Exploring Biblical Prophecy and the Oct. 7 Attacks
During a special service at Calvary Chapel Chino Hills in Chino, California, on July 16, Pastor Jack Hibbs and author Amir Tsarfati delved into the potential connections between biblical prophecy and recent global events. Their discussion focused heavily on the spiritual implications of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel, which they see as a significant moment in what they believe is God’s divine plan.
Hibbs encouraged believers to interpret current events through the lens of biblical prophecy, particularly referencing the attacks and the recent conflict between Iran and Israel. He introduced Tsarfati, a former Israeli Defense Force major and founder of Behold Israel, as a long-time friend and respected voice in prophetic matters. Hibbs humorously noted that Tsarfati’s books often become national bestsellers, despite his reluctance to take credit for their success.
Tsarfati described the October 7 attacks as an event that revealed the true nature of the threat facing Israel. He emphasized that the attacks forced both Israelis and the international community to recognize the significance of Israel’s existence. Tsarfati dismissed claims of genocide against Palestinians, suggesting instead that the attacks were part of a larger Iranian plot to eliminate Israel. He cited an unnamed source that claimed Iran had been building up groups like Hamas and Hezbollah over the past two decades as part of this strategy.
He also highlighted the impact of the attacks, noting that Hamas, Hezbollah, and other militant groups have been significantly weakened. Tsarfati pointed to the U.S. military’s role in dismantling Iranian nuclear capabilities, allowing Israel to operate freely in the region.
Biblical Prophecies and Modern Events
The conversation then turned to the Book of Joel, where Hibbs saw a direct link between the prophet’s words and current events. He referenced Joel 3, which speaks of God restoring Israel and judging nations that oppose it. Hibbs connected this to the rising antisemitism and efforts to divide Israel’s land, emphasizing that the modern state of Israel is the fulfillment of ancient prophecies.
Hibbs stressed that the Valley of Jehoshaphat mentioned in Joel is not a metaphorical location but a real place in Israel. He suggested that the passage predicts a future judgment by God on those who seek to harm His people. This idea resonated with the ongoing tensions in the Middle East and the challenges faced by Israel.
Tsarfati also discussed Isaiah 17, which he believes foretells the fall of Damascus. He suggested that ongoing conflicts in Syria could be signs of this prophecy coming to pass. Hibbs added that the passage describes a fiery destruction of Damascus, which he linked to historical theories about Saddam Hussein’s weapons of mass destruction being moved to the city before the 2003 invasion of Iraq.
The Role of Israel in End Times Prophecy
Hibbs further explained that the establishment of Israel in 1948 was a fulfillment of God’s promise to bring His people back from exile. He argued that this event set the stage for End Times prophecies, including the division of Israel’s land by the world. He warned that attempts to undermine Israel’s sovereignty are not just political moves but spiritual battles.
The discussion concluded with a strong condemnation of antisemitism, which Hibbs called “demonic” and “satanic.” He emphasized the connection between Jesus’ origins in Israel and the importance of supporting the nation. Tsarfati echoed this sentiment, stating that Israel’s existence is essential for the return of Jesus, as prophesied in Matthew 23:39.
Changing Attitudes Among Evangelicals
Despite these beliefs, there has been a shift in attitudes among younger Evangelicals in the United States. A study published in 2023 found that support for Israel among young Evangelicals has dropped by more than 50%. This decline is attributed to the growing popularity of amillennial and postmillennial eschatology, which view the End Times differently than traditional dispensationalist views.
The debate over Israel’s prophetic identity has gained attention in recent months, especially after a viral interview between Tucker Carlson and Senator Ted Cruz. In that conversation, Cruz appeared to equate the modern Israeli government with the Israel of the Bible, sparking discussions about theology and foreign policy.
As the conversation around biblical prophecy and Israel continues, many believers remain convinced that the events of today are unfolding according to ancient scriptural promises. Whether or not these interpretations hold true, the significance of Israel in religious and geopolitical discourse remains undeniable.
