Global Tensions Heating Up

This week, Iran defiantly tested a ballistic missile in apparent violation of the 2015 nuclear deal reached with world powers (The Independent, February 1, 2017). Some experts expect an Iranian naval attack on the allied strike group, consisting of Britain, France, Australia and the U.S., which is operating in the area (The Times, February 1, 2017). Last week Pakistan “conducted its first flight test of the surface-to-surface Ababeel missile… which officials and analysts say marks a significant step forward in the country’s ability to target locations in India. The move followed Pakistan’s first ballistic missile launch from a submarine earlier this month” (Financial Times, January 31, 2017). Former soviet president Mikhail Gorbachev recently wrote for Time Magazine, “Politicians and military leaders sound increasingly belligerent and defense doctrines more dangerous. Commentators and TV personalities are joining the bellicose chorus. It all looks as if the world is preparing for war” (January 26, 2017).

These sobering words echo Jesus’ predicted signs of “the end of the age,” which include “wars and rumors of wars” (Matthew 24:3-8). Students of the Bible are urged to watch world events so they are not “caught unaware” by the return of Jesus Christ (Luke 21:34-36). To learn more about what to watch for, read Fourteen Signs Announcing Christ’s Return.