I read you comment and your speculation does not fit the Bush quote. There is futurist infection in many churches. Even liberal churches like the Episcopal are open to this sort of error esp. since it smacks of conservatism.
I suspect he read some wacky book or was listening to some TV pop prophecy preacher and got a dose of it.
See my #210
You’re assuming that Pres. Bush wouldn’t have the ability to speak in metaphors. He’s actually a a pretty bright guy.