How should Christians prepare for the fulfillment of Ezekiel 38:5's prophecy? Setting the Context “Persia, Cush, and Put will accompany them, all with shields and helmets.” (Ezekiel 38:5) Recognizing the Stage Is Being Set - Scripture presents a literal coalition that will one day march against Israel (Ezekiel 38:1-6). - Current geopolitical alignments already hint at these nations’ modern counterparts drawing closer together—evidence that God’s Word is on schedule. - Jesus warned, “See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place” (Matthew 24:6). Our calling is not panic but preparedness. Rooting Our Preparation in Christ - Fix eyes on Jesus, the “author and perfecter of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2). - Understand that every prophecy ultimately magnifies His sovereignty and plan (Revelation 19:10). Practical Steps for Readiness Spiritual readiness • Daily time in the Word; Scripture is the believer’s “sword” (Ephesians 6:17). • Persistent, watchful prayer (Colossians 4:2). • Regular fellowship and mutual encouragement (Hebrews 10:24-25). Moral and doctrinal steadfastness • Guard against deception (2 Peter 3:17). • Hold to sound doctrine, “rightly handling the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). • Pursue holiness: “Be holy, because I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16). Witness and ministry • Share the gospel “in season and out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2). • Support world missions and especially evangelistic efforts among Jewish people (Romans 1:16). • Exhibit Christ’s love through practical service (Matthew 5:16). Solidarity with Israel • Pray for “the peace of Jerusalem” (Psalm 122:6). • Stand against anti-Semitism and affirm God’s everlasting covenant with Abraham’s descendants (Genesis 17:7-8). • Encourage leaders to bless Israel: “I will bless those who bless you” (Genesis 12:3). Discernment and watchfulness • Compare headlines with Scripture, not Scripture with headlines, keeping prophecy in proper balance. • Avoid date-setting; instead cultivate readiness at all times (Matthew 24:42-44). • Equip family members—especially children—with a biblical worldview. Living with Assurance - God “declares the end from the beginning” (Isaiah 46:10); nothing surprises Him. - Believers await not wrath but deliverance: “God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thessalonians 5:9). - Therefore, “encourage one another with these words” (1 Thessalonians 4:18) and stand confident that, when Ezekiel 38:5 comes to pass, the King of kings will still be on His throne. |