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The Assyrian is the Antichrist!
The Assyrian is the Antichrist!
Halfway to Armageddon
Verse by verse through Isaiah 10
By Craig C. White
Assyria was a world empire. Its capital city was Nineveh, located in the same place as the modern day city of Mosul in northern Iraq. The ruins of Nineveh can still be seen today across the Tigris River from Mosul.
In 734 BC Assyria conquered Syria and then turned southward into northern Israel. Assyria took captives from both Syria and Israel.
Assyria invaded Israel a second time in 701 BC. This time the Assyrian army made it all the way into southern Israel just outside the city limits of Jerusalem.
Two Assyrian kings led these invasions. The first invasion in 734 BC went into Syria and northern Israel and was led by the Assyrian King Tiglath-pileser. The second invasion in 701 BC went into southern Israel and was led by the Assyrian King Sennacherib. In Bible prophecy these two kings are often referred to as “the Assyrian”. The Assyrian is also a term that applies to the Antichrist because he will do the same things that the original Assyrian kings did.
God used the Assyrian to judge the disobedient nation of Israel. God will again call on a northern invader to judge Israel.
Isaiah chapter 10 predicts the wickedness of the ancient Israeli leadership, the overthrow of the nation of Israel by the Assyrian King Sennacherib and finally God’s restoration of Israel.
But there is a catch! Immediately after the Assyrian invades Israel in Isaiah chapter 10 we are introduced to the Messiah on earth! That is to say, Jesus Christ sets up his everlasting throne in Jerusalem. In other words this passage also predicts a future event. The Assyrian will once again invade Israel, and then Jesus Christ will come back to earth to defeat the Assyrian and to rule forever!
OK now listen up; the future invader of Israel called the Assyrian in Isaiah 10 is the same person that is commonly known as the Antichrist! The Antichrist will persecute Israel during the coming seven year Tribulation period just as the Assyrian persecuted Israel long ago.
But wait there is more! I think that Ezekiel chapter 38 and 39 tell us that the primary ruler of Turkey will lead an invasion into Israel in the end time just like Assyria did long ago. As a matter of fact, I think that Ezekiel predicts two separate invasions, both led by the primary ruler of Turkey. Also like the Assyrian invasions of old, the future invasions of Israel will happen in two similar but separate battles.
So the Assyrian is the Antichrist! Also the Assyrian is the primary leader of Turkey! Therefore the primary leader of Turkey is the Antichrist! Is this too much for you?
Today the President and ex-Prime Minister of Turkey is Recep Tayyip Erdogan. He hates Israel and has declared that Jerusalem belongs to Islam and not to Israel! Today the Turkish army is on the Syrian border. If President Erdogan leads Turkey into Syria and then turns south into Israel then the end time “Assyrian” invasions have begun!
God called the future invader of Israel the Assyrian because he will persecute Israel in much the same way as the Assyrian kings did in 734 BC and again in 701 BC. Remember that there were two separate Assyrian kings that led two separate invasions into Israel. There may very well also be two separate Turkish leaders who will lead two separate invasions into Israel in the future! The Turkish leader who leads the second invasion is the Antichrist!
What I am saying is that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan may in fact be the Antichrist or there may be another Turkish prime minister following him that will certainly be the Antichrist! But I am becoming more and more certain that Erdogan definitely is the Antichrist. He has claimed to be god, healed the sick, and built his palace between the seas. These are all things that the Bible says that the Antichrist will do.
The ancient Assyrian invasions may give us a clue to future events. There may be two end time Assyrians or there may only be one. We will know as events unfold. Here is one reason why I think that there may be two different primary rulers of Turkey.
Like I said before Ezekiel 38 predicts one future battle and Ezekiel 39 predicts another similar battle. I think that the battle described in Ezekiel 38 will be led by the primary governor of Turkey and may begin shortly. In this case Turkish President Erdogan would fulfill the role of the Assyrian. In Ezekiel 38 he is also known as Magog. The battle that is described in Ezekiel 39 will also be led by the primary governor of Turkey and is the same as the battle of Armageddon (Rev 16:12 – 21 and Rev 19:17-18). The battle of Armageddon happens at the end of the seven year Tribulation period. Turkish President Erdogan may again fulfill the role of the Assyrian during the battle of Armageddon or there may be another prime minister of Turkey in his place.
In Ezekiel 38 God asks “Are you the person that I have predicted would attack Israel?” So God is asking us the question.
Ezekiel 38:17 Thus saith the Lord GOD; Art thou he of whom I have spoken in old time by my servants the prophets of Israel, which prophesied in those days many years that I would bring thee against them?
In Ezekiel 39 God tells us that “Yes this is the attack that I predicted!” So God affirms that this is the battle of the end time. Remember that Ezekiel chapter 39 describes another similar but latter battle than does Ezekiel chapter 38.
Ezekiel 39:8 Behold, it is come, and it is done, saith the Lord GOD; this is the day whereof I have spoken.
Now just so that we all have a better understanding of who the Assyrian is in Bible prophecy let’s look at Isaiah chapter 10. Remember that these verses apply to an ancient Assyrian invasion into Israel as well as another still future invasion. It is important to note that these verses apply to the Assyrian invasion of 701 BC led by the Assyrian king named Sennacherib. These verses also apply to the battle of Armageddon which happens at the end of the seven year Tribulation period. Both of these battles are the second battle of their day that is led by the Assyrian.
Isaiah 10:1 Woe unto them that decree unrighteous decrees, and that write grievousness which they have prescribed;2To turn aside the needy from judgment, and to take away the right from the poor of my people, that widows may be their prey, and that they may rob the fatherless!
The verses above describe the Israeli leadership of the day. In the future a wicked Israeli leader will come to power. He is called “The Idol Shepherd” in Zechariah 11:16-17. I know that most people think that the Idol shepherd is the same as the Antichrist but he isn’t. The Idol shepherd will be an Israeli leader who will not take care of his people. Read my commentary titled “Woe to the Idol Shepherd” in my eBook “Israel’s Beacon of Hope”.
Isaiah 10:3 And what will ye do in the day of visitation, and in the desolation which shall come from far? to whom will ye flee for help? and where will ye leave your glory?
The wicked leadership of Israel will be overrun by the armies of its enemies. They have despised God’s authority and will have nowhere to turn during the time of their terrible distress. Just a note: there will be several secondary idol shepherds ruling in Israel during the Tribulation (Eze 34:2-8). Please read my commentary titled “Who is a Shepherd” in my eBook “Israel’s Beacon of Hope”.
Isaiah 10:4 Without me they shall bow down under the prisoners, and they shall fall under the slain. For all this his anger is not turned away, but his hand is stretched out still. 5O Assyrian, the rod of mine anger, and the staff in their hand is mine indignation.
Israel’s rulers will be killed in the invasion. Notice that prisoners will also be taken. Israel will hope that the invasion will fall short but the armies of Israel’s enemies will persist. God will again use the Assyrian as a tool to judge the nation of Israel.
Isaiah 10:6I will send him against an hypocritical nation, and against the people of my wrath will I give him a charge, to take the spoil, and to take the prey, and to tread them down like the mire of the streets.
The hypocritical nation described in the passage above is Israel. At that time Israel will be again practicing temple sacrifice but their hearts will be far from God. Their leaders will oppress the poor.
Isaiah 10:7 Howbeit he meaneth not so, neither doth his heart think so; but it is in his heart to destroy and cut off nations not a few. 8 For he saith, Are not my princes altogether kings? 9 Is not Calno as Carchemish? is not Hamath as Arpad? is not Samaria as Damascus? 10 As my hand hath found the kingdoms of the idols, and whose graven images did excel them of Jerusalem and of Samaria; 11 Shall I not, as I have done unto Samaria and her idols, so do to Jerusalem and her idols?
Assyrian King Sennacherib is speaking here. So is the future invader of Israel. He is recalling previous victories over Syria and northern Israel. The city of Calno is near Aleppo, Syria’s largest city. Carchemish is on the northeastern Syrian border. Hamath is between Aleppo and Damascus. Arpad is just north of Aleppo. As you know Damascus is the capital city of Syria and is located near Syria’s southern border near Israel. Samaria is in the northern half of Israel. All of these cities still exist today. All of these cities were conquered by the Assyrian King Tiglath-pileser in 734 BC. All of these cities will be conquered by the Assyrian that is still to come. So if Turkish Prime Minister Erdogan leads an invasion into Syria, destroys Damascus, and then invades Israel we are half way to Armageddon. Perhaps then you can get your pastor to read this commentary!
Please notice in verse 11 that this invader has yet to conquer Jerusalem. But he is boasting that he is about to overthrow Jerusalem.
Isaiah 10:12 Wherefore it shall come to pass, that when the Lord hath performed his whole work upon mount Zion and on Jerusalem, I will punish the fruit of the stout heart of the king of Assyria, and the glory of his high looks.
God will complete his judgment of Israel. God allowed Assyrian King Sennacherib to get just outside of Jerusalem but didn’t allow Sennacherib to destroy the city (Isa 37:36). In the future, the same scenario will take place. Just as it looks like all is lost for the last remaining Jews in Jerusalem Jesus Christ himself will return with great vengeance on Israel’s enemies! In the end God will punish the invader of Israel. Please read my eBook “Israel’s Beacon of Hope”.
Isaiah 10:13 For he saith, By the strength of my hand I have done it, and by my wisdom; for I am prudent: and I have removed the bounds of the people, and have robbed their treasures, and I have put down the inhabitants like a valiant man: 14 And my hand hath found as a nest the riches of the people: and as one gathereth eggs that are left, have I gathered all the earth; and there was none that moved the wing, or opened the mouth, or peeped.
The Assyrian will say that he has conquered Israel by his own hand. God will remind him that he was successful only as an instrument in God’s hand.
Isaiah 10:15 Shall the axe boast itself against him that heweth therewith? or shall the saw magnify itself against him that shaketh it? as if the rod should shake itself against them that lift it up, or as if the staff should lift up itself, as if it were no wood.
Shall a man say that he is greater than God? God uses men to do as he wishes.
Isaiah 10:16 Therefore shall the Lord, the Lord of hosts, send among his fat ones leanness; and under his glory he shall kindle a burning like the burning of a fire. 17 And the light of Israel shall be for a fire, and his Holy One for a flame: and it shall burn and devour his thorns and his briers in one day; 18 And shall consume the glory of his forest, and of his fruitful field, both soul and body: and they shall be as when a standardbearer fainteth. 19 And the rest of the trees of his forest shall be few, that a child may write them.
In the verses above, Jesus Christ will destroy the kingdom of the Assyrian (aka the Antichrist) at his second coming. The fire of Israel is Jesus Christ’s everlasting rule on earth. Christ’s earthly kingdom centered in Jerusalem will consume the final gentile world empire like a fire. Earthly kingdoms will now all come under the authority of God.
Isaiah 10:20 And it shall come to pass in that day, that the remnant of Israel, and such as are escaped of the house of Jacob, shall no more again stay upon him that smote them; but shall stay upon the LORD, the Holy One of Israel, in truth.
At last the Jews will be free from world oppression and persecution and will finally be faithful to their God!
Isaiah 10:21 The remnant shall return, even the remnant of Jacob, unto the mighty God. 22 For though thy people Israel be as the sand of the sea, yet a remnant of them shall return: the consumption decreed shall overflow with righteousness.
The Jews will return to Israel. During the Tribulation period many Jews will take refuge in Jordan and many others will also be taken captive into different countries. After Jesus destroys the Assyrian at his coming the surviving Jews will return to Israel along with all faithful Old Testament Jews (including Isaiah) who will be resurrected from the dead at that time (Dan 12:13)! Please read “Aliyah Israel Arise Return” in my eBook “Israel’s Beacon of Hope”.
God has determined to apply a certain amount of judgment upon Israel (Dan 9:24). It will one day be completed and then replaced with righteousness and justice. God’s predetermined judgment is called the consumption here in Isaiah.
The Tribulation period is not only designated for Israel’s judgment. But there is a terrible time of God’s judgment coming upon the entire world as well!
Isa 28:22 Now therefore be ye not mockers, lest your bands be made strong: for I have heard from the Lord GOD of hosts a consumption, even determined upon the whole earth.
Isaiah 10:23 For the Lord GOD of hosts shall make a consumption, even determined, in the midst of all the land. 24 Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD of hosts, O my people that dwellest in Zion, be not afraid of the Assyrian: he shall smite thee with a rod, and shall lift up his staff against thee, after the manner of Egypt. 25 For yet a very little while, and the indignation shall cease, and mine anger in their destruction.
God will allow Israel’s time of trouble to last only for a short time.
Isaiah 10:26 And the LORD of hosts shall stir up a scourge for him according to the slaughter of Midian at the rock of Oreb: and as his rod was upon the sea, so shall he lift it up after the manner of Egypt. 27 And it shall come to pass in that day, that his burden shall be taken away from off thy shoulder, and his yoke from off thy neck, and the yoke shall be destroyed because of the anointing.
Just as God delivered the Jews from the Egyptians during the Exodus, God will deliver Israel from the Assyrian.
Isaiah 10:28 He is come to Aiath, he is passed to Migron; at Michmash he hath laid up his carriages: 29 They are gone over the passage: they have taken up their lodging at Geba; Ramah is afraid; Gibeah of Saul is fled. 30 Lift up thy voice, O daughter of Gallim: cause it to be heard unto Laish, O poor Anathoth. 31 Madmenah is removed; the inhabitants of Gebim gather themselves to flee.
The passage above maps out the route that the Assyrian will take on his way to attack Jerusalem. All of these towns are north of Jerusalem. The Assyrian is approaching Jerusalem from the north. He is moving closer and closer town by town. Assyrian King Sennacherib took this route on his way to destroy Jerusalem in 701 BC. In the future invasion of Israel the Antichrist may very well take this same route.
Isaiah 10:32 As yet shall he remain at Nob that day: he shall shake his hand against the mount of the daughter of Zion, the hill of Jerusalem.
Nob is north of the Mount of Olives just outside the city limits of Jerusalem. Assyrian King Sennacherib camped out there with his armies the night before he was to attack Jerusalem. Overnight, God wiped out his army while they slept (Isaiah 37:36). I suspect that a very similar scenario will occur when Jesus returns to defend Israel.
Psa 30:5 For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.
Isaiah 10:33 Behold, the Lord, the LORD of hosts, shall lop the bough with terror: and the high ones of stature shall be hewn down, and the haughty shall be humbled. 34 And he shall cut down the thickets of the forest with iron, and Lebanon shall fall by a mighty one.
In Bible prophecy a tree with over spreading boughs is often used to describe a large kingdom or empire. Lebanon was known for its large cedar trees. So the actual country of Lebanon isn’t pictured here, but instead the final gentile world empire that will exist during the time of the Tribulation period. Jesus will return and cut down the final gentile world empire!
That is the end of Isaiah chapter 10 but please notice the first verse of Isaiah chapter 11 below.
Isaiah 11:1 And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots:
A rod is the scepter of a ruling king. Jesse was King David’s father. A branch is a descendant. So a descendant of King David will rule on earth. Isaiah is proclaiming that after the time of Israel’s trouble Jesus Christ will come to earth to rule forever.
So the Assyrian is the Antichrist. The ruler of Turkey will invade Syria and then Israel just like the Assyrian of old did. Therefore an end time ruler of Turkey is the Antichrist!
The Turkish army is amassed along the Syrian border today. If Turkey attacks Syria it may then turn south to invade Israel. If these things happen then we are all half way to Armageddon.
It is High Time to Awake!
Read about the coming Turkish led invasion into Israel in my book Turkey invades Israel Halfway to Armageddon
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Jerusalem’s great Tribulation will last for three and one half years
Jerusalem’s great Tribulation will last for three and one half years
Jerusalem will be under siege for three and one half years
By Craig C. White
When the residents of Judea see the abomination of desolation standing in the Holy place they are instructed to flee to the wilderness. This begins Jerusalem’s great Tribulation.
Mat 24:15-21 15 When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:) 16 Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains: 17 Let him which is on the housetop not come down to take any thing out of his house: 18 Neither let him which is in the field return back to take his clothes. 19 And woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days! 20 But pray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the sabbath day: 21 For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.
These verses describe the second half of the seven year long Tribulation period. Previous to this Israel will have suffered through three and one half years of the beginning of sorrows. Jerusalem’s great Tribulation will last for three and one half years. It will begin in the middle of the seven year long Tribulation period. The following verses tell us how long Jerusalem will be under siege.
Dan 12:7 And I heard the man clothed in linen, which was upon the waters of the river, when he held up his right hand and his left hand unto heaven, and sware by him that liveth for ever that it shall be for a time, times, and an half; and when he shall have accomplished to scatter the power of the holy people, all these things shall be finished.
Rev 12:14 And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent.
Rev 11:2 But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months.
Rev 13:5 And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months.
Jerusalem’s great tribulation will happen during the middle of the seven year long Tribulation period. When will the Tribulation period begin? The Apostle Paul tells us that the Antichrist must sit in the temple of God before the Tribulation can begin.
2Thessalonians 2:4 Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.
Most people assume that this must refer to a future temple in Jerusalem but I am here to tell you that the Antichrist has already sat in the temple of God. On July 24th 2020 Turkish President Erdogan sat in the Hagia Sophia Cathedral in Istanbul Turkey and proclaimed superiority over God the father and God the son. This event fulfills 2 Thessalonians 2:4. The Antichrist has already sat in the temple of God. The Tribulation can begin now at any time.
Watch my video: Erdogan revealed as Antichrist at Hagia Sophia – video
Read my book: Jesus will fight on the Golan Heights
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Sitting in the temple of God
Sitting in the temple of God
Erdogan just sat in the Hagia Sophia exalting himself above the Christian God
By Craig C. White
On Friday July 24, 2020 Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan led Islamic prayers in the Hagia Sofia Cathedral. There are several things wrong with this; mainly that the Bible says that the Antichrist will be revealed by sitting in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God. Last Friday Erdogan sat in the Hagia Sophia exalting himself above the Christian God.
The Hagia Sophia Cathedral was built as a church in the 3th century. It was later expanded and served as the patriarchal Cathedral of Greek Orthodox Christianity in the 6th century. In 1453 the Hagia Sophia has converted into a mosque under the Ottoman Empire. After the fall of the Ottoman Empire the Hagia Sophia was converted into a museum under Kemel Ataturk in 1934. On Friday July 24th Turkey held opening prayers in the Hagia Sophia officially turning it back into a mosque.
Turkish President Erdogan led the first Islamic prayers in the newly converted Cathedral. There is something wrong with this. Only an Imam is allowed to lead Islamic prayers. Erdogan is not an Imam. The Turks are ascribing Holy status to their President. In the height of arrogance Erdogan said “Now this place has returned to its original form,”. This statement is not at all true but from Erdogan’s perspective the world began with the Ottoman Empire. Please notice that Erdogan dedicated the Hagia Sophia to the Ottoman Empire and not to Islam. The Bible says that the Antichrist will honor the God of conquest and will not necessarily honor the God of his fathers. There is a distinction to be made here.
Daniel 11:38 But in his estate shall he honour the God of forces: and a god whom his fathers knew not shall he honour with gold, and silver, and with precious stones, and pleasant things.
After President Erdogan opened by reading from the Quran, Turkey’s top Imam Ali Erbas climbed up into the pulpit while holding an Ottoman sword and said “The longing of our nation that had become a deep wound is over,”. The Bible identifies the world empire that will oppress Israel during the Tribulation as having a wounded head and then it’s head was healed. Could it be that Imam Ali Erbas understands the scripture better than most Christians?
Revelation 13:1-3 And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy. 2 And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority. 3 And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast.
The Hagia Sophia Cathedral was converted into a mosque during the reign of the Ottoman Empire. The conversion of the Hagia Sophia back into a mosque indicates the return of the Ottoman Empire.
2Thessalonians tells us that two events must happen before the Tribulation begins. They are the falling of Satan from heaven to earth and the revealing of the Antichrist as he sits in the temple of God showing himself that he is God.
2Thessalonians 2:3-4 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; 4 Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.
Turkish President Erdogan sat on the floor of the Hagia Sophia exalting himself above the Christian God. Erdogan has already fulfilled several other Bible prophecies that identify him as being the Antichrist.
According to 2Thessalonians 2:3 we should expect Satan to be cast out of heaven before the Antichrist sits in the temple of God. The Bible describes Satan’s fall as a bright light and also as having a tail. We should expect to see a bright light falling to earth as Satan is cast from heaven. Strangely enough the world also saw one of the brightest comets ever streak across the sky at the same time that Turkish President Erdogan was sitting in the Hagia Sophia thumbing his nose at the Christian God. God has feelings and comets have tails.
On July 24th 2020 Turkish President Erdogan literally sat on the floor in the Hagia Sophia Cathedral in Istanbul Turkey proclaiming that he was greater than the Christian God. Later he placed a banner over the ancient Christian Church that read “God has no son”. How much more Antichristy can you get?
1Jn 2:22 Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son.
I can’t deny the similarities of these events as compared to 2Thessalonians 2:3-4. I am unsettled understanding that we have just witnessed the official revealing of the Antichrist.
It’s High Time to read one of my first commentaries titled The Fall of Satan and Rise of the Antichrist
Read my commentary titled Revelation 13 wounded
Read this article on The Guardian: Erdoğan leads first prayers at Hagia Sophia museum reverted to mosque
Read this article on Orthodox Times: Top Imam Ali Erbaş climbed up staircase of Hagia Sophia’s pulpit with Ottoman sword
Read my first book The Fall of Satan and Rise of the Antichrist
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Branch of David
Branch of David
Photo credit: epSos.de
Nazarene is Netzerite
Acts 24:5
By Craig C. White
The Branch of David is a term used in the Old Testament to describe a decedent of King David. The Branch of David was also a popular concept in New Testament times. Even Roman governors understood that Jesus was the Branch of David. In Acts chapter 24 the Jewish religious leaders brought the apostle Paul to court in front of Felix the governor in Caesarea on the Mediterranean coast of Israel. A man named Tertullus was the spokesperson for Ananias the high priest. Tertullus accused Paul of being “of the sect of the Nazarenes”.
Act 24:5 For we have found this man a pestilent fellow, and a mover of sedition among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes:
The word translated “Nazarene” should rather be translated “Netzerite”. Netzer is a Hebrew word meaning descendant or branch. Netzerite means “people of the branch”.
According to Strong’s Hebrew and Greek Dictionaries “Netzer” is defined as:
nêtser
nay’-tser
a shoot; figuratively, a descendant: – branch.BRANCH is a prophetic name for the messiah. God promised that he would raise a descendant of King David to be ruler in Jerusalem over all the earth. So the messiah is the BRANCH of David.
Isa 11:1 And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots:
Jer 23:5 Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth.
Zec 3:8 Hear now, O Joshua the high priest, thou, and thy fellows that sit before thee: for they are men wondered at: for, behold, I will bring forth my servant the BRANCH.
Zec 6:12 And speak unto him, saying, Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, Behold the man whose name is The BRANCH; and he shall grow up out of his place, and he shall build the temple of the LORD:
Jesus was the descendant or BRANCH of David. So when the apostle Paul was called a Netzerite in Acts 24:5 he was being called a follower of David’s descendant!
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mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}Here is another verse where the word Nazarene actually means Netzerite or Branch.
Matthew 2:23 And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene.
According to Matthew several Old Testament prophets said that the Messiah would be called a Nazarene. Problem is that nowhere in the Old Testament does it say that the Messiah will live in Nazareth. However several Old Testament prophets do say that he will be called THE BRANCH or netzer.
As you can see from the Hebrew spelling these two words are very similar. You read Hebrew right to left.
Nazareth – נָצְרַת, pronounced Natz’rat
Netzer – נֵ֫צֶר, pronounced ne·ṣerNetzer meaning branch is the root word of Nazareth. By living in Nazareth Jesus was called a Nazarene or branch, thus fulfilling the prophecy given by the prophets Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Zechariah (above) that he would be called THE BRANCH.
Read Jesus Claimed to be God in my book God’s Great Expectations
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The sign of Jonah
The sign of Jonah
The destruction of Mosul may be Israel’s last sign that Jesus is their God
By Craig C. White
The ancient city of Nineveh was known for its bloodshed and cruelty. Back around 800 BC God sent the Prophet Jonah to the city of Nineveh with a message, “Repent of your evil ways or the city would be destroyed in forty days!” That generation repented but it seems that this generation doesn’t want the chance.
Jonah 3:4 And Jonah began to enter into the city a day’s journey, and he cried, and said, Yet forty days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown.
Today the ruins of Nineveh lie within the city limits of Mosul, Iraq. Mosul in the Nineveh Province is the home town of the Al-Qaeda terrorist group known as ISIS. Since June 10th, 2014 ISIS in Mosul has been behaving in the same way as the ancient Ninevites. They have committed horrific atrocities against their fellow countrymen in the Nineveh province of northern Iraq.
On July 24th 2014 ISIS blew up the shrine to Jonah in Nineveh.
In Jonah’s day the city of Nineveh repented however God finally judged the city in 612 BC. The Prophet Nahum foretells the destruction of Nineveh. The city was flooded by the Tigris River and was then besieged by three nations. Babylon, Persia, and the Medes plundered Nineveh for two months leveling the city. Today the same three nations are fighting against ISIS in Mosul. They are Iraq, Iran, and the Kurds. Perhaps God will send another flood along with these three armies to once again overwhelm Mosul at Nineveh!
Nahum 1:8 But with an overrunning flood he will make an utter end of the place thereof, and darkness shall pursue his enemies.
Conditions in Mosul are the same as they were in ancient Nineveh. There is overflowing bloodshed. The Mosul dam is in danger of bursting. The same three armies are set against it. Nahum likely also foretells the destruction of Mosul.
Nahum 3:1-3 Woe to the bloody city! it is all full of lies and robbery; the prey departeth not; 2 The noise of a whip, and the noise of the rattling of the wheels, and of the pransing horses, and of the jumping chariots. 3 The horseman lifteth up both the bright sword and the glittering spear: and there is a multitude of slain, and a great number of carcases; and there is none end of their corpses; they stumble upon their corpses:
God spared the city of Nineveh in Jonah’s’ day. Jonah was upset because the people of Nineveh repented and escaped God’s punishment. God reminded Jonah that many innocent lives would be lost during the destruction of Nineveh. I suppose that most of us today would be happy to see ISIS in Mosul wiped out. In the book of Jonah God reminds us of the human tragedy his judgment brings. Moral of the story; repent while you still can!
Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Folks wanted proof that Jesus was God so they demanded a sign. Jesus gave them the sign of Jonah. Just as Jonah was inside of the fish for three days Jesus also rose from the grave in three days. But there may be more to the sign of Jonah. Long before the Mosul dam was ever built Bible scholars have wondered if the preaching of Jonah was also a part of the sign. The grammar of Mathew 12:39-41 leads some Bible scholars to think that the subject of Jesus’s comment was the preaching of Jonah.
Matthew 12:38-41 Then certain of the scribes and of the Pharisees answered, saying, Master, we would see a sign from thee. 39 But he answered and said unto them, An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas: 40 For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale’s belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. 41 The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: because they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here.
The Greek word translated as “sign” means miracle or supernatural wonder. Notice in verse 41 that the men of Nineveh repented at the preaching of Jonah. They did not repent at the miracle of surviving in a large fish for three days.
The unbelieving religious rulers in Jerusalem demanded a sign from Jesus. Jesus told them that they would not be be given a sign except for the sign of Jonah. Jonah was sent to ancient Nineveh to tell them to repent because God’s judgment was coming on the city. The destruction of Mosul could be the end time sign to Israel that Jesus is truly their God and that their time of trouble is at hand.
Jesus said that an evil generation desires to be shown a sign. We should already know and honor God because it is evident that he has created all things and also because has given us his word. We should not require a sign in order to motivate us to repent from our unbelief and rebellion. Nevertheless Jesus gave his generation the sign of Jonah.
Perhaps this generation will repent at the preaching of Jonah when Mosul is flooded! If Israel repents at the preaching of Jonah then they will narrowly escape God’s coming judgement on the city of Jerusalem and on the nation of Israel.
Jesus said that even the men of ancient Nineveh will rise from the dead and condemn his generation for its unbelief. It seems to me that this generation is about to witness another sign of Jonah. ISIS in the city of Mosul rejected Jonah’s offer of repentance by blowing up Jonah’s shrine. A terrible time of God’s judgment is coming upon Israel and also upon all of the earth. Only by repentance from unbelief can we escape it.
I suspect that the Prophet Nahum describes the fall of ancient Nineveh as well as the demise of modern day Mosul. I think that Mosul will fall soon by a flood and by the same three armies that wiped out Nineveh.
Since I wrote this I have learned that the dam just north of Mosul is very unstable and requires continuous maintenance. The capture of the dam by ISIS and the recapture of the dam by the Kurds has disrupted its maintenance schedule. In 2007 the Army Corp of Engineers declared it the most dangerous dam in the world. If Mosul falls I will count back forty days to see what significant event may have happened on that day.
Speaking of significant events, It could be that Jesus will destroy Mosul with a flood of water forty days after he returns for the Rapture. The book of Nahum describes the same route that Jonah took to Nineveh. Jesus may return to the Golan Heights in a whirlwind of fire and then make his way to Mosul.
Read about ISIS in Bible prophecy in my book The End of ISIS is near!
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The Jews should appreciate how good they had it under the Ottoman Empire
The Jews should appreciate how good they had it under the Ottoman Empire
It is High Time to recognize that Turkish President Erdogan is the Antichrist
By Craig C. White
Convincing Christians that Turkish President Erdogan is the Antichrist is like watching a glacier melt; except it’s much slower. I told you about Erdogan nine years ago and only now am I seeing some Christians beginning to consider the possibility that Erdogan is the Antichrist. Even now they still can’t grasp it.
Erdogan is the Antichrist. Not only does he intend to revive the Turkish ruled Ottoman Empire but he has threatened to conquer Jerusalem for Islam. Both of these things are foretold in the Bible. Erdogan is the “chief prince” or primary governor among the provinces of Turkey mentioned in Ezekiel 38:1-3. According to Ezekiel he will lead the Islamic nations into Israel. According to Daniel 11:40 the Antichrist will invade Egypt by “many ships”. Turkey has begun building a large naval personnel carrier. Erdogan has vowed to reinstate Muslim Brotherhood leadership back into power in Egypt. Jeremiah 49:23-27 describes an invasion into northwestern Syria at Hamah and Tell Rifaat. The Turkish Army is gathered against Hamah and Tell Rifaat right now. According to Jeremiah after Hamah and Tell Rifaat hear reports of a coming invasion then the residents of Damascus will flee and Damascus will be destroyed. There is yet more evidence that Turkish President Erdogan is the Antichrist.
In response to riots on the Temple Mount Turkish President Erdogan said that “Palestine’s problems began with the fall of the Ottoman Empire.” So Erdogan’s prescribed solution to the Israeli and Palestinian problem is for Turkey to once again rule over Israel. I am here to tell you that Erdogan will get his wish.
Turkey’s Foreign Ministry spokesman said, “The Jews should appreciate how good they had it under the Ottoman Empire”. He said that life was better for the Jews before the Jewish state. So the idea of Turkish rule over Israel is now being openly promoted.
Turkish President Erdogan wants to reestablish the Turkish ruled Ottoman Empire. This is the head that was wounded and healed in Revelation 13:3. The head represents the last world empire that was defeated but then revived during the end time.
Revelation 13:3 And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast.
The revived Ottoman Empire is the end time world empire that will sorely oppress Israel. Turkish President Erdogan is the Antichrist.
Read these articles on the Jerusalem Post: Turkey says Jews should appreciate the Ottoman Empire
Israel to Erdogan after Jerusalem tirade: Days of Ottoman Empire are over
Read my commentary titled Erdogan is the Antichrist
Read my book Presenting the Antichrist and False Prophet
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Dual left wing Prime Ministers may be coming to Israel
Dual left wing Prime Ministers may be coming to Israel
God is raising a rotten ruler in Israel
By Craig C. White
May 30, 2021 Israel: These may be the last days of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Israel has a parliamentary system of government. Several political parties must combine to form a majority government. There is an unprecedented effort from left wing parties to combine in order to oust Netanyahu. This would require the participation of the Palestinian parties know as the joint list. Naftali Bennett chairman of the Yamina party is expected to agree this week to form a majority government with Yair Lapid the chairman of the Yesh Atid party. Naftali Bennett is expected to form a left-wing government with the Lapid, Meretz, and Labor Party and the Joint List. Apparently Bennet and Lapid would serve as rotating Prime Ministers.
The election circumstances in Israel are ever changing, so almost anything could still happen. But if a new left wing government is formed in Israel with significant influence from the Palestinian parties then this will open the way for Israel’s two state solution. Palestine will have its capital inside of Jerusalem. Zechariah tells us that God will raise up a rotten ruler in Israel during the last days. This Idol Shepherd will give away the sovereignty of his nation for his own personal gain. He will disarm the military and he will not take care of his suffering citizens. Interestingly Zechariah seems to describe two leaders, one rotten and another who tries to do the right thing but is ignored.
We are in the end times. Don’t wait to see Israel’s Idol Shepherd. Turkish President Erdogan was officially revealed as the Antichrist on July 24th 2020 when he sat in the Hagia Sophia Cathedral in Istanbul Turkey exalting himself above all of Christendom. According to 2Thessalonians 2:4 this is how the Antichrist will be revealed. The Tribulation can now begin. One way or another Israel will receive its Idol Shepherd.
Image credit: oren neu dag
Woe to the Idol Shepherd
Rotten, good for nothing, worthless shepherd
Zechariah 11:16-17
By Craig C. White
What is an Idol Shepherd? Well a shepherd is someone who tends to a flock. A shepherd can also tend people. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has proven that he is a faithful and strong shepherd. Thank God for him. He is diligent to serve his land and people. He is conscientious to beware of Israel’s enemies. He is attentive to the safety and welfare of the Israeli people. Today Israel is blessed with an upright shepherd.
An Idol Shepherd is a leader who does not care for his people. One day God will raise up a wicked leader in Israel who will hand over his people for profit. Don’t think that I am talking about the Antichrist. I am not. I am talking about a Jewish Israeli leader who will be in office during the great tribulation.
Zec 11:16 For, lo, I will raise up a shepherd in the land, which shall not visit those that be cut off, neither shall seek the young one, nor heal that that is broken, nor feed that that standeth still: but he shall eat the flesh of the fat, and tear their claws in pieces.
God himself will raise this shepherd to serve his purpose of judging Israel during the final seven years of indignation spoken of by the prophet Daniel (Dan 9:24). The wicked shepherd will not care for the children who wander the streets having lost their parents. He will not help those whose lives have been broken. The phrase nor feed that that standeth still means he will not support those who are standing for what is right. The shepherd will not do what is right. He will do the opposite. He will greedily consume the wealth of Israel for himself. He will tear apart all those who reach out for help.
Zec 11:17 Woe to the idol shepherd that leaveth the flock! the sword shall be upon his arm, and upon his right eye: his arm shall be clean dried up, and his right eye shall be utterly darkened.
God decrees misfortune upon the Idol Shepherd. The word leaveth means to forsake. The Idol Shepherd forsakes the administration of the health, safety, security and welfare of the Israeli people. God calls him the idol shepherd. Today we would literally say “rotten, good for nothing, worthless shepherd”. In the phrase the sword shall be upon his arm the word sword refers to a drought, also a cutting instrument. The word arm refers to the arm (as stretched out), it signifies force, mighty power, and strength. This verse is declaring God’s judgment upon the unfaithful leader of Israel. This could be applied to his personal judgment or possibly judgment to Israel under his tending. This could mean that the Israeli military will be cut. The idol shepherd will be powerless against Israel’s enemies. The sword will also be upon his right eye. The word right refers to your strong side. The word eye refers to sight. This may mean that his vision to do right will be darkened. Because of the context I think this may mean that a strong leader (the shepherd’s right hand man) will be cut off. Let me suggest that a wicked Israeli president may get rid of his Prime Minister who sees the needs of the people. Of course there may be a different meaning.
Zechariah further describes the condition of the arm and the eye. The phrase his arm shall be clean dried up again probably means that the Israeli military will be ashamed, confused, confounded, dried up, and withered away to nothing. The phrase his right eye shall be utterly darkened may mean that the shepherd is completely blind to what is right, or that the shepherd’s decent right hand man is completely restrained.
The idol shepherd is spoken of throughout Zechariah chapters 10 & 11, and recapped in Zechariah 13:7.
Zec 11:5 Whose possessors slay them, and hold themselves not guilty: and they that sell them say, Blessed be the LORD; for I am rich: and their own shepherds pity them not.
During “the Great Tribulation” the Israeli people will be bought and sold as slaves.
Amos 8:6 That we may buy the poor for silver, and the needy for a pair of shoes; yea, and sell the refuse of the wheat?
Joel 3:3 And they have cast lots for my people; and have given a boy for an harlot, and sold a girl for wine, that they might drink.
Joel 3:6 The children also of Judah and the children of Jerusalem have ye sold unto the Grecians, that ye might remove them far from their border.
Those who own them will kill them. The slave merchants will say, “Blessed be the Hebrew God because I have become rich selling the Israeli people; and their own leaders don’t care about them”.
Zec 13:7 Awake, O sword, against my shepherd, and against the man that is my fellow, saith the LORD of hosts: smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered: and I will turn mine hand upon the little ones.
Many prophetic Bible verses signify two distinct events, usually separated by time. This is one of them. Here the phrase My fellow tells us that the idol shepherd is a Hebrew. God smites the idol shepherd and the Israeli people are dispersed out of their land.
In another meaning, this verse also tells us that the shepherd is God’s companion. That is “another of the same kind”. In this application my shepherd and my fellow refer to Jesus Christ. The word man here means valiant man. Zechariah is prophesying the death of Christ and the scattering of his disciples.
We all wonder how the world is going to impose their “peace plan” on Israel. It seems that Israel will not relent to their un-survivable terms. Well, there is an Israeli leader coming who will not look out for the welfare of his land or his people.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli President Shimon Peres are faithful shepherds. Both men hold the deepest love for their country. There is a growing global movement to replace the Israeli leaders. This coo extends inside the Israeli government. The opposition wants to install a vain leader who will bow to world dictate, especially concerning creating a Palestinian State inside of Israel. Opposition Leader Ms. Tzipi Livni has rudely blasphemed Netanyahu. She is leading protests against his leadership and is calling for his replacement. The world is greedily clamoring for Israel’s rotten shepherd. All signs point to a soon coming of Jesus Christ to gather his church.
The idol shepherd is a Jewish Israeli leader.
Read “Woe to the Idol Shepherd” in my book Israel’s Beacon of Hope
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The last Jews in Jerusalem
The last Jews in Jerusalem
Don’t Run!
By Craig C. White
There will be a very special group of people on earth during Jerusalem’s Great Tribulation. They are the last Jews in Jerusalem. Their numbers are few. They may reach into the hundreds perhaps a few thousand. They will suffer. They will survive! They will be at the center of God’s attention. They will be at the center of the world’s frustration. They will be the last hope to every Jewish heart that God may yet restore Israel back to his chosen people. When Christ returns they will be a sign to every Jew in every place that salvation is wrought in Israel!
These people are probably living today. Perhaps one of them is reading this. If so then there is one thing that I want to tell you, “DON’T RUN!” Anyone who tries to flee Jerusalem will be captured. Wait for your redeemer in Jerusalem!!!
Isa 30:15 For thus saith the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and rest shall ye be saved
There is a terrible time of judgment and suffering coming upon the land of Israel; more terrible than the destruction of Jerusalem by the Romans in 70 A.D., more terrible than the holocaust. The Tribulation begins in the whole land of Israel, it becomes Great Tribulation in the city of Jerusalem, and then culminates on Mount Zion. Two thirds of the people in all the land of Israel will die (Zec 13:8). Then half of the people in Jerusalem will be taken captive (Zec 14:2). Anyone who tries to flee Jerusalem will be captured (Isa 30:16). Then the residue of the city will huddle together on mount Zion (which is the hill south of the temple mount called the hill of Ophel or the “City of David”) in Jerusalem and wait for their redeemer.
This is the story of the last Jews in Jerusalem. During the tribulation a small band of Jews will be hold-up on Mount Zion. The armies of their enemies will flood into the city. As they pray for deliverance they will look up and behold their God!
Very interesting to read and hard to stop. – Alexandria
Read my commentary The last Jews in Jerusalem in my book Israel’s Beacon of Hopefacebook YouTube
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Identifying the Antichrist – Dr. Lisa Helton speaks with Craig C. White
Identifying the Antichrist
Dr. Lisa Helton speaks with Craig C. White
click to watch video on YouTube
- The Hagia Sophia Cathedral in Istanbul Turkey is the “temple of God” in 2Thessalonians 2:4.
- Turkish President Erdogan was officially revealed as the Antichrist by sitting in the Hagia Sophia exalting himself above God.
- The head wound of the Ottoman Empire is being healed.
- A revived Ottoman Empire is the end time World Empire that will oppress Israel.
- Turkey is ready to attack northwestern Syria and destroy Damascus.
- Erdogan is the little horn who will become ruler of the next world empire.
- The mark of the beast is the Islamic head band and arm band that says “in the name of Allah”.
- The Rapture will happen when Jesus returns to the Golan Heights to stop a Turkish led invasion into Israel.
- The Ezekiel chapter 38 Turkish led invasion into Israel is a separate battle than the Ezekiel chapter 39 Turkish led invasion into Israel.
Read my commentary titled You don’t set up a person who is sitting
Read my latest book Jesus will fight on the Golan Heights
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The Holy Spirit in us is our assurance of salvation
The Holy Spirit in us is our assurance of salvation
and also of resurrection and new life!
By Craig C. White
When we believe and submit ourselves to God then he gives each heart the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit in us is our promise (engagement ring) that we will be raised to everlasting life. The Holy Spirit in us is our assurance that we are saved. The Holy Spirit does a few things while it is in our hearts. It convicts us of sin. The Holy Spirit helps us to understand the Bible when we read it or hear it. The Holy Spirit also communicates God’s prayers to us so that we can pray in agreement. I have the Holy Spirit in my heart so I am certain that I am saved!
Ephesians 1:13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
The Bible says that when we are saved God places his seal on us in order to identify us as belonging to him, and also to preserve us so that we are guaranteed to receive future promises.
Here is the definition of the word “sealed” in Ephesians 1:13.
sfrag-id’-zo
From G4973; to stamp (with a signet or private mark) for security or preservation (literally or figuratively); by implication to keep secret, to attest: – (set a, set to) seal up, stop.God’s promise is a pledge to give life more abundantly. When we receive God’s Holy Spirit we do also receive part of God’s gift. But a promise is a promise because God will completely fulfill his promise in the future.
Here is the definition of the word “promise” in Ephesians 1:13.
ep-ang-el-ee’-ah
From G1861; an announcement (for information, assent or pledge; especially a divine assurance of good): – message, promise.Ephesians 1:14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.
Here is the definition of the word “earnest” in Ephesians 1:14.
ar-hrab-ohn’
Of Hebrew origin [H6162]; a pledge, that is, part of the purchase money or property given in advance as security for the rest: – earnest.The word that is translated as “earnest” means down payment or security deposit. So the Holy Spirit inside of our hearts is our individual assurance that God will keep his promise to us. In modern Greek the word arrabona means an engagement ring. Remember that each believer receives an engagement ring when they receive the Holy Spirit. If the marriage is called off then you still get to keep the ring! But don’t worry; this engagement ring was purchased at great cost. God has assured us that the Holy Spirit will not be given in vain. The wedding will take place as planned.
God calls you and I “the purchased possession”. Here is the definition of the term “purchased possession” in Ephesians 1:14.
per-ee-poy’-ay-sis
From G4046; acquisition (the act or the thing); by extension preservation: – obtain (-ing), peculiar, purchased, possession, saving.We are purchased possessions because we have been bought with a price (1Corinthians 6:20). Jesus payed the penalty of sin which is death for us by his own death on the cross.
I am certain that I will live forever with Jesus because I have the Holy Spirit in my heart. I know that the Holy Spirit is there because I am ashamed when I sin. I also know that that the Holy Spirit is in my heart because I can understand the Bible when I read it. Believe it or not, sometimes I can even sense what the Holy Spirit is communicating with my spirit. Believe that Jesus Christ died to pay the penalty for your sins and be saved. Open your heart to God’s Holy Spirit and receive assurance of everlasting life.
Read more about our intimate relationship with God in my book God’s Great Expectations
High Time to Awake 