Feature Story_ Following the Footsteps of the Lord (1)
"Now learn the parable of the fig tree: when its branch has already become tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near; so, you too, when you see all these things, recognize that He is near, right at the door." Matthew 24:32-33
The fig tree symbolizes Israel. In the Christian documentary film 'Recovery', the fig tree becoming tender was interpreted as the hardened hearts of the Israelis were opened to accept the gospel, and its leaves being put forth as the revival of the Messianic Jewish Christian churches.
God has let us know many things about Israel in the inspiration of the Holy Spirit since the opening of the church. The independence of Israel is one of the signs of the end time and the fulfillment of the prophecy in the Bible.
Jeremiah 31:10 says, "Hear the word of the LORD, O nations, and declare in the coastlands afar off, and say, "He who scattered Israel will gather him and keep him as a shepherd keeps his flock.""
God has chosen Israel to teach the human beings about His providence in human creation and cultivation. When they followed the will of God they enjoyed great honor as an excellent people and nation. When they departed from God and disobeyed Him, they had to suffer being dispersed in many parts of the world.
However, even when Israel was suffering due to their sins, God never forsook them or forgot them. And, because of His special protection and guidance, Israel kept its name and eventually regained independence. They have become one of the most exceptional peoples of the world.
Independence of Israel: Sign of End Time
Many people say the survival of the Jews is a miracle in itself. And the re-establishing their nation after living in so many parts of the world and especially after the holocaust is also a miracle. This history of Israel shows us that the Bible is true. However, even greater sufferings and hardships will begin after the Second Coming of the Lord in the air.
Those who have accepted Jesus Christ will be caught up in the air to meet the Lord and have the Wedding Banquet in the air, while those who haven't will remain on this earth and experience the Great Tribulation.
God let us know that at the end time the gospel would return to Israel and even the Jews would come to repentance. When the church began pilgrimages to the Holy Land in 1989, God let us feel that we were actually in the Bible through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.
In the 2004 pilgrimage, the pilgrims spent a day near the Dead Sea and headed to Galilee with great expectations and hope.
Galilee has hills with many trees and fertile farm land. The Sea of Galilee is the center of Jesus's early ministry.
Jesus called His disciples at the shore of Galilee. He spread the gospel and manifested numerous signs and wonders. He calmed down the wind and the seas with His power; He also walked on the Sea of Galilee.
The pilgrims were deeply moved by the traces of Jesus embedded in different areas around the Sea of Galilee.
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