Trusting God's Promises Amid Global Uncertainty

Summary

In a world swirling with confusion, fear, and endless speculation about global events—especially those involving Israel—God’s Word stands as a sure and steady guide. The Bible is not silent about the times we live in; it speaks with clarity about the past, present, and future, offering us a lens to see beyond the headlines and into the heart of God’s redemptive plan. From the earliest pages to the very end, Israel is at the center of God’s promises, and prophecy is the thread that ties history, current events, and the future together.

Throughout history, God has made promises and fulfilled them with astonishing accuracy. The birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus were all foretold centuries before they happened, and each prophecy was fulfilled in detail. This is not just a matter of historical curiosity—it’s a foundation for our faith. If God has been faithful to fulfill hundreds of prophecies in the past, we can trust Him with the future, both for the world and for our own lives.

We are living in what the Bible calls the “church age,” a time when the gospel is to be proclaimed to all nations. But the Bible also points to a coming time of unprecedented global upheaval. There will be a peace treaty in Israel’s future, brokered by a figure the Bible calls the Antichrist—a master deceiver who will promise peace but ultimately bring destruction. This treaty will lead to the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem, a pivotal event that will set the stage for a time of great tribulation and a surprise attack against Israel. Yet, even in the darkest moments, God’s faithfulness shines. He will intervene, displaying His power and glory, and ultimately, Jesus will return to establish His kingdom.

These truths are not given to frighten us, but to prepare us. God is not distant or uninvolved; He is actively working in the world and in our lives. The unfolding of prophecy is a call to trust Him, to think biblically about the world around us, and to live with hope and courage. No matter how chaotic the world becomes, the victory has already been won through Jesus Christ. Our call is to rest in that victory, to witness boldly, and to look forward with confidence to the day when King Jesus will reign over all.

Key Takeaways

- The Bible’s fulfilled prophecies are a powerful foundation for faith. God’s track record of keeping His promises—such as the detailed prophecies about Jesus’ birth, death, and resurrection—demonstrates that He is trustworthy and sovereign over history. This gives us confidence that He will also fulfill every promise about the future, both for Israel and for us. [06:26]

- Spiritual deception is real and pervasive, especially in times of uncertainty. The allure of new age mysticism, counterfeit miracles, and false spiritual guides is not harmless entertainment but a manifestation of demonic deception. As believers, we must be discerning, seeking truth in God’s Word rather than in the shifting opinions of culture or the supernatural claims of the world. [02:41]

- God’s prophetic plan centers on Israel, but it also encompasses the whole world. The coming peace treaty, the rebuilding of the temple, and the rise of the Antichrist are not isolated events—they are part of a larger narrative in which God is working out His purposes among the nations. Understanding this helps us see current events through a biblical lens and strengthens our witness to others. [12:55]

- Even in the face of global chaos and evil, God remains the ultimate warrior and deliverer. Just as He intervened in history to save His people, He will act decisively in the future to rescue Israel and judge evil. Our hope is not in human leaders or political solutions, but in the sovereign God who holds the world in His hands and has already secured victory through Christ. [41:47]

- The unfolding of end-times prophecy is not meant to cause panic, but to inspire preparation and faith. God reveals these things so that we would be anchored in hope, emboldened in witness, and steadfast in trust. As we see the signs of the times, we are called to think biblically, live courageously, and rest in the assurance that God’s plan will prevail. [43:20]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[01:00] - Introduction: Thinking Biblically About Geopolitics
[02:41] - The Reality of Spiritual Deception
[04:27] - The Power and Purpose of Prophecy
[06:26] - Fulfilled Prophecies and Our Confidence
[08:27] - The Church Age and Coming Events
[09:36] - The Rapture and New Age Counterfeits
[11:12] - Israel’s Future: The Coming Treaty
[12:55] - The Abraham Accords and Prophetic Foreshadowing
[14:18] - The Antichrist: Identity and Deception
[17:27] - The Man of Lawlessness in Scripture
[20:54] - The Future Temple in Jerusalem
[24:38] - Jesus’ Prophecy and the Abomination of Desolation
[29:25] - Global Impact of the End Times
[32:41] - The Trap: Surprise Attack on Israel
[37:05] - God’s Intervention and Israel’s Deliverance
[41:47] - God as Warrior: Assurance in Chaos
[43:20] - Closing Prayer and Call to Faith

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

---

### Bible Reading

2 Thessalonians 2:3-4, 9 (ESV)
> Let no one deceive you in any way. For that day will not come, unless the rebellion comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction, who opposes and exalts himself against every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, proclaiming himself to be God.
> ...
> The coming of the lawless one is by the activity of Satan with all power and false signs and wonders.

Matthew 24:15, 21, 30 (ESV)
> “So when you see the abomination of desolation spoken of by the prophet Daniel, standing in the holy place (let the reader understand)...
> For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been from the beginning of the world until now, no, and never will be...
> Then will appear in heaven the sign of the Son of Man, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.”

Ezekiel 38:10-12, 18-23 (ESV)
> “Thus says the Lord God: On that day, thoughts will come into your mind, and you will devise an evil scheme and say, ‘I will go up against the land of unwalled villages. I will fall upon the quiet people who dwell securely, all of them dwelling without walls, and having no bars or gates’...
> But on that day, the day that Gog shall come against the land of Israel, declares the Lord God, my wrath will be roused in my anger...
> So I will show my greatness and my holiness and make myself known in the eyes of many nations. Then they will know that I am the Lord.”

---

### Observation Questions

1. According to 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4, what are some of the key characteristics and actions of the “man of lawlessness”?
2. In Matthew 24, what does Jesus say will happen in the “holy place” and what does He call this event?
3. Based on Ezekiel 38, what is the condition of Israel at the time of the surprise attack, and how does God respond to this invasion?
4. The sermon described the Antichrist as a master deceiver who will promise peace but ultimately bring destruction. What are some of the names and descriptions given to the Antichrist in the Bible and in the sermon? ([14:18])

---

### Interpretation Questions

1. Why do you think God allows the “man of lawlessness” to rise and deceive so many people before Jesus returns? What purpose might this serve in God’s bigger plan? ([18:40])
2. The sermon emphasized that fulfilled prophecies about Jesus’ first coming are a foundation for trusting God’s promises about the future. How does seeing God’s faithfulness in the past help believers face uncertainty today? ([06:26])
3. The Bible and the sermon both warn about spiritual deception, especially in times of confusion. What are some modern examples of spiritual deception, and why is it important for believers to be discerning? ([02:41])
4. In Ezekiel 38, God intervenes dramatically to save Israel. What does this reveal about God’s character and His relationship to His promises? ([37:05])

---

### Application Questions

1. The sermon said that prophecy is not given to frighten us, but to prepare us. When you hear about global chaos or end-times events, do you tend to feel fear, hope, or something else? How can you shift your mindset to one of preparation and faith? ([43:20])
2. The pastor warned about spiritual deception, including new age mysticism and counterfeit miracles. Are there sources of spiritual influence in your life (media, books, people) that you need to be more discerning about? What practical steps can you take to seek truth in God’s Word instead? ([02:41])
3. The sermon highlighted that God’s prophetic plan centers on Israel but includes the whole world. How does understanding this bigger picture affect the way you view current events or share your faith with others? ([12:55])
4. The message emphasized that God is a covenant keeper and always fulfills His promises. Is there a specific promise of God that you struggle to trust right now? What would it look like to rest in His faithfulness this week? ([06:26])
5. The Antichrist is described as someone who will be incredibly deceptive and will even perform counterfeit miracles. How can you guard your heart and mind against being deceived by things that look spiritual but are not from God? ([19:38])
6. The sermon called believers to “think biblically” about the world and not just follow the opinions of culture or political pundits. What is one practical way you can filter the news or world events through a biblical lens this week? ([43:20])
7. The pastor said our hope is not in human leaders or political solutions, but in the sovereign God who holds the world in His hands. Are there areas in your life where you are tempted to put your hope in people or politics instead of God? How can you redirect your trust to Him? ([41:47])

---

Devotional

Day 1: God Fulfills His Prophetic Promises

Throughout history, God has made specific promises through prophecy and has fulfilled them with remarkable accuracy, demonstrating His sovereignty and faithfulness. From the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, foretold centuries before, to the details of His betrayal and crucifixion, God’s word has proven true time and again. These fulfilled prophecies are not just historical facts; they are a foundation for our confidence in God’s ongoing work in the world and in our lives. When you see the world’s chaos and uncertainty, remember that God is not distant or absent—He is actively involved, fulfilling His promises and guiding history toward His ultimate purpose. [06:26]

Isaiah 7:14 (ESV)
"Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel."

Micah 5:2 (ESV)
"But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days."

Zechariah 11:12-13 (ESV)
"Then I said to them, 'If it seems good to you, give me my wages; but if not, keep them.' And they weighed out as my wages thirty pieces of silver. Then the Lord said to me, 'Throw it to the potter'—the lordly price at which I was priced by them. So I took the thirty pieces of silver and threw them into the house of the Lord, to the potter."

Matthew 27:9-10 (ESV)
"Then was fulfilled what had been spoken by the prophet Jeremiah, saying, 'And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the price of him on whom a price had been set by some of the sons of Israel, and they gave them for the potter’s field, as the Lord directed me.'"

Reflection: What is one promise of God that you have doubted or struggled to believe? How might remembering His fulfilled prophecies strengthen your trust in Him today?



Day 2: The Coming Deception and the Man of Lawlessness

Scripture warns of a future world leader, the Antichrist, who will arise with great deception, performing counterfeit miracles and leading many astray. This “man of lawlessness” will exalt himself above all that is called God, even setting himself up in God’s temple and demanding worship. Though he will appear as a friend and peacemaker, his true nature is revealed in his opposition to God and his alignment with Satan’s power. Believers are called to be discerning, not swayed by the world’s opinions or false peace, but anchored in the truth of God’s word, knowing that God’s ultimate victory is assured. [18:40]

2 Thessalonians 2:3-4, 9 (ESV)
"Let no one deceive you in any way. For that day will not come, unless the rebellion comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction, who opposes and exalts himself against every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, proclaiming himself to be God... The coming of the lawless one is by the activity of Satan with all power and false signs and wonders."

Reflection: Where do you see deception or counterfeit “truths” in the world around you, and how can you guard your heart and mind with God’s word today?



Day 3: The Future Temple and the Abomination of Desolation

Jesus and the apostles foretold a future time when a temple would be rebuilt in Jerusalem, only to be desecrated by the Antichrist, who will demand global worship. This event, known as the “abomination of desolation,” will mark a period of unprecedented distress and tribulation. Yet, even in the face of such global upheaval, God’s plan remains unshaken. The promise of Christ’s return and the establishment of His kingdom gives hope and assurance that evil will not have the final word. As believers, we are called to watch, pray, and remain faithful, knowing that God’s kingdom will come on earth as it is in heaven. [29:25]

Matthew 24:15-21, 30 (ESV)
"So when you see the abomination of desolation spoken of by the prophet Daniel, standing in the holy place (let the reader understand), then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains... For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been from the beginning of the world until now, no, and never will be... Then will appear in heaven the sign of the Son of Man, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory."

Reflection: How does the certainty of Christ’s return and the coming of His kingdom shape the way you respond to fear or uncertainty about the future?



Day 4: God’s Sovereignty in the Midst of Global Conflict

Even as the world faces wars, invasions, and seemingly insurmountable evil, God’s sovereignty stands firm. The Bible foretells a time when Israel will experience a false peace, only to be suddenly attacked by a coalition of nations. Yet, God Himself will intervene, displaying His greatness and holiness before all nations. He will protect His covenant people and ultimately bring about a turning of hearts to Himself. In the midst of chaos, God’s people can rest in the assurance that He is in control, working all things according to His purpose and for His glory. [38:40]

Ezekiel 38:10-12, 18-23 (ESV)
"Thus says the Lord God: On that day, thoughts will come into your mind, and you will devise an evil scheme and say, ‘I will go up against the land of unwalled villages. I will fall upon the quiet people who dwell securely, all of them dwelling without walls, and having no bars or gates’... But on that day, the day that Gog shall come against the land of Israel, declares the Lord God, my wrath will be roused in my anger... With pestilence and bloodshed I will enter into judgment with him, and I will rain upon him and his hordes and the many peoples who are with him torrential rains and hailstones, fire and sulfur. So I will show my greatness and my holiness and make myself known in the eyes of many nations. Then they will know that I am the Lord."

Reflection: When you see turmoil and conflict in the world, what helps you remember and trust that God is still sovereign and at work behind the scenes?



Day 5: The Victory Secured Through Christ

God is not only a mighty warrior who intervenes in history, but He has already secured the ultimate victory through Jesus Christ. Unlike earthly battles, Jesus won the decisive victory by going to the cross, taking the punishment for sin, and rising again. For all who trust in Him, the banner of victory is already raised over their lives. No matter what happens in the world, believers can rest assured that the battle has been won, and their future is secure in Christ. This confidence empowers us to live boldly, to trust God’s plan, and to move forward in faith, knowing that He will never leave us nor forsake us. [42:12]

Romans 8:37-39 (ESV)
"No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to live more confidently in the victory Christ has already won for you?

Quotes

Let me just tell you something. Make no mistake. That's not just like casual mysticism, fun, interesting things to do while you're shopping. That is literally demonic deception. It really is. And I spent time in one of the teaching series I did. I went up to Sedona, asked for people to pray for me. And I interviewed these people about the new age mystic movement. [00:01:41] (26 seconds)  #RejectNewAgeDeception Edit Clip

Like this geopolitical thing, don't get your news and information from political pundits, get it from God's word. Amen? So be careful how you think about things. Don't just follow the sway and say of other people. Think about things biblically. [00:03:40] (19 seconds)  #ThinkBiblicallyNotPolitically Edit Clip

So you as a believer, like, need to know, like, this is an apologetic. This, if you're a believer, this is a witnessing tool for you to go, God is at work, dude. He's at work in our world. So just as God has promised to do his work through the world, you can know that he's faithful to you as well. [00:07:09] (22 seconds)  #GodAtWorkInTheWorld Edit Clip

As a believer, the more you get saturated in the scriptures and you see God's got a plan and a purpose for the nation of Israel, and what we do here and now matters and will echo in the ages to come, you are building your witness and your platform that's going to inspire all the nations. Because the Bible tells us that God's going to use Israel to be a light among all nations. And that day has not yet come, but it is coming. [00:11:17] (26 seconds)  #AbrahamAccordsForeshadow Edit Clip

But what you need to know about God, that God is a warrior. That he is mighty, and he is worthy of our worship. He appoints people and places and times and nations. And you're dealing with an almighty, sovereign God who says, I hold the whole world in my hands. And when you look at the scene and the news and all that, you can take faith and trust that the battle has been won. [00:41:53] (26 seconds) Edit Clip

``The Bible tells us that God didn't send an army for us, but he sent his son. He didn't storm the beaches, but he did climb the hill of Calvary. He didn't dodge bullets, but he did take nails. He went to the cross. He didn't go there just to fight for victory. He went there to secure it for you and for me. And if you're a believer in Jesus Christ, you have the banner of victories over your life. And you need to rest assured that the battle has been won. You place your faith in him. All the things that are happening right now are there to give you a faith and assurance that's unshakable. Trust God. He is real. Do not delay. If you've never trusted Christ as Lord, he has a plan for your life. He will punish evil. He will reign as king. You need to be on the right side. [00:42:18] (55 seconds) Edit Clip