Ezekiel chapters 38 and 39, prophesies about a future world war where the primary players are, Iran, Libya, Ethiopia and Russia. According to Ezekiel this war culminates with an invasion of Israel, who at the time are living in relative peace.
Ezekiel 38:1,2 reads: “The word of the Lord came to me: “Son of Man, set your face toward Gog in the land of Magog, the chief prince of Mesech and Tubal, and prophesy against him.
Ezekiel 39:1, states: “And you O’ Son of Man, prophesy against Gog and say, “Thus say’s the Lord God: “Behold, I am against you, O’ Gog, Chief Prince of Mesech and Tubal.”
According to these verses, Gog is a prince or ruler of Mesech, or some say, Russia. Ezekiel 38:5, adds, “Persia, Cush, and Put are with you.” Today we know these countries as Iran, Libya and Ethiopia.
Careful reading of these chapters reveals another principal character that will be involved in this end time war, Israel. These chapters describe a time in the world where Russia and her allies will invade an unsuspecting Israel. We read this in 38:8b, “It’s people were brought out from the peoples and now dwell securely.” (Also 38:14)
As we examine the current invasion of Ukraine, at this point it is clear that it does not fulfill the pattern of prophesy as outlined in Ezekiel. Israel does not currently dwell in safety, in fact, Israel must be ever vigilant due to the regular skirmishes with Palestinians and others.
This means that the current invasion may be a prelude to a future third world war, or it is setting the stage for that war. If Russia, after an invasion of Ukraine is successful, will there be an invasion of Moldova or other former Soviet Satellites? Would Russia then stop this current advance and rebuild their military and economy?
Daniel chapter nine verses 24-27 may also relate to the Ezekiel prophecy. A time will come when a prince rises, an anti- christ, who will make a peace treaty with Israel and subsequently break it, leading to an invasion of the Holy Land. (Dan.9:26,27) This treaty is made at the beginning of the 70th week of Daniel or the seven-year tribulation.
Jesus told his disciples in Matthew 24, that near the end of the age, prior to His return, there would be wars and rumors of wars. This of course continues to be true today. As Christians, we should be studious of prophecy, especially as it relates to Israel.
Please continue to pray for Ukraine and the people there. We are praying for an end of this unethical invasion, and for peace. This may not be the fulfillment of Ezekiel, but these current events may certainly be a prelude of the events he describes.
Pastor John