Who will Finally have Jerusalem?
The Jews want it. The Palestines/Arabs want it. The POPE want it. The USA want it. God Claims it for the REMNANT
Part 1
When God Establishes His Kingdom
Learn how prophecy points TO "Jerusalem: God's Chosen Inheritance for the Remnant"
Prayer Thought:
"The Final Conflict: The Repeated Past and God's Chosen Soldiers"
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 - To explore the prophetic significance of Jerusalem in the Bible and how its ultimate ownership aligns with God's plan for the remnant people. This study seeks to address the current geopolitical, religious, and spiritual interest in Jerusalem, contrasting it with God’s divine promise as revealed in Scripture.
INTRODUCTION:
Jerusalem, a city central to the hopes and aspirations of many nations and religious groups, has been a source of conflict for centuries. The Jews, Palestinians, the Pope, and even global powers like the United States lay claim to its significance. But above these earthly disputes, God Himself claims Jerusalem as His own, destined for His remnant people.
This study explores Jerusalem's prophetic role, addressing its earthly and heavenly significance as revealed in the Bible and supported by the Spirit of Prophecy (Ellen G. White).
Biblical Foundation:
Highlight Jerusalem's historical and prophetic role as the center of God’s covenant with His people, referencing key texts like Zechariah 2:12, Isaiah 62:1-7, and Revelation 21:2.
Geopolitical Struggle:
Analyze the claims of different groups (Jews, Palestinians, the Pope, and the USA) on Jerusalem, showcasing how these earthly struggles contrast with God’s ultimate plan for the city.
The Remnant's Role:
Explain God’s promise to reserve Jerusalem for His faithful remnant, as seen in Isaiah 4:3-6 - And it shall come to pass, that he that is left in Zion, and he that remaineth in Jerusalem, shall be called holy, even every one that is written among the living in Jerusalem:
Isa 4:4 When the Lord shall have washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion, and shall have purged the blood of Jerusalem from the midst thereof by the spirit of judgment, and by the spirit of burning.
Isa 4:5 And the LORD will create upon every dwelling place of mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night: for upon all the glory shall be a defence.
Isa 4:6 And there shall be a tabernacle for a shadow in the daytime from the heat, and for a place of refuge, and for a covert from storm and from rain.
The Remnant's Role:
Explain God’s promise to reserve Jerusalem for His faithful remnant, as seen in Zechariah 8:7-8 - Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Behold, I will save my people from the east country, and from the west country;
Zec 8:8 And I will bring them, and they shall dwell in the midst of Jerusalem: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God, in truth and in righteousness.
The Remnant's Role:
God’s promise to reserve Jerusalem for His faithful remnant, as seen in Revelation 14:1-5 -
Rev 14:1 And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty and four thousand, having his Father's name written in their foreheads.
Rev 14:2 And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps:
Rev 14:3 And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth.
Rev 14:4 These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb.
Rev 14:5 And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God.
They have the spiritual qualifications and mission as the remnant.
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.
Zechariah 13:1:
"In that day there shall be a fountain opened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem for sin and for uncleanness."
Cleansing for Sin and Impurity: A fountain will be opened for the house of David and Jerusalem’s inhabitants to cleanse them of sin and uncleanness, signifying spiritual purification.
EGW Commentary: "The cleansing of the sanctuary in heaven is a work that involves a corresponding cleansing of the people on earth." (The Great Controversy, p. 421.)
"The fountain opened signifies the final phase of the atonement, wherein the faithful are purified, and the unfaithful are separated." (The Shepherd’s Rod, Vol. 2, p. 205.)
This symbolizes a work of purification and atonement, preparing God's people for His kingdom.
The Timing of Events:
Zechariah 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..."
This describes a climactic event where Jerusalem faces attack, symbolizing a great trial for God's people.
The Day of the Lord: A future time of upheaval when nations will gather against Jerusalem, leading to the city being partially conquered but not utterly destroyed.
Restoration and Safety: Jerusalem will be secure and inhabited without fear of destruction.
Universal Worship: Survivors from all nations will come annually to worship the King, the Lord Almighty, and celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles.
Judgment for Non-Worship: Nations that refuse to worship will face divine punishment, such as drought.
The Timing of Events:
Zechariah 14:1-2:
"The final crisis will test every soul. Only those who stand faithful will partake of the blessings of the kingdom." (Early Writings, p. 271.)
"This is a description of the purging process within the church—a spiritual siege that results in the separation of the faithful from the unfaithful." (The Shepherd’s Rod, Vol. 1, p. 233.)
Zephaniah 2:4-7:
"For Gaza shall be forsaken, and Ashkelon a desolation... And the coast shall be for the remnant of the house of Judah."
The desolation of surrounding nations prefigures the judgment upon those who oppose God’s people.
Judgment on Neighboring Nations: Cities like Gaza, Ashkelon, Ashdod, and Ekron will face desolation as God judges the Philistines.
Hope for the Faithful: The land of the Philistines will be given to the remnant of Judah, symbolizing restoration and inheritance.
Judgment on Moab and Ammon: These nations will be judged for their pride and hostility toward God’s people, becoming a wasteland, but the faithful remnant will inherit their land.
Zephaniah 2:4-7:
"God's judgments will fall upon the nations that have rejected His truth and oppressed His people." (Prophets and Kings, p. 536.)
"The coastlands and their fate represent the gathering and sealing of the remnant who will inherit the kingdom." (The Shepherd’s Rod, Vol. 2, p. 243.)
How the Kingdom Will Be Established:
Zechariah 14:11, 16-17:
"And men shall dwell in it, and there shall be no more utter destruction; but Jerusalem shall be safely inhabited... And it shall come to pass, that every one that is left of all the nations... shall even go up from year to year to worship the King."
The kingdom is established after the purification and restoration of Jerusalem.
"The kingdom of glory will be ushered in following the eradication of sin and the triumph of truth." (The Great Controversy, p. 678.)
"The establishment of the kingdom begins with the purification of the church—a visible representation of God's reign on earth." (The Shepherd’s Rod, Vol. 1, p. 171.)
The Fate of Jerusalem:
Zephaniah 2:9:
"Therefore as I live, saith the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel, Surely Moab shall be as Sodom, and the children of Ammon as Gomorrah..."
The enemies of Jerusalem face utter destruction, highlighting the triumph of God's justice.
"The fate of the unrepentant is a solemn warning to all. God’s mercy has limits." (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 162.)
"The destruction of Moab and Ammon typifies the ultimate end of the rebellious and unfaithful, both within and outside the church." (The Shepherd’s Rod, Vol. 2, p. 285.)
Fulfillment of Prophetic Promises
Judgment and Divine Justice: God will judge nations that oppose His people or act in pride and rebellion.
Deliverance and Restoration: God will defend Jerusalem, purify His people, and restore them to a place of safety and blessing.
Cleansing and Renewal: A process of spiritual and physical purification precedes the establishment of God’s kingdom.
Universal Worship: A future time when all nations recognize and worship God, with blessings for the faithful and consequences for those who refuse.
The Gathering and Restoration of Israel
EGW Insight:
“The gathering of Israel is a foretaste of the final ingathering, when the redeemed will dwell securely in the New Jerusalem” (Early Writings, p. 56).
Restoration demonstrates God’s ability to bring life to the spiritually dead.
SRod Comment:
The physical gathering of Israel foreshadows the final gathering of the faithful remnant, representing the great multitude (Rev. 7:9).
The restoration of the land is a precursor to the establishment of the eternal Kingdom.
Final Victory and Eternal Reign
Zechariah 14:1-2, 11, 16, 17: God’s people triumph over enemies, and the land is secure.
Zephaniah 2:4-7, 9: Judgment, restoration, and inheritance by the remnant.
EGW Insight: “The ultimate triumph of God’s kingdom will reveal His glory and establish everlasting peace” (The Great Controversy, p. 674).
SRod Comment: The reign of the saints with Christ represents the fulfillment of the ceremonial harvest: the ingathering of the firstfruits (144,000) and the second fruits (great multitude).
Zechariah 14’s prophecy depicts the literal and spiritual reign of Christ as King in His eternal Kingdom.
“The Kingdom established in Zechariah’s vision represents the climax of God’s redemptive work, where Christ reigns as King and the saints as co-heirs” (SRod, Vol. 2, p. 165).
“The reign of the saints is the culmination of the harvest: the ingathering of the firstfruits (144,000) and the great multitude” (SRod, Vol. 1, p. 112).
As the numbers of Israel increased, they were to enlarge their borders until their kingdom should embrace the world. {PK 19.1}
But ancient Israel did not fulfill God's purpose. The Lord declared, "I had planted thee a noble vine, wholly a right seed: how then art thou turned into the degenerate plant of a strange vine unto Me?" "Israel is an empty vine, he bringeth forth fruit unto himself." "And now, O inhabitants of Jerusalem, and men of Judah, judge, I pray you, between Me and My vineyard.
And today God's message to His church--to those who are occupying His vineyard as faithful husbandmen--is none other than that spoken through the prophet of old:
"Sing ye unto her, A vineyard of red wine. I the Lord do keep it; I will water it every moment: lest any hurt it, I will keep it night and day." Isa. 27:2, 3.
The Master of the vineyard is even now gathering from among men of all nations and peoples the precious fruits for which He has long been waiting. Soon He will come unto His own; and in that glad day His eternal purpose for the house of Israel will finally be fulfilled. "He shall cause them that come of Jacob to take root: Israel shall blossom and bud, and fill the face of the world with fruit." Verse 6. {PK 22.2}
That which God purposed to do for the world through Israel, the chosen nation, He will finally accomplish through His church on earth today. He has "let out His vineyard unto other husbandmen," even to His covenant-keeping people, who faithfully "render Him the fruits in their seasons." Never has the Lord been without true representatives on this earth who have made His interests their own. These witnesses for God are numbered among the spiritual Israel, and to them will be fulfilled all the covenant promises made by Jehovah to His ancient people. {PK 713.1}
Closing Thought:
The establishment of God's kingdom is preceded by a series of purging, trials, and judgments—both within the church and upon the nations.
Jerusalem, both literal and symbolic, undergoes purification and restoration.
These events fulfill the prophecies of Zechariah and Zephaniah, underscoring the triumph of God's righteousness.
As EGW and SRod writings affirm, God's people must strive for faithfulness and readiness, heeding the call to repentance and preparation for the kingdom.