}
All who are the sons and daughters of God are His chosen ones, His soldiers, to war against principalities and powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. It is an unwearied conflict of which there is to be no end until Christ shall come the second time.—Manuscript 104, 1897. {CTr 280.5}
PURPOSE - explore the events, timeline, and processes leading to the establishment of a significant political or spiritual kingdom, possibly in a historical, biblical, or prophetic context.
INTRODUCTION:
The establishment of God's kingdom on earth is one of the most profound prophetic events anticipated by God's people. The Scriptures, alongside Ellen G. White's (EGW) writings and the Shepherd's Rod (SRod) literature, provide detailed insights into what will precede this event, the timing, and how it will unfold. The fate of Jerusalem is central to this discussion, as illustrated in Zechariah and Zephaniah.
The final days of earth's history will see the repetition of past events, where a determined conflict arises within the Christian world.
It explores how the powers of darkness inspire disloyalty and persecution against the faithful followers of the Lamb of God, unveiling the ongoing spiritual war until Christ’s second advent. As we reflect on these truths, let us consider how we can prepare to be part of this Kingdom and what it means for our lives today.
The Past and Its Repetition:
"Past history will be repeated. A determined conflict is to be waged in the Christian world. People who are disloyal to the commandments of the living God will, in their supposed self-importance, be inspired by Satan to war against those who follow the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world." (CTr, p. 271.2)
"The conflict mirrors the rebellion in heaven, a pattern that has echoed through history. This cosmic struggle highlights the enemy’s tactics to challenge God’s sovereignty and the loyalty of His people." (Shepherd's Rod Commentary)
In history, disobedience to God’s commandments led to spiritual and physical wars. Likewise, in the last days, the loyal servants of Christ will face intensified opposition and trials, testing their faith and steadfastness.
Scriptural Basis for the Preceding Events:
Zech. 12:3-8 - The Coming Deliverance of Jerusalem
The protection and future victory of Jerusalem through God's intervention.
Zech. 13:1 - Cleansing of Sin and the Fountain of Grace
A fountain of cleansing for sin and impurity, symbolizing spiritual renewal.
Zech. 14:1, 2, 11, 16-17 - The Day of the Lord and Jerusalem's Ultimate Victory
The Day of the Lord, judgment upon the nations, and the eventual restoration of Jerusalem as a place of peace and universal worship of God.
Zeph. 2:4-7, 9 - Judgment on the Nations and Hope for Judah
Judgment on the enemies of Israel and the hope of restoration and blessing for Judah.
Zech. 12:3-8
And in that day will I make Jerusalem a burdensome stone for all people: all that burden themselves with it shall be cut in pieces, though all the people of the earth be gathered together against it.
In that day, saith the LORD, I will smite every horse with astonishment, and his rider with madness: and I will open mine eyes upon the house of Judah, and will smite every horse of the people with blindness...
In that day will I make the governors of Judah like an hearth of fire among the wood, and like a torch of fire in a sheaf; and they shall devour all the people round about, on the right hand and on the left: and Jerusalem shall be inhabited again in her own place, [even] in Jerusalem.
The LORD also shall save the tents of Judah first, that the glory of the house of David and the glory of the inhabitants of Jerusalem do not magnify [themselves] against Judah.
In that day shall the LORD defend the inhabitants of Jerusalem; and he that is feeble among them at that day shall be as David; and the house of David [shall be] as God, as the angel of the LORD before them.
Zech. 12:3-8
This passage highlights Jerusalem's central role in God's plans, portraying a time when nations will gather against the city, but God will intervene to defend it.
The text emphasizes that Jerusalem will be a "cup of trembling" or a "heavy stone" for the surrounding nations, meaning that those who try to harm it will be weighed down with destruction. God's strength will be evident as He will empower the "house of David" and Jerusalem's leaders to overcome their enemies. The passage concludes with a vision of Jerusalem's victory and protection, ensuring its future as a secure and honored city under God's care.
This prophecy speaks of a time when Jerusalem will become a focal point of conflict among nations. God will defend His people and bring deliverance to those who trust in Him.
Main points of Zech. 12:3-8
God's Protection of Jerusalem: Nations that attack Jerusalem will face judgment, and the city will become an immovable stone for all who try to move it.
Divine Intervention: The Lord will strike the enemies with confusion and blindness.
Strength for the People: The leaders and people of Judah will be empowered, and God will defend Jerusalem, granting victory and deliverance.