When the Church Calls Sin Sacred

 I have become deeply concerned about the direction some Christians are taking. People who profess to believe the Bible are defending conduct that the Bible condemns. Political loyalties have become so strong that honest questions are treated as evidence of weak faith.

When I see Christians excuse wrongdoing because it serves a nation or a prophetic interpretation they support, I believe we are witnessing spiritual deception.

Jesus warned His disciples:

“Take heed that no man deceive you.”
—Matthew 24:4, KJV

That warning deserves our attention. Before describing wars, tribulation, and His return, Jesus told His followers to guard against deception. He also warned that false prophets would deceive many and that increasing iniquity would cause the love of many to grow cold.

I cannot read those words without examining the church—and my own heart.

Deception does not always arrive openly denying God. Sometimes it carries a Bible, speaks confidently about prophecy, and tells Christians that supporting a political cause is their sacred duty. It becomes dangerous when that teaching persuades believers to excuse what they would otherwise recognize as sin.

My particular concern is the teaching that faithfulness to God requires unquestioning support for the modern government of Israel.

I believe some Christians have accepted that teaching sincerely. They love the Lord and want to honor His Word. But sincerity does not protect any of us from error. We must examine what we have been taught by the whole counsel of Scripture, including its commands concerning justice, mercy, truth, and love.

God’s relationship with Israel never placed Israel’s rulers beyond correction. The prophets confronted the sins of the people and their leaders. They condemned oppression, innocent bloodshed, dishonesty, and religious hypocrisy. Their love for their people compelled them to speak.

Jeremiah asked:

“Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely … And come and stand before me in this house, which is called by my name, and say, We are delivered to do all these abominations?”
—Jeremiah 7:9–10, KJV

The warning is plain: religious identity does not give anyone permission to sin.

Neither does a claim about prophecy.

Whatever we believe about Israel’s future, we have no authority to bless cruelty, excuse the deliberate killing of civilians, or overlook the oppression of our neighbors. These standards apply to Israel, to America, to armed groups, and to every other nation and people.

I love the Jewish people. I also believe Palestinian lives are precious before God. Jewish families and Palestinian families alike know grief, fear, and the desire to see their children live in peace. Neither population should bear collective blame for the decisions of governments or armed groups.

Christians should be able to recognize that without being accused of abandoning the Bible.

Jesus said:

“Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.”
—Matthew 5:9, KJV

Yet I fear that some Christians have become more eager to defend warfare than to seek peace. When suffering becomes merely a detail in someone’s prophetic scheme, something has gone wrong with our understanding of Christ.

Jesus connected His warnings about deception with coming tribulation and judgment. His words should awaken us to repentance. They do not give us permission to confidently assign every headline a place on God’s calendar. I do not know the day or hour of His return. I do know that He commanded His followers to remain watchful and faithful.

Peter also wrote:

“For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God.”
—1 Peter 4:17, KJV

The church must therefore examine itself. Have we defended conduct because our preferred leaders committed it? Have we dismissed suffering because acknowledging it would challenge our theology? Have we allowed political allegiance to quiet our conscience?

Those questions belong to me as much as to anyone else.

I am an old country preacher. I have lived long enough to know that I can be mistaken. I must remain willing to be corrected by the Word of God. But I cannot remain silent when Christians are taught to support sins God has condemned.

Our calling is to bear faithful witness to Jesus Christ. We must speak truth, practice mercy, seek peace, and call wrongdoing what it is—even when doing so costs us the approval of people we once stood beside.

As we await the Lord’s return, may He find us faithful in our words and conduct. And where we have been deceived, may we have the humility to repent.

Another Bend in the Road: An Update on My Health

At seventy-eight years of age, I am learning that the body sometimes sets a slower pace than the mind would choose. There are still sermons to prepare, lessons to teach, stories to write, and family moments to enjoy. But lately, some of my attention has been given to doctor appointments, medical reports, and decisions about my health.

The latest report concerns the infection in my left foot. Although the foot had shown some outward improvement while being treated with antibiotics, the MRI confirmed that the infection involves bone in my third toe and the head of the bone behind it. The medical term is osteomyelitis—an infection of the bone.

The wound care examination also found a deep ulcer with exposed bone. This is more than a sore on the surface. It is a serious condition that requires continued treatment.

Surgery is scheduled for October 15, 2026. The proposed procedure is to remove my third toe and part of the infected bone behind it, along with the ulcer, and close the wound. The plan described in the report includes wearing a surgical sandal for about three weeks afterward. How well and how quickly the foot heals remains something we will have to watch.

I have already lost toes on this foot, so this is familiar territory, although familiarity does not make it easy. I would certainly rather keep what I have. But I understand the purpose of removing the infected bone, and I am thankful for the doctors and wound care staff who are working to address it.

This foot problem comes alongside other health concerns. I have lived with diabetes for more than thirty years, and kidney disease continues to require close attention. Parkinson’s disease has now been confirmed as well. There are also heart concerns and other conditions that remind me that these earthly bodies do wear down.

I share this update because many of you have prayed, asked how I am doing, and shown kindness to me and my family. You deserve an honest answer. I am facing another surgery, and there are uncertainties about recovery. Yet there are also reasons to be thankful. The infection has been identified, a treatment plan is in place, and I have people around me who care.

Through years of ministry, I have stood beside others facing illness, surgery, and loss. Now I am reminded again that the Scriptures we offer to others are also meant to sustain us.

The LORD told Paul:

“My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”
—2 Corinthians 12:9, KJV

That promise does not tell me that every medical report will be favorable or that recovery will be easy. It tells me that God’s grace is sufficient in the circumstances I must face.

I believe in prayer, and I am thankful for medical care. I can ask the LORD for healing while accepting the treatment available to me. Trusting Him includes placing the outcome in His hands when I cannot see what lies ahead.

Please pray for the October 15 surgery, for wisdom and steady hands for those performing it, and for the infection to be resolved and the wound to heal. Remember Laverna and our family as well. Illness touches the people who love us, even when they are not the ones undergoing treatment.

I still have work I hope to do and words I hope to share. For now, I will take the next step, attend to what needs attention, and trust the LORD for strength each day.

This old country preacher has reached another bend in the road. I cannot see all that is around it, but I am thankful I do not have to travel it alone.

A Nation That Cannot Afford to Farm Has a National Security Problem

I am not a farmer, but I live in a farming community. Here around Thorntown, Indiana, farming is more than something we see through the windshield. It supports families, businesses, churches, and the life of our community.

When our farmers hurt, the whole community feels it.

Recently, I spoke with one farmer who told me he had sold his soybeans at a fair price, yet after paying his expenses, he only broke even. Another told me he had decided not to farm 3,000 acres next year because of his losses.

These conversations concern me. A man can work hard, make responsible decisions, bring in a crop, and still have nothing left to show for his labor. How many years can a family continue doing that?

I have seen diesel advertised here in Indiana at $6.99 a gallon. That is a serious expense for someone who must run tractors, combines, trucks, and other equipment. The farmer cannot simply park the machinery until prices come down. The crop has to be planted when conditions are right and harvested when it is ready.

And diesel is only one part of the bill.

There is fertilizer, seed, machinery, repairs, insurance, land expense, and interest on borrowed money. When several of these costs rise together, a farmer’s profit can disappear before the crop leaves the field.

I believe this has become a national security issue, and candidates need to address it before the midterm elections.

We often discuss national security in terms of military strength. We talk about missiles, ships, aircraft, and the ability to defend our borders. Those matters deserve attention. So does our ability to feed the nation.

A country needs dependable supplies of food, fuel, and fertilizer. It also needs farmers who can afford to stay in business.

A farm closing does not necessarily mean its land will stop producing. Another farmer may take it over. But we should not dismiss the loss of independent farm families as though nothing important has happened. Each departure can mean fewer local owners, fewer opportunities for young farmers, and more of our food production concentrated in fewer hands.

If losses continue, farmers may reduce acreage, postpone equipment repairs, or cut back on investments needed for future production. Those decisions can weaken agriculture over time. We do not have to predict an immediate food shortage to recognize a serious warning.

Scripture says, “The profit of the earth is for all: the king himself is served by the field” (Ecclesiastes 5:9, KJV).

Even the king depends upon the field.

Our elected leaders would do well to remember that.

The concern reaches beyond the farmer’s own finances. Farm purchases support equipment dealers, repair shops, suppliers, and many other local businesses. When farm income disappears, less money circulates through the community. Families become more cautious. Businesses lose customers. Young people begin looking elsewhere for a future.

Higher fuel costs also affect the movement of food. Harvesting is only one step. Crops and livestock must be transported, processed, and delivered. Rising costs throughout that system put pressure on the prices families pay.

The farmer and the grocery shopper are connected, whether they realize it or not.

I am particularly concerned about the effect of war and instability in the Middle East on energy supplies. Wisconsin Public Radio’s recent reporting identifies war-related energy pressures and regional refinery problems among the causes of the diesel burden farmers are facing. The problem has several causes, and responsible leadership must address them together.

Before supporting further military escalation, Congress should demand a clear accounting of the likely consequences for fuel, fertilizer, transportation, and American agriculture.

What is the objective? How will success be measured? What is the diplomatic path toward ending the conflict and protecting shipping? What will American families and farmers be expected to pay?

Those are reasonable questions. Asking them is part of responsible citizenship.

I want our government to place the welfare of American communities at the center of its decisions. The costs of foreign policy do not remain overseas. Some of them arrive at the fuel pump, in the farm operating loan, and on the grocery receipt.

Before the midterm elections, every congressional candidate seeking votes in a farming community should answer several questions plainly:

• What will you do to address high diesel costs and strengthen dependable fuel supplies?

• How will you help protect access to affordable fertilizer?

• How will you address the pressure of operating debt on otherwise viable farms?

• What will you do to strengthen competition and fair treatment in agricultural markets?

• How will you evaluate the effect of war, tariffs, and energy policy on American food production?

We need more than a campaign photograph beside a tractor. We need practical proposals, honest explanations of their costs, and a willingness to be held accountable.

Temporary assistance may keep some farms operating through a difficult season. But farmers also need conditions in which their work can earn a reasonable return. Borrowing more money to cover another year of losses cannot be the permanent answer.

I am not asking candidates to guarantee that farming will be free of risk. Farmers have always dealt with weather, changing markets, and uncertainty. I am asking our leaders to recognize when public policy adds burdens that threaten the people producing our food.

Neither party should be excused from answering these questions.

The farmer’s bills come due whether a Republican or a Democrat holds office. The harvest does not wait for the election to be over. Families cannot eat campaign promises.

A nation that expects its farmers to feed everyone must take seriously whether those farmers can afford to continue.

The warning signs deserve attention now. By the time we cast our ballots in the midterm elections, candidates should have told us what they intend to do—and voters should have enough information to judge their answers.

Around here, these are our neighbors. Their future is tied to ours.

It is time for Washington to treat that future as a matter of national security.

More Destruction Is Not a Plan for Peace

 I understand why some people want to see the United States show that it can defeat Iran decisively. But wanting a victory and having a plan to achieve one are two different things. After all the threats and attacks, Iran has not been brought to total defeat. Congress and the American people have a right to ask what another major military operation would accomplish.

The United States cannot afford to mistake the ability to inflict more damage for a plan to end this war. Bombs can destroy buildings and weapons. They cannot, by themselves, guarantee a lasting peace, reopen shipping, or settle the question of Iran’s nuclear program.

I am especially concerned about talk of a large-scale invasion. Such an operation could draw more countries into the fighting and put additional oil routes and facilities at risk. If supplies were seriously disrupted, the harm would reach well beyond the Middle East. Nations that depend on imported oil could face severe economic trouble. Here at home, higher fuel costs would fall on families, truckers, and farmers already trying to make ends meet.

I am not a farmer, but I live in a farming community. I see why the price of diesel matters. Farmers cannot harvest a crop, move it to market, and prepare for another planting season on promises that the war will soon be won. When their costs rise, the effects eventually reach every household.

Congress should demand clear objectives from the administration. What does victory mean? What would another attack or an invasion achieve that previous military action has not? What is the cost to American lives, to our economy, and to people throughout the region? And what serious diplomatic path is being pursued to reopen shipping, reduce the fighting, and address Iran’s nuclear program?

Waiting until after the midterm elections may suit a political calendar. It does nothing for the people living with this war or for those paying its growing costs. A nation should never enter a larger war simply because its leaders cannot admit that the present course has failed to bring peace.

As a Christian, I pray for the people of Iran, Israel, and every country caught in this conflict. I pray for our service members and their families. I also pray that our leaders will have the humility to pursue a way out before more lives are lost and more nations are pulled toward economic disaster.

The question before us is not whether America can cause greater destruction. It is whether our leaders have the wisdom to prevent it.

Is Turkey Rising? An Update on the Beast of Daniel and Revelation

Before I begin, let me make something very clear. I am not a prophet. The Lord has not sent an angel to explain these prophecies to me, and I do not claim to have received some special revelation unavailable to other Christians. What follows is my personal opinion based upon my study of the King James Bible, ancient history, biblical geography, and what is happening in the world today.

I encourage every reader to search the Scriptures and reach his or her own conclusion.

Something significant is happening in the Muslim world. Turkey is steadily becoming a major military, political, and diplomatic power. It is strengthening its relationships with Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Syria, Qatar, Egypt, and other Muslim-majority countries. At the same time, confidence in the United States as the unquestioned protector of the Middle East appears to be weakening.

On August 7, 2026, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan signed the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement. According to reports, the agreement declares that an attack upon one of these countries will be considered an attack upon all three. Turkey brings its growing defense industry and military experience. Pakistan brings a powerful military and nuclear capability. Saudi Arabia brings its oil wealth, financial influence, and position as guardian of Islam’s two holiest cities. (apnews.com)

Officials describe the agreement as defensive and insist that it is not directed against any particular country. That may be its stated purpose, but alliances often begin in response to one danger and later develop into something much greater.

Other reports indicate that Turkey, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt have been discussing broader security cooperation. Qatar has also been involved in some of these conversations. This does not yet constitute a fully united Muslim military alliance, but the foundation for greater cooperation is being laid. (mecouncil.org)

Could we be witnessing the beginning of a political system that Bible prophecy described long ago?

Daniel Saw Separate Beasts

In Daniel 7, the prophet saw four great beasts rising out of the sea. The first was like a lion, the second like a bear, the third like a leopard, and the fourth was a dreadful and terrible beast unlike those before it.

“The first was like a lion, and had eagle’s wings.”
—Daniel 7:4, KJV

“And behold another beast, a second, like to a bear.”
—Daniel 7:5, KJV

“After this I beheld, and lo another, like a leopard.”
—Daniel 7:6, KJV

These beasts are commonly associated with Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome. Daniel saw them as separate empires appearing one after another.

Daniel 2 presents the same general succession through the image seen by Nebuchadnezzar. The image had a head of gold, breast and arms of silver, belly and thighs of brass, legs of iron, and feet composed of iron and clay.

Each empire passed from the scene, but the imperial system did not disappear. One empire inherited territory, customs, military practices, governmental structures, and religious ideas from the one before it.

The empires fell, but the spirit of the beast continued.

John Saw the Beasts Reunited

Centuries later, John saw something remarkable:

“And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority.”
—Revelation 13:2, KJV

Daniel saw the lion, bear, and leopard separately. John saw their characteristics reunited in one beast.

This leads me to believe that the final beast will be a composite system. It will bring together the nature, power, territories, or governmental characteristics of the ancient empires. What Daniel saw divided, John saw reunited.

The central focus of these prophecies may therefore be the reunion of the old imperial system in its final form.

Why Turkey Deserves Our Attention

Modern Turkey occupies one of the most strategically important locations in the world. It stands between Europe and Asia, controls access between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean, and lies immediately north and northwest of Israel.

Turkey also occupies the ancient land of Asia Minor. This territory was ruled at different times by the Persian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires. Constantinople, now Istanbul, was the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire for more than a thousand years.

The Ottoman Empire later ruled much of the Middle East, including lands connected with the ancient biblical empires. It controlled Jerusalem and the land of Israel for approximately four centuries.

Turkey is therefore not a newcomer to regional leadership. It was once the center of an empire that ruled large parts of the Muslim world.

Today, Turkey possesses a large military, a growing weapons industry, successful drone technology, regional military bases, and influence in Syria, Iraq, Libya, the Caucasus, Central Asia, and the Balkans. Its growing cooperation with Saudi Arabia and Pakistan could give it even greater reach.

I am not saying that Turkey has already fulfilled these prophecies. I am saying that Turkey’s history, location, military strength, and growing alliances make it a country that students of prophecy should watch carefully.

The Seven Churches Were in Turkey

The book of Revelation begins with messages to seven churches:

“John to the seven churches which are in Asia.”
—Revelation 1:4, KJV

Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea were all located in what is now modern Turkey.

That fact does not prove that Turkey is the beast. However, it does show that the geographical setting of Revelation is closely connected with Asia Minor. The book was not originally addressed to churches in Russia, western Europe, or North America. It was addressed to churches located in the territory of modern Turkey.

We should not overlook that geographical fact.

Gog and Magog Are Not Automatically Russia

For many years, prophecy teachers have identified Gog and Magog with Russia. However, Ezekiel never mentions the modern nation of Russia.

Ezekiel names Meshech, Tubal, Gomer, and the house of Togarmah. Several of these ancient peoples have historical connections with Anatolia, Asia Minor, and the regions surrounding modern Turkey.

“Gomer, and all his bands; the house of Togarmah of the north quarters, and all his bands.”
—Ezekiel 38:6, KJV

Magog’s exact location remains debated. Therefore, I would not claim that every name in Ezekiel refers exclusively to modern Turkey. Nevertheless, the coalition described by Ezekiel has strong connections with Anatolia and the Middle East.

In my opinion, Turkey is a much more natural candidate for the central power in this northern coalition than many prophecy teachers have admitted.

The King of the North

Daniel also describes a “king of the north.” Historically, this title was connected with the Seleucid kingdom that emerged after the death of Alexander the Great. That kingdom included Syria and extensive territory in and around Asia Minor.

Turkey lies north of Israel and occupies a substantial part of that ancient northern territory. Once again, this does not prove that the king of the north must be a modern Turkish ruler. It does, however, make Turkey’s growing regional position prophetically interesting.

We must allow Scripture to establish the geography instead of beginning with modern political assumptions.

The Beast as a Union of Muslim Countries

My present opinion is that the final beast could be a confederation of Muslim-majority nations, with Turkey serving as its political and military center.

I am not saying that every Muslim is part of the beast. I am not accusing ordinary Muslim men, women, and children of being evil. Scripture describes the beast as a political, military, and religious system that demands allegiance and opposes the authority of God.

There are millions of Muslims who want nothing more than to live peacefully, raise their families, and worship according to their understanding. Our Christian responsibility is to love them, pray for them, and share the gospel of Jesus Christ with them.

However, Islam is more than a private religious belief. In many countries, it also functions as a legal, governmental, and political system. That makes possible a union between religious authority and political power.

The Muslim world has historically been divided by national interests, ethnic differences, and the Sunni-Shia conflict. Yet external danger, weakening confidence in America, hostility toward Israel, and the desire for regional independence could bring these countries into greater cooperation.

Turkey may be positioning itself to lead that cooperation.

Is the False Prophet an Islamic Religious System?

Revelation describes a second beast that later is identified with the false prophet:

“And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast.”
—Revelation 13

Is Turkey Rising in Bible Prophecy?

A Personal Interpretation Based on Scripture, History, and Present Events

I want to begin by making something perfectly clear. I am not a prophet. The Lord has not sent an angel to my house to explain the books of Daniel and Revelation to me. I have not received a new revelation, nor do I claim that my interpretation is established church doctrine.

What follows is my personal opinion, formed through years of studying the King James Bible, the history of ancient empires, biblical geography, and the events taking place in the Middle East today. Readers should search the Scriptures for themselves and reach their conclusions prayerfully.

However, something is happening in Turkey that deserves our attention.

Turkey Is Becoming a Major Power

Turkey is no longer standing on the sidelines of Middle Eastern affairs. It is steadily becoming one of the most important military, political, and religious powers among Muslim-majority countries.

On August 7, 2026, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan signed what has been called the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement. The agreement declares that an attack upon one of these countries will be treated as an attack upon all three. Turkey contributes its experienced military and growing defense industry. Pakistan possesses nuclear weapons and a large military. Saudi Arabia contributes its tremendous financial and energy resources. (apnews.com)

Egypt and Qatar have also participated in discussions about greater regional security cooperation. This does not yet amount to a fully organized “Muslim NATO,” but the foundation for a new alignment is being laid. Foreign ministers from Turkey, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt have met to discuss the region’s changing security situation. (mecouncil.org)

We must be careful not to declare that every political agreement is the fulfillment of prophecy. Agreements can fail, alliances can break apart, and national leaders can change their minds. Nevertheless, the direction of events is important. Muslim-majority countries are discussing how to provide for their security with less dependence upon the United States.

Turkey is in a strong position to lead such a movement.

The Beast Seen by Daniel

Daniel saw a succession of beasts rising from the sea:

“The first was like a lion, and had eagle’s wings.”
—Daniel 7:4, KJV

“And behold another beast, a second, like to a bear.”
—Daniel 7:5, KJV

“After this I beheld, and lo another, like a leopard.”
—Daniel 7:6, KJV

Daniel then saw a fourth beast that was different from the others:

“After this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly.”
—Daniel 7:7, KJV

These beasts have traditionally been connected with Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome. Daniel saw them as successive kingdoms. One empire followed another.

Daniel 2 presents the same general succession through the image seen in Nebuchadnezzar’s dream. The head was gold, the breast and arms were silver, the belly and thighs were brass, and the legs were iron. The image ended with feet made partly of iron and partly of clay.

The kingdoms changed, but the spirit of human empire continued.

John Saw the Beasts Reunited

Centuries later, John saw a beast that contained the characteristics of Daniel’s earlier beasts:

“And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority.”
—Revelation 13:2, KJV

Daniel saw the lion, bear, and leopard separately. John saw them combined in one beast.

I believe this is one of the great keys to understanding the prophecy. The final beast will not be merely one ancient empire restored exactly as it existed before. It will bring together the lands, characteristics, authority, and rebellious spirit of the former empires.

The ancient kingdoms represented by Daniel covered territories that today include Turkey, Syria, Iraq, Iran, Egypt, and other surrounding countries. Most of these countries are now Muslim-majority nations.

It is my opinion that the final beast may be a confederation of Muslim countries, with Turkey emerging as its principal political and military power.

I am not saying that every Muslim is part of the beast. Individual Muslims are people for whom Christ died, and Christians should pray that they come to know Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour. The beast is a system of government and spiritual rebellion, not an excuse to hate ordinary people.

Why Turkey?

Turkey occupies a unique geographical position. It stands between Europe and Asia, north and northwest of Israel. It controls access between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean. It has influence in Syria, Iraq, the Caucasus, Central Asia, the Balkans, and the wider Muslim world.

Modern Turkey also occupies the ancient land of Asia Minor. This territory belonged at different times to the Persian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires. Turkey sits in the geographical heartland where several of Daniel’s empires once met.

Constantinople was the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. The Ottoman Empire later controlled much of the Middle East, North Africa, southeastern Europe, and the lands surrounding Israel.

If the old imperial territories are to be gathered into a final confederation, Turkey is geographically and historically positioned to become its center.

The Kingdom North of Israel

Daniel repeatedly refers to the “king of the north.” Historically, this expression was connected with the Seleucid kingdom, which arose after the empire of Alexander the Great was divided.

The Seleucid realm included Syria and large portions of Anatolia, the land now occupied by Turkey. Therefore, I do not believe we should automatically look toward Russia whenever Scripture speaks about a power from the north.

Turkey is directly north of Israel and occupies much of the territory historically associated with the northern divisions of Alexander’s former empire.

This does not prove that modern Turkey must be Daniel’s final king of the north. It does, however, make Turkey a more natural country to examine than many interpreters have been willing to admit.

The Seven Churches Were in Turkey

The book of Revelation begins with messages to seven churches:

“John to the seven churches which are in Asia.”
—Revelation 1:4, KJV

Those churches were Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. Every one of them was located in what is now modern Turkey.

Turkey is therefore not a stranger to the geographical setting of Revelation. The last book of the Bible was first circulated among churches located within its present borders.

This fact alone does not make Turkey the beast. Nevertheless, I find it significant that Revelation begins in this territory and contains prophecies about a final empire gathering the characteristics of earlier kingdoms that once ruled the same region.

Gog and Magog Are Not Automatically Russia

For generations, prophecy teachers have told Christians that Gog and Magog must refer to Russia. Yet the word “Russia” does not appear in Ezekiel 38 or 39.

Ezekiel named Meshech, Tubal, Gomer, and the house of Togarmah. These peoples have significant historical associations with Anatolia, Armenia, Asia Minor, and the regions surrounding modern Turkey.

“Gomer, and all his bands; the house of Togarmah of the north quarters, and all his bands.”
—Ezekiel 38:6, KJV

Magog’s exact location remains disputed. We should not pretend that every ancient name can be placed upon a modern map with absolute certainty. Nevertheless, the coalition described by Ezekiel has a powerful Anatolian and Middle Eastern character.

My opinion is that Turkey could become the political and military center of the Gog coalition. Persia—modern Iran—is specifically named in Ezekiel 38:5. Other participating peoples came from regions surrounding Israel, Anatolia, Mesopotamia, and North Africa.

That picture looks more like a gathering of regional powers than a purely Russian invasion.

Islam and the False Prophet

Revelation describes a second beast that gives religious support to the first:

“And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast.”
—Revelation 13:12, KJV

In my interpretation, the first beast represents the united political and military system. The second beast, later called the false prophet, represents the religious power that gives the system spiritual authority and unity.

I believe Islam could fulfill that role.

Again, Scripture does not explicitly say, “The false prophet is Islam.” That is my interpretation, not a direct biblical statement. But if Muslim-majority countries form a great political and military alliance, Islam would provide a ready-made religious identity capable of uniting otherwise divided nations.

Turkey is particularly important because it carries the memory of the Ottoman caliphate. Although modern Turkey was established as a secular republic, its present leadership has increasingly emphasized Turkey’s Islamic and Ottoman heritage.

A revived regional order would not necessarily restore the Ottoman Empire exactly as it existed. It could revive its spirit: a strong Turkish center exercising influence over a broad alliance of Muslim countries.

Watch Without Making Reckless Predictions

Jesus commanded us to watch, but He did not tell us to manufacture fulfillment where none exists. We must avoid setting dates or declaring every headline to be the final fulfillment of prophecy.

Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Egypt, and Qatar have different interests. Iran follows a different Islamic tradition and has its own ambitions. These countries may cooperate in one area while opposing one another in another.

The new defense agreement has not yet developed into a unified military command. We do not know whether it will hold together during a severe crisis. Time will reveal whether this is merely another temporary arrangement or the beginning of something far greater.

Nevertheless, the pieces are moving.

Turkey is expanding its military influence. Muslim countries are discussing greater regional cooperation. Confidence in American protection is weakening. Israel increasingly regards Turkey as a strategic competitor. The territories of the ancient empires are again becoming the center of world attention.

My Present Conclusion

I am not claiming that prophecy has been fulfilled. I am saying that present developments fit a pattern I have observed in Scripture and history.

Daniel saw the lion, bear, leopard, and dreadful beast as successive kingdoms. John saw the lion, bear, and leopard reunited in one final beast. The territories of those former empires are now largely occupied by Muslim-majority countries.

Turkey stands north of Israel. It occupies the land of the seven churches. It lies within the territory of ancient empires described by Daniel. Several peoples named in Ezekiel’s Gog coalition were connected with Anatolia and the surrounding regions. Turkey also possesses the military, industrial, geographical, and historical position necessary to organize a larger Muslim alliance.

Therefore, it is my personal opinion that Turkey may become the central power within the final beast system, that the beast may represent a union of Muslim-majority countries, and that Islam may provide the religious authority represented by the false prophet.

I offer this as an interpretation—not a prophecy.

The Christian’s responsibility is not to fear Turkey, hate Muslims, or become obsessed with every rumor. Our responsibility is to remain awake, test everything by the Word of God, preach Christ to every nation, and refuse allegiance to any power demanding what belongs to God alone.

“Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.”
—Matthew 24:42, KJV

The nations may be gathering, the old territories may be realigning, and a forgotten imperial center may be rising again. We cannot yet know precisely how these events will unfold.

But we would be foolish not to watch.

As It Was in the Days of Noah

 Jesus gave us a solemn warning about the condition of the world before His return:

“But as the days of Noe were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.”
—Matthew 24:37, KJV

I have studied the Scriptures for many years, and I cannot look at what is happening around us without seeing similarities between our generation and the days of Noah. I am not setting a date for the return of Christ. Jesus told us that no man knows the day or hour. However, He also instructed us to watch and recognize the spiritual condition of the times.

A storm does not arrive without first putting signs in the sky. The clouds gather, the wind changes, and the distant thunder begins to roll. A wise farmer does not need the rain to fall on his head before realizing that a storm is coming.

I believe the spiritual clouds are gathering.

The Earth Was Filled With Violence

The Bible describes Noah’s generation in very plain language:

“The earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence.”
—Genesis 6:11, KJV

That sounds a great deal like our world today. Violence is everywhere. Nations are at war. Governments threaten one another with weapons capable of destroying entire cities. Terrorism, murder, persecution, abuse, and hatred fill the news.

We have become so accustomed to violence that it hardly shocks us anymore. It has become entertainment. Our children see it in movies, television programs, music, video games, and social media. Human suffering is displayed on a screen and then quickly forgotten when the next story appears.

The problem is not merely that violence exists. Violence has existed ever since Cain killed Abel. The greater problem is that human life is losing its sacred value.

Every human being is made in the image of God. When a society forgets that truth, the strong begin to destroy the weak, the powerful exploit the powerless, and innocent lives become nothing more than numbers in a report.

Jesus did not call His followers to celebrate destruction. He said:

“Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.”
—Matthew 5:9, KJV

The Imagination of Man’s Heart

Scripture tells us something else about Noah’s generation:

“And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.”
—Genesis 6:5, KJV

The corruption was not limited to outward actions. It had entered people’s thoughts, desires, plans, and imaginations.

We see a similar condition today. Technology can be a useful servant, but it can become a terrible master. It now carries pornography, hatred, deception, cruelty, and occult teachings directly into our homes. Social media can magnify pride, envy, anger, and division. Artificial intelligence can create false images and convincing lies that are difficult to distinguish from the truth.

Technology did not create the sinful heart. It simply gives that heart greater reach.

Jesus said:

“For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts.”
—Mark 7:21, KJV

We possess more information than any generation before us, yet information has not made us righteous. We can communicate across the world in seconds, but we still struggle to speak kindly to the person sitting across the table.

Our knowledge has increased, but our wisdom has not kept pace.

The Return of the Old Gods

Another troubling development is the renewed fascination with the old gods of pagan religions. Interest in witchcraft, astrology, spirit guides, ancient deities, occult ceremonies, and communication with spirits has moved into the mainstream.

Some people treat these things as harmless entertainment. Others sincerely seek contact with spiritual powers. The names may be ancient, but the deception behind them is not harmless.

The Apostle Paul wrote:

“But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God.”
—1 Corinthians 10:20, KJV

There is only one true God. The gods of the nations cannot provide salvation, forgive sin, or give eternal life. They draw people away from the Creator and into spiritual bondage.

We are told:

“Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God.”
—1 John 4:1, KJV

Not every supernatural experience comes from God. Not every spirit is holy, and not every spiritual message is true. Anything that denies Jesus Christ, contradicts the Word of God, or glorifies created beings instead of the Creator must be rejected.

I believe we are witnessing more than a passing interest in ancient mythology. There is a spiritual hunger in our generation, but many people are trying to satisfy it everywhere except at the feet of Jesus Christ.

Humanity Is Trying to Overcome Death Without God

The transhumanist movement believes technology may enable humanity to overcome many of its natural limitations. Its advocates speak of altering the human body, merging people with machines, changing genetic material, slowing the aging process, and perhaps eventually escaping death.

I am thankful for good medicine. Treating disease, relieving suffering, restoring mobility, and improving a person’s quality of life can be wonderful expressions of compassion. Having personally faced serious health problems, I do not oppose medical science or responsible treatment.

But there is a line between healing the human body and attempting to redesign humanity.

The danger comes when people begin to believe they can conquer death, achieve immortality, or become gods through their own knowledge. That is not a new temptation. It is the same old promise spoken by the serpent in the Garden:

“Ye shall be as gods.”
—Genesis 3:5, KJV

Human beings may replace joints, transplant organs, change genes, and extend life. Nevertheless, no machine can cleanse the heart of sin. No computer can reconcile a soul to God. No laboratory can manufacture eternal life.

The Bible says:

“And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.”
—Hebrews 9:27, KJV

Death will not finally be defeated by technology. Death has already been defeated by Jesus Christ:

“I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live.”
—John 11:25, KJV

We do not need to become something beyond human to receive eternal life. We need to be redeemed by the One who created humanity.

Worshipping Creation Instead of the Creator

We are responsible for caring for the earth. God placed mankind in the garden “to dress it and to keep it” (Genesis 2:15). Polluting the land, poisoning the water, wasting resources, and needlessly destroying life are not acts of faithful stewardship.

But caring for creation is not the same as worshipping it.

Many people deny that God created the world while speaking of nature, the universe, or “Mother Earth” as though creation itself possessed divine wisdom and authority. The creation is honored while the Creator is rejected.

Paul described this condition:

“Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever.”
—Romans 1:25, KJV

The heavens are glorious, but they are not God. The earth is beautiful, but it is not our Creator. Nature does not explain itself. Creation points beyond itself to the One who made it:

“The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.”
—Psalm 19:1, KJV

When I see a sunrise over an Indiana field, I do not worship the sunrise. I worship the God who painted the morning sky.

No Concern About Coming Judgment

Perhaps the clearest comparison between our generation and Noah’s is the lack of concern about coming judgment.

Jesus said:

“For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark,
And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away.”
—Matthew 24:38–39, KJV

There was nothing wrong with eating, drinking, or marrying. These were ordinary parts of life. The problem was that the people lived as though God did not exist and judgment would never come.

They kept planting their gardens. They continued making business deals. They planned weddings and prepared tomorrow’s meals. Meanwhile, Noah kept building the ark.

I imagine people laughed whenever they passed Noah’s construction site. They may have called him old-fashioned, narrow-minded, or foolish. But every blow of Noah’s hammer was a sermon. Every board placed upon that ark declared that judgment was coming and mercy was available.

The people received a warning, but they did not believe it.

The same spirit exists today. People plan for retirement but not eternity. They insure their homes, automobiles, and possessions but give little thought to their souls. They prepare for storms, shortages, sickness, and financial trouble but never prepare to meet God.

The Bible warns:

“There shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts,
And saying, Where is the promise of his coming?”
—2 Peter 3:3–4, KJV

God’s patience should never be mistaken for His absence. The reason judgment has not already fallen is that God is merciful:

“The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”
—2 Peter 3:9, KJV

His delay is an opportunity to repent.

Noah Found Grace

The account of Noah is not only a message of judgment. It is also a testimony of grace.

“But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD.”
—Genesis 6:8, KJV

Noah did not save himself. He found grace. That grace led him to believe God, obey God, and walk differently from his generation.

“Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God.”
—Genesis 6:9, KJV

Noah could not stop all the violence around him. He could not force his generation to repent. He could not make people believe his warning. But he could walk with God, obey God, preach righteousness, and prepare his household.

That is where we find ourselves today.

We cannot correct every evil in the world, but we can walk with God. We can teach our children and grandchildren the Scriptures. We can refuse to bow before the gods of this age. We can defend the value of human life. We can pursue peace, speak the truth in love, and warn those who will listen.

Most importantly, we can point people to Jesus Christ.

Christ Is Our Ark of Safety

The ark was both a warning and an invitation. It declared that judgment was coming, but it also showed that God had provided a place of safety.

Today, our refuge is not an ark made from wood. Our refuge is Jesus Christ.

“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus.”
—Romans 8:1, KJV

It was not enough to admire Noah’s ark. A person had to enter it. In the same way, it is not enough to know about Jesus, attend church, own a Bible, or come from a Christian family. We must personally repent of our sins and place our faith in Christ.

A day came when the invitation ended:

“And the LORD shut him in.”
—Genesis 7:16, KJV

I do not know when the Lord will return. I will not set a date, because Scripture gives me no authority to do so. But I believe the hour is late, the darkness is growing, and the warning must be sounded.

This is not the hour for the Church to fall asleep. It is not the hour to become so comfortable with the world that we can no longer recognize its corruption. Neither is it the hour for Christians to become hateful, fearful, or self-righteous.

We must speak the truth with tears in our eyes and compassion in our hearts.

Yes, our world increasingly resembles the days of Noah. The earth is filled with violence. The old gods are returning. Humanity is seeking immortality without God. Creation is being worshipped while its Creator is denied. Judgment is mocked, and ordinary life continues as though tomorrow were guaranteed.

But the door of mercy is still open.

“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”
—2 Corinthians 6:2, KJV

The message of Noah is not, “Run around in fear.” The message is, “Walk with God, believe His Word, prepare your household, and enter the place of safety He has provided.”

The storm clouds are gathering. The distant thunder can be heard. But there is still grace in the eyes of the Lord, and there is still room at the cross.

Are you ready?

Declaring Victory Does Not Mean the War Has Been Won

It is my opinion that as long as Donald Trump is president, there may be no lasting end to the war with Iran. I do not make that statement because I desire America to fail. I make it because I see little evidence that the present course is bringing the war to a successful conclusion.

President Trump repeatedly speaks as though the war has already been won. Yet Iran has not surrendered. Its government continues to function, its military continues to fight, and its missiles and drones remain capable of striking American forces and our allies. Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains disrupted, while Iranian-aligned forces continue threatening Saudi Arabia and Red Sea commerce.

If the war has been won, where is the peace?

If Iran has been defeated, why does it retain the ability to fight?

If American objectives have been accomplished, why are additional attacks and military operations still being discussed?

Declaring victory does not make it so.

Tactical Success Is Not Strategic Victory

The United States undoubtedly possesses tremendous military power. American aircraft and missiles can destroy bases, radar systems, weapons facilities and command centers. Our military can inflict terrible damage upon almost any country in the world.

However, destroying targets is not the same as winning a war.

A country can win individual battles while losing the larger struggle. We should have learned this from Vietnam, Afghanistan and Iraq. America won many battles in those countries, but military victories did not necessarily produce the political outcomes our leaders promised.

The same danger exists in Iran.

The United States may destroy an Iranian missile installation, but Iran can disperse its remaining weapons. We may kill military commanders, but others will replace them. We may damage an oil terminal, but that will not automatically compel more than ninety million Iranians to surrender.

Before declaring victory, the administration should answer several straightforward questions:

• Has Iran surrendered or accepted America’s principal demands?

• Has Iran lost its ability to conduct meaningful military operations?

• Has the Strait of Hormuz been reopened reliably?

• Are American forces and our allies safer than they were before the war?

• Has Iran’s nuclear program been permanently eliminated or placed under verifiable restrictions?

• Has the war ended under an enforceable agreement?

If the answer to most of these questions is no, then the word victory is political language rather than military reality.

Pride Can Become a National Danger

I cannot see into President Trump’s heart, and I cannot prove his private motives. I can only judge his public statements and decisions. Nevertheless, it appears to me that pride has become one of the greatest obstacles to ending this war.

The Bible warns:

“Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.”
—Proverbs 16:18, KJV

President Trump wants to be seen as a great military leader who forced Iran to submit. However, a great military commander is not measured by how loudly he announces victory. He is measured by whether he understands the enemy, establishes attainable objectives, protects his forces and knows when military power has reached its limits.

A wise leader also counts the cost before entering a conflict. Jesus used that principle when He said:

“Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand?”
—Luke 14:31, KJV

That passage is not primarily a lesson about modern military policy, but its principle remains true: wise leadership considers the cost before beginning a struggle that may be impossible to finish.

Did our government honestly calculate the cost of confronting Iran? Did it consider Iran’s geography, population, missile forces and regional relationships? Did it consider the possibility that the Strait of Hormuz would be disrupted? Did it calculate how many expensive interceptors would be required to defend American bases and allied cities?

Most importantly, did it establish a realistic definition of victory?

America’s Allies Are Watching

The consequences extend beyond Iran. Saudi Arabia and other American partners are watching how the United States manages this war.

For decades, these governments depended upon the American security guarantee. They believed the United States could protect their territory, oil installations and shipping routes. Now they see American bases under threat, missiles penetrating regional defenses and Washington hesitating to intervene directly against the Houthis.

Saudi Arabia is consequently developing a stronger defense relationship with Turkey and Pakistan. This does not mean that the Saudi-American relationship has completely ended. It means that Saudi leaders no longer want to place their security entirely in American hands.

Turkey has offered military and technical assistance to Saudi Arabia under a trilateral defense agreement involving Pakistan. Turkey can provide drones, radar, electronic-warfare capabilities, military advisers and diplomatic access to several sides in the conflict.

If Turkey succeeds in helping negotiate a settlement while America remains trapped in an expanding war, Middle Eastern governments will increasingly look toward Ankara instead of Washington.

American influence depends upon credibility. Every threat that is not fulfilled weakens that credibility. Every declaration of victory followed by another round of fighting causes allies and adversaries to question America’s judgment.

A Dangerous Cycle

The present policy risks becoming an endless cycle:

America attacks Iran and announces major success. Iran survives and retaliates. The United States launches additional strikes. Iran responds again. President Trump then promises that the next attack will be decisive.

The cycle continues because neither side is willing to accept the other’s demands.

The great danger is that President Trump may escalate the war to defend his earlier declarations of victory. Once a leader personally connects his reputation with winning, negotiation can appear to him like humiliation. Instead of asking what is best for the nation, he may become concerned about how compromise will affect his image.

That is when pride becomes dangerous.

Additional bombing may destroy more property and take more lives, but it will not necessarily create peace. It may instead strengthen Iranian resistance, endanger American troops, exhaust our weapons stockpiles, increase fuel prices and weaken our ability to respond to crises elsewhere.

There Comes a Point of No Return

Every war reaches a point at which leaders must determine whether the original objectives remain attainable at an acceptable cost.

There is no wisdom in continuing a failed strategy simply because admitting failure would be embarrassing. Continuing to lose lives, money, weapons and international influence will not transform a strategic failure into victory.

The United States must decide whether to negotiate while it still has substantial leverage or continue fighting until circumstances force negotiations from a weaker position.

Cutting our losses would not require America to abandon its friends. It could mean changing from offensive warfare to defensive diplomacy. America could protect its people and bases, encourage a Saudi-Houthi settlement, negotiate commercial passage through the Strait of Hormuz and support a broader regional security agreement.

Negotiation is not always surrender. Sometimes it is an acknowledgment that military power has accomplished all that it reasonably can.

The Truth Must Be Told

The evidence shows that America has inflicted substantial damage upon Iran. It does not show that Iran has been defeated.

Iran continues resisting. The fighting continues. American forces and regional allies remain under threat. Commercial shipping remains endangered, and the economic cost continues rising.

President Trump may continue declaring victory, but words cannot change battlefield reality. A war is not won because a president says it is won. Victory must be demonstrated through accomplished objectives, greater security and a lasting peace.

My concern is not protecting the reputation of one political leader. My concern is protecting the lives of American service members, innocent civilians and the long-term security of our country.

America needs leadership wise enough to recognize the limits of military force and humble enough to change direction when a strategy has failed.

Scripture warns that pride comes before destruction. That warning applies not only to individuals but also to nations and their leaders. If pride prevents our government from seeking peace, then pride may become the very thing that transforms a costly conflict into a historic defeat.