Pastor Has Prophetic Warning After Assault
During his sermon titled “The Road Less Traveled,” Pastor Greg Laurie of Harvest Fellowship highlighted Iran’s recent attack on Israel as a significant biblical sign. He emphasized, however, the importance of not immediately jumping to conclusions about this event leading to the scenario described in Ezekiel 38, where God’s people ultimately triumph and the nations acknowledge His authority.
Laurie’s remarks come amidst heightened tensions in the Middle East following Iran’s extensive aerial assault on Israel, involving the launch of numerous drones and missiles. Israel’s military described this as a serious escalation that could potentially escalate into a broader conflict. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards claimed the strikes were in retaliation for an earlier attack on their consulate in Damascus in April. Noting that Iran has historically acted through proxies rather than openly attacking Israel, Laurie highlighted the significance of this direct assault.
Drawing from biblical prophecy, Laurie mentioned the regathering of the Jewish people in their homeland in 1948 and the growing isolation of Israel, along with the rise in anti-Semitism, as signs of the End Times. He also referenced the prophecy of a large force from the north, identified by many scholars as Magog, possibly representing Russia. Laurie cautioned against definitive interpretations but suggested that the alliance of Persia (Iran) with Magog could be significant.
While Laurie stressed that current events may not directly lead to the scenario outlined in Ezekiel 38, he acknowledged them as a precursor to future events. He encouraged believers to trust in the Bible’s prophecies and see these developments as signs of nearing redemption rather than causing alarm.
In response to the conflict, U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres urged restraint during an emergency meeting of the U.N. Security Council. He emphasized the need for a humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza and the unhindered delivery of aid.
Despite the sophistication of Iran’s assault, with over 300 drones and missiles deployed, Israel’s defense systems intercepted 99% of the threats, demonstrating the effectiveness of its missile defense technology. While the attack resulted in minor damages and casualties, Israel’s robust defense capabilities helped mitigate the impact on the ground.