Frankly the more I study biblical prophecy the more mysterious it is. I have long stopped reading the "typical" Evangelical books on the subject, which basically parrot the same tire-worn teachings spiced up with the latest news headlines.
As to your suggestion, it does seem that some of the prophecies could refer to events that have taken place in history. But then there are always elements that transcend anything that has yet occurred. Gog and Magog, for example, involves armies from many nations, including from outside the ME, which did not happen in Arab/Israeli wars (despite some resupply by the U.S. and the Soviets). Also, what are we to make of the massive carnage in the valley of Megiddo, and the 7-year search for bones? You see, there are always elements that defy reference to historical events.
For another example, the Great Harlot of Revelation is indeed a great mystery. New York City seems to fit the bill in some regards, but where are the seven hills? Also, can the Big Apple be said to be "drunk with the blood of the saints"? Ancient Rome fits better, and doubtlessly for many in that day the "Fall" in 476 was a cataclysm of unprecedented proportions. But again, the text seems to be describing an even greater event...
I must say that events in the ME are very ominous, as is the current Islamophile occupant of the White House. In addition, the worldwide recession could be preparing the way for prophetic events. Reading Revelation, I am struck by the sequences of horrific natural disasters that precede the Antichrist. Thus far we haven't seen anything near what is described in Revelation, although we did have an unprecedented 5.9 quake here in Virginia!
It's refreshing to hear from someone that doesn't claim to have it all figured out or if you disagree with their beliefs, you're a blasphemer.
As to your suggestion, it does seem that some of the prophecies could refer to events that have taken place in history. But then there are always elements that transcend anything that has yet occurred. Gog and Magog, for example, involves armies from many nations, including from outside the ME, which did not happen in Arab/Israeli wars (despite some resupply by the U.S. and the Soviets). Also, what are we to make of the massive carnage in the valley of Megiddo, and the 7-year search for bones? You see, there are always elements that defy reference to historical events.
I see you're using the prophetic time frame (7 mos = 7 yrs )? Certainly bones/remains of those that died throughout the wars Israel fought in recent times were occasionaly discovered for a number of years. I wouldn't rely too heavily on that as an indicator of the carnage though it was indeed great for Israel's enemies.
Another thing to consider (concerning my suggestion) is how the Camp David accord/treaty might fullfill the end times prophecy.
For another example, the Great Harlot of Revelation is indeed a great mystery. New York City seems to fit the bill in some regards, but where are the seven hills? Also, can the Big Apple be said to be "drunk with the blood of the saints"? Ancient Rome fits better, and doubtlessly for many in that day the "Fall" in 476 was a cataclysm of unprecedented proportions. But again, the text seems to be describing an even greater event...
Well you know there is another city that I feel is a candidate for the "Great Harlot" of Revelation. It's actually close to you and also sits on seven hills (Goggle). Also, like NYC, it's a prime target for destruction by a device that could easily render it a smoking ruin in less than one hour. Then there is also Athens, Rome, Alexandria, London and others to consider.
I am struck by the sequences of horrific natural disasters that precede the Antichrist. Thus far we haven't seen anything near what is described in Revelation, although we did have an unprecedented 5.9 quake here in Virginia!
There are a lot of other indicators of something big about to happen, pointing to this time in history. We're seeing a decrease in sun spots that may or may not lead to another Ice Age, which we're on schedule for. We're seeing an almost doubling in the number of 5+ earthquakes worldwide compared with the annual average for the last 50 years. We're seeing an increase in volcanic action, something that could create conditions mentioned in the Bible as well as contributing to the beginning of an Ice Age. Worse, crustal shifts may actually be occasional events in Earth's history.
Then we have other seers, like St. Malachy who predicted the Catholic Popes. If he's right as he always has seemed to be, we're either at the last or next to last pope. We have the Mayan calender coming to the end of an age as well as Native American Prophecies seemingly describing this point in time.
Back to the Bible, there is a wealth of prophecy that collaborates other prophecies. One of the biggest in my mind is the fact that Israel regained its statehood in 1948. This point in time that we find ourselves in now, beautifully matches the "this generation shall not pass" prediction or Jesus.
Finally, one only has to read Daniel to see the struggle these prophets had in understanding what they saw. I'm not too certain that Ezekiel or our interpretations of Ezekiel are completely accurate. Eschatology is a vast, interesting puzzle - parts do seem to be falling into place.
Regards,