Dazed and Confused: Foreshadowing of Perplexity :: By Wilfred Hahn

The world today is perplexed and vexed, perhaps as never before, seen from a global perspective. There are blinking indicators of extreme fear, uncertainty, and international policy strife. Currently, the apparent complexity and unpredictability of worldwide geopolitical affairs is seen to be unfathomably extreme.

Surveys show that global economic policy uncertainty—for example, the Global Economic Policy Uncertainty Index—has soared to all-time highs. The higher the index, the greater the uncertainty. That makes for potentially volatile conditions for world economies, financial markets and global relations. The same “uncertainty” sentiment is revealed in other surveys, especially those that are concerned with global policies and geopolitical conditions.

Are these signs of the times? Are they prophetic foreshadowing? We will explore.

Growing Global Perplexity

Geopolitical risk surveys of recent years have shown large increases in anxiety for policymakers and business leaders alike. This is seen to be worrisome.

After all, this represents a reversal of the cooperative trends of the last several decades (seen in a general sense). Quoting from the most recent Global Risk Survey 2017 of the World Economic Forum: “In a worrying sign of deteriorating commitment to global cooperation, states are stepping back from mechanisms set up to underpin international security through mutual accountability and respect for common norms.”

Many nations are going it alone—narrowly pursuing their interests first. This spirit of antagonistic international affairs—of non-cooperation and self-interest—is evident even among the most prosperous nations in the world. Already the richest of nations, they want more; their super-rich citizens to heap up even more wealth.

Viewing our times, there can be little doubt: A much more volatile and precarious policy state is clouding the geopolitical climate. Crucially, political instability has increased globally. Consider that every major election over the last few years has resulted in the overthrow of a previously established political party or status quo (for example, America, France, Britain, Philippines … etc.).

A major signpost of these new times is “political populism.” This is the domain of charismatic and unpredictable demagogues and politicians. They are characterized by playing upon people’s emotions, making grandiose promises (saying the things that itching ears like to hear, 2 Timothy 4:3), and leaning toward a more authoritarian style of rule. History shows that nations become particularly vulnerable to this type of leader when economic and wealth imbalances become extreme.

The research team of the respected firm of Bridgewater Associates LLP is of the opinion that “political populism” is now the number one factor impacting future world political economies. The massive monetary injections of the world’s major central banks are now seen to be a secondary factor (which, by the way, still continues on a massive scale, seen globally).

Ominously, Bridgewater Associates also concludes that “populism” has reached levels last experienced in the 1930s. Most will know of the strife and atrocities that the world experienced in those times. Many disgruntled populations were facing economic challenges (to a degree, because of high concentration of wealth) and were vulnerable to Nazism, Fascism and general protest and backlash. This was the seedbed of the first world wars in history. Casualties numbered in the tens of millions.

Given the aggressive and sometimes menacing actions of “populist” leaders, many worry that major economic hardships and wars lie in the future. Indeed, global tensions are rising on every continent, and there are numerous potential friction points. It only requires one spark to start a fire that can then be wind-swept into a great global blaze.

History does not necessarily need to repeat itself in decades ahead. Time will tell. However, the “populist” trend is likely to continue, though not necessarily in a linear fashion. There likely will be populist advances, followed by steps backward.

Someday, according to the Bible, there will arise a great humanistic populist—the most powerful of all time.

No Answers from Modern Prophets

Why should there be such perplexity today, as we have shown? Haven’t the policymakers, political economists, foreign policy analysts and consultants been on watch? One would think that extremist and destructive “populist” policies would find little footing these days, given the great number of experts.

For example, the Economist magazine recently reported that the global management consulting business is enjoying prosperous times, booking some $350 billion in fees worldwide per annum. There are a surfeit of publications and transnational organizations that focus on international relations. In recent decades, there has been an enormous expansion of universities specializing in, or offering courses in “international relations” (also known as international studies), and setting up research chairs for professors studying in this field. This phenomenon’s mainstream origins only go back to as recent as the formation of the International Studies Association, which was in 1959.

The topic of international affairs is essentially about global political economics … in plain language, the competition between the economic interests of nations. In short, it is all about wealth and power—money, that common root that underlies so much of human affairs and greed (1 Timothy 6:10).

With so much study (and countless conferences, summits, and dialogue) in the field of international relations, surely mankind must have long ago developed brilliant solutions that would lead to a world free of “geopolitical risk.”

This is not what we observe. Quite the contrary. Nor will the world likely ever observe a period of zero political risk … at least, not until the Millennial Kingdom arrives or, at latest, the eternal state of the New Jerusalem. Why? Mainly, because the human heart is evil. Said Jeremiah, “The [human] heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?” (Jeremiah 17:9).

The Bible reveals additional reasons for confusion and perplexity.

The Sources of Confusion

Where do confusion and perplexity come from? Tackling this challenging topic, we can be sure of this: “For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people” (1 Corinthians 14:33). Confusion is not God’s perfect will.

Actually, disorder and confusion are signs of human corruption and godlessness. Says James: “For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice (James 3:16).

Mankind, therefore, is highly vulnerable to confusion and perplexity, if not rooted in God’s truth; rather, pursuing a humanist agenda apart from God.

In fact, God deliberately puts his enemies (i.e. all those that are disobedient to Him) into confusion. Puzzlement is a tactic that overcomes enemies. For example, we read in Deuteronomy 7:23: “But the LORD your God will deliver them over to you, throwing them into great confusion until they are destroyed.” Says the Psalmist: “Lord, confuse the wicked, confound their words, for I see violence and strife in the city” (Psalm 55:9).

We see that a condition of confusion rendered these enemies ineffective. The last time a federation of mankind became haughty and vain, seeking to rise above God, He “confused” their language. (“[…] The LORD confusion the language of the whole world” Genesis 11:9.)

It is therefore no surprise that our godless world today should be completely confused, no matter the many consultants, policymakers, and so-called experts in international affairs.

Perversity and Perplexity Go Hand in Hand

Despite the soaring indications of geopolitical risk and uncertainty, we note an unusual companion response, which is: Rising confidence in human solutions and an unwavering confidence in Mammon.

How can this be? How can these two conditions exist at the same time, in the same medium? Can something be both hot and cold? As James questions: “Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring?” (James 3:11). Jesus also points to the forked conditions of blatant contradiction. “A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit” (Matthew 7:18).

Double-mindedness is a feat only possible with human beings.

Consider this one example of human optimism. Now, still some $10 trillion-worth of world government bond markets trade at a negative yield. In other words, the longer that you hold these bonds, the lower their value … the more interest you will pay. What this implies therefore is that investors are more certain about the future than the present. Of course, this is ludicrous.

As such, we are facing the consequences of double-minded conditions. James equates double-mindedness with instability. He says: “Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do” (James 1:8).

This is one more indication that increasing instability lies ahead for the entire world.

Thoughts to Ponder

The Bible says that there will come a time where the nations will be in anguish and perplexity. Christ said that “There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea” (Luke 21:25).

This prophecy will surely unfold. However, the time is not yet. Nevertheless, we can surely identify the progress and symptoms of this condition.

We can certainly monitor global trends and strive to stay aware of new developments and their potential impact upon ourselves and our families. We may therefore be more knowledgeable. But, are we likely to escape the dangers of our times? Likely not.

What should be our response?

Christians do not need the policy prescriptions or predictions of international policy experts. We have the benefit of prophecy and knowledge of the corrupt human heart. Beyond basic Bible prophecy, we only need to know that we are in God’s hands and that He knows the future.  And if He knows the future (which He has proven beyond any doubt), then our future is secure.

The Bible reminds us: “[…] do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own” (Matthew 6:34). The Psalmist indicates the right perspective: “My heart is set to keeping your decrees to the very end. I hate double-minded people, but I love your law. You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your word” (Psalm 119:112-114).

For resources on “endtime economics” and to subscribe to the free newsletter, Eternal Value Review, visit Wilfred’s website www.eternalvalue.com or contact him at: staff@eternalvalue.com

About the Author: Wilfred J. Hahn is a global economist/strategist. Formerly a top-ranked global analyst, research director for a major Wall Street investment bank, and head of Canada’s largest global investment operation, his writings focus on the endtime roles of money, economics and globalization. He has been quoted around the world and his writings reproduced in numerous other publications and languages. His 2002 book The Endtime Money Snare: How to live free accurately anticipated and prepared its readers for the Global Financial Crisis. His newest book, Global Financial Apocalypse Prophesied: Preserving true riches in an age of deception and trouble, looks further into the future.

 

Why Earthquakes Are Part of God’s Program — Part II :: By Wilfred Hahn

Why Earthquakes Are Part of God’s Program — Part II

Messages for Mankind in Stone Rubble

On recent travels to Mediterranean environs, we encountered many ancient structures and ruins built of stone dating back millennia. Such ancient history surely will impress anyone living in Canada (as this writer does) —a country that is only celebrating its 150th birthday this year.

Our itinerary included stops in Rome, Athens and ancient Ephesus, among many other history-laden places. We viewed incredible structures that mankind had built, showcasing the pride of past societies—including the Parthenon in Athens, Ephesus, and various structures in Rome.

There was one tell-tale commonality to them all: These structures all showed signs of earthquake damage. Despite their massive, seemingly immovable construction, these edifices were moved from their foundation.

We see throughout history that earthquakes (geophysical forces) continue to repeatedly lay low the works of mankind.

Ephesus: A Prideful Example

Ephesus was particularly interesting. It had been the New York City of ancient Greek and Roman cultures. At one point, it was a key geopolitical and globalist nexus point of the world, becoming a prosperous center of trade and commerce. Anyone who was an elite would have wanted to savor the wealth, human accomplishment and grandeur of that city.

Around the time that Apostle Paul visited Ephesus (AD 52–54), the city was in its prime. According to historians, it was second in importance and size to Rome itself. When Augustus became emperor in 27 B.C., he made Ephesus the capital of proconsular Asia. Apostle Paul surely would have witnessed its splendor.

Today, only partial reconstructions of a few of its ancient buildings can be seen. Ephesus had later suffered various wars and invasions. It was further destroyed by an earthquake in 614 AD. Its one-time magnificent buildings and statues ended up as nothing more than piles of rubble.

Seismology: Then and Now

If the city of ancient Ephesus had been built according to today’s building codes, it would likely not be lying in ruins. Construction engineers have made great strides in quake-proofing buildings over the years.

The Japanese were among the first to begin designing earthquake–resistant buildings, beginning in the 1850s. Japan has always been prone to earthquakes, some causing great catastrophe and loss of human life (20 earthquakes of greater than 6.0 on the Richter scale in the last 10 years alone). Italian engineers soon followed. Today, it is claimed that large buildings of 50 stories and more can survive major earthquakes of up to a level of 8 on the Richter scale. As a reference point, earthquakes of level 3 and above can usually be sensed by humans.

Building codes are invariably influenced by the regional history of natural forces, whether floods, earthquakes or otherwise. For example, if an area has not had an earthquake of a certain magnitude—for illustration, let us say 7.0 on the Richter scale—in the last 250 years, building standards will be set accordingly. Over-anticipating the advent of major earthquakes will of course add to the cost of a building. As such, engineers will find a balance between probabilities and costs. The same approach can apply to defining a safe flood plain for new buildings.

The key point to recognize here is that building codes are based upon rearward looking statistics … and, for that matter, relatively recent data. This approach assumes that tomorrow will be as today, “or even far better” (Isaiah 56:12). As such, were an earthquake of surprisingly greater magnitude to occur, many buildings and lives would be harmed.

Types of Earthquakes in the Bible

As mentioned, earthquakes have a number of roles in the Bible.

They are shown as actual events, as well as symbols. For example, the Bible mentions a historical earthquake—the great quake during the time of King Uzziah. This was recorded in both Amos 1:1 and Zechariah 14:5.

The entirety of Creation is often shown to display its fear and reverence for the Lord in the form of “quaking.” These are likely not literal earthquakes, but a metaphor that God is the foundation of everything. Only He can make the Creation tremor in fear and awe. We see this in a number of Scriptures. For example, consider Psalm 75:3, 96:9, 99:1, 114:7, and Exodus 15:14, to name a few.

Most sobering, earthquakes play a key role in future prophecy, these being mentioned in both the New and Old Testaments.

In the New we find information on endtime natural disasters—particularly earthquakes—mainly in two places: 1. The prophecies of Christ (the Olivet Discourse, found in Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21); and 2. The book of Revelation. Christ Himself confirmed that there would be “earthquakes in diverse places” before the end comes (Matthew 24:7). In the book of Revelation alone, the word “earthquake” (seismos in Greek) comes up seven times. (Also, Apostle Paul refers to a “great shaking” [Hebrew 12:25-27], to which we will return in the conclusion.)

However, readers may find it surprising to learn that the earthquakes of the Olivet Discourse are not the same ones mentioned in Revelation. Not only are they different, but also they occur in separate stages of the last days.

Some Bible expositors are of the opinion that we are today living in the prophesied era of “earthquakes in diverse places” that Christ mentioned in the Olivet Discourse. We do not share that view for several reasons. Our interpretation of Scripture is that an increase in earthquakes takes place in the first half of the Tribulation … namely, occurring during the “beginning of birth pains” (this is the first half of the Tribulation in our understanding). We will not dwell further on this question here. (For a fuller review of this topic, please see Midnight Call July and August 2011.)

Old Testament references to “prophetic” earthquakes, in contrast to New Testament references, all align with the five earthquakes mentioned in Revelation. Endeavoring to keep the many earthquakes properly sorted, we list the differentiations of the earthquakes of Biblical prophecy.

  1. The book of Revelation tells us of five specific earthquakes that occur during the Tribulation period (the time of God’s wrath).
  2. In Revelation, there is no mention of earthquakes before the time of the sixth seal. All earthquakes mentioned occur from that point forward.
  3. All earthquakes mentioned in Revelation are of “supernatural” character, being instruments of God’s wrath. None are natural phenomena such as are occurring today, or as may be the “earthquakes in diverse places” that Christ indicated. All are divinely enacted, either through Christ or angels.
  4. All prophesied earthquakes in the Old Testament (with one possible exception) are specific to the “day of the Lord” … in other words, are the instruments of divine judgment and clearly refer to the time of God’s wrath.
  5. Most, if not all, earthquakes prophesied in the Old Testament are part of the time of wrath to come. As such, these will align with those mentioned in Revelation. And, most of them are global in scope. They are truly apocalyptic and not part of a generic group of earthquakes that occur in “diverse places” on the earth, which Christ mentions in the Olivet Discourse.
  6. Moreover, the “earthquakes in diverse places” prophesied by Christ are non-specific to location and number, in that there are multiple earthquakes in various places. By contrast, all five earthquakes of wrath mentioned in the book of Revelation are singular and specific events.
  7. The earthquakes mentioned by Christ occur during the period that is called the “beginning of sorrows.” The three accounts of this prophecy (in Matthew 24, Mark 13 and Luke 21) are all in agreement on this point. The earthquakes mentioned in Revelation, on the other hand, all occur at the time of the sixth seal and thereafter. That period is not the “beginning of sorrows,” but rather much later, likely (as in this writer’s opinion) the Great Tribulation period (the second half of the Tribulation period).
  8. One additional “future” earthquake could be considered. At the time that Christ’s feet alight upon the Mount of Olives, the mountain will split into two. Says the Bible: “On that day his feet will stand on the Mount of Olives, east of Jerusalem, and the Mount of Olives will be split in two from east to west, forming a great valley, with half of the mountain moving north and half moving south” (Zechariah 14:4). If this is to be counted as a prophetic local earthquake, it is different from the five mentioned in Revelation. It occurs after “wrath” and is a local manifestation.

 

As mentioned, several of the prophecies involving earthquakes in Revelation, correspond to earthquakes prophesied in the Old Testament. We will review some of these links in the closing Part III, where we will conclude our discussion of the role of earthquakes in God’s kingdom. Crucially, we will examine the greatest earthquake of all time.

For resources on “endtime economics” and to subscribe to the free newsletter, Eternal Value Review, visit Wilfred’s website www.eternalvalue.com or contact him at: staff@eternalvalue.com

About the Author: Wilfred J. Hahn is a global economist/strategist. Formerly a top-ranked global analyst, research director for a major Wall Street investment bank, and head of Canada’s largest global investment operation, his writings focus on the endtime roles of money, economics and globalization. He has been quoted around the world and his writings reproduced in numerous other publications and languages. His 2002 book The Endtime Money Snare: How to live free accurately anticipated and prepared its readers for the Global Financial Crisis. His newest book, Global Financial Apocalypse Prophesied: Preserving true riches in an age of deception and trouble, looks further into the future.