Here are my thoughts related to Ezekiel 38 and 39 and the Gog/Magog invasion of Israel.

I do agree that where is says that Israel is “the land of un-walled villages” this is referring to the security fences and barricades. As we have seen recently, these fences can be moved or even torn down quickly as the political situation is unstable.

I do believe this invasion can and probably will happen before the rapture or at least during the start of the tribulation.   Why?

Scenario #1 – the covenant or agreement (perhaps the Oslo accord) is finally strengthened and carried out by the participants (that means confirmed). Remember; the old, original agreement was not fulfilled by the Palestinians. They did not live up to their side of the bargain. This new one will not be a fickle agreement-something occurs that makes everyone believe this is real, genuine peace agreements. The peace plan is carried out by both sides (to a believable extent). Israel begins to tear down its security fences and continue its withdrawal from so-called “occupied” territory. When Israel is most vulnerable, an attack is taken against it. Remember, the attack is so massive and Israel so unprepared, that the Lord must intervene on Israel’s behalf to save it from annihilation.  This scenario explains why the invasion occurs early in the tribulation.

Scenario #2 – no agreement or covenant seems possible at all. It is business as usual. Israel must defend itself against terrorist attacks and nuclear threats. Israel continues strikes against Palestinians, terrorists, Hamas, and other forces.  Israel must strike against Iran’s nuclear threat. Some other incidents involving attacks and strikes occur.

Finally, the Gog/Magog Invasion plan is about to occur. Countries ban together and decide they want to finish it once and for all. They now have enough weapons and forces to wipe Israel off the map. Remember that Ezekiel says that Gog/Magog will be “pulled with hooks” to the invasion. This seems to indicate they are reluctant to attack. Perhaps they are wary of the fact that they have much to lose from invading Israel. They have tried to attack Israel before many times, all of their previous efforts met with disastrous results. In the end, their worst fears are realized. The Bible says only a fraction of the invaders will survive (I think it says a third part). I feel confident in saying that something akin to nuclear explosions will destroy the forces of Gog/Magog.

Because of the utter devastation, people are very interested in suing for peace.  Now there is no stumbling block why the Oslo accord cannot be fulfilled. Countries are very willing to make sure a peace agreement is strengthened and confirmed (carried out). Because the AntiChrist is about to confirm the “Covenant with death”, we realize that the rapture must take place before this. This scenario shows the Invasion should take place before the rapture.

Yours in Christ,

Tracy K.