We have led many tour trips to Israel during tension and unrest. Hear our perspective as experienced tour guides who have made many trips to Israel. Must see perspective for anyone concerned with what's happening in Israel, and if they should take a tour trip at this time. Is It Safe to Travel to Israel During Unrest? Safety In Israel We know the current war might be causing you to reconsider going to Israel at this time. However, here is some information and context to help you. 1. We have tour guide colleagues in Israel leading teams there right now. Things are safe with no issues. They are having a great time and enjoying all the sites. 2. Right now, we can visit all of the sites on our itinerary. 3. Security in Israel is better than ever right now. There have been virtually no terrorist attacks inside Israel since the war began. 4. Israel is open for business: all restaurants, hotels, parks, services, etc., are functioning normally. 5. Ben Gurion Airport is functioning normally, with all major airlines operating without issues. 6. Israel is winning the war with Hamas and should have Gaza under complete control soon. 7. The war is happening in Gaza, not within the country of Israel. We will not be touring any sites in or close to Gaza. 8. Our tour bus driver assures us that things are safe for tourism in Israel right now. 9. There are far fewer tourists in Israel, so some of the sites that are difficult to see due to long lines are very accessible. Now is a great time to visit Israel. 10. We know the current situation could seem scary to you, but we have traveled throughout Israel many times during tensions and have not felt unsafe. Virtually all of the country functions normally with no issues. Therefore, we want to assure you that we are moving forward with our tour trips and have no plans to cancel them. Other Safety Concerns Good News Before I share the inside perspective on tension and unrest in Israel, let me share some good news from our bus driver, with whom we are in regular contact about safety for the tour trips we lead to Israel. Here’s his quote: “Do not worry, my brother, the conditions here are not as the media presents. I now have an American group in these conditions during this month of Ramadan [Muslim Holy Month], and everything is going on safely, and there are no problems.” This quote comes during a time of high tension in Israel during Ramadan. Now, let’s discuss the inside story of what’s happening in Israel and whether we should be concerned. Spiritual Warfare All that’s happening can be traced to spiritual warfare. The Israeli government has been passing new laws allowing Jews to go up to the Temple Mount. The Muslims don’t like this, so they gather rocks and things inside the Al Aqsa Mosque to throw at the Jews when they’re up there. We saw this firsthand recently. The Israeli police have therefore gone into the Al Aqsa Mosque to clear this out and arrest the Muslim protesters. The Temple Mount authority has been given to the Muslims, but the Israeli police control the security there. The surrounding places, like Gaza and Lebanon, support the Muslims and therefore are aiding them in this spiritual warfare. Ramadan Ramadan is a Muslim holy month. During this time, there is always more tension because the Muslims engage more in Jihad. So this explains why there is more tension during this time. After Ramadan, things will settle down considerably. This is why we don’t plan our trips to Israel during Ramadan. Also, it’s hard to go onto the Temple Mount during Ramadan because it’s so busy with Muslims. Most Arabs Are Very Friendly Every experience we have had with Arabs has been highly positive. They tend to love tourists and view them as a positive influence. Our Experiences In Israel During Unrest We have been in Israel during some terrorist attacks and didn’t even know it until we heard it on the news or someone told us. I’ll briefly share two incidents. A few years ago, my wife and I were filming a Bible teaching on the Mount of Olives and heard some helicopter noise. It was somewhat annoying, but we didn't think much of it, as airplanes and helicopters are quite common in Israel. They patrol their skies quite well. Later, we learned that an Arab had run into some Jews by the Damascus bus station. We were just a quarter mile away from this incident. It was dealt with, and life went back to normal very quickly. Later, we took the light rail train that departs beside the Damascus bus station, where this event happened, to our hotel. We didn’t even know what had happened until later. On a recent tour trip to Israel with a group, we visited Pilate’s Palace, discussing the location of Jesus' trial. During the teaching, we heard some sirens and so forth. Later, we learned there had been a terrorist attack inside Old City Jerusalem. After our teaching, we entered the Old City and would never have known anything had happened if we hadn’t been told. We must understand that things happen in a moment in time and then return to normal. This is normal for Israel. We’ll Avoid Any Hotspots If, by chance, an incident were to happen, we would avoid it. Our bus driver is an Arab Christian and has been driving tour buses for many years. He will not lead us into any danger. While in Jerusalem, the Israeli police are incredible and provide fantastic security. Also, tourists are not targeted. In fact, they are welcomed. The tension is between Muslims and Jews. Israel’s Iron Dome Defense System Israel has developed a sophisticated Iron Dome that shoots most rockets fired into Israel. The chances of us being hit by a missile are one in a million. It’s not like rockets are raining down from heaven everywhere in Israel. God’s Sovereignty The hairs on our heads and our days are numbered. We won’t die one minute sooner or later than what God has determined for us, so we can rest in His sovereignty and enjoy His peace and will for us. I tell those who think I am taking a risk in going to Israel that if God determines it’s my time to die, I couldn’t think of a better place to go to be in the presence of the Lord (which is much better than this life) than the Holy Land. We are not worried about safety issues in Israel. We fully trust the Lord’s perfect will for us, so we are at peace with our trips. We have gone to Israel many times in the midst of some unrest and haven’t had any issues. Some incidents happen on occasion, and most of the time, those in Israel don’t even know what’s happened until they hear it on the news. We won’t be canceling any upcoming tour trips to Israel, as we have visited the country many times during unrest, and virtually all of it functions normally regardless of what’s happening in a particular area. However, if you feel uncomfortable, we understand. We Don’t Cancel Our Trip s Unless There Is Extreme Danger Based on the above info, we have no plans to cancel any upcoming tour trip to Israel. We know it’s hard for some to understand this without having been to Israel. However, life goes on as usual for 99.9 percent of the population, and for those whose lives are interrupted, it’s only for a short time. Then it quickly passes, and life goes back to normal.

See and learn about the epic battle between Gideon and the Israelites, and the Midianites. Sites of interest include the Hill of Moreh, where the Midianites camped. Jezreel Valley. Gilboa Mountains, where the Israelites hid out in. The period of the Judges saw the nation of Israel experience many cycles of obedience and disobedience. One verse is repeated several times in Judges that summarizes their day: "In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes." Gideon's Spring Photo Gallery Places of Interest Gideon’s Spring Introduction Welcome to Gideon's Spring. This is where the famous battle took place between Gideon and his 300 men and the Midianites, who were in number like the sand of the sea. All the places mentioned in the Bible can be found in this vicinity. 1. Hill of Moreh, where the Midianites camped. 2. Midianite Camp 3. Jezreel Valley 4. Battle Area 5. Gideon’s Spring, where Gideon chose 300 men for battle. 6. Gilboa Mountains: Where the Israelites hid out. Location Gideon’s Spring, or also known as Harod Spring, is located in the fertile Jezreel Valley about 26 miles (42 km.) from the Mediterranean Sea and about 17 miles (28 km.) south of the Sea of Galilee. Just to the south of Gideon’s Spring are the Gilboa Mountains. Historical Background 1. The period of the Judges saw the nation of Israel experience many cycles of obedience and disobedience. 2. They would walk with God for a bit and then fall away. 3. One verse is repeated several times in the book of Judges that summarizes the mentality of their day: "In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes" (Judges 17:6, 21:25). 4. In order to bring the nation of Israel back to Himself, God would send them oppressors to make their lives difficult. 5. As a result, the Israelites would look to the Lord, and He would send them a deliverer, or also known as a Judge. 6. Gideon was one of these deliverers that God raised up to deliver the Israelites out of the hand of the Midianites who were oppressing Israel at that time. 7. There were a total of 13 Judges or Deliverers in the book of Judges. 8. Gideon was the 5th Judge. Places of Interest 1. Hill of Moreh: Hill area where the Midianites camped. 2. Midianite Camp 3. Jezreel Valley 4. Battle Area 5. Gideon’s Spring: Area where Gideon chose 300 men for battle. 6. Gilboa Mountains: Where the Israelites hid out. 7. Hankin House Museum: Located above the spring entrance. Gideon’s Spring in the Bible 1. God gave the Israelites into the hands of the Midianites because they abandoned and disobeyed Him. Judges 6:1–6: Then the sons of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the Lord ; and the Lord gave them into the hands of Midian seven years. 2 The power of Midian prevailed against Israel. Because of Midian the sons of Israel made for themselves the dens which were in the mountains and the caves and the strongholds. 3 For it was when Israel had sown, that the Midianites would come up with the Amalekites and the sons of the east and go against them. 4 So they would camp against them and destroy the produce of the earth as far as Gaza, and leave no sustenance in Israel as well as no sheep, ox, or donkey. 5 For they would come up with their livestock and their tents, they would come in like locusts for number, both they and their camels were innumerable ; and they came into the land to devastate it. 6 So Israel was brought very low because of Midian, and the sons of Israel cried to the Lord. 2. God hears the prayers of the Israelites and decides to deliver them. Judges 6:7–10: Now it came about when the sons of Israel cried to the Lord on account of Midian, 8 that the Lord sent a prophet to the sons of Israel, and he said to them, “Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, ‘It was I who brought you up from Egypt and brought you out from the house of slavery. 9 I delivered you from the hands of the Egyptians and from the hands of all your oppressors, and dispossessed them before you and gave you their land, 10 and I said to you, “I am the Lord your God; you shall not fear the gods of the Amorites in whose land you live. But you have not obeyed Me.” 3. God visits Gideon through an angel and chooses to deliver the Israelites through him. Judges 6:11–12: Then the angel of the Lord came and sat under the oak that was in Ophrah, which belonged to Joash the Abiezrite as his son Gideon was beating out wheat in the wine press in order to save it from the Midianites. 12 The angel of the Lord appeared to him and said to him, “The Lord is with you, O valiant warrior.” 4. Gideon responds by saying that his family was the least in the tribe of Manasseh and that he was the youngest in his family (Judges 6:15). This is similar to the response of Moses when God called him. 5. God allows the angel to show Gideon a couple of miracles to prove God will help him. Judges 6:21: Then the angel of the Lord put out the end of the staff that was in his hand and touched the meat and the unleavened bread ; and fire sprang up from the rock and consumed the meat and the unleavened bread. Then the angel of the Lord vanished from his sight. 6. God commands Gideon to tear down the altars to Baal that his father had erected and to erect an altar to the Lord in their place (Judges 6:28–32). 7. Shortly afterward, many nations gathered together to wipe out the Israelites. Judges 6:33–35: Then all the Midianites and the Amalekites and the sons of the east assembled themselves ; and they crossed over and camped in the valley of Jezreel [just north of Gideon’s Spring]. 34 So the Spirit of the Lord came upon Gideon ; and he blew a trumpet, and the Abiezrites [descendants of Abiezer, the son of Gilead] were called together to follow him. 35 He sent messengers throughout Manasseh, and they also were called together to follow him; and he sent messengers to Asher, Zebulun, and Naphtali, and they came up to meet them. The Midianites were the descendants of Midian and therefore, children of Abraham. They settled in “the land of the east.” When Moses fled the wrath of Pharaoh, he traveled to Midian (Exodus 2:15). There, Moses met and married his wife, Zipporah, and served his father-in-law, Jethro, as a shepherd for forty years. The Amalekites were the first ones to attack the Israelites upon their exodus from Egypt. Genesis 36 refers to the descendants of Amalek, the son of Eliphaz and grandson of Esau, as Amalekites. So, the Amalekites were somehow related to, but distinct from, the Edomites. 8. As a result of the nations who had gathered together to wipe out the Israelites, Gideon asks for a sign from God that he will be successful. The sign of the wet and dry fleeces is used by Gideon to seek assurance of God’s help (Judges 6:36–40). However, it reveals a lack of faith in what God had said He would do. 9. God commands Gideon to choose 300 men for battle so that He gets all the glory for the victory. Judges 7:1-7: Then Jerubbaal [Gideon] and all the people who were with him rose early and encamped beside the spring of Harod . And the camp of Midian was north of them, by the hill of Moreh, in the valley. 2 The LORD said to Gideon, "The people with you are too many for me to give the Midianites into their hand, lest Israel boast over me, saying, 'My own hand has saved me.' 3 Now therefore proclaim in the ears of the people, saying, 'Whoever is fearful and trembling, let him return home and hurry away from Mount Gilead.'" Then 22,000 of the people returned, and 10,000 remained. 4 And the LORD said to Gideon, "The people are still too many. Take them down to the water, and I will test them for you there, and anyone of whom I say to you, 'This one shall go with you,' shall go with you, and anyone of whom I say to you, 'This one shall not go with you,' shall not go." 5 So he brought the people down to the water. And the LORD said to Gideon, "Everyone who laps the water with his tongue, as a dog laps, you shall set by himself. Likewise, everyone who kneels down to drink." 6 And the number of those who lapped, putting their hands to their mouths, was 300 men, but all the rest of the people knelt down to drink water. 7 And the LORD said to Gideon, "With the 300 men who lapped I will save you and give the Midianites into your hand, and let all the others go every man to his home.” It's believed God chose those who lapped like dogs because they were less civilized. This would give God even more glory for the victory. 10. The size of the opposing army was enormous. Judges 7:12: Now the Midianites and the Amalekites and all the sons of the east were lying in the valley as numerous as locusts; and their camels were without number, as numerous as the sand on the seashore. 11. God allows Gideon to visit the camp of the opposing army to be assured of victory. Judges 7:13–14: When Gideon came, behold, a man was relating a dream to his friend. And he said, “Behold, I had a dream; a loaf of barley bread was tumbling into the camp of Midian, and it came to the tent and struck it so that it fell, and turned it upside down so that the tent lay flat.” His friend replied, “This is nothing less than the sword of Gideon the son of Joash, a man of Israel; God has given Midian and all the camp into his hand.” 12. God delivers the nations into the victorious hands of the Israelites. Judges 7:15-25: As soon as Gideon heard the telling of the dream and its interpretation, he worshiped. And he returned to the camp of Israel and said, "Arise, for the LORD has given the host of Midian into your hand." 16 And he divided the 300 men into three companies and put trumpets into the hands of all of them and empty jars, with torches inside the jars. 17 And he said to them, "Look at me, and do likewise. When I come to the outskirts of the camp, do as I do. 18 When I blow the trumpet, I and all who are with me, then blow the trumpets also on every side of all the camp and shout, 'For the LORD and for Gideon.'" 9 So Gideon and the hundred men who were with him came to the outskirts of the camp at the beginning of the middle watch [10:00 pm to 2:00 am], when they had just set the watch. And they blew the trumpets and smashed the jars that were in their hands. 20 Then the three companies blew the trumpets and broke the jars. They held in their left hands the torches, and in their right hands the trumpets to blow. And they cried out, "A sword for the LORD and for Gideon!" 21 Every man stood in his place around the camp, and all the army ran. They cried out and fled. 22 When they blew the 300 trumpets, the LORD set every man's sword against his comrade and against all the army. And the army fled as far as Beth-shittah toward Zererah, as far as the border of Abel- meholah, by Tabbath [cities by the Jordan River directly east]. 23 And the men of Israel were called out from Naphtali and from Asher and from all Manasseh, and they pursued after Midian. 24 Gideon sent messengers throughout all the hill country of Ephraim, saying, "Come down against the Midianites and capture the waters against them, as far as Beth-barah , and also the Jordan." So all the men of Ephraim were called out, and they captured the waters as far as Beth- barah , and also the Jordan. 25 And they captured the two princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb. They killed Oreb at the rock of Oreb, and Zeeb they killed at the winepress of Zeeb. Then they pursued Midian, and they brought the heads of Oreb and Zeeb to Gideon across the Jordan. Faith Lesson from Gideon’s Spring 1. God sent oppression to get the attention of the Israelites because they had fallen away from Him. He often sends us problems to get our attention as well. 2. God often puts us in difficult situations, so He gets all the glory when He helps us with our problems. 3. We, like the Israelites, can worship idols as well. An idol is anything that distracts us from our time and attention on God. What is distracting you away from God at this time in your life? 4. We should look at the size of our God rather than the size of our difficulties. 5. God delights in our faith but is grieved by our lack of it. 6. God chooses the weak things to show His glory: But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong, and the base things of the world and the despised God has chosen, the things that are not, so that He may nullify the things that are, so that no man may boast before God (1 Cor. 27-29). 6. Even if we have weaknesses, God can use us if we trust and follow Him.

Hebron is mentioned 72 times in the Bible. It's the beginning place of the nation of Israel. God's promises and covenants with Abraham and his descendants happened in Hebron or nearby. Later, from Hebron, David would reign for 7 1/2 years before becoming king over all Israel in Jerusalem. Sites of interest include Macpelah: Cave of the Patriarchs, where Abraham, Sara, Isaac, Rebecca, Jacob, and Leah are buried. Oaks of Mamre, David's Palace, Tel Hebron (Tel Rumeida). Hebron: Caves of Machpelah Photo Gallery Places of Interest Hebron: Caves of Machpelah Introduction Welcome to the Caves of Machpelah. Many significant events from the Bible took place in this area. These are the highlights. 1. After God affirmed His covenant with Abraham, he built an altar to the Lord nearby at Mamre. Mamre is located within Hebron, just one mile (1.5 km) north of the Cave of Machpelah. 2. At Hebron, Abraham bought the Cave of Machpelah as a burial place for his wife, Sarah, and his family. Genesis 23:19: After this, Abraham buried Sarah his wife in the cave of the field at Machpelah facing Mamre (that is, Hebron) in the land of Canaan. 3. Later, Abraham, Isaac, Rebecca, Jacob, and Leah would also be buried in the Cave of Machpelah. 4. Hebron was given to Caleb as an inheritance for his faithfulness to the Lord. 5. Samson carried the gates of Gaza 35 miles (55 km) up to a mountain close to Hebron. 6. David was anointed king in Hebron and reigned here for 7 1/2 years. 7. The Caves of Machpelah mark the beginning place and roots of the nation of Israel. God's promises and covenants with Abraham and his descendants took place in Hebron or its vicinity. These promises would also have wide-reaching implications and include all the nations of the earth. 8. The property of the Caves of Machepelah is the first legal land acquisition in the Promised Land. This fulfilled part of the Abrahamic covenant that God gave Abraham in Genesis chapters 12 and 13. 9. The monument we see today was constructed by Herod the Great around 20 BC. 10. The monument structure we see today is divided into two sections: a Jewish synagogue and a Mosque. We're going to explore and see both sections of the monument. Location 1. The city of Hebron is set in the Judean Mountains, about 20 miles (32 km) south of Jerusalem. 2. Hebron stands 3,000 feet (914 m.) above sea level, making it the highest city in Israel. 3. It is located on a well-traveled route that runs north and south through the mountainous part of Israel. Well-known towns such as Beersheba, Hebron, Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Bethel, Shiloh, and Shechem are located along this route. 4. Abraham and the other patriarchs traveled this route repeatedly. Historical Background 1. The Caves of Machpelah mark the beginning place and roots of the nation of Israel. God's promises and covenants with Abraham and his descendants took place in Hebron or its vicinity. These promises would also have wide-reaching implications and include all the nations of the earth. 2. The property of the Caves of Machepelah is the first legal land acquisition in the Promised Land. This fulfilled part of the Abrahamic covenant that God gave Abraham in Genesis chapters 12 and 13. 3. It began to be venerated during the time the Patriarchs were buried here. Then King David preserved it so it could be remembered and venerated. This is evident in the fact that he built protective walls around Abraham's Altar at the Oaks of Mamre, which can still be seen today. So it's very likely he would have done the same here at this site. We must realize that Abraham and the Patriarchs are monumental in importance to God's master plan. So, this site was set aside and valued to an extent we find hard to understand. 4. So, throughout the Old Testament period, it would be venerated. This can be verified, as pottery and artifacts dating back to King David's time, around 1000 BC, have been found in the caves. 5. Then Herod the Great, around 20 BC, built massive walls around the caves, including a floor about halfway up the walls covering the caves. It had access from this floor down to the caves. Later, during the Muslim Period, the access would be closed off. Herod built the walls around the caves using the same building stone style as the Temple Mount Platform and the structure he built just a short distance to the north, at the Oaks of Mamre, where Abraham had built an altar. 6. After the time of Herod, during the Byzantine Period, around 325 AD, Christians built a Basilica Church on top of the floor inside the walls of the structure Herod built. 7. During the Muslim Period, around 650 AD, the basilica church and site were converted into a Mosque. During the 10th century, an entrance was pierced through the north-eastern wall, some distance above the external ground level, and steps from the north and east were built up to it. 8. In 1100 AD, after the Crusaders captured the area, the enclosure once again became a church. During this period, the Byzantine church and other buildings were remodeled, with new gabled and vaulted roofs and elegant windows. Most of the internal buildings visible today date back to the Crusader period. 9. In 1188 AD, the Muslims once again conquered the area. At this time, they reconverted and remodeled the enclosure into a mosque, allowing Christians to continue worshipping there. The red and white building material seen today is from this period. Saladin also added a minaret at each corner—two of which still survive. Samuel ben Samson visited the cave in 1210 and records that visitors wanting to see the original caves must descend by twenty-four steps in a passageway so narrow that the rock touches him on either hand. 10. In around 1320, during the Muslim Mamluk period, cenotaphs were made for each of the Patriarchs and their wives. Cenotaph means tomb, memorial, or marker. These cenotaphs were evenly spaced out on the floor inside the structure. These markers are not directly over the tombs; instead, they serve as markers. There are two caves side by side where all the Patriarchs and their wives are buried. However, the tomb marker of Abraham is directly over the caves. 11. From 1267 to 1967, Jews were not allowed any access inside the structure. They were only allowed to approach as far as the seventh step of the southern steps of the stairway. 12. In 1967, the southern stair access was removed by the Israelis. However, you can still see evidence of it today. In summary, this site has been venerated for nearly 4,000 years. This is quite amazing. Discoveries of the Caves 1. There are many eyewitness accounts of those who have visited the caves below the floor of this structure today. These accounts span the period from approximately 325 to 1981 AD. I should mention that the floor we are standing on was part of the original structure built by Herod the Great. So, you're standing on stones that are approximately 2,000 years old. It's under this floor where the original caves are located. When Herod built the structure, he erected thick outer walls of protection with a floor about halfway up. Access to the caves was through this floor, which led down to them. 2. The word Machpelah means double or side by side. This refers to the two caves located beside each other, where the three patriarchs and their wives were buried. Access to the caves is currently not permitted. There are two accesses to the caves. One is through a narrow shaft measuring about 11 inches (28 centimeters). The other is called the Serdab entrance and is much larger. Both the shaft and Serdab entrances are located in the Isaac and Rebeccah Hall area. 3. T he most recent accounts of Israelis entering the caves take place in 1968 and 1981. 4. In 1967, after the Six-Day War, the area fell into the hands of the Israel Defense Forces. In 1968, Moshe Dayan, the Defence Minister and an amateur archaeologist, attempted to regain access to the tombs. Ignorant of the Serdab entrance, Dayan concentrated his attention on the narrow shaft entrance visible below the decorative grate and had the idea of sending someone thin enough to fit through the shaft and down into the chamber below. Dayan eventually found a slim 12-year-old girl named Michal to assist, sending her into the chamber with a camera. She could see some things underground, but couldn't enter the caves because a rock blocked the entrance. 5. In 1981, Seev Jevin, the former director of the Israel Antiquities Authority, entered the caves by the Serdab access using chisels to remove the sealed-up entrance and discovered the square stone in the round chamber that concealed the cave entrance. The reports state that after entering the first cave, which seemed to Jevin to be empty, he found a passage leading to a second oval chamber, smaller than the first, which contained shards of pottery and a wine jug. Findings published in the Israel Exploration Journal in 2020 stated that the pottery dates back to the time of King David and the 8th century BC, originating from various locations in the Hebron and Jerusalem areas. The caves are located directly below the Cenotaph of Abraham. 6. In 1994, after a bloody massacre, the site was divided between Muslims and Jews to maintain peace. However, for a short time each year, the site is fully open to each group for ten days. 7. Christians are allowed to enter both the Muslim and Jewish areas. Places of Interest 1. Cave of the Patriarchs (Machpelah) Jewish Synagogue Mosque Tombs of the Patriarchs and Matriarchs 2. Tel Hebron (Tel Rumeida) Abraham’s Well Ancient Stairs Tomb of Jesse and Ruth (King David’s father and great-grandmother) Old Olive Trees Ancient Canaanite City Walls The Canaanite wall overlaid by a glacis from the Israelite period Walls and a stone road from the time of Abraham Likely place of King David's Palace Four-room structure from the time of King Hezekiah Ancient Synagogue Stepped street from the Early Roman period Pottery workshop from the Early Roman period Eastern ritual bath from the Early Roman period Western ritual bath from the Early Roman period New Excavations Hebron Observatory 3. Oaks of Mamre (located within Hebron, 1 mile or 1.5 km north of the Cave of Machpelah). Hebron in the Bible 1. After God affirmed His covenant with Abraham, he built an altar to the Lord nearby at Mamre. Genesis 13:17–18: Arise, walk about the land through its length and breadth; for I will give it to you.” 18 Then Abram moved his tent and came and dwelt by the oaks of Mamre, which are in Hebron , and there he built an altar to the Lord. 2. At Hebron, Abraham learned in a dream that his descendants would spend 400 years as slaves in Egypt. Genesis 15:12–14: Now when the sun was going down, a deep sleep fell upon Abram; and behold, terror and great darkness fell upon him. 13 God said to Abram, “Know for certain that your descendants will be strangers in a land that is not theirs, where they will be enslaved and oppressed four hundred years. 14 But I will also judge the nation whom they will serve, and afterward, they will come out with many possessions. 3. At Hebron, Ismael was born to Abraham and Sarah’s handmaid, Hagar (Gen. 16:4). 4. Near Hebron, God made a covenant with Abraham that he would be “the ancestor of a multitude of nations.” Genesis 17:1–8: When Abram was ninety-nine years old the LORD appeared to Abram and said to him, “I am God Almighty; walk before me, and be blameless, 2 that I may make my covenant between me and you, and may multiply you greatly.” 3 Then Abram fell on his face. And God said to him, 4 “Behold, my covenant is with you, and you shall be the father of a multitude of nations. 5 No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham, for I have made you the father of a multitude of nations. 6 I will make you exceedingly fruitful, and I will make you into nations, and kings shall come from you. 7 And I will establish my covenant between me and you and your offspring after you throughout their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your offspring after you. 8 And I will give to you and to your offspring after you the land of your sojournings, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession, and I will be their God.” 5. At Hebron, Abraham offered hospitality to three servant angels of God and received the promise of a son. Genesis 18:10–14: They said to him, “Where is Sarah your wife?” And he said, “She is in the tent.” 10 The LORD said, “I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife shall have a son.” And Sarah was listening at the tent door behind him. 11 Now Abraham and Sarah were old, advanced in years. The way of women had ceased to be with Sarah. 12 So Sarah laughed to herself, saying, “After I am worn out, and my lord is old, shall I have pleasure?” 13 The LORD said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh and say, ‘Shall I indeed bear a child, now that I am old?’ 14 Is anything too hard for the LORD? At the appointed time I will return to you, about this time next year, and Sarah shall have a son.” 6. At Hebron, Abraham bought the Cave of Machpelah as a burial place for his wife, Sarah, and his family. Genesis 23:19: After this, Abraham buried Sarah his wife in the cave of the field at Machpelah facing Mamre (that is, Hebron ) in the land of Canaan. 7. Later, Abraham, Isaac, Rebecca, Jacob, and Leah would also be buried in the Cave of Machpelah. 8. Jacob returned to Hebron after he had sojourned in Paddan-aram. Genesis 35:27: Jacob came to his father Isaac at Mamre of Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron ), where Abraham and Isaac had sojourned. 9. Joseph was sent from Hebron to Shechem, where he would be sold into slavery and taken to Egypt. Genesis 37:14: Then he said to him, “Go now and see about the welfare of your brothers and the welfare of the flock, and bring word back to me.” So he sent him from the valley of Hebron , and he came to Shechem. 10. Near Hebron, two of the spies who researched the Promised Land returned with a large cluster of grapes. Numbers 13:21–23: So the men explored the land from the Desert of Zin to the border of Hamath. 22 They went through the Negev and came to Hebron , where Ahiman, Sheshai, and Talmai lived. They are descendants of Anak. (Hebron was built seven years before Zoan in Egypt.) 23 When they came to the Eshcol Valley, they cut off a branch with only one bunch of grapes on it. They carried it on a pole between two of them. 11. Hebron was given to Caleb as an inheritance for his faithfulness to the Lord. Joshua 14:13–14: So Joshua blessed him and gave Hebron to Caleb the son of Jephunneh for an inheritance. 14 Therefore, Hebron became the inheritance of Caleb, the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite until this day, because he followed the Lord God of Israel fully. 12. Samson carried the gates of Gaza 35 miles (55 km) up to a mountain close to Hebron. Judges 16:1–3: But Samson lay till midnight, and at midnight he arose and took hold of the doors of the gate of the city and the two posts, and pulled them up, bar and all, and put them on his shoulders and carried them to the top of the hill that is in front of Hebron . 13. David was anointed king in Hebron and reigned here for 7 1/2 years (2 Sam. 2:1–4, 11). Faith Lesson from Hebron 1. God confirmed His promises and covenants with Abraham at Hebron and fulfilled them all. Do we believe and embrace the promises of God? 2. Caleb was one of the faithful spies who received Hebron as a reward. Are we faithful like Caleb, and do we have our hope placed in our eternal home in heaven as our reward? 3. David was anointed king in Hebron because he was a person after God’s own heart. Do we love the Lord like David, and are we desiring to serve Him in significant ways as David did?

See all the places of Bethlehem, Rachel's Tomb, Naomi, Ruth, King David, Christ's Birth, the angels appearing to the shepherds announcing Christ's Birth, the Herodian Fortress, the Church of the Nativity, Shepherd's Fields, where King Herod killed the Children two years old and younger, and where David grew up as a shepherd boy. Bethlehem Overview Photo Gallery Places of Interest Bethlehem Overview Location 1. Bethlehem is located 6 miles (9 km.) south of Jerusalem. 2. In Bible times, Bethlehem was a farming area with grain fields, and sheep and goats grazed the hillsides. Amazingly, little has changed over the past 3,000 years. 3. It’s on the edge of the Judean Desert that lies to the southeast. 4. Bethlehem is in the West Bank but is very safe. Thousands visit its Christian sites each month with no issues. Historical Background 1. Bethlehem was a Canaanite village before the conquest of the Israelites in around 1406 BC. 2. It means ‘House of Bread.” Maybe this is so because many wheat and barley fields were in this area. Places of Interest 1. Rachel’s Tomb 2. Church of the Nativity 3. Shepherd’s Fields 4. Herodian Fortress 5. Grain fields 6. Hillsides for livestock to graze on 7. Deep ravine – Maybe the valley David had in mind when he wrote Psalm 23. Bethlehem in the Bible 1. Jacob’s wife, Rachel, died and was buried in Bethlehem. Genesis 35:16–20: Then they journeyed from Bethel. When they were still some distance from Ephrath [Bethlehem] , Rachel went into labor, and she had hard labor. 17 And when her labor was at its hardest, the midwife said to her, "Do not fear, for you have another son." 18 And as her soul was departing (for she was dying), she called his name Ben-oni; but his father called him Benjamin. 19 So Rachel died, and she was buried on the way to Ephrath (that is, Bethlehem ), 20 and Jacob set up a pillar over her tomb. It is the pillar of Rachel's tomb, which is there to this day. 2. Naomi was from Bethlehem, but because of a famine in Israel, her husband and two sons moved to Moab. Ruth 1:1–2: In the days when the judges ruled there was a famine in the land, and a man of Bethlehem in Judah went to sojourn in the country of Moab, he and his wife and his two sons. 2 The name of the man was Elimelech and the name of his wife, Naomi, and the names of his two sons were Mahlon and Chilion. 3. Naomi and Ruth returned from Moab to Bethlehem. Ruth 1:22: So Naomi returned, and Ruth the Moabite her daughter-in-law with her, who returned from the country of Moab. And they came to Bethlehem at the beginning of barley harvest. 4. Ruth gleaned in the grain fields of Boaz in Bethlehem and then married Boaz (Boaz was the Great Grandfather of King David). Ruth 2:1–2: Now Naomi had a relative of her husband's, a worthy man of the clan of Elimelech, whose name was Boaz. 2 And Ruth the Moabite said to Naomi, “Let me go to the field and glean among the ears of grain after him in whose sight I shall find favor.” And she said to her, “Go, my daughter.” Ruth 4:13–17: So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife. And he went in to her, and the Lord gave her conception, and she bore a son. 14 Then the women said to Naomi, “Blessed be the Lord, who has not left you this day without a redeemer, and may his name be renowned in Israel! 15 He shall be to you a restorer of life and a nourisher of your old age, for your daughter-in-law who loves you, who is more to you than seven sons, has given birth to him.” 16 Then Naomi took the child and laid him on her lap and became his nurse. 17 And the women of the neighborhood gave him a name, saying, “A son has been born to Naomi.” They named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David . 5. King David was from Bethlehem, so it is also called the “City of David.” 1 Samuel 17:12: Now David was the son of an Ephrathite of Bethlehem in Judah, named Jesse, who had eight sons. In the days of Saul, the man was already old and advanced in years. 6. David grew up in Bethlehem as a shepherd. Being a shepherd was a lonely boring job that no one wanted. However, David put his time to good use and learned to play the harp, throw a sling, and grew to love the Lord. Many of the Psalms David wrote have their roots in the area around Bethlehem. 7. David was anointed king in Bethlehem. 1 Samuel 16:1: The Lord said to Samuel, “How long will you grieve over Saul, since I have rejected him from being king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil, and go. I will send you to Jesse the Bethlehemite, for I have provided for myself a king among his sons. 1 Samuel 16:4 Samuel did what the Lord commanded and came to Bethlehem . 1 Samuel 16:6–7: When they came, he looked on Eliab and thought, “Surely the Lord's anointed is before him.” 7 But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart .” 1 Samuel 16:11–13: Then Samuel said to Jesse, “Are all your sons here?” And he said, “There remains yet the youngest, but behold, he is keeping the sheep.” And Samuel said to Jesse, “Send and get him, for we will not sit down till he comes here.” 12 And he sent and brought him in. Now he was ruddy and had beautiful eyes and was handsome. And the Lord said, “Arise, anoint him, for this is he .” 13 Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers. And the Spirit of the Lord rushed upon David from that day forward. 8. King Herod the Great built a huge fortress called the “Herodian” that was located just outside of Bethlehem. It was built for his protection and glory. 9. Bethlehem was the prophesied birthplace of Christ. Micah 5:2: But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days. Luke 2:7: And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. 10. Angels appeared to shepherds watching their flocks by night in Bethlehem. L uke 2:8–16: And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. 10 And the angel said to them, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger." 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, 14 "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!" 15 When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us." 16 And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. 11. Wise men (Magi) from the east visited and worshiped Christ in Bethlehem. Matthew 2:1: Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” 12. King Herod had all the male children 2 years and younger murdered in his attempt to kill Christ. Matthew 2:16–18: Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, became furious, and he sent and killed all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that region who were two years old or under, according to the time that he had ascertained from the wise men. 17 Then was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Jeremiah: 18 "A voice was heard in Ramah, weeping and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children; she refused to be comforted, because they are no more." Faith Lesson from Bethlehem 1. Bethlehem means “House of Bread.” Jesus also refers to Himself as the Bread of life. 2. In the same way our bodies need bread to live, so our spirit needs Christ for nourishment and life. Are we feeding daily on God’s Word and walking moment by moment in dependence on Him? 3. We have many godly examples of people from Bethlehem who walked with God, i.e., Naomi, Ruth, Boaz, and David. 4. Today, they are in heaven rejoicing in God’s presence. Are we following their example and living for our eternal home as well? 5. David used his spare time shepherding wisely and learned many skills that He would eventually use to serve God. Are we developing our abilities to be better servants of Christ? 6. The Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart (1 Sam. 16:7). What kind of heart does God see in us?

The history of the Walls and gates of Jerusalem plays a key role in understanding all God has done throughout its history. See each time period with maps, videos, talks, descriptions, and more. History of Jerusalem's Walls Photo Gallery Places of Interest History of the Walls of Jerusalem The First Walls Were Built by the Canaanites Long before the Israelites entered the Promised Land, the Jebusites lived securely within the walls of Jerusalem. The city was blessed with natural valleys around it that made it easy to defend. The city walls and its fortress provided additional protection. David Conquered the Jebusite City and Enlarged the City Walls God was with David and allowed him to capture Jerusalem from the Jebusites. Later, he built stronger and additional walls to fortify the city, and it would become known as the City of David. 2 Samuel 5:6–10: And the king and his men went to Jerusalem against the Jebusites, the inhabitants of the land, who said to David, “You will not come in here, but the blind and the lame will ward you off”—thinking, “David cannot come in here.” 7 Nevertheless, David took the stronghold of Zion, that is, the city of David. 8 And David said on that day, “Whoever would strike the Jebusites, let him get up the water shaft to attack ‘the lame and the blind,’ who are hated by David's soul.” Therefore, it is said, “The blind and the lame shall not come into the house.” 9 And David lived in the stronghold and called it the city of David. And David built the city all around from the Millo inward. 10 And David became greater and greater, for the Lord, the God of hosts, was with him. Solomon Added to the Walls of the City After David died, Solomon built the Temple Mount Platform on Mt. Moriah upon the threshing floor of Araunah. Then he erected the temple upon it and added walls from the City of David to encompass the Temple Mount and temple. Hezekiah’s Broad Wall Expansion of the Western Hill In 701 BC, the Assyrians, headed by Sennacherib invaded Judah, the Southern Kingdom of Israel, because of their disobedience to God. According to an Assyrian stele found in the ruins of the royal palace of Nineveh, Sennacherib conquered 46 cities in Judea prior to attempting to conquer Jerusalem. God allowed most of Judah to be conquered but protected Jerusalem because of Hezekiah’s obedience to Him. As Hezekiah began to prepare for what he knew would be a terrible siege by a merciless Assyrian war machine, he had to figure out how to protect his people. This meant building new defenses. During the time of Hezekiah, Jerusalem’s urban population had grown far outside the old walls of the city and were unprotected. King Hezekiah fortified the existing walls of the city and built a new wall in a rapid manner to protect those living outside the city walls. 2 Chronicles 32:5: He set to work resolutely and built up all the wall that was broken down and raised towers upon it, and outside it he built another wall, and he strengthened the Millo in the city of David. He also made weapons and shields in abundance. Hezekiah’s new wall measured about 22 feet wide (7 m.) by 25 feet high (8 m.). It was a massive undertaking and measured around 2.5 miles (4 km.) in length. A portion of the wall was discovered in the 1970s by Israeli archaeologist Nahman Avigad and dated to the reign of King Hezekiah (716–687 BC). It was called “Hezekiah’s Broad Wall” by archaeologists because of its width. Hezekiah also built a water tunnel in order to keep the water from the Gihon Spring inside the city walls so the Assyrians couldn’t cut off the water supply (2 Chron. 32:3–4). The curving tunnel is 583 yards (533 m.) long and has a fall of 12 inches (30 cm.) between its two ends. It was chiseled from both ends to the middle at the same time. It took the water from the Gihon Spring under the mountain to the Pool of Siloam below the city. Today, this water tunnel is known as Hezekiah’s Tunnel. Nehemiah Rebuilds the Walls When the Babylonians conquered and destroyed Jerusalem in 586 BC, they also destroyed the walls and burned the gates with fire. However, God sovereignly moved in the heart of Artaxerxes, king of Persia, to allow Nehemiah to rebuild the walls. Under his leadership and with a small Jewish population, the walls of Jerusalem were rebuilt to dimensions similar to Solomon’s day. Nehemiah 1:1–3: Now it happened in the month of Chislev, in the twentieth year, as I was in Susa the citadel, 2 that Hanani, one of my brothers, came with certain men from Judah. And I asked them concerning the Jews who escaped, who had survived the exile, and concerning Jerusalem. 3 And they said to me, “The remnant there in the province who had survived the exile is in great trouble and shame. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates are destroyed by fire." The rebuilding and repair of the wall was a miracle. Nehemiah 6:15–16: So the wall was finished on the twenty-fifth day of the month Elul, in fifty-two days. 16 And when all our enemies heard of it, all the nations around us were afraid and fell greatly in their own esteem, for they perceived that this work had been accomplished with the help of our God. Hasmonean Wall Addition The Jews gained their independence from the Seleucid Empire in 164 BC, led by the Maccabees and Hasmoneans. During this time, known as the Hasmonean period (164–63 BC), Jerusalem was rebuilt along with its walls. It was built to dimensions similar to King Hezekiah’s time. King Herod Addition ~ Jerusalem of Jesus’ Day In 19 BC, the master-builder, King Herod the Great, began his life's most ambitious building project. He undertook the rebuilding of the temple and the Temple Mount on a massive scale. He took the expansion of the Hasmonean Temple Mount and extended it on three sides, to the north, west, and south. This expansion also included some additional wall construction on the north side of the city walls. The archaeology of the Temple Mount today confirms this enlargement. It would be this city layout that would exist during the time of Christ. Agrippa I Wall Addition According to the Jewish historian Josephus, K ing Agrippa I (41–44 AD) began the construction of a third city wall of Jerusalem to protect a new quarter that grew north beyond the first and second city walls. Agrippa stopped work on the wall after only laying the foundation out of fear that Roman emperor Claudius would suspect he was planning a revolt. Jewish rebels later completed this wall in haste leading up to the First Jewish Revolt (66–70 AD). This would be the largest area the city walls would encompass. The City Walls Today In the 16th century, Suleiman decided to rebuild the city walls on much of the remains of the ancient walls that already existed. However, much of the southern part of the city walls were omitted in the new construction. They were completed in 1538 and are the walls that exist today.

Tel Jezreel was a biblical fortified city located on the southern ridge of the beautiful Jezreel Valley in the Lower Galilee region of northern Israel. The tel sits 100 meters above the valley and covers approximately 22 acres. It is strategically located close to the ancient Via Maris trade route running from north to south and was an important stop along the way. Ruins at the site reveal it was the site of an ancient fortified settlement in the 800s BC built for King Omri. Tel Jezreel Photo Gallery Places of Interest Tel Jezreel Location 1. Tel Jezreel was a biblical fortified city located on the southern ridge of the beautiful Jezreel Valley in the Lower Galilee region of northern Israel. 2. The tel sits 100 meters above the valley and covers approximately 22 acres. It is strategically located close to the ancient Via Maris trade route running from north to south and was an important stop along the way. 3. Its strategic location on the entrance to the north-south trade route made the city a gatekeeper like Lachish, Gezer, Megiddo, and Hazor, which were located on the international highway known as the Via Maris (way of the sea). Historical Background 1. Tel Jezreel was a major Biblical city in the northern Kingdom of Israel. The capital of Israel was Samaria, but Jezreel is often presented as the Israelite king’s second or winter capital. 2. The Bible tells about many events associated with the city. 3. Excavations reveal that the city was inhabited in the Canaanite/Late Bronze period in around the 15th Century BC, and then later in the Israelite/Iron period. 4. The city belonged to the region of the tribe of Issachar. 5. Archaeological findings dating to the Iron Age include a large enclosure surrounded by a moat, a gate with six chambers, and large towers. These findings are dated to around 880 BC, which would have been during the reign of King Omri and Ahab. 6. In 722 BC, the Jezreel and the northern Kingdom of Israel were conquered by the Assyrians and many of the people were led away to Assyria as captives. 7. During the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine Periods, the city continued to be an important gateway along the main road from north to south. 8. Jesus would have passed through the city of Jezreel on his journies from the Galilee area to Jerusalem. 9. The Crusaders who followed also left structures and remains of a medieval church which were uncovered in excavations. 10. The Ottomans inhabited the Tel in the 19th century. 11. In more recent history, the Tel was the site of major battles in 1948 when the State of Israel was established. On the Tel, you can see a memorial to the Palmach fighters who died in the battle. Places of Interest at Tel Jezreel 1. Biblical walls that are mentioned several times in the Bible. The walls once enclosed the ancient fortress complex. One of the famous Biblical scenes is of Queen Jezebel being thrown over the walls: “The dogs shall eat Jezebel by the walls of Jezreel.” 2. Likely place of King Ahab's Palace 3. Winepress 4. Spring 5. Tower Places of Interest Around Tel Jezreel 1. Jezreel Valley (Valley of Armageddon) 2. Mountains of Gilboa ~ Place King Saul and his sons were killed by the Philistines. 3. En Dor ~ Place King Saul met with a woman diviner who contacted Samuel from the dead. 4. Mount Tabor ~ Likely place of the transfiguration of Jesus. 5. Gideon's Spring ~ Place God chose 300 men to defeat the Midianites. 6. Beth Shean ~ Place the bodies of King Saul and his sons were hanged after the Philistines killed them in battle. Jezreel & Samaria In the Bible 1. The City of Jezreel was in the territory of the tribe of Issachar, as found in Joshua 19:17-18. 2. King Saul, on the eve of the fatal battle with the Philistines, camped with his army near the spring of Jezreel. The battle was fought in Jezreel Valley and on Mount Gilboa the following day. King Saul died fighting this battle together with his 3 sons. 1 Samuel 29:1: Now the Philistines gathered together all their armies to Aphek, while the Israelites were camping by the spring which is in Jezreel . 1 Samuel 31:1: Now the Philistines were fighting against Israel, and the men of Israel fled from the Philistines but fell fatally wounded on Mount Gilboa. 2 And the Philistines also overtook Saul and his sons, and the Philistines killed Jonathan, Abinadab, and Malchi-shua, the sons of Saul. 3 . The great showdown between the 850 false prophets of Baal, Asherah, and Elijah took place on Mount Carmel, just 30 miles (50 km) north of Samaria. 1 Kings 18:20–21: So Ahab sent to all the people of Israel and gathered the prophets together at Mount Carmel . 21 And Elijah came near to all the people and said, “How long will you go limping between two different opinions? If the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him.” And the people did not answer him a word. 4. After the prophet Elijah's great victory over the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, Elijah instructed Ahab to return home to Jezreel to report the news to his wife, Jezebel (Jezreel is around 30 miles or 50 km. from Mount Carmel). 1 Kings 18:45–46: Meanwhile the sky became dark with clouds and wind came up, and there was a heavy shower. And Ahab rode and went to Jezreel . 46 Then the hand of the Lord was on Elijah, and he belted his cloak around his waist and outran Ahab to Jezreel . 6. King Ahab had a palace in Jezreel. 1 Kings 21:1–3: Now Naboth the Jezreelite had a vineyard in Jezreel , beside the palace of Ahab king of Samaria . 7. King Ahab killed Naboth to acquire his vineyard. This event occurred north of Samaria at Ahab's summer palace of Tel Jezreel. 1 Kings 21:1–3: Now Naboth the Jezreelite had a vineyard in Jezreel, beside the palace of Ahab king of Samaria . 2 And after this Ahab said to Naboth, “Give me your vineyard, that I may have it for a vegetable garden, because it is near my house, and I will give you a better vineyard for it; or, if it seems good to you, I will give you its value in money.” 3 But Naboth said to Ahab, “The Lord forbid that I should give you the inheritance of my fathers.” 7. God killed King Ahab because of his great wickedness. 1 Kings 22:37–38: So the king died, and was brought to Samaria . And they buried the king in Samaria . 38 And they washed the chariot by the pool of Samaria, and the dogs licked up his blood, and the prostitutes washed themselves in it, according to the word of the Lord that he had spoken. 8. The fall of wicked Queen Jezebel took place as prophesied by Elijah. 2 Kings 9:30–37: When Jehu came to Jezreel, Jezebel heard about it, and she put makeup on her eyes and adorned her head, and looked down through the window. 31 As Jehu entered the gate, she said, “Is your intention peace, Zimri, his master’s murderer?” 32 Then he raised his face toward the window and said, “Who is with me, who?” And two or three officials looked down at him. 33 Then he said, “Throw her down.” So they threw her down, and some of her blood spattered on the wall and on the horses, and he trampled her underfoot. 34 When he came in, he ate and drank; and he said, “See now to this cursed woman and bury her, for she is a king’s daughter.” 35 So they went to bury her, but they found nothing of her except the skull, the feet, and the palms of her hands. 36 Therefore they returned and informed him. And he said, “This is the word of the Lord, which He spoke by His servant Elijah the Tishbite, saying, ‘On the property of Jezreel the dogs shall eat the flesh of Jezebel; 37 and the corpse of Jezebel will be like dung on the face of the field in the property of Jezreel, so they cannot say, “This is Jezebel.”’” In 2 Kings 10:8 Jehu orders the death of 70 descendants of Ahab, and has their heads sent to the new king in Jezreel and piled up in "two heaps at the gate entrance." 9. Jezreel is also mentioned in the book of Hosea, where God commands Hosea to name his son "Jezreel" because I will soon punish the house of Jehu for the massacre at Jezreel, and I will put an end to the kingdom of Israel" (Hosea 1:4). God also tells Hosea as to a future event, "I will even betroth thee unto me in faithfulness: and thou shalt know the Lord. And it shall come to pass in that day, I will hear, saith the Lord, I will hear the heavens, and they shall hear the earth; And the earth shall hear the corn, and the wine, and the oil; and they shall hear Jezreel." (Hosea 2:21–22). Hosea also mentions, "In that day I will break Israel’s bow in the Valley of Jezreel." (Hosea 1:5). Faith Lesson from Samaria 1. Unfortunately, the division of the Nation of Israel into two parts was born out of disobedience to God. It began with King Solomon, and then all the following kings of the northern kingdom walked in disobedience to God. What about us? When we live in constant disobedience to God, one of the consequences will be division. Division between God and us and between our families, friends, and virtually everything else. 2. Nonetheless, God sent prophet after prophet to warn them to leave their false Gods and return to Him. God is patient with us, but we must heed His word and the input of others in our lives as well. 3. God extended mercy and patience upon them despite their continual rejection of Him. God does the same for us, but there will come a time when God will have to change methods to get our attention and help us to change. 4. Because of their hardhearted rejection, God had no choice but to discipline the Northern Kingdom and deport most of them to Assyria. God will do the same to us if we continually disobey Him. 5. Do we really believe that disobedience to God causes pain and suffering? Romans 8:6 makes this very clear. It says, "For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace." 6. Do we understand that God is merciful and patient but disciplines those He loves (Heb. 12:7–11)? God loves us so much that He is unwilling to allow us to live in continual disobedience. He knows it causes us death and destruction, so He disciplines us to cause us to change and turn to Him. 7. The Samaritan people gladly received the gospel under Philip’s preaching. Do we realize that those living in darkness are the most receptive to the light? Sometimes we think that those living in darkness and disobedience to God won't listen. However, most of the time, it's just the opposite. Those living in death and destruction are secretly looking for change and a way out of their pain. We should share Christ with everyone and realize God is working in their lives.

The Mount of Olives played a unique role in the Bible. See all the places and learn about them here. Kidron Valley (Jehoshaphat), Garden of Gethsemane, Mary’s Tomb, Church of Mary Magdalene, Church of Dominus Flevit, Triumphal Entry Path, Bethphage, Triumphal Entry, Tomb of Lazarus, Chapel of the Ascension, Pater Noster Church, Absalom’s Monument, Tomb of the Prophets (Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi). Mount of Olives Photo Gallery Places of Interest Mount of Olives Location The Mount of Olives is located just opposite the Temple Mount on the east side of Old City Jerusalem. Historical Background 1. The Mount of Olives has played a significant role in the Bible. 2. It is from where Christ ascended back to heaven. 3. It is where Christ, along with all believers, will return to at Christ’s second coming. Places of Interest 1. Kidron Valley (Valley of Jehoshaphat) 2. Garden of Gethsemane 3. Mary’s Tomb (mother of Jesus) 4. Church of Mary Magdalene 5. Church of Dominus Flevit (where Christ wept over Jerusalem) 6. Triumphal Entry Path 7. Bethphage (beginning place of the Triumphal Entry on the backside of the Mount of Olives) 8. Tomb of Lazarus (backside of the Mount of Olives) 9. 3,000-year-old cemetery with 150,000 Gravesites 10. Chapel of the Ascension (where Christ ascended to heaven and will return to at His second coming) 11. Pater Noster Church (where Christ taught the Lord’s Prayer) 12. Absalom’s Monument 13. Tomb of the Prophets (Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi) 14. Mount of Olives Overlook 15. House of Caiaphas (place Jesus was condemned to crucifixion and where Peter denied Jesus three times. 16. Upper Room 17. City of David 18. Temple Mount 19. Dome of the Rock 20. Garden Tomb 21. Church of the Holy Sepulchre Mount of Olives in the Bible 1. When King David’s son, Absalom, tried to take over the kingship, David ascended the Mount of Olives as he fled Jerusalem. 2 Samuel 15:30: But David went up the ascent of the Mount of Olives, weeping as he went, barefoot and with his head covered. And all the people who were with him covered their heads, and they went up, weeping as they went. 2. It’s where Jesus regularly stayed when He ministered in Jerusalem. Luke 21:37: And every day he was teaching in the temple, but at night he went out and lodged on the mount called Olivet. 3. It’s the believed place where Christ taught His disciples to pray after visiting Mary and Martha’s home in Bethany (Pater Noster Church). Luke 11:1: One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.” 4. On the backside of the Mount of Olives (at Bethany), Christ raised Lazarus from the dead. John 11:32–36: Now when Mary came to where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet, saying to him, "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” 33 When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in his spirit and greatly troubled. 34 And he said, "Where have you laid him?" They said to him, "Lord, come and see." 35 Jesus wept. 36 So the Jews said, "See how he loved him!" 5. Jesus descended the Mount of Olives during His Triumphal Entry (Triumphal Entry Path). Luke 19:35–38: And they brought it [colt of a donkey] to Jesus, and throwing their cloaks on the colt, they set Jesus on it. 36 And as he rode along, they spread their cloaks on the road. 37 As he was drawing near—already on the way down the Mount of Olives—the whole multitude of his disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen, 38 saying, "Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!" 6. Christ wept over Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives (Church of Dominus Flevit). Luke 19:41–44: And when he drew near and saw the city, he wept over it, 42 saying, “Would that you, even you, had known on this day the things that make for peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes. 43 For the days will come upon you, when your enemies will set up a barricade around you and surround you and hem you in on every side 44 and tear you down to the ground, you and your children within you. And they will not leave one stone upon another in you, because you did not know the time of your visitation. 7. The Garden of Gethsemane, located at the base of the Mount of Olives, is where the suffering of Christ began. Christ’s sweat became like drops of blood. Luke 22:39–44: And he came out and went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives, and the disciples followed him. 40 And when he came to the place, he said to them, "Pray that you may not enter into temptation." 41 And he withdrew from them about a stone's throw, and knelt down and prayed, 42 saying, "Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done." 43 And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. 44 And being in an agony, he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground. Peter cut off the ear of the High Priest’s guard. Christ was arrested, and the disciples fled. 8. Christ’s return and the destruction of Jerusalem were foretold from the Mount of Olives. Matthew 24:3: As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, "Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the close of the age?" 9. On the top of the Mount of Olives is where Christ ascended back to heaven (Chapel of the Ascension). Acts 1:9–11: And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. 10 And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes, 11 and said, "Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven." 10. On top of the Mount of Olives is where Christ will return at the end of the Tribulation Period. Matthew 24:29–31: Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 30 Then will appear in heaven the sign of the Son of Man, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. 31 And he will send out his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other. Zechariah 14:4: On that day his feet shall stand on the Mount of Olives that lies before Jerusalem on the east, and the Mount of Olives shall be split in two from east to west by a very wide valley, so that one half of the Mount shall move northward, and the other half southward. 11. At the base of the Mount of Olives lies the Kidron Valley (Valley of Jehoshaphat) where Christ will judge unbelievers at the end of the Tribulation Period. Joel 3:2: I will gather all the nations and bring them down to the Valley of Jehoshaphat. And I will enter into judgment with them there, on behalf of my people and my heritage Israel, because they have scattered them among the nations and have divided up my land. Revelation 14:19–20: So the angel swung his sickle across the earth and gathered the grape harvest of the earth and threw it into the great winepress of the wrath of God. 20 And the winepress was trodden outside the city, and blood flowed from the winepress, as high as a horse's bridle, for 1,600 stadia [200 miles, or 300 kilometers]. Faith Lesson from the Mount of Olives 1. Christ’s return on the Mount of Olives is where everything culminates and flips. Righteousness becomes dominant and evil bows its knees. 2. We will return with Christ in power and great glory. What hope believers have in Christ. 3. We will reign with Christ for 1,000 years from Jerusalem during Christ’s Millennial Reign. 4. Because of our hope as believers, are we motivated to serve Christ and live for Him?

What does the future hold for Israel? Will it survive? What does the Bible say about Israel's future wars, conflicts, and terrorism? The Bible has much to say and is the most trustworthy source about the future. It predicts coming conflicts with Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran, Russia, Syria, and other nations. This is must-see information if you want to know what the future holds for Israel and Jerusalem. Future of Israel: Its Wars, Conflicts, Prophecies The Future of Israel and Its Conflicts Introduction Will Israel survive all the wars, conflicts, and terrorism from the surrounding nations who want to eliminate it? What are the motives of the wars and conflicts? Does Israel have a right to exist? What does the future look like for the Middle East and Israel? These are questions we’ll be answering. In this discussion, we will look at what the future holds for Israel by using prophecies in the Bible. The Bible is the most trusted source for the future and end times as it contains countless prophecies that have already come to pass in detailed ways, prophecies about the future, and many prophecies being fulfilled before our very eyes. The Dead Sea Scrolls prove that many of the prophecies in the Bible were written long before they were fulfilled. Therefore, we can trust the Bible like no other writing. Only God knows the future, and God claims to be the One who is the Author of the Bible. We’ll be looking at the root cause of the conflict Israel has with its enemies, what wars are prophesied to take place in the future, and what the Bible says the outcome of these wars will be. So, if you want to know what the future holds for Israel and the Middle East, read carefully to the end to find out. The Conflict Is Mainly Between Muslim Arabs and Jews Now, this discussion is not about all Arabs and is not intended to be anti-Arab. I have a number of Arab friends and have met many Arab people while in the Holy Land who are wonderful folks. God loves all people and wants them to come to the saving knowledge of salvation through Jesus Christ, who proved to be divine and fulfilled countless prophecies proving this. Both the Jews and Arabs need Jesus Christ, along with all of us. He is the only hope for peace and salvation. Every person is equal and created in the image of God. I also want to say that I feel deep compassion for the innocent people caught up in war. Wars are ugly, destructive, and sad. What Is the Conflict About? The basic conflict is over who has the right to exist in the Holy Land. The Muslim Arabs claim they are the rightful owners of all the Holy Land and want no state of Israel at all, and Israel says they have a right to exist in their homeland. Israel Becoming a Nation Fulfills Bibl e Prophecy In Ezekiel chapter 37 is a vision Ezekiel received about a valley of dry bones. These bones represent the nation of Israel and how God would regather them into their homeland in the last days. This was fulfilled in 1948 when Israel was recognized by the UN and the International Community as being its own country. Ezekiel 37:11-14: Then He said to me, “Son of man, these bones are the entire house of Israel; behold, they say, ‘Our bones are dried up and our hope has perished. We are completely cut off.’ 12 Therefore prophesy and say to them, ‘This is what the Lord God says: “Behold, I am going to open your graves and cause you to come up out of your graves, My people; and I will bring you into the land of Israel. 13 Then you will know that I am the Lord, when I have opened your graves and caused you to come up out of your graves, My people. 14 And I will put My Spirit within you and you will come to life, and I will place you on your own land . Then you will know that I, the Lord, have spoken and done it,” declares the Lord.’” This amazing prophecy has been fulfilled and lets us know that the Bible is God’s word and true, as only God knows the future. We must realize that the creation of Israel as a state is God’s doing. It fulfills His master plan for the nation of Israel. God is the Lord and owner of everything, so we must realize it is His will for the nation of Israel to exist. Nothing will change His plans. Therefore, the fact that Israel is a state is ultimately by God’s sovereign work and plan, not people’s. The Future Wars Israel Will Face , as Prophesied in the Bible There are three main wars that Israel will face in the future. 1. The great battle of Gog and Magog in Ezekiel chapters 38-39. 2. The persecution of the Jews in Israel by the Antichrist in the middle of the Great Tribulation Period. 3. The gathering of all nations against Israel at the end of the Great Tribulation Period. All of these conflicts will likely be intermixed with smaller wars as hatred and the desire to wipe Israel off the face of the earth grows. Now, let’s look at each of the se major wars. 1. War I: A massive invasio n from six nations surrounding Israel and the North. Ezekiel 38:1-6: Now the word of the Lord came to me, saying, 2 “Son of man, set your face toward Gog of the land of Magog , the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal , and prophesy against him, 3 and say, ‘This is what the Lord God says: “Behold, I am against you, Gog, chief prince of Meshech and Tubal . 4 So I will turn you around and put hooks into your jaws, and I will bring you out, and all your army, horses and horsemen, all of them magnificently dressed, a great contingent with shield and buckler, all of them wielding swords; 5 Persia, Cush , and Put with them, all of them with buckler and helmet; 6 Gomer with all its troops; Beth-togarmah from the remote parts of the north with all its troops—many peoples with you. Who are these countries that will invade Israel in the last days? Gog is a person who rules over the land of Magog. Many Bible scholars believe Magog is the southern part of Russia, and Gog means the “Prince of Rosh.” They believe Rosh refers to the land of Russia. 1. The first nation consisting of Magog, Meshech, and Tubal were all sons of Japheth, who was one of the three sons of Noah. Japheth and his family migrated to the area of modern-day Russia (Genesis 10:2-3). God informs Gog and Magog in Ezekiel 38:15, “You will come from your place in the far North .” The Hebrew word means “the uttermost part of the North.” What is to the far north of Israel? This seems to be Russia. On the date of this filming, Hamas, Palestinian, and Iranian representatives are meeting in Russia. This shows that this alliance even being formed today before our very eyes. 2. The second nation, Persia, is now the modern state of Iran. It is currently ruled by an Islamic fundamentalist government that is building significant military power, including the development of nuclear weapons. It has openly declared its commitment to the total annihilation of the Jewish State of Israel. 3. The third nation, Cush, is the region of Ethiopia, but not the same as modern Ethiopia. Instead, it occupied the area later known as Nubia. Today, it’s known as Sudan and is dominated by an Islamic fundamentalist government that is using brutal means, including the crucifixion of Christians, to attempt to establish a pure, Islamic state. 4. The fourth nation, Put, is the region of Libya today. It is also an Islamic nation. It is strongly anti-West and anti-Israel, and Western intelligence has been informed that Libya has hired Eastern European and former Soviet military scientists to aid its development of military power. 5. The people of the fifth nation, Gomer, had settled in what is now central Turkey in Ezekiel’s time. 6. The people of the sixth nation, Togarmah, were identified by Josephus as the Phrygians, who settled in Cappadocia, now eastern Turkey. Considering the location of the fifth and sixth nations in Turkey, it should be noted that the present government of Turkey is being threatened by Islamic fundamentalists. As a result, some leaders fear that Turkey could become another Iran. If that happens, all the nations named in Ezekiel 38:5–6 will be characterized by a militant Islamic hatred of Israel. In fact, the current Turkish president is supporting Hamas and condemning Israel in the war that is happening between Israel and Hamas. It is even threatening to go to war with Israel and the West. The president of Turkey is also currently meeting with Russian president Putin and calls him his friend. So, we see movement happening toward Bible prophecy being fulfilled before our very eyes regarding Turkey. I should also mention that nine Arab nations are condemning Israel for defending itself against the recent Hamas attacks. In summary, what we see is Islamic countries all unifying in their opposition to Israel. The battle is a spiritual battle with the religion of Islam front and center. It’s Islamic Jihad being fanned into flames across all Islamic countries. When will this invasion happen? Ezekiel 38:7-9: “Be ready, and be prepared, you and all your contingents that are assembled around you, and be a guard for them. 8 After many days you will be summoned; in the latter years you will come into the land that is restored from the sword, whose inhabitants have been gathered from many nations to the mountains of Israel which had been a continual place of ruins [this speaks of the regathering and establishment of the nation of Israel]; but its people were brought out from the nations, and they are living securely, all of them. 9 And you will go up, you will come like a storm; you will be like a cloud covering the land, you and all your troops, and many peoples with you.” This major invasion happens after Israel is gathered into its homeland country of the Holy Land. It happens in the latter years or last days. It will also take place when Israel is living securely. Ezekiel 38:14-16: “Therefore prophesy, son of man, and say to Gog, ‘This is what the Lord God says: “On that day when My people Israel are living securely , will you not know it? 15 You will come from your place out of the remote parts of the north, you and many peoples with you, all of them riding horses, a large assembly and a mighty army; 16 and you will come up against My people Israel like a cloud to cover the land. It shall come about in the last days that I will bring you against My land, so that the nations may know Me when I show Myself holy through you before their eyes, Gog.” It appears it will take place at least seven years before the middle of the Great Tribulation Period. Ezekiel 39:9: “Then those who inhabit the cities of Israel will go out and make fires with the weapons and burn them, both bucklers and shields, bows and arrows, war clubs and spears, and for seven years they will make fires of them. We know that in the middle of the Tribulation, the Antichrist sets himself up as God in a functioning temple in Jerusalem. He institutes the Mark of the Beast, and no one can buy or sell without it. According to Matthew 24:15-21 and Revelation 12:6, there will be great tribulation starting in the middle of the Tribulation, and Israel will flee into the desert to be supernaturally protected by God for 3 ½ years. We’ll see this event in more detail a little later. With this being the case, it seems highly unlikely that the nation of Israel is going to have time to take wood from the great invasion with them into the desert when they flee. Therefore, it seems this invasion takes place before the middle of the Tribulation Period. Some think this northern invasion will happen at the end of the Great Tribulation Period, but I don’t think so. This northern invasion lists just six nations fighting against Israel. At the end of the Tribulation, all the nations of the earth are gathered against Israel. Ezekiel 38:14 clearly states that it happens when Israel is living securely during a time of peace. “Therefore prophesy, son of man, and say to Gog, ‘This is what the Lord God says: “On that day when My people Israel are living securely, will you not know it? The end of the Tribulation Period is anything but peaceful and secure for Israel. The second half of the Tribulation is when God pours out His wrath on the world, so it won’t be a time of peace. Also, during the second half of the Tribulation, as mentioned, Israel flees to the desert and is supernaturally protected by God. So, it’s virtually impossible for this invasion to happen in the middle or at the end of the Tribulation Period. The reason for the invasion. Ezekiel 38:10-13: ‘This is what the Lord God says: “It will come about on that day, that thoughts will come into your mind and you will devise an evil plan , 11 and you will say, ‘I will go up against the land of unwalled villages. I will go against those who are at rest, who live securely, all of them living without walls and having no bars or gates, 12 to capture spoils and to seize plunder, to turn your hand against the ruins that are now inhabited, and against the people who are gathered from the nations, who have acquired livestock and goods, who live at the center of the world.’ 13 Sheba and Dedan and the merchants of Tarshish with all its villages will say to you, ‘Have you come to capture spoils? Have you assembled your contingent to seize plunder, to carry away silver and gold, to take away livestock and goods, to capture great spoils ?’”’ God’s response to the invasion. Ezekiel 38:17-23: ‘This is what the Lord God says: “Are you the one of whom I spoke in former days through My servants the prophets of Israel, who prophesied in those days for many years that I would bring you against them? 18 It will come about on that day, when Gog comes against the land of Israel,” declares the Lord God, “that My fury will mount up in My anger . 19 In My zeal and in My blazing wrath I declare that on that day there will certainly be a great earthquake in the land of Israel. 20 The fish of the sea, the birds of the sky, the animals of the field, all the crawling things that crawl on the earth, and all mankind who are on the face of the earth will shake at My presence; and the mountains will be thrown down, the steep pathways will collapse, and every wall will fall to the ground. 21 And I will call for a sword against him on all My mountains,” declares the Lord God. “Every man’s sword will be against his brother. 22 With plague and with blood I will enter into judgment with him; and I will rain on him and on his troops, and on the many peoples who are with him, a torrential rain, hailstones, fire, and brimstone. 23 So I will prove Myself great, show Myself holy, and make Myself known in the sight of many nations; and they will know that I am the Lord.”’ How long will Israel make fires out of the weapons of warfare? Ezekiel 39:9-10: “Then those who inhabit the cities of Israel will go out and make fires with the weapons and burn them, both bucklers and shields, bows and arrows, war clubs and spears, and for seven years they will make fires of them . 10 They will not take wood from the field or gather firewood from the forests, because they will make fires with the weapons; and they will take the spoils of those who plundered them and seize the plunder of those who plundered them,” declares the Lord God. Again, as mentioned earlier, it seems highly unlikely that the nation of Israel will have time to take wood from this great invasion with them into the desert when they flee from the Antichrist in the middle of the Tribulation Period. Therefore, it seems this invasion takes place at least seven years before the middle of the Tribulation Period. The final purpose of the invasion. Ezekiel 39:21-24: “And I will place My glory among the nations ; and all the nations will see My judgment which I have executed, and My hand which I have laid on them. 22 And the house of Israel will know that I am the Lord their God , from that day onward. 23 The nations will know that the house of Israel went into exile for their wrongdoing , because they were disloyal to Me, and I hid My face from them; so I handed them over to their adversaries, and all of them fell by the sword. 24 In accordance with their uncleanness and their offenses I dealt with them, and I hid My face from them.”’” This massive invasion seems like it could set up events for the Peace Treaty that the Antichrist makes with the world for seven years, which starts the Great Tribulation Period. War II: Persecution of the Jews by the Antichrist in the middle of the Great Tribulation. The next war against the Israelis will be in the middle of the Tribulation. Matthew 24:15-21: “Therefore when you see the abomination of desolation which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place—let the reader understand— 16 then those who are in Judea must flee to the mountains . 17 Whoever is on the housetop must not go down to get things out of his house. 18 And whoever is in the field must not turn back to get his cloak. 19 But woe to those women who are pregnant, and to those who are nursing babies in those days! 20 Moreover, pray that when you flee, it will not be in the winter, or on a Sabbath. 21 For then there will be a great tribulation , such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever will again. A parallel passage to the event is found in Revelation 12:1-17: A great sign appeared in heaven: a woman [Israel] clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars [12 tribes of Israel]; 2 and she was pregnant [with Jesus Christ] and she cried out, being in labor and in pain to give birth. 3 Then another sign appeared in heaven: and behold, a great red dragon [Antichrist] having seven heads and ten horns, and on his heads were seven crowns. 4 And his tail swept away a third of the stars [fallen angels, demons] of heaven and hurled them to the earth. And the dragon stood before the woman who was about to give birth, so that when she gave birth he might devour her Child [Jesus]. The Red Dragon, who is Satan, wants to eliminate Israel 5 And she gave birth to a Son [Jesus], a male, who is going to rule all the nations with a rod of iron; and her Child [Jesus] was caught up to God and to His throne. 6 Then the woman [Israel] fled into the wilderness where she had a place prepared by God, so that there she would be nourished for 1,260 days [3 ½ years]. 7 And there was war in heaven, Michael and his angels waging war with the dragon. The dragon and his angels waged war, 8 and they did not prevail, and there was no longer a place found for them in heaven. 13 And when the dragon saw that he was thrown down to the earth, he persecuted the woman [Israel] who gave birth to the male Child [Jesus]. 14 But the two wings of the great eagle were given to the woman, so that she could fly into the wilderness to her place, where she was nourished for a time, times, and half a time, away from the presence of the serpent [3 ½ years]. 17 So the dragon was enraged with the woman, and went off to make war with the rest of her children, who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus [Christians] . In summary, we see that once again, God will step in and supernaturally protect Israel during this war. He has a plan for Israel, and He will see to it that it is fulfilled. It should be noted that this war, unlike the others, is between the Antichrist and Israel. It doesn’t include other nations. 3. War III: All the nations gather against Israel at the end of the Great Tribulation Period. At the end of the Great Tribulation Period, God, Satan, the angels, and demons gather all the nations to Israel to wipe her off the face of the earth. Joel 3:2: I will gather all the nations and bring them down to the Valley of Jehoshaphat [Kidron Valley between the Mt. of Olives and Old City Jerusalem]. And I will enter into judgment with them there, on behalf of my people and my heritage Israel, because they have scattered them among the nations and have divided up my land. Revelation 16:13-16: And I saw coming out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet, three unclean spirits like frogs; 14 for they are spirits of demons, performing signs, which go out to the kings of the entire world, to gather them together for the war of the great day of God, the Almighty . 15 (“Behold, I am coming like a thief. Blessed is the one who stays awake and keeps his clothes, so that he will not walk about naked and people will not see his shame.”) 16 And they gathered them together to the place which in Hebrew is called Har-Magedon [Jezreel Valley where Megiddo is located]. Part of this last battle will also take place in northern Israel. Revelation 14:14-20: Then I looked, and behold, a white cloud, and sitting on the cloud was one like a son of man, with a golden crown on His head and a sharp sickle in His hand. 15 And another angel came out of the temple, calling out with a loud voice to Him who sat on the cloud, “Put in your sickle and reap, for the hour to reap has come, because the harvest of the earth is ripe.” 16 Then He who sat on the cloud swung His sickle over the earth, and the earth was reaped. And another angel came out of the temple which is in heaven, and he also had a sharp sickle. 18 Then another angel, the one who has power over fire, came out from the altar; and he called with a loud voice to him who had the sharp sickle, saying, “Put in your sharp sickle and gather the clusters from the vine of the earth, because her grapes are ripe.” 19 So the angel swung his sickle to the earth and gathered the clusters from the vine of the earth, and threw them into the great wine press of the wrath of God. 20 And the wine press was trampled outside the city, and blood came out from the wine press, up to the horses’ bridles, for a distance of 1,600 stadia [180 miles, 290km.). Matthew 25:31-33: “But when the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, then He will sit on His glorious throne. 32 And all the nations will be gathered before Him ; and He will separate them from one another, just as the shepherd separates the sheep from the goats; 33 and He will put the sheep on His right, but the goats on the left. Matthew 25:45-46: Then He will answer them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did not do it for one of the least of these, you did not do it for Me, either.’ 46 These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life .” This last battle will be the battle of all battles. Christ will descend in power and great glory with the armies of heaven, which are the angels and believers in Christ in their glorified bodies. It’s His mere presence that wipes out all the nations, defeats Satan and his demonic angels, and institutes the Millennial Reign, where He will reign on earth from Jerusalem for a 1,000 years. All believers in Jesus Christ will reign with Him. After the 1,000 years, He will destroy the present heaven and earth and create brand new ones where believers in Christ will dwell with Him forever and ever. God will have fulfilled His master plan for creation, and all will be settled for eternity. Summary of the Three Coming Wars According to the Bible, which is extremely trustworthy, it predicts three major wars that will await Israel in the future. 1. The great battle of Gog and Magog. 2. The persecution of the Jews in Israel by the Antichrist in the middle of the Great Tribulation Period. 3. The gathering of all nations against Israel at the end of the Great Tribulation when Christ comes back to the earth in power and great glory. Faith Lesson 1. In all these wars, the major storyline we see is that mainly Muslim nations, along with other nations, have a desire to eliminate Is rael and the Jews. However, the amazing reality is that God will supernaturally protect Israel because He still has a plan and purpose for her. 2. The main source of the conflicts moving forward will come from Islamic-run countries. Their goal is to conquer the world for Allah by whatever means necessary. This includes every kind of terror imaginable. Therefore, they will be the main players in events moving forward. 3. It’s very logical and probable that the Antichrist will be a Muslim. As we have seen, in Muslim theology, a prophesied future Muslim leader will rule from the Temple Mount over the entire world for seven years. 4. Now, while the Islamic-run countries who will be against Israel in the last days think they are fighting against Israel, they are really fighting against God almighty. This is a war no one can win. 5. There will be a growing hatred against Israel and Christians in these last days. This can even be seen today in 2023, as the UN, with overwhelming support, called for Israel to stop its military campaign to defend itself by taking out Hamas in the Gaza Strip. I wonder what each of these countries would do if they had Hamas launching endless rockets into their countries and killing thousands and kidnapping hundreds of its citizens. I’m sure they would defend themselves. 6 . God has a plan for Israel, and He will be the one who defends them supernaturally. God will fulfill this major prophecy as He has fulfilled every other one. You can count on that. Zechariah 12:1-5: The oracle of the word of the Lord concerning Israel: Thus declares the Lord, who stretched out the heavens and founded the earth and formed the spirit of man within him: 2 “Behold, I am about to make Jerusalem a cup of staggering to all the surrounding peoples . The siege of Jerusalem will also be against Judah. 3 On that day I will make Jerusalem a heavy stone for all the peoples. All who lift it will surely hurt themselves. And all the nations of the earth will gather against it . 4 On that day, declares the Lord, I will strike every horse with panic, and its rider with madness. But for the sake of the house of Judah I will keep my eyes open, when I strike every horse of the peoples with blindness. 5 Then the clans of Judah shall say to themselves, ‘The inhabitants of Jerusalem have strength through the Lord of hosts, their God.’ 7. God will fight for Israel, and it will be victorious. So, the future is actually bright for Israel. All the world sill see and know this. It will survive all the wars and conflicts because God is her helper and defender. The future will sometimes be ugly due to wars, but God will use all this for His good purposes to carry out His divine master plan for His creation. 8. God loves everyone and will extend His hand of grace and love to all who will receive it through Jesus Christ. 9. As we see these end times events unfolding before our eyes, we need to realize that God is in control and working out everything according to His good purposes. Therefore, we should be at peace, trusting in God, a nd certain we are right with God and ready for His return.

Tel Hazor was one of the largest and most important biblical sites in the Canaanite and Israelite periods. The victory over Hazor by Joshua and the Israelites is probably one of the most overlooked miracles in the Bible. When we realize how powerful Hazor was and how Jabin, the King of Hazor, gathered countless armies against the Israelites, we see that only God could have given them victory. It was on the Via Maris, north of the Sea of Galilee. Tel Hazor Photo Gallery Places of Interest Hazor Location 1. Hazor is located about 10 miles (16 km.) due north of the Sea of Galilee and just to the east of Hwy. 90. 2. It was on one of the most important travel routes called the “Via Maris,” which linked Africa and Egypt with Syria and Asia. 3. It was the largest and most strategic city in northern Galilee due to its size and location. Historical Background 1. Hazor was one of the most important cities of the Canaanites and was the head of all the northern kingdoms (Josh. 11:10). 2. It was 10 times the size of Jerusalem and totaled 200 acres (81 hectares, 200 football fields) in size. 3. The upper part of the tel is around 30 acres (12 hectares), and the lower part is around 170 acres (69 hectares). 4. What we see today of Hazor is 1/8 the size of what it once was. 5. To the north lies most of the city, which is now a farm field. 6. It’s the largest tel in Israel. 7. It’s also believed to have been the largest city in ancient Canaan. 8. It was one of three major cities of defense in Israel (Gezer, to the south, Megiddo, in the middle of the country, and Hazor, in the north). All three cities were on the Via Maris. 9. Hazor rivaled Nineveh in size and importance. 10. Hazor is mentioned 19 times in the Bible. Places of Interest 1. Israelite City Ruins 2. Israelite Walls 3. Lower City 4. Temple Tombs 5. Northern Walls 6. Canaanite Temple/Palace 7. Solomon’s Walls and Gate (archaeologists have uncovered a six-chambered gate at Hazor, which is nearly identical in size and design to gates at Megiddo and Gezer). 8. Ash layer in the Canaanite Palace/Temple 9. Canaanite Altar 10. Water System (a century after Solomon’s time, the Israelites built a massive shaft 131 ft. (40 m.) deep into the tel, reaching the water table below). 11. Israelite Fortress/Tower 12. Rooms & Buildings 13. Canaanite passage between the upper and lower cities. Hazor in the Bible The victory over Hazor by Joshua and the Israelites is probably one of the most overlooked miracles in the Bible. When we realize how powerful Hazor was and how Jabin, the King of Hazor, gathered countless armies against the Israelites, we see that it was only God who could have given them the victory. 1. When Jabin, king of Hazor, heard that Joshua and the Israelites had been on a conquering rampage throughout all the southern part of the land, he gathered a host of kings in the northern part of the land to unite and fight against the Israelites. Joshua 11:1–5: When Jabin, king of Hazor , heard of this, he sent to Jobab king of Madon, and to the king of Shimron, and to the king of Achshaph, 2 and to the kings who were in the northern hill country, and in the Arabah south of Chinneroth, and in the lowland, and in Naphoth-dor on the west, 3 to the Canaanites in the east and the west, the Amorites, the Hittites, the Perizzites, and the Jebusites in the hill country, and the Hivites under Hermon in the land of Mizpah. 4 And they came out with all their troops, a great horde, in number like the sand that is on the seashore, with very many horses and chariots. 5 And all these kings joined their forces and came and encamped together at the waters of Merom [3.5 miles, 5.5 km. north of Hazor] to fight against Israel. 2. All the unified kings and soldiers believed that with their countless armies and gods, Israel would be no match for them. 3. God told Joshua and the Israelites not to be afraid because He would be with them and deliver all these kings into their hands. Joshua 11:6–9: And the Lord said to Joshua, “Do not be afraid of them, for tomorrow at this time I will give over all of them, slain, to Israel. You shall hamstring their horses and burn their chariots with fire.” 7 So Joshua and all his warriors came suddenly against them by the waters of Merom and fell upon them. 8 And the Lord gave them into the hand of Israel, who struck them and chased them as far as Great Sidon and Misrephoth-maim, and eastward as far as the Valley of Mizpeh. And they struck them until he left none remaining. 9 And Joshua did to them just as the Lord said to him: he hamstrung their horses and burned their chariots with fire. 4. After defeating all the armies, Joshua conquered Hazor and burned it with fire. Joshua 11:10–13: Then Joshua turned back at that time, and captured Hazor and struck its king with the sword; for Hazor formerly was the head of all these kingdoms . They struck every person who was in it with the edge of the sword, utterly destroying them; there was no one left who breathed. And he burned Hazor with fire . Joshua captured all the cities of these kings, and all their kings, and he struck them with the edge of the sword, and utterly destroyed them; just as Moses the servant of the Lord had commanded. 13 But none of the cities that stood on mounds did Israel burn, except Hazor alone; that Joshua burned . Evidence of the burn marks and ash layer can be seen in the Canaanite Palace at Hazor. 5. Hazor was later retaken and rebuilt by the Canaanites. God used the Canaanites to punish Israel for their disobedience to Him. Judges 4:1–3: And the people of Israel again did what was evil in the sight of the Lord after Ehud died. 2 And the Lord sold them into the hand of Jabin [title, not a person’s name, i.e., pharaoh] king of Canaan, who reigned in Hazor . The commander of his army was Sisera, who lived in Harosheth-hagoyim. 3 Then the people of Israel cried out to the Lord for help, for he had 900 chariots of iron and he oppressed the people of Israel cruelly for twenty years. 6. God used Deborah and Barak to deliver the Israelites after they repented of their sins and cried out to Him for help. Joshua 4:14–16: And Deborah said to Barak, “Up! For this is the day in which the Lord has given Sisera into your hand. Does not the Lord go out before you?” So Barak went down from Mount Tabor with 10,000 men following him. 15 And the Lord routed Sisera and all his chariots and all his army before Barak by the edge of the sword. And Sisera got down from his chariot and fled away on foot. 16 And Barak pursued the chariots and the army to Harosheth-hagoyim, and all the army of Sisera fell by the edge of the sword; not a man was left. 7. Hazor later came under the control of Israel during the period of King David and Solomon, and Solomon rebuilt and fortified Hazor, along with Megiddo and Gezer. 1 Kings 9:15: Now this is the account of the forced labor which King Solomon levied to build the house of the Lord, his own house, the Millo, the wall of Jerusalem, Hazor , Megiddo, and Gezer. 8. . Jeremiah prophesied against Hazor due to the Israelites disobedience after David and Solomon’s time. Jeremiah 49:33: Hazor will become a haunt of jackals, a desolation forever; no one will live there, nor will a son of man reside in it. It’s amazing that this once sought-after prime location is now desolate. It shows the power of God and His proclaimed word. 9. As a result of Israel’s disobedience to God, Hazor was destroyed by Assyria in 722 BC, and the northern 10 tribes of Israel were deported. 2 Kings 15:29: In the days of Pekah king of Israel, Tiglath-pileser king of Assyria came and captured Ijon, Abel-beth-maacah, Janoah, Kedesh, Hazor , Gilead, and Galilee, all the land of Naphtali, and he carried the people captive to Assyria. Faith Lesson from Hazor 1. When the Israelites obeyed God, He blessed them and made them victorious over countless kings and multitudes of soldiers. 2. When they disobeyed God, He caused them to become weak and defeated. 3. The same lesson from the Old Testament applies to us today (Rom. 15:4). When we are obedient and faithful to God, we live victoriously and receive His blessings. However, when we disobey Him, we become weak and defeated. 4. What kind of lives are we living today? Are we victorious or defeated?

The Tomb of Mary (mother of Jesus), also known as the Church of the Sepulchre of Saint Mary, is located just a little north of the Garden of Gethsemane in the Kidron Valley. Sites of interest include: Mary’s Chapel, Mary’s Tomb, Copt altar, Garden of Gethsemane, Kidron Valley (Valley of Jehoshaphat), Temple Mount Tomb of Mary, Mother of Jesus Photo Gallery Places of Interest Tomb of Mary, Mother of Jesus Introduction 1. The New Testament is silent regarding the death and burial of Mary, but strong Christian tradition places her tomb at this site. 2. The Orthodox and Catholic churches teach that Mary died a natural death at her home on Mount Zion in Jerusalem, where Dormition Abbey stands today. They also believe that after three days, her body was taken up into heaven, and her tomb was found empty. 3. Protestants believe Mary died a natural death and was buried here as a result. 4. Since there were no cemeteries there at the time, she was buried at this site. 5. This building houses the Tomb of Mary. It is the underground crypt of a church that no longer exists. The room is dark, with walls blackened by centuries of smoke, giving it an ancient feel. Icons adorn the space, and numerous hanging oil lamps cast a soft glow over the tomb. 6. On the way down the steps, there are two chapels. On the left is the Chapel of Joseph (Jesus' earthly father), and on the right is the Chapel of Mary's parents, Hanna and Joachim. 7. It's a fascinating place with around 2,000 years of history. Let's explore and experience this site. Location The Tomb of Mary, also known as the Church of the Sepulchre of St. Mary, is located just a little north of the Garden of Gethsemane in the Kidron Valley. Right beside the Tomb of Mary Church is the Gethsemane Cave Complex. Historical Background 1. The New Testament is silent regarding the death and burial of Mary, but strong Christian tradition places her tomb at this site. 2. The church is in an underground rock-cut cave in the shape of a cross. It has a wide staircase leading down to the church. It is dimly lit and features blackish ceilings, a result of centuries of candle burning. 3. The church began as burial caves that were cut into rock in the 1st century. 4. These caves were later expanded in 455 AD into a cross-shaped church with the tomb of Mary in its center. 5. The large crypt containing the empty tomb in the church is all that remains of an early 5th-century AD church. 6. In the 6th century AD, an octagon-shaped church was built on the upper level, covering the tomb. However, it was destroyed in the Persian invasion in 614. 7. During the Crusader period (1130), the church was rebuilt and included a Benedictine monastery called the Abbey Church of St. Mary of Jehosaphat. Virtually everything was destroyed by Saladin in 1187 except for the south entrance and staircase. 8. After the Crusaders left, the site was taken over by the Franciscans. Since that time, it has been shared by Greeks, Armenians, Syrians, Copts, Abyssinians, and Muslims. 9. Muslims also worship here, and on the wall to the right of the Tomb of Mary is a mihrab niche, giving the direction of Mecca. It was installed after Saladin’s conquest in the 12th Century. 10. According to Catholic tradition, Mary ascended into heaven. Her tomb at this church is empty, but it serves as a shrine honoring this event. Protestants believe Mary died a natural death and was buried here as a result. Places of Interest 1. Gethsemane Cave Complex This is believed to be the location where Jesus and the disciples often stayed while in Jerusalem, as well as the nearby spot where Jesus was arrested before His crucifixion. Eyewitnesses from the fourth and sixth centuries attest to the remains of original artifacts that this was the authentic place where the Gethsemane Press was and where Jesus was arrested the night before being crucified. 2. Church of the Sepulchre of S t. Mary The modern upper level of the church. Forty-seven steps leading down to the dimly lit church. On the way down the steps, there are two chapels. On the left is the Chapel of Joseph (Jesus' earthly father), and on the right is the Chapel of Mary's parents, Hanna (Anna) and Joachim. Mary’s Chapel Mary’s Tomb Mary was buried in a bench-type tomb, similar to the one in which Jesus lay. Around 455 AD, the rock surrounding her tomb was carved away, leaving a naturally chiseled square building, or what we call an edicule, meaning "little house." This natural stone edicule still surrounds May’s tomb intact today. Interestingly, this type of construction was almost identical to the way Jesus’ original tomb was built centuries earlier—a tomb made of the natural stone that originally encased it. Copt Altar 3. Gethsemane 4. Kidron Valley (Valley of Jehoshaphat) 5. Temple Mount The Life of Mary in the Bible 1. Mary was a godly woman who had the privilege of being the mother of Jesus. Luke 1:26–31: Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city in Galilee called Nazareth, 27 to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the descendants of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And coming in, he said to her, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.” 29 But she was very perplexed at this statement and kept pondering what kind of salutation this was. 30 The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus. 2. Mary treasured the privilege of being Christ’s earthly mother. Luke 2:19: But Mary treasured all these things, pondering them in her heart. 3. Being the mother of Jesus would come with a high price. Luke 2:34–35: And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, His mother, “Behold, this Child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and for a sign to be opposed— 35 and a sword will pierce even your own soul—to the end that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.” 4. Mary was an obedient woman, submitting to God and her husband in all things. Matthew 2:13: Now when they had gone, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Get up! Take the Child and His mother and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you; for Herod is going to search for the Child to destroy Him.” 5. Because Christ’s earthly father, Joseph, is not mentioned after Christ was 12 years old, and because Christ entrusted the Apostle John with her care at His death, it appears she became a widow at an early age. John 19:25–27: But standing by the cross of Jesus were His mother, and His mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 26 When Jesus then saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing nearby, He said to His mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” 27 Then He said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” From that hour the disciple took her into his own household. 6. Mary witnessed the crucifixion of her Son on the Cross. John 19:25: Therefore, the soldiers did these things. But standing by the cross of Jesus were His mother, and His mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 7. Mary continued to support the apostles and was part of serving the cause of Jesus after His resurrection. Acts 1:14: All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus , and his brothers. Faith Lesson from the Life of Mary 1. Mary was a deeply devoted woman to be honored, but nowhere in Scripture is she worshiped, nor are we commanded to worship or pray to her. 2 . The Lord highly favored Mary because of her love and obedience to Him. When we obey and seek the Lord, we are favored by Him as well. 3. Our obedience doesn’t earn God’s love, but it does bring blessing and favor. 4 . We could learn a lot from the life of Mary and should emulate her faith and devotion to God.