ISRAEL UPDATEJune 17, 2001 - In 1909, the great scholar C.I. Schofield wrote of a last desperate attempt by Russia to destroy the remnant of Israel and their destruction by G-d for violating His covenant made with Jacob.
In 1925, Thomas Boyd, a Bible College teacher wrote a book entitled, "The Budding of the Fig," where he boldly prophesied the birth of the nation of Israel. He lived to see that fulfillment.
During the 1950's, my grandfather, Clyde Belin, wrote many bold articles declaring where we were dispensationally, both for the Church and the nation of Israel.
During the 1970's, Pastor Bob Hooley wrote many books about prophecy - his "Jerusalem Cup of Trembling", spoke of today's events 2 decades before they came into focus of the world's view.
David Allen Lewis has written 37 books dealing with many issues concerning the world church and Israel that have been completely accurate and free of the "prophetic hype" that has ruined many teachers' credibility.
Without a doubt these men, like so many others, have held to the literal account of G-d's Word and have spoken the oracles of G-d, even when unpopular or when their words seemed unlikely or improbable, yet still they declared them.
II Peter 1:19 tells us we have a more sure word of prophecy for a gift to shine in dark times, so the day star could arise in our hearts until the day of the dawn.
Thank G-d in these dark uncertain times He has had men who were willing to speak His word and boldly declare His truths.
June 17, 2001 - We need to be careful in “our" assessment of what we feel is Bible prophecy being fulfilled, and we need to be aware of all the facts before making these declarations.
One example has been the belief that Britain has lost its prominence among nations since its geographical kingdom diminished so much after World War II.
While it is true that the United Kingdom's fleet does not sail to the four corners of the globe and the sun has set on its empire, Britain is still a very powerful influence in the world.
England figures very prominently in foreign policy, as they have exerted forces in the Falkland Islands and in Desert Storm as well.
Under Margaret Thatcher's rule, Britain refused to become part of the European Common Market and again is playing a strong role in Iraq to protect world interests.
Britain's supposed peace plan with Ireland was used as a model to place pressure on Israel to resolve its conflict with the Palestinians.
And finally, with more than 300 mosques in England, much of their culture, religion and economy is being based on Islamic influence and a power base that is affecting the world in an unseen but strong fashion.
Has Britain lost its influence, or has it been reorganized and moving in different ways, shaping the events to come in the future?
To be continued...