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WHAT IS AMERICA’S ROLE IN THE END TIMES?
One of the most common questions we hear concerning Bible prophecy is about America’s role in the end times.
- Bible does not seem to emphasize America’s role in the last days.
The Bible predicts all nations will one day be under the control of a future Antichrist and will join in war against the Lord in Armageddon (Revelation 19). Yes, even America will one day serve as one of many nations in opposition to God.
The reference in Ezekiel 38:13 to “the merchants of Tarshish, and all their young lions” may refer to western nations, including America. If so, it would fit the common response of many western nations today to oppose violence against Israel without getting involved to stop it. America as one of the nations opposing a future attack on Israel in Ezekiel 38.
The reason America is not emphasized in the end times will be due to many American Christians who will disappear at the rapture. America’s role diminished during the tribulation as many in the nation will no longer be on earth during this time.
There is no guarantee America’s strength as a world leader will remain until the tribulation. Whether before the tribulation (due to external or internal problems) or during the tribulation (due to persecution or judgment), America and many nations will significantly weaken, leaving them powerless to overcome the Antichrist’s leadership.
On the positive side, America playing a key role in connection with Israel in the last days. For example, the United States has led in the development of modern Israel and has even led in moving its embassy to Jerusalem as the capital of the nation. The recent Abraham Accords have also involved American leadership in normalizing relations between Israel and nations in the Middle East.
Though not directly mentioned, America may serve as part of helping Israel become a land of “unwalled villages” and “peaceful people” (Ezekiel 38:11) in the last days. If so, America will be part of blessing the land as described in Genesis 12:3.
Scripture’s focus on Israel and surrounding nations remains the dominant theme of the end times, but America may have an important role. Individually, we are called to live for the Lord and share him with others as we look forward to that day.
Who are Gog and Magog?
Magog is one of Noah’s grandsons (Gen. 10:2). Gog and Magog is a reference to people from the far north (Ezek. 38:1; 39:2), who are enemies of Israel. These names may symbolize those from anywhere who band together to oppose God and his people.
Some identify Gog as one or another historical figure; others think he symbolizes the leader of the forces of evil. Magog (as well as Meshech and Tubal) may refer to peoples Gog ruled rather than a geographical area (Gen. 10:2). Some see links to modern Russia, partly because they are from the far north (39:2). Others think this unlikely and point out that far is a nonspecific term. While it is true that Ezekiel used names of nations and peoples from his time, his prophecy seems to fit the end times.
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