2 questions about end times

[Joseph G]

1st question... Will the 3rd Temple be re-built before, or after, the rapture?

2nd question... why doesn't Israel just go ahead and mow down the dome of the rock and get on with rebuilding already? Are they that scared of the surrounding muslim nations? One would think from their victories over larger armies in the past it would produce more confidence in pursuing their destiny, no?

Thanks

 

[Darktriad]

1) The 3rd temple will exist before the main events in rev take place.

2) They are more afraid of the international backlash than the Muslim nations. Many nations around the world even before the Gaza situation already opposed Isreal. They fear making it worse. At this point though they should just tell them where to stuff it since right now Jews are afraid to even worship God on the mount and have to settle for the wall instead.

 

[RandyPNW]

1st question... Will the 3rd Temple be re-built before, or after, the rapture?

2nd question... why doesn't Israel just go ahead and mow down the dome of the rock and get on with rebuilding already? Are they that scared of the surrounding muslim nations? One would think from their victories over larger armies in the past it would produce more confidence in pursuing their destiny, no?

Thanks

I just finished answering a question about this elsewhere. Looking at a number of references to the temple and its furniture in the Revelation I concluded that the Temple in Heaven John saw was like Ezekiel's Temple, which presented the Temple of Law but only in the form of a vision.

Therefore, we are not looking at a literal Temple to be bult for the worship of God as the Temple of Solomon was. The building of the Tabernacle, and the building of the Temple, as well as its rebuilding, were supported by a number of relevant Scripture passages. But we see nothing in the Scriptures about the rebuilding of yet another Temple.

In fact, we have Scriptures, particularly, Hebrews, which speak of the dissolution of the old Temple system, rendering any NT Temple virtually impossible. If another Temple is to be built at all, it will not be sanctioned by God.

I know the orthodox Jews want to build a new Temple, but what a disaster that will cause in the midst of the Arab/Muslim world! Will a temple be placed on the Temple Mount dedicated to God that serve either Jews or Muslims and provide a place for Antichrist to take his seat in? Perhaps. 2 Thes 2 seems to suggest that...

 

[Joseph G]

I just finished answering a question about this elsewhere. Looking at a number of references to the temple and its furniture in the Revelation I concluded that the Temple in Heaven John saw was like Ezekiel's Temple, which presented the Temple of Law but only in the form of a vision.

Therefore, we are not looking at a literal Temple to be bult for the worship of God as the Temple of Solomon was. The building of the Tabernacle, and the building of the Temple, as well as its rebuilding, were supported by a number of relevant Scripture passages. But we see nothing in the Scriptures about the rebuilding of yet another Temple.

In fact, we have Scriptures, particularly, Hebrews, which speak of the dissolution of the old Temple system, rendering any NT Temple virtually impossible. If another Temple is to be built at all, it will not be sanctioned by God.

I know the orthodox Jews want to build a new Temple, but what a disaster that will cause in the midst of the Arab/Muslim world! Will a temple be placed on the Temple Mount dedicated to God that serve either Jews or Muslims and provide a place for Antichrist to take his seat in? Perhaps. 2 Thes 2 seems to suggest thTemple?

Thanks for your reply. Ok, to quote your reference:

2 Thessalonians 2:5 NIV

"He will oppose and will exalt himself over everything that is called God or is worshiped, so that he sets himself up in God’s temple, proclaiming himself to be God."

Not meaning to be obtuse, but are you suggesting then that the Jews will violate the decree in Hebrews (thus unsanctioned by God) by, in fact, building a new physical temple, or no? It would appear that the "lawless one" is a physical being so wouldn't he enthrone himself in a physical temple?

 

[RandyPNW]

Thanks for your reply. Ok, to quote your reference:

2 Thessalonians 2:5 NIV

"He will oppose and will exalt himself over everything that is called God or is worshiped, so that he sets himself up in God’s temple, proclaiming himself to be God."

Not meaning to be obtuse, but are you suggesting then that the Jews will violate the decree in Hebrews (thus unsanctioned by God) by, in fact, building a new physical temple, or no? It would appear that the "lawless one" is a physical being so wouldn't he enthrone himself in a physical temple?

To be honest i've thought up until recently that the temple here was figurative, indicating that Antichrist would simply position himself as if to be in God's temple, proclaiming himself to be God. But I talked with my brother today, who is pretty good at language, and I think he hinted at the fact this may have indicated a literal, physical temple Antichrist will sit in.

I just shared our exchange with another forum, and a brother there said he thought it would be a literal, physical temple too. So I'm inclining in that direction. There are a lack of corroborating Scriptures, but the thought seems to be literal, and not just figurative.

I can't say how this would come about unless the Jews build a temple on the Mount, or a temple dedicated to God will be built by the Muslims? Anyway, the temple cannot be sanctioned by God as a place of worship under terms of the Law, since that covenant has passed. But it can still be a temple dedicated to God in which Antichrist will seat himself.

It seems we agree that a literal, physical temple is likely? The Jews certainly would have no problem "violating the letter of Hebrews!"

 

[Douggg]

1st question... Will the 3rd Temple be re-built before, or after, the rapture?

2nd question... why doesn't Israel just go ahead and mow down the dome of the rock and get on with rebuilding already? Are they that scared of the surrounding muslim nations? One would think from their victories over larger armies in the past it would produce more confidence in pursuing their destiny, no?

Thanks

1st question - it is not known whether the 3rd temple will rebuilt before of after the rapture. (see my first timeline chart below.)

The 3rd temple will be rebuilt right after the Gog/Magog event which removes the Muslim presence on the temple mount (see my second timeline chart below.)

2nd question - to try and build the 3rd temple at present would probably result in a war with the muslim nations in the middle east.

 

[Maria Billingsley]

1st question... Will the 3rd Temple be re-built before, or after, the rapture?

2nd question... why doesn't Israel just go ahead and mow down the dome of the rock and get on with rebuilding already? Are they that scared of the surrounding muslim nations? One would think from their victories over larger armies in the past it would produce more confidence in pursuing their destiny, no?

Thanks

One should read the prophesy given by Jesus Christ of Nazareth and put to rest the question of when a third temple will be built. It will not happen. Blessings.

And Jesus said to them, “Do you not see all these things? Assuredly, I say to you, not one stone shall be left here upon another, that shall not be thrown down.”

 

[Barraco]

1st question... Will the 3rd Temple be re-built before, or after, the rapture?

2nd question... why doesn't Israel just go ahead and mow down the dome of the rock and get on with rebuilding already? Are they that scared of the surrounding muslim nations? One would think from their victories over larger armies in the past it would produce more confidence in pursuing their destiny, no?

Thanks

These are just my opinions based on my interpretations:

1. Yes. The 144,000 in Revelation 14 sing a song that only they know. This is a reference to the Old Testament musicians that were given prophecy through song while they worshiped in the temple. Another reference is the Two Witnesses of Revelation 11, which draws symbolism from Zechariah 4's two witnesses commissioned by God to rebuild the temple. Reminiscent of Zechariah 2, John is told in Revelation 11 to measure the temple, the altar, and those worshiping there. Another reference is Daniel 9:27, which says that an abomination that causes desolation would come on a wing of the temple. Jesus quoted this when he spoke of the abomination of desolation standing where it ought not. Paul shattered all doubt when he said that the man of sin would sit on a throne in the temple and show himself to be divine. Finally, the temple could be a simple tabernacle, so long as it follows the biblical design. The red heifers are needed to purify the temple. BUT, the location of the temple matters. That is where the Dome of the Rock is.

2. I don't think Israel is scared of the Muslim countries. I think they genuinely want peace. If they could have normalization with Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE, Jordan, Kuwait, Morocco, and more, that would be optimal. You spend less money on warfare and repairs while making more money on trading goods. The Abraham Accords in 2020 was a very good start. The Al Aqsa Flood occurred while Israel and Saudi Arabia were on the verge of normalization. This left Saudi's competitor with no other option but to attack. What has happened now is the Middle East is realigning. Everyone sees what Iran has done to Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Iraq. The veil has been removed and the world is choosing sides. This benefits Israel because they now have allies. Jordan won't let Iran use their air space. Egypt won't accept refugees. Saudi Arabia still seeks normalization with Israel. The United States are fully on board with protecting Israel. Iran knows this now.

Israel has committed to fighting on all fronts. They are chasing Hamas to the Egyptian border, eliminating jihadists in West Bank, targeting Hezbollah in Lebanon and Syria, and attacking military leaders as far as Iran. Israel isn't scared. Exact opposite. They now have the leverage that must provoke attack. Jerusalem is the hook that brings them back so God can show His power and glory to the world while simultaneously eliminating Israel's enemies. Think of the Al Aqsa Flood as the serpent spewing a river so as to sweep Zion away with a flood (Revelation 12:15). When we see Turkey commit to military action against Israel (Ezekiel 38-39, Joel 2, Psalm 83, Isaiah 37:21-35, Micah 5), we will know that God is about to work wonders so terrifying it will make the ears itch on anyone who hears of it. Then Daniel 9's seventieth week of years will begin.

 

[eleos1954]

1st question... Will the 3rd Temple be re-built before, or after, the rapture?

2nd question... why doesn't Israel just go ahead and mow down the dome of the rock and get on with rebuilding already? Are they that scared of the surrounding muslim nations? One would think from their victories over larger armies in the past it would produce more confidence in pursuing their destiny, no?

Thanks

Jesus never said there would be a 3rd temple built and there won't.

 

[Michu]

If I'm correct the jews that now want to build the 3rd temple, believes that there has to be done a ritual beforehand. Involving a sacrifice of a red heifer (special red cow). Which they do now possess, been found and imported from America.

Another reason would be the political one, it's a highly sensitive matter in an already sensitive time. But I believe they will try their best to actually use one of these animals that has been imported.

 

[Joseph G]

To be honest i've thought up until recently that the temple here was figurative, indicating that Antichrist would simply position himself as if to be in God's temple, proclaiming himself to be God. But I talked with my brother today, who is pretty good at language, and I think he hinted at the fact this may have indicated a literal, physical temple Antichrist will sit in.

I just shared our exchange with another forum, and a brother there said he thought it would be a literal, physical temple too. So I'm inclining in that direction. There are a lack of corroborating Scriptures, but the thought seems to be literal, and not just figurative.

I can't say how this would come about unless the Jews build a temple on the Mount, or a temple dedicated to God will be built by the Muslims? Anyway, the temple cannot be sanctioned by God as a place of worship under terms of the Law, since that covenant has passed. But it can still be a temple dedicated to God in which Antichrist will seat himself.

It seems we agree that a literal, physical temple is likely? The Jews certainly would have no problem "violating the letter of Hebrews!"

Yes, indeed. And on a side note, I've for some time heard that scholars even disagree on where the temple should be built. Here's just one opinion:

Excerpt from: Third Temple - Wikipedia

"The Dome of the Rock is regarded as occupying the actual space where the Second Temple once stood, but some scholars disagree and instead claim that the Temple was located either just north of the Dome of the Rock, or about 200 meters south of it, with access to the Gihon fresh water spring, or perhaps between the Dome of the Rock and the Al Aqsa Mosque."

God bless!
biblegateway.com

 

[RandyPNW]

Yes, indeed. And on a side note, I've for some time heard that scholars even disagree on where the temple should be built. Here's just one opinion:

Excerpt from: Third Temple - Wikipedia

"The Dome of the Rock is regarded as occupying the actual space where the Second Temple once stood, but some scholars disagree and instead claim that the Temple was located either just north of the Dome of the Rock, or about 200 meters south of it, with access to the Gihon fresh water spring, or perhaps between the Dome of the Rock and the Al Aqsa Mosque."

God bless!
biblegateway.com

Right, I was allowed to take a walk in some of the chambers below--somewhere near the Temple plaza. And I believe back then, in the mid-70s, they were wondering where precisely the original footings were. I have no idea why it's so important to know the exact place where the Temple stood? But I suppose when people think God has placed something at a precise location, that must not be changed?

I do know that it's sensitive where you can go, and where digs can be done. Not sure how this fits into prophecy, or not at all?

 

[Joseph G]

These are just my opinions based on my interpretations:

1. Yes. The 144,000 in Revelation 14 sing a song that only they know. This is a reference to the Old Testament musicians that were given prophecy through song while they worshiped in the temple. Another reference is the Two Witnesses of Revelation 11, which draws symbolism from Zechariah 4's two witnesses commissioned by God to rebuild the temple. Reminiscent of Zechariah 2, John is told in Revelation 11 to measure the temple, the altar, and those worshiping there. Another reference is Daniel 9:27, which says that an abomination that causes desolation would come on a wing of the temple. Jesus quoted this when he spoke of the abomination of desolation standing where it ought not. Paul shattered all doubt when he said that the man of sin would sit on a throne in the temple and show himself to be divine. Finally, the temple could be a simple tabernacle, so long as it follows the biblical design. The red heifers are needed to purify the temple. BUT, the location of the temple matters. That is where the Dome of the Rock is.

2. I don't think Israel is scared of the Muslim countries. I think they genuinely want peace. If they could have normalization with Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE, Jordan, Kuwait, Morocco, and more, that would be optimal. You spend less money on warfare and repairs while making more money on trading goods. The Abraham Accords in 2020 was a very good start. The Al Aqsa Flood occurred while Israel and Saudi Arabia were on the verge of normalization. This left Saudi's competitor with no other option but to attack. What has happened now is the Middle East is realigning. Everyone sees what Iran has done to Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Iraq. The veil has been removed and the world is choosing sides. This benefits Israel because they now have allies. Jordan won't let Iran use their air space. Egypt won't accept refugees. Saudi Arabia still seeks normalization with Israel. The United States are fully on board with protecting Israel. Iran knows this now.

Israel has committed to fighting on all fronts. They are chasing Hamas to the Egyptian border, eliminating jihadists in West Bank, targeting Hezbollah in Lebanon and Syria, and attacking military leaders as far as Iran. Israel isn't scared. Exact opposite. They now have the leverage that must provoke attack. Jerusalem is the hook that brings them back so God can show His power and glory to the world while simultaneously eliminating Israel's enemies. Think of the Al Aqsa Flood as the serpent spewing a river so as to sweep Zion away with a flood (Revelation 12:15). When we see Turkey commit to military action against Israel (Ezekiel 38-39, Joel 2, Psalm 83, Isaiah 37:21-35, Micah 5), we will know that God is about to work wonders so terrifying it will make the ears itch on anyone who hears of it. Then Daniel 9's seventieth week of years will begin.

Thank you for a very informative reply, I'm going to go through it carefully studying the Scriptural support. I'm a real neophyte when it comes to end times discussions.

Question. In addition to Turkey moving militarily against Israel, I have a friend who says that Russia's alliance with Iran in moving against Israel will also be a significant event prophetically. Do you agree? As I understand it, Russia is already supplying weapons to Iran and Iran is sharing intelligence with Russia.

God bless!

 

[Joseph G]

One should read the prophesy given by Jesus Christ of Nazareth and put to rest the question of when a third temple will be built. It will not happen. Blessings.

And Jesus said to them, “Do you not see all these things? Assuredly, I say to you, not one stone shall be left here upon another, that shall not be thrown down.”

Agreed, but there is no mention by Jesus that it will not be rebuilt, right? As God indicated that Tyre would never be rebuilt.

Blessings!

 

[Barraco]

Thank you for a very informative reply, I'm going to go through it carefully studying the Scriptural support. I'm a real neophyte when it comes to end times discussions.

Question. In addition to Turkey moving militarily against Israel, I have a friend who says that Russia's alliance with Iran in moving against Israel will also be a significant event prophetically. Do you agree? As I understand it, Russia is already supplying weapons to Iran and Iran is sharing intelligence with Russia.

God bless!

Hi Joseph, thanks for the response. I hope I can help build you up in your faith and confidence in Christ. I'll reiterate that these are my interpretations:

To answer your question, I don't think Russia has any interest in Iran's motives. Russia, I believe, is strategically positioning itself for a post-jihadist Middle East. I don't think Putin has any interest or respect in Khomeini's objectives. Ezekiel 38 shows that Turkey, Iran, Syria, Iraq, parts of Saudi Arabia, Libya, and Sudan all invade Israel with the intent to loot them by destroying them and taking their land. When these nations attack, God is going to destroy them. Not man, not Russia, not Israel. God. He foretold it in Joel 2, Zechariah 12, Isaiah 34, and Micah 5. Once this "northern horde" is destroyed by God (Joel 2:20), I believe ten nations will divide the territories of those kingdoms among themselves.

I don't know who those nations will be. I do know that Britain, France, America, Russia, and China (UN Security Council) all have bases in that region. So perhaps they make half of the winners of the spoil. Since it happens in Israel, I believe they will be one of them. I can only speculate who they will be.

May God bless you too!

 

[Truth7t7]

1st question... Will the 3rd Temple be re-built before, or after, the rapture?

2nd question... why doesn't Israel just go ahead and mow down the dome of the rock and get on with rebuilding already? Are they that scared of the surrounding muslim nations? One would think from their victories over larger armies in the past it would produce more confidence in pursuing their destiny, no?

Thanks

Answers

1.) There won't be a pre-trib rapture as you suggest, this isn't found anyplace in scripture

2.) It's my opinion that Israel will soon take the dome of the rock, that's presently the place of the (Al-Aqsa mosque) the 2nd holiest site to Muslims

I believe this taking of the Al-Aqsa mosque will fulfill Jerusalem being surrounded by armies with that being Muslim armies

Luke 21:20KJV
20 And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh.

 

[Freth]

1st question... Will the 3rd Temple be re-built before, or after, the rapture?

2nd question... why doesn't Israel just go ahead and mow down the dome of the rock and get on with rebuilding already? Are they that scared of the surrounding muslim nations? One would think from their victories over larger armies in the past it would produce more confidence in pursuing their destiny, no?

Thanks

1. Many Christians are looking for a physical temple to be built, but the third temple is a spiritual temple that has already been built, of which Jesus is the cornerstone that was rejected.

• Psalms 118:22 The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner.
• Mark 12:10 And have ye not read this scripture; The stone which the builders rejected is become the head of the corner?
• 1 Peter 2:4-5 To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.
• 1 Peter 2:7-10 Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, and a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed. But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light; Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.
• 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

2. Only Israel can answer question 2.

If the third temple is not a physical one but a spiritual one, building a third temple will do nothing to further Bible prophecy.

 

[Maria Billingsley]

Agreed, but there is no mention by Jesus that it will not be rebuilt, right? As God indicated that Tyre would never be rebuilt.

Blessings!

"No stone will be upon another." I take this as , it will never be upon one another ever. The Temple institute is working diligently to aquire all the second temple stones so they can incorporate into the third temple. Won't happen.

 

[Douggg]

"No stone will be upon another." I take this as , it will never be upon one another ever. The Temple institute is working diligently to aquire all the second temple stones so they can incorporate into the third temple. Won't happen.

Maria, I think that verse is referring to the temple at the time of Jesus.

In order for animal sacrifices to start up again (that the Antichrist will stop) there has to be a temple in place.

 

[BelieveItOarKnot]

1st question... Will the 3rd Temple be re-built before, or after, the rapture?

It's irrelevant what a bunch of unbelievers in Israel do regarding the O.T. temple

Jesus did away with that whole mess. I wouldn't hitch my eschatological pony to that even happening and even if it did, I'd be a "so what?" It didn't work the first 3 times. Why would it be any different?

2nd question... why doesn't Israel just go ahead and mow down the dome of the rock and get on with rebuilding already? Are they that scared of the surrounding muslim nations? One would think from their victories over larger armies in the past it would produce more confidence in pursuing their destiny, no?

They wouldn't need any kind of physical temple if God in Christ was within them all, which is kind of the point isn't it?

I believe at the end, that is exactly what will happen. Christ will come suddenly into His temple, PEOPLES.

And He Will drive out the usurpers, the devil and his messengers. We can read all about it in many places, Matt 25's sheep/goat account comes quickly to mind