Summary
The sermon “Israel in the Tribulation” discusses the theological implications of Israel’s role during the tribulation period, emphasizing that God has not abandoned Israel despite widespread belief in Christianity that He has. It presents three alternatives for interpreting biblical prophecies about Israel: denying Scripture’s inspiration, spiritualizing the sermon, or affirming that Israel will play a significant role in the end times. The preacher argues that the regathering of Israel is a fulfillment of biblical prophecy and that the tribulation will serve as a time of judgment and purification for the nation. The sermon underscores the belief in a literal return of Jesus Christ and the importance of understanding Israel’s place in eschatology.
My Analysis
The preacher says the formation of the state of Israel in 1948 was a miracle, the Jews going back to Israel as God’s people. He speaks with certainty. But I don’t think he’s right. Ezekiel 20:33-44 is clear. When God does this, the whole world knows. There is no debate like there is today. They see His hand in it, undeniable and powerful. 1948 wasn’t like that. It was man’s work, not God’s.
Additionally, he wrongly asserts,
Nations can only tolerate them [Jews] so long because of their identity and their uniqueness and the fact that God has specially His hand upon them.
The preacher makes it clear he has not looked into this.
Test Your Knowledge
Scrolling down slowly will hide the answer until you can make your choice.
Multiple-Choice Questions
1.What is one alternative to accepting that God is through with Israel?
A) Accepting all interpretations of Scripture
B) Denying the inspiration of Scripture
C) Believing in universal salvation
D) Emphasizing the importance of church history
Answer: B)
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2.According to the sermon, what does the regathering of Israel signify?
A) A temporary political move
B) A fulfillment of biblical prophecy
C) A sign of the end of the world
D) A cultural revival
Answer: B)
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3.What does the preacher suggest will happen to Israel during the tribulation?
A) They will prosper without challenges
B) They will face judgment and purification
C) They will be completely destroyed
D) They will unite with other nations
Answer: B)
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4.How does the sermon describe the return of Jesus Christ?
A) As a metaphorical event
B) As a literal event
C) As a historical occurrence
D) As a future possibility
Answer: B)
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5.What is the primary focus of the sermon?
A) The history of Israel
B) The role of the church in prophecy
C) Israel’s significance in the tribulation
D) The scientific perspective on the end of the world
Answer: C)
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6.What is “Jacob’s trouble”?
A) A historical event
B) A reference to a time of tribulation for Israel
C) A personal struggle of an individual named Jacob
D) A term used in psychology
Answer: B
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7.According to the sermon, when will Jesus return?
A) After five billion years
B) After 200 billion years
C) At an unspecified time
D) Before the tribulation
Answer: D
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8.Which book of the Bible discusses the covenant made with Abraham?
A) Exodus
B) Genesis
C) Matthew
D) Revelation
Answer: B
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9.What does the preacher suggest about spiritualizing biblical texts regarding Israel?
A) It enhances understanding
B) It leads to misinterpretation
C) It is necessary for modern theology
D) It is universally accepted
Answer: B
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10.How many tribes of Israel are mentioned as being significant during the tribulation?
A) 10
B) 12
C) 144,000
D) 7
Answer: C
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Listen & Read Along
See the full transcript and listen to this sermon here:
1329 Sep 9, 1973
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Study Guide
10-Israel-In-The-Tribulation
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In this lesson, the following questions will be addressed:
Outline
I.Introduction
A.Overview of the sermon’s purpose
B.Importance of Israel in biblical prophecy
II.Theological Perspectives on Israel
A.Common beliefs in Christianity regarding Israel
B.Alternatives to understanding Israel’s role
III.Biblical Prophecies and Regathering of Israel
A.Scriptural references supporting Israel’s future
B.The significance of the regathering
IV.The Tribulation Period
A.Description of the tribulation
B.Israel’s role during this time
V.Conclusion
B.Call to recognize the importance of Israel in eschatology
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Outline 2
I.Introduction
A.Discussion on the end of the world.
B.The role of biblical prophecy.
II.The Return of Christ
A.Evidence supporting Christ’s return.
B.The concept of the church’s rapture.
III.Understanding the Tribulation
A.Definition and significance of the tribulation.
B.The timeline: church removal followed by tribulation.
IV.Israel’s Role in the Tribulation
A.Scriptural references highlighting Israel’s involvement.
B.The concept of “Jacob’s trouble.”
V.Covenants with Israel
A.Overview of God’s promises to Abraham.
B.Importance of these covenants during tribulation.
VI.Conclusion
A.Affirmation of God’s ongoing relationship with Israel.
B.Final thoughts on Israel’s future in prophecy.
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Study Questions
1.What are the three alternatives presented in the sermon for interpreting biblical prophecies about Israel?
The three alternatives presented in the sermon for interpreting biblical prophecies about Israel are:
1.Denying the inspiration of Scripture – This approach suggests that when the Bible makes promises about Israel, it is mistaken or incorrect.
2.Spiritualizing the sermon – This involves interpreting references to Israel as symbolic or representative of the church or other groups, rather than as the literal nation of Israel.
3.Affirming that God is still dealing with Israel – This perspective maintains that the biblical promises to Israel remain valid and that Israel will play a significant role in the end times, particularly during the tribulation.
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2.How does the preacher argue against the belief that God is finished with Israel?
The preacher argues against the belief that God is finished with Israel by emphasizing several key points:
1.Covenantal Promises: The preacher highlights that God made specific covenants with Israel, which He is obligated to fulfill. These promises indicate that Israel has a continuing role in God’s plan, particularly regarding future glory and blessings.
2.Scriptural Evidence: The sermon references various Scriptures that affirm Israel’s ongoing significance, such as Matthew 24:34, which suggests that “this generation” (interpreted as Israel) will not pass away until all prophecies are fulfilled. This indicates that Israel will endure through the tribulation.
3.Historical Preservation: The preacher points out the historical survival and regathering of the Jewish people, suggesting that their continued existence is evidence of God’s hand upon them. The sermon notes that Israel has defied historical odds, akin to Jonah being swallowed but never digested, which underscores God’s protection and purpose for the nation.
4.Literal Interpretation of Prophecy: The preacher argues that interpreting biblical prophecies literally, rather than spiritualizing them, supports the idea that God has not abandoned Israel. The sermon asserts that when the Bible mentions Israel, it refers to the Jewish people and their land, not the church or other groups.
5.Future Role in the Tribulation: The preacher discusses Israel’s role during the tribulation, asserting that the nation will be present and significant during this time, further reinforcing the belief that God is still actively working with Israel.
Through these points, the preacher makes a compelling case that God’s promises to Israel remain intact and that the nation has a vital role in eschatological events.
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3.What scriptural evidence does the sermon provide to support the idea of Israel’s regathering?
The sermon provides several scriptural references to support the idea of Israel’s regathering:
1.Matthew 24:16: This verse indicates that during the tribulation, those in Judea should flee to the mountains, suggesting that the Jewish people will be present in their land during this time.
2.Numbers 23:9: The verse states, “Lo, the people shall dwell alone and shall not be reckoned among the nations,” which emphasizes God’s intention to keep Israel distinct and separate from other nations, implying a future regathering.
3.Luke 1:31-33: This passage speaks of Jesus being given the throne of His father David and reigning over the house of Jacob forever, reinforcing the idea that the house of Jacob (Israel) will continue to exist and have a significant role in God’s plan.
4.Isaiah 43:5-6: The verses express God’s promise to bring His people from the east and gather them from the west, indicating a future regathering of the Jewish people from all corners of the earth.
5.Jeremiah 32:37: This scripture states that God will gather the Israelites from all countries where He has driven them, promising to bring them back to their land safely, which aligns with the concept of a future regathering for the kingdom.
These scriptural references collectively support the preacher’s argument that Israel’s regathering is a fulfillment of biblical prophecy and a significant aspect of God’s ongoing relationship with the nation.
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4.In what ways does the tribulation serve as a time of judgment for Israel, according to the sermon?
According to the sermon, the tribulation serves as a time of judgment for Israel in several key ways:
1.Chastisement for Sin: The preacher emphasizes that the tribulation is a period of chastisement for Israel due to their historical disobedience and rejection of God. This time of suffering is seen as a necessary purging process to address their sins before they can receive salvation.
2.Fulfillment of Warnings: The sermon references various warnings given to Israel throughout Scripture, such as in Deuteronomy and Jeremiah, indicating that God had long foretold a time of punishment for their unfaithfulness. The tribulation is portrayed as the fulfillment of these warnings, where Israel will face the consequences of their actions.
3.Persecution and Martyrdom: The preacher notes that during the tribulation, many Jews will face severe persecution, leading to martyrdom. This is illustrated through references to Revelation, where the martyrs cry out for God to avenge their deaths, highlighting the intense suffering that will occur.
4.Judgment of Rebels: While the sermon asserts that a significant portion of Israel will ultimately be saved, it also acknowledges that there will be rebels among them who will not turn to God. These individuals will face severe judgment, as indicated in Ezekiel, which underscores the dual nature of the tribulation as both a time of purging and a time of judgment.
5.Preparation for Salvation: The tribulation is framed as a necessary precursor to Israel’s eventual salvation. The preacher argues that the suffering and judgment experienced during this time will lead to a recognition of their need for God, ultimately resulting in their conversion and acceptance of the Messiah.
Through these points, the sermon presents the tribulation as a critical period of divine judgment that serves to correct, purify, and ultimately prepare Israel for restoration and salvation.
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5.How does the preacher connect the return of Jesus Christ to the events surrounding Israel in the tribulation?
The preacher connects the return of Jesus Christ to the events surrounding Israel in the tribulation through several key points:
1.Fulfillment of Prophecy: The preacher emphasizes that the return of Jesus Christ is a fulfillment of biblical prophecy, particularly regarding Israel. The tribulation is seen as a precursor to Christ’s second coming, where He will return to fulfill the promises made to Israel and establish His kingdom.
2.Israel’s Role in the End Times: The sermon asserts that Israel will play a central role during the tribulation, which is described as “the time of Jacob’s trouble.” This indicates that the events of the tribulation are specifically tied to Israel’s experiences and struggles, setting the stage for Christ’s return.
3.Recognition of the Messiah: The preacher discusses how, during the tribulation, Israel will undergo a process of mourning and repentance, as prophesied in Zechariah 12:10. This mourning is linked to the recognition of Jesus as their Messiah, which will occur at His return. The preacher suggests that this moment of realization will be pivotal for Israel’s national salvation.
4.Judgment and Restoration: The return of Christ is portrayed as a time of judgment for those who have rejected Him, including the rebels among Israel. However, it is also a time of restoration for the nation as a whole, where the faithful remnant will be saved. The preacher argues that Christ’s return will bring about the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel, leading to their redemption.
5.Establishment of His Kingdom: The preacher connects Christ’s return to the establishment of His kingdom on earth, which will include Israel as a central part of His reign. This is seen as the culmination of God’s plan for Israel, where they will be restored to their rightful place in the divine order.
Through these connections, the preacher illustrates that the events surrounding Israel in the tribulation are intricately linked to the return of Jesus Christ, highlighting the significance of Israel in God’s redemptive plan.
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6.What are the main scriptural references used to support Israel’s role in the tribulation?
The sermon “Israel in the Tribulation” references several key scriptures to support the assertion that Israel plays a central role during the tribulation period.
The main scriptural references include:
Jeremiah 30:7 ‘Alas! for that day is great, There is none like it; And it is the time of Jacob’s distress, But he will be saved from it.
This verse refers to the tribulation as “the time of Jacob’s trouble,” indicating a significant period for Israel.
Deuteronomy 4:29 “But from there you will seek the Lord your God, and you will find Him if you search for Him with all your heart and all your soul.
This verse emphasizes that if Israel seeks God during tribulation, they will find Him, suggesting a future time of distress for the nation.
Daniel 9:27 “And he will make a firm covenant with the many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering; and on the wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate, even until a complete destruction, one that is decreed, is poured out on the one who makes desolate.”
This passage discusses a covenant made by Israel during the tribulation, often linked to the prophecy of the 70th week.
Matthew 24:1-51
Jesus speaks about the tribulation and specifically addresses Israel’s situation during this time.
Revelation 7:4 And I heard the number of those who were sealed, one hundred and forty-four thousand sealed from every tribe of the sons of Israel:
This verse mentions 144,000 from all tribes of Israel, highlighting their significance in the tribulation.
Revelation 11:8 And their dead bodies will lie in the street of the great city which mystically is called Sodom and Egypt, where also their Lord was crucified.
This verse identifies Jerusalem as a focal point during the tribulation, where significant events unfold.
Revelation 12:13-14 And when the dragon saw that he was thrown down to the earth, he persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male child. 14 But the two wings of the great eagle were given to the woman, so that she could fly into the wilderness to her place, where she was nourished for a time and times and half a time, from the presence of the serpent.
Here, Israel is symbolized as a woman who is persecuted by Satan, again illustrating her central role in tribulation events.
These references collectively underscore the theological perspective that Israel remains a pivotal focus in biblical prophecy concerning the end times and tribulation period.
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7.How does the sermon differentiate between spiritual and physical interpretations of Israel in biblical prophecy?
The sermon differentiates between spiritual and physical interpretations of Israel in biblical prophecy by emphasizing the importance of understanding the literal meaning of scriptural references to Israel, as opposed to interpreting them metaphorically or symbolically.
Physical Interpretation: The sermon asserts that when the Bible mentions “Israel,” it refers specifically to the Jewish people and the nation of Israel. It argues that prophecies concerning Israel’s role in the tribulation, such as those found in Jeremiah, Deuteronomy, and Revelation, should be taken at face value. The preacher contends that these passages indicate a future time when God will directly engage with Israel, fulfilling His promises made to them.
Spiritual Interpretation: In contrast, the sermon critiques the view held by many theologians that God has replaced Israel with the Church in His plans. This perspective often involves “spiritualizing” references to Israel, suggesting that they symbolize the Church or other groups rather than the Jewish nation itself. The preacher argues that this approach undermines the integrity of Scripture and God’s faithfulness to His covenants with Israel. He posits that while Christians can be considered spiritual descendants of Abraham through faith in Christ, this does not nullify God’s specific promises to the physical descendants of Abraham.
In summary, the sermon maintains that a proper understanding of biblical prophecy necessitates recognizing Israel as a distinct entity with ongoing significance in God’s redemptive plan, particularly during the tribulation period.
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8.What are the implications of denying God’s covenants with Israel according to the preacher?
According to the preacher, denying God’s covenants with Israel has several significant implications:
1. Undermining Scriptural Integrity: The preacher argues that rejecting God’s promises to Israel leads to a denial of the inspiration of Scripture. If one claims that biblical prophecies regarding Israel are mistaken or irrelevant, it challenges the trustworthiness of the entire biblical sermon and its divine authorship.
2. Spiritualization of Scripture: The sermon critiques the tendency to spiritualize references to Israel, suggesting that this approach distorts the intended meaning of biblical texts. By interpreting “Israel” as a metaphor for the Church or other groups, it diminishes the specific promises made to the Jewish people and alters the understanding of God’s plan for humanity.
3. Character of God: Denying God’s covenants with Israel implies that God is unfaithful or has broken His promises. The preacher emphasizes that such a view contradicts the nature of God as a promise-keeping deity. If God fails to fulfill His commitments to Israel, it raises questions about His reliability in fulfilling other promises made in Scripture.
4. Theological Consequences: The sermon suggests that if one accepts the notion that God is finished with Israel, it leads to theological confusion and inconsistency. It risks creating a belief system where prophetic timelines and events lose their meaning, as interpretations become subjective and disconnected from their original context.
5. Neglecting Israel’s Future Role: By denying God’s ongoing relationship with Israel, one overlooks its crucial role in future prophetic events, particularly during the tribulation period. The preacher stresses that Israel will be central in these eschatological scenarios, and failing to recognize this can lead to misinterpretations of end-time prophecies.
In summary, the preacher asserts that denying God’s covenants with Israel not only undermines scriptural authority but also distorts theological understanding and misrepresents God’s character as faithful and unchanging.
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9.In what ways does the sermon argue that God is still actively involved with Israel today?
The sermon argues that God is still actively involved with Israel today through several key points:
1. Fulfillment of Promises: The preacher emphasizes that God’s covenants with Israel, particularly the Abrahamic covenant, remain in effect. This covenant includes promises of land, nationhood, and blessings that are seen as ongoing commitments from God to the Jewish people. The assertion is that these promises will be fulfilled in the future, particularly during the tribulation period.
2. Divine Intervention: The sermon cites scriptural references indicating that God will respond to Israel’s cries during times of tribulation. For instance, Deuteronomy 4:26-30 suggests that if Israel seeks God during their distress, they will find Him. This highlights a proactive relationship where God is expected to intervene and support Israel in their struggles.
3. Israel’s Role in Prophecy: The preacher points out that numerous prophecies specifically mention Israel’s central role during the tribulation. For example, Revelation 7 talks about 144,000 individuals from the tribes of Israel who are marked for protection during this period. This suggests that God has a specific plan for Israel that includes their preservation and significance in eschatological events.
4. Recognition of Spiritual Descendants: While acknowledging that Christians can be considered spiritual descendants of Abraham through faith, the sermon insists that this does not negate God’s promises to the physical descendants of Abraham. The preacher argues that being part of spiritual Israel does not replace or invalidate the national identity and promises made to Israel.
5. Ongoing Relationship: The sermon asserts that God’s relationship with Israel is not only historical but continues into the present and future. By emphasizing that God has not abandoned Israel and will resume His dealings with them during the tribulation, the preacher reinforces the idea of an active divine engagement with the nation.
In summary, the sermon presents a theological perspective that underscores God’s unwavering commitment to Israel through historical covenants, active intervention in their lives, and a significant prophetic role during future events, particularly the tribulation.
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10.How does the preacher address alternative views regarding the end times and Israel’s significance?
The preacher addresses alternative views regarding the end times and Israel’s significance by critiquing common theological positions that suggest God has abandoned Israel or that biblical references to Israel should be interpreted metaphorically. Here are the key points made in the sermon:
1. Rejection of Replacement Theology: The preacher strongly opposes the idea that the Church has replaced Israel in God’s plans, a view often referred to as replacement theology. He argues that such a stance undermines the integrity of Scripture and God’s faithfulness to His promises.
2. Critique of Spiritualization: The sermon highlights that many theologians spiritualize references to Israel, interpreting them as symbols for the Church or other groups. The preacher criticizes this approach, stating that it leads to a distortion of biblical meaning and ignores the specific prophecies concerning the Jewish people.
3. Three Alternatives: The preacher outlines three alternatives for those who deny God’s ongoing relationship with Israel:
– Denial of Scripture’s Inspiration: Some may claim that biblical prophecies about Israel are mistaken, which challenges the reliability of Scripture.
– Spiritualization: Others might argue that terms like “144,000” do not refer to literal Jews but rather to idealized groups within Christianity, diluting the original meaning.
– Replacement Interpretation: A third option is to assert that references to “Israel” after Christ’s resurrection always mean the Church, which again disregards God’s specific promises to Israel.
4. Affirmation of Literal Interpretation: The preacher emphasizes that when Scripture mentions Israel during the tribulation, it refers specifically to the Jewish people and not to any other group. He insists on a literal interpretation of prophetic texts, asserting that God clearly communicates His intentions without ambiguity.
5. Maintaining God’s Character: By denying God’s covenants with Israel, alternative views risk portraying God as unfaithful or deceptive. The preacher argues that such interpretations make God a liar for failing to fulfill His promises, which is incompatible with His nature as a faithful deity.
6. Spiritual Seed vs. Physical Seed: While acknowledging that Christians can be considered spiritual descendants of Abraham through faith in Christ, the preacher maintains that this does not negate God’s promises to the physical descendants of Abraham. He argues for a distinction between spiritual and physical Israel, asserting that both have their place in God’s redemptive plan.
In conclusion, the preacher firmly defends the view that God is still actively involved with Israel today and will continue to be during the tribulation period, countering alternative theological perspectives with a call for a literal and faithful interpretation of Scripture regarding Israel’s significance in prophecy.
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To see all the lessons in this series click on the 1973 Prophecy tag below.
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