Appearing on a live televised debate with a group of 83 young French citizens aged 18-30, Chirac replied during two full hours to questions from the public, trying to promote a "yes" vote.

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During Israeli Prime Minister Sharan’s recent visit to the U.S., President Bush made a commitment to defend Israel against its enemies.  He further stated, "The United States is committed to Israel's security and well being as a Jewish state, including secure and defensible borders. We're committed to preserving and strengthening Israel's capability to deter its enemies and to defend itself."

Israel is taking a big gamble to puts its trust in the U.S. who is already pre-occupied in two other nation building projects.  If you remember, Iraqis during the first Gulf War put their trust in the U.S. only to find themselves at the mercy of Saddam Hussein after an American pullout shortly following the capture of Baghdad.  It may happen again! 

When Russia leads an attack against Israel (Ezekiel 38 & 39) don’t be surprised if the U.S. blinks.  With military troops stretched to capacity and American public opinion against any involvement in another foreign war they may find themselves on their own.

In the last few months the economy, not just in the U.S. but also around the world, has experienced an alarming decline.  High gas prices, rising interest rates and inflation concerns are being blamed for the sudden free fall in the stock market.

Of course, as a prophecy teacher I see things from a Biblical standpoint and wonder if we are in the beginning stages of a worldwide economic recession/depression.  Many Bible scholars believe that the antichrist will not only bring peace to the Middle East but will solve the world’s economic woes as well.

Another interesting development!  A couple of days ago I read an article that was discussing the characteristics the 115 cardinals will consider when selecting a new pope.  One of the characteristics I found to be a little startling was that the next pope would have to embrace the challenge of a growing Islamic world population. 

This is only speculation, but from reading the entire article I interrupt this to mean that the next pope will need to be more open minded toward all beliefs…even those who don’t name the name of Christ.  You can bet we are speeding head long toward a one god fits all society.  It will go into high gear once the true church is removed.

The vote on the E.U. constitution is a hot topic across Europe.  Many believe that France (one of the “Big Three”) is on the brink of voting ‘no’ on the constitution.  I can’t see that happening but anything is possible. 

Over the years I have read various books and websites that have tried to squeeze the 15-25 nation European Union into the ten countries the antichrist will one day rule.  Many have switched back and forth from the WEU to the EU in an attempt to make the puzzle peace fit.  Most are searching for the remotest connection to a ten-nation conglomerate they can find. 

Don’t get me wrong, I am convinced that the E.U. will turn out to be the kingdom of the antichrist.  What I question is the legitimacy of some of this research that is being presented today.  Is it possible that the kingdom of the antichrist will be exactly as the Bible has foretold (Revelation 17) a nation of ten countries and no more? 

I believe there are two factors that virtually all prophecy speculators have failed to take into account when making their final analysis regarding the tribulation period…one, the world will be very different once the rapture of the true church takes place, and two, there maybe a gap in time between the rapture and the start of the tribulation period. During this time period the way the world will think and feel will change dramatically.

Case in point, when satan is released (Revelation 20:1-3) at the end of the Millennial Reign Of Christ, many, after living under near perfect circumstances (heaven will be the only perfect situation) will choose to rebel against the Lord and follow satan to their eventual destruction (Revelation 20:7-10). 

After one thousand years of earthly bliss satan will manipulated man into following him in a moment.  Of course, God will allow this to happen to meet His ultimate purpose, but the point is that things will changed very quickly once satan is left unfettered.  This may also happen just before the tribulation period begins.

Pastor Malone