This was that.

As I reflect on the profound events of the first century, I am compelled to share with you the incredible story of our faith and the promises fulfilled through Christ. The prophetic weeks mentioned in Daniel, specifically in Daniel 9:24-27, foretold the coming of the Messiah, leading to the pivotal moment in history when Jesus would reveal His true identity. These prophecies culminated during the Roman Empire, which not only provided the backdrop for Christ’s earthly ministry but also established the beast system and the Antichrist, as foretold in the scriptures.

The vision of Nebuchadnezzar’s statue in Daniel 2 further illustrates the succession of earthly empires, culminating in the strong iron legs of the Roman Empire. The clay at its feet represented the fragility of Jerusalem and the people of God, illustrating the tension between divine purpose and earthly power. In the first century A.D., the followers of Christ witnessed the fulfillment of many prophecies as the gospel spread like wildfire. When the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles at Pentecost, as foretold by the prophet Joel—“And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people” (Joel 2:28)—the message of Jesus began to permeate every corner of the known world. Peter, filled with the Spirit, boldly proclaimed, “This is what was spoken by the prophet Joel” (Acts 2:16), igniting a movement that would change the course of history.

The Old Testament had foretold the coming of the Messiah in various passages, including Isaiah 7:14, which states, “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel,” and Isaiah 53, which describes the suffering servant who would bear our iniquities. These prophecies pointed clearly to Jesus, who fulfilled them through His life, death, and resurrection. 

However, this remarkable growth was met with fierce opposition. Jesus had warned His disciples of the impending destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, saying in Matthew 24:2, “I tell you the truth, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.” This prophecy came to horrifying fruition in 70 A.D. when the Roman legions besieged Jerusalem. The city endured unimaginable suffering, and the accounts of that time depict a scene of devastation and despair. The historian Josephus records that during the siege, famine ravaged the population to such an extent that desperate acts occurred; mothers were driven to the unthinkable, with some resorting to cannibalism, eating their own children in a desperate bid for survival (Lamentations 4:10). The destruction of the temple—the heart of Jewish worship—was a sobering testament to the seriousness of God’s judgment upon a people who had largely rejected their Messiah.

This great tribulation, as prophesied by Jesus, marked a significant turning point in the history of God’s people. As the early believers faced these trials, they clung to the hope of Christ’s victory. They understood that despite the chaos around them, a new kingdom was being established—a kingdom where Christ would reign in glory. The establishment of the millennial kingdom, as described in Revelation 20, marked a significant moment in history: “And I saw an angel coming down out of heaven, having the key to the Abyss and holding in his hand a great chain. He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil, and bound him for a thousand years” (Revelation 20:1-2). During this time, the faithful rejoiced in the new life they found in Him, participating in the marriage supper of the Lamb and celebrating the victory over death.

In this millennial kingdom, believers thrived, witnessing transformation and the power of God’s love spreading throughout the world. They shared their testimonies and encouraged one another, standing firm in their faith.

Yet, as the millennium drew to a close, the atmosphere shifted once more. A time of great deception began to unfold, just as the prophecies foretold. Today, we find ourselves living in this little season of deception, where nations are misled, and truth is often obscured. Local governments and churches alike have become arenas for misleading teachings and manipulation. The warning in 2 Timothy 4:3 rings true: “For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine.” The faithful are called to remain steadfast as the enemy gathers his followers to wage war against the camp of the saints.

As we navigate this little season of deception, we are reminded to stay strong. The words of Christ echo in our hearts: “He who has an ear, let him hear.” In a world filled with confusion, we must cling to the truth of God’s Word and support one another in faith. Romans 16:20 reassures us: “The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.”

While the current time may be fraught with challenges, we remember the ultimate promise we hold: that Satan will ultimately be destroyed after he surrounds the camp of the saints, as prophesied. Revelation 20 assures us of this victory: “And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet had been thrown. They will be tormented day and night for ever and ever” (Revelation 20:10).

As we eagerly await the culmination of God's plan, we know that the surrounding of the camp of the saints by Gog and Magog will lead to the final destruction of evil. Let us endure through this little season, remaining united in love, and vigilant against the lies that seek to ensnare us. Together, we can face the trials ahead, fully confident in the promise of eternal life in Him. Our hope is secure, and as we stand firm in faith, we shine as beacons of truth in a world shrouded in darkness.

Stay strong, dear friends, and let us hold fast to our faith as we anticipate the glorious victory that is assured in Christ.