I’ve heard just about every point of view concerning the Church’s whereabouts before, during and after the War of Gog/Magog, and I came to the conclusion that the Church would almost have to have been raptured beforehand. As I understand it, God would turn to Israel after the departure of the Church. It certainly appears that the time is approaching, with Russia forging its way towards Turkey and ultimately Israel, and Turkey growing impatient at the EU’s stalling of Turkey’s request of EU membership, as well as Russia’s growing aggression throughout the Med. What are your thoughts on this?
I think there’s one more big shake out coming to the Middle East before the Battle of Gog/Magog. That’s the one where Israel defeats a coalition of its immediate neighbors (Psalm 83) and removes the constant threat that they now pose. After that Israel will feel secure enough to be set up for the sneak attack from Iran/Russia. That doesn’t necessarily mean that the Rapture is a way off as well. It could happen at any time prior to the Battle of Gog/Magog as soon as the full number of believers has been reached.