Terrorist Attacks and Europe's Future

In barely half a year, there have been terrorist attacks in London (March), Paris (February), Berlin (December), Hamburg (October), and last week in Stockholm. In 2016, terrorist attacks in Europe claimed the lives of 150 people (USA Today, April 7, 2017). On a continent where EU leaders have prided themselves on the open borders issue, populist political candidates are gaining ground against traditional candidates, in part by proposing increased border controls and protections and a return to nationalism (Huffington Post, January 12, 2017). As the EU struggles with many issues, the rise of terrorist-fueled populism could have dramatic effects on the democracies of Europe (ABC, February 3, 2017).

Bible prophecy reveals that at the end of the age, ten European leaders or “kings” will give their authority over to a powerful leader who will exercise authority over Europe (Revelation 13:1-10; 17:12-13). This leader will be influenced and promoted by a prominent religious leader who will rally many people to his cause (Revelation 13:11-18). The rise of populism in Europe could be the tip of the iceberg for what will happen in Europe’s not-too-distant future. For more insights into this trend, read or listen to The Beast of Revelation: Myth, Metaphor or Soon-Coming Reality?