The 'Peace Deal' of Daniel 9:27

By COGwriter

Will you know prior to the start of the Great Tribulation and WWIII approximately when it will begin?

Is there any event in prophecy that seems to give a multi-year (like 3 1/2 year) advance notification?

Many believe that they will know the fulfillment and sequence of certain end time prophecies. Yet, relatively few truly will. One such end time prophecy, that is part of the key sequence, will not be understood when it happens.

It has to do with Daniel 9:26-27 which states:

26 And the people of the prince who is to come
Shall destroy the city and the sanctuary.
The end of it shall be with a flood,
And till the end of the war desolations are determined.
27 Then he shall confirm a covenant with many for one week;
But in the middle of the week
He shall bring an end to sacrifice and offering.
And on the wing of abominations shall be one who makes desolate,
Even until the consummation, which is determined,
Is poured out on the desolate (Daniel 9:26-27).

The above is referring to a deal or covenant that has a time element attached to it. In a sense, this numbered deal could be considered an end time "handwriting on the wall" (see also Can those in the USA/UK see the Handwriting on the Wall?).

The ‘one week’ time element has generally been understood by prophecy watchers to mean a seven year deal (2520 days, based on prophetic 360 day years), that will be broken in the middle of it (after 3 1/2 years). The Hebrew word translated as "week" literally means "sevened" (OT:7620 literal, sevened. Biblesoft's New Exhaustive Strong's Numbers and Concordance with Expanded Greek-Hebrew Dictionary. Copyright © 1994, 2003, 2006 Biblesoft, Inc. and International Bible Translators, Inc.).

The 'with many' referred to in this passage would seem to indicate that 'many' nations, as opposed to one or two, are agreeing to something. Nations such as Jordan and Egypt are likely to be involved as they both have signed peace agreements with Israel in the past.

Notice that the prince is the one who later brings an end to the sacrifices and is involved with the abomination of desolation.

While Daniel 9:26 calls this leader a "prince," he is later is referred to as the king of a developing European empire (Daniel 11:40; see also King of the North and Europa, the Beast, and the Book of Revelation). Daniel 9:26-27 tie directly in with Daniel 11:

31 And forces shall be mustered by him, and they shall defile the sanctuary fortress; then they shall take away the daily sacrifices, and place there the abomination of desolation. (Daniel 11:31)

The prince who confirmed the deal is the King of the North (cf. Daniel 11:40) when he musters forces, stops sacrifices, and puts in the abomination of desolation. Note, according to Ezra 3:6, as well as statements made to me personally by representatives of the re-constituted Sanhedrin and the Temple Institute in Jerusalem, the Jews do NOT need a massive temple to resume sacrifices--only an altar, which they have, and government permission, which they will one day receive.

One way to show this is a European empire to realize that it was the people of the Roman Empire of the 1st century that fulfilled the portion of Daniel 9:26 as they destroyed the city (Jerusalem) in 70 A.D. Jewish sources, while not understanding all of this, also agree that it was Roman sources that destroyed the city and sanctuary as the following demonstrates:

“The people of the prince will come and destroy the city and the Sanctuary” Daniel 9:26, refers to the Roman legions of Vespasian and Titus, who destroyed Jerusalem. (Daniel 9 – A True Biblical Interpretation. Jews for Judaism. https://jewsforjudaism.org/knowledge/articles/answers/jewish-polemics/texts/daniel-9-a-true-biblical-interpretation/ accessed 07/30/16)

In the 21st century, the European Union includes much of the land and peoples that were part of the ancient Roman Empire. And it is the "prince" coming from that people that verse 27 of Daniel 9 is referring to. Thus, this prophecy tells us that a lower level European leader will somewhat officially start to rise up about 3 1/2 years before the great tribulation (and yes, according to Jesus, some "tribulation" does happen prior to the start of the Great Tribulation). Another is the fact that the "beast of the sea" of Revelation 13:1 fits with the beasts from the "great sea" of Daniel 7:2--and that sea is the Mediterranean Sea according to the Old Testament. Hence a power in Europe the only region that could have an empire geographically like the old Roman one (for more details, please see Europa, the Beast, and the Book of Revelation). This is not an Arab empire, like some incorrectly claim (see also Can the Final Antichrist be Islamic?).

Notice also the following about the end time Beast leader:

11 He even exalted himself as high as the Prince of the host; and by him the daily sacrifices were taken away, and the place of His sanctuary was cast down. 12 Because of transgression, an army was given over to the horn to oppose the daily sacrifices; and he cast truth down to the ground. He did all this and prospered. (Daniel 8:11-12)

Consider that it is a 'prince' who takes away the daily sacrifices in Daniel 9:27, and that he is also called the King of the North (Daniel 11:40) who stops the sacrifices in Daniel 11:31. This is a European leader (watch also thevideo titled: Can You Prove that the Beast to Come is European?).

Daniel 9:27 seems to be discussing some type of peace deal that the Europeans will either propose or at least one leader from Europe will endorse. Since the Vatican will be even more confederate with Europe then, the Vatican will likely bless, confirm, and/or push for the deal.

Before going further, let me add that some Protestants and some Church of God groups do not understand the proper identity of the "prince" in Daniel 9:26 and/or the "he" in verse 27. Here is something from the United Church of God:

Who Is the “He” of Verse 27?

Now let’s look a little closer at Daniel 9:27, specifically to examine the “he” who confirms the covenant. The same “he” is also described in this verse as bringing an end to sacrifice and offering. Some commentators state that the antecedent is the prince in the phrase “people of the prince who is to come” in verse 26. This prince could not be Jesus Christ, since the prince’s people destroy the city and the sanctuary. Can the “he” of verse 27 refer to a worldly prince making a seven-year treaty with the Israelis, then breaking the treaty after 3 1/2 years by cutting off the sacrifices? Grammatically, it is difficult to make the case that the antecedent of “he” would be the prince of verse 26. A better grammatical case can be made for Messiah of verse 26. (http://streaming.ucg.org/files/papers/ucg-paper-the-70-weeks-prophecy.pdf pp. 8-9)

Those that claim that the "prince to come" in Daniel 9:26 is Jesus or that He is the one that confirms a covenant with many for one week in Daniel 9:27, etc., will not understand what is happening related to this deal. It was the Roman Empire that destroyed the city and stopped the sacrifices in 70 A.D.

The Living Church of God used to know. Its Dr. Meredith and I, unknowingly were working separately on this at the same time, and we came to the same conclusion. However, some who are more stuck on tradition over there got this to be partially right, but with confusion. Here is something from LCG (bolding mine):

We discussed a wide range of topics during our May 2019 Council of Elders meetings, and there is one area of discussion that I particularly want to share with you. We talked with each other at length on the “70 Weeks Prophecy” of Daniel 9, a topic we have discussed numerous times over several years. We have traditionally understood the 70 weeks to begin with the decree of Artaxerxes in 457 B.C. From that time until the coming of the Messiah there would be a total of 69 weeks, meaning that Christ began His ministry in 27 A.D. (Each week has seven days, given the “day for a year” principle of prophecy—and remember that you must add one year when going from B.C. to A.D., as there is no year zero.)

The meaning of verse 27 is a bit more ambiguous. Is the subject here the Messiah or the Roman prince, both of whom are mentioned in verse 26? Or is this an example of prophetic duality? One of the purposes of the 70th week was to fulfill the purposes stated in verse 24, including “mak[ing] reconciliation for iniquity.” This was accomplished during the first half of the 70th week by Christ’s sacrifice at the end of His three-and-a-half-year ministry, and this has been the teaching of God’s Church for decades. The last three purposes of verse 24 were not fulfilled in the first half of the 70th week, but will be fulfilled during the second half (three-and-a-half years) of the 70th week, which begins with the Second Coming (Revelation 11:15). The purposes of the 70th week are clearly stated in Daniel 9:24.

We recognize that there will be a transition period, during which the ruling Jesus Christ puts down His enemies and establishes the New Covenant with Israel and Judah (Jeremiah 31:31–34; Hebrews 8:8–13; Hebrews 10:16–17). In the Millennium, the Messiah will anoint the “Most Holy,” or—as the Hebrew indicates—the “Most Holy Place.”

Verse 26 introduces a “prince who is to come.” This is not the Messiah, but one who destroys “the city and the sanctuary.” So when verse 27 says that “he shall confirm a covenant with many for one week; but in the middle of the week He shall bring an end to sacrifice and offering,” it is not clear whether this refers to Christ, who was cut off in the middle of the week, ending the need for animal sacrifices, or whether it refers to a prince who makes a seven-year agreement with the Jews, which is broken after three-and-a-half years.

Note that the capitalization of the pronouns—“he” and “He”—provide no clues; the original Hebrew did not possess capital letters, so those differences only reflect the interpretations of the translators. A strong case can be made for either opinion, or for a combination of the two, which would be duality. The question has always been this: Is the Messiah or the prince the antecedent of “he” in verse 27? (An antecedent is an earlier word or phrase to which a pronoun refers.)

Who is it that brings an end to sacrifice and offering? We understand that Jesus’ ministry lasted about three-and-a-half years, half of a prophetic week. Jesus was cut off in the middle of the week—that is clear! However, the wording of Daniel 9:27 appears on the surface to refer to the prince, possibly referring to his cutting off of the sacrifices that are prophesied to be restarted and stopped before Christ’s return (Daniel 12:11; Mark 13:14). It is possible that both the prince and the Messiah are intended—a duality in prophecy—but this is far from certain. ...

Bible commentaries and many evangelicals are looking for this, but Daniel tells us that only the wise (those who keep God’s law) will understand (Daniel 12:10). Those looking specifically for a seven-year treaty may be wrong. Jesus instructed us to watch for the events He gave in the Olivet prophecy, and one of those events is the abomination of desolation being set up, as spoken of by Daniel (Matthew 24:15; Daniel 12:11).

It is evident that the full meaning of Daniel 9:26–27 is not completely clear at this time. We understand Jesus appeared at the end of 69 prophetic weeks, and that three-and-a-half years later—in the middle of a prophetic week—He was cut off and we no longer need to make animal sacrifices. Whether there is a duality to these verses, we do not know. If there is a duality, this means we have the seventieth week fulfilled by Christ and a totally separate week referring to what the Roman prince does.

(Weston G. Why a Council of Elders? Living Church News, July-August 2017)

It is evident that LCG does not understand these passages and has lost knowledge this way. The "prince to come" is the final European King of the North--so that LCG seems to realize.  He is the one in Daniel 11:31 who fulfills bringing the end of the sacrifice and offering 3 1/2 years (the middle of a seven year prophetic week) which is consistent with Daniel 9:27. Jesus did not destroy the city nor the sanctuary, nor is there a biblical record that He confirmed a seven-year covenant. It is not likely that there duality is that Jesus and the Beast are referred to in the same prophecy which LCG seems to hope--there is no evidence of that type of crossover in any biblical prophecy that I am aware of. The duality that WCG once taught, for an example related to Daniel 11:31-39 was that just like Antiochus Epiphanes did bad things to Jerusalem, the final King of the North would do the same (e.g. Armstrong HW. Revelation - Catastrophic Event. World Tomorrow Telecast. Telecast Date: March 8, 1982). I do not believe that the old WCG ever equated Jesus with the King of the North beast power. This is really odd reasoning on LCG's behalf.

Now, what about Jesus being cut off after the 62 weeks? Well, when does that start? Well, it has to start later than when the 69 weeks began as the Messiah could not be cut off before He was born. Presuming it starts when Jerusalem was fully rebuilt, we are looking at probably somewhere between 405-400 BC. While the Richard T. Ritenbaugh of CGG said 408 BC (457-49 years), that does not fly as that also brings one to 27 A.D. and Jesus did not die the year He began His ministry. The reality is that archealogists are not sure when Jerusalem's rebuilding was complete (Borschel-Dan. 2,500-year-old seals may show Jews rebuilding Jerusalem after 1st Temple exile. Times of Israel, June 30, 2020), thus, to reach a 31 A.D. execution of Jesus, that would point to 405 or perhaps 404 BC.

This would then mean that LCG's 3 1/2 year period is NOT half of a week of the seventieth week. Hence the idea that the final seven years begins when a prince (not Jesus) confirms some covenant for seven years is consistent with what Daniel wrote. It makes no logical sense that the seventieth week is would be split in two pieces, which LCG seems to imply.

Verse 27 makes it fairly clear that the last week begins when the prince will confirm a covenant for one week. LCG's error is relying on a tradition that was once partially espoused by Herbert Armstrong and more fully written up by William Dankenbring (Good News, December 1965)--yet Dankenbring realized after he left RCG/WCG his position was in error.

Let me also add that even according to LCG's duality position, there is going to be a seven-year period confirmed by a prince who is not the Messiah. When I spoke to an LCG Council of Elders' member about Daniel 9:26-27 he did not seem to grasp that, but instead said LCG went back to the old position once published by the old Radio Church of God. So, the impression I have been left with is that LCG is not really looking for the deal of Daniel 9:26-27, but hopes that it will be wise enough that God will inform it if, in fact, the deal relates to the prince who will become the King of the North.

Those who understand will see the confirmation of the deal as a type of countdown until the start of the Great Tribulation (Matthew 24:21-22) as well as what could be called World War III (which starts with Daniel 11:39; see also USA in Prophecy: The Strongest Fortresses). Yet, the biblical reality is that even most real Christians will not accept that the deal has been confirmed until it is a bit too late to flee (cf. Revelation 12:14-17). Only the Philadelphians will recognize AND be prepared to be protected from the coming hour of trial according to Jesus (Revelation 3:10).

Let it also be noted that between 3 - 3 1/2 years after the deal of Daniel 9:27 is confirmed by the prince, two reorganizations will happen in Europe as foretold in the Bible:

12 “The ten horns which you saw are ten kings who have received no kingdom as yet, but they receive authority for one hour as kings with the beast. 13 These are of one mind, and they will give their power and authority to the beast. (Revelation 17:12-13)

These ten kings have no kingdom, but are to attain one. Thus, this is a type of reorganization in verse 12--and basically a type of major or great reset (see also Is a Great Reset Coming?). Since they give their power to the Beast in verse 13, this is a second reorganization. The Beast is the one who was the prince of Daniel 9:26.

Perhaps it should also be pointed out that for sacrifices to stop (which the Beast will cause to cease), they first may start--it may very well be that the Israeli government will allow them after the deal of Daniel 9:27 is put together and/or confirmed. Although they could start earlier, after the deal seems to be more likely--and we know that they do occur after the deal (the Bible does not state whether any begin prior to the deal).

While there have been various understandings of the above passage in Daniel 9 (and many falsely believe it requires a third temple to be built, please see Why is a Jewish Temple in Jerusalem Not Required?), notice what three commentators somewhat correctly state (bolding/italics in source):

Shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself (or, and shall have nothing, ASV): and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary. It is agreed by almost all evangelical interpreters that these two events, the cutting off of the Messiah (Anointed One) and the destruction of the sanctuary refer to the crucifixion of Christ and the destruction of Jerusalem by the Romans. These two events were separated by a period of nearly forty years (29-70 A.D.). Yet, in the literary order of the passage, they are both after the sixty-ninth week and before the final "one week" mentioned in the next verse. Thus the very syntax, grammar, and word-meaning indicate a gap in the succession of the seventy weeks.

Other important reasons for supposing a gap here are: (1) Jesus placed the culminating week, with its "abomination" in the times of final Antichrist, just before His second advent (Matt 24:15). (2) Dan 7:25, which describes what appear to be the very same events as those of 9:27, the seventieth week, is certainly a prophecy of the times of final Antichrist. (3) The period of three and one-half times or years (the second half-week of v. 27) is often mentioned elsewhere in Scripture and always in an eschatological setting (Rev 11:2-3; 12:6,14). (4) The six things to be accomplished in the seventy weeks (see Dan 9:24 and comments) require the second advent of Christ, and the restoration and conversion of Israel.

These considerations show that the idea of a gap in the weeks at this point is a matter of exegesis. Considerations of theology are not primarily involved. It is not this author's opinion that the Church is a mere provisional consideration thrust into this hiatus or gap. Both 'dispensational' and 'covenantal' theologians, doubtless, find more in this prophecy than is properly there. Let us stay by what the passage says. C. F. Keil (Comm., in loco) is correct in asserting that the prince is said to be coming (habba'), because he has already been introduced and discussed in the prophecy of chapter 7 as the final Antichrist. The Romans who destroyed Jerusalem (A.D. 70) were his people because they and he belong to the fourth stage (the Roman) of world empire (chs. 2; 7)...

And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week (make a firm covenant, ASV). The language higbir from gabar, "be strong") does not signify confirmation of a covenant but causation of a firm covenant. And he shall cause to prevail is an excellent translation. The most natural antecedent for he, the subject of the clause, is the wicked "prince" of verse 26. This is the nearest noun in grammatical agreement, and it fits the sense. The many here, as elsewhere, is a reference to the Hebrew people, the subject of discussion throughout chapter 9 (cf. vv. 2,12,18,19, esp. 24, "thy people ... thy holy city"). Evidently the covenant is to be made between Antichrist and Israel when the Jews are back in their homeland in the last days. The exact nature of the covenant is unknown.

The evil and destructive events described in the remainder of this verse should be interpreted as summary information concerning the final "time of Jacob's trouble" (Jer 30:7 and context) set forth rather more fully in Dan 12:1 ff; 2 Thess 2:1 ff; Rev 13; 14; and other passages (from The Wycliffe Bible Commentary, Electronic Database. Copyright (c) 1962 by Moody Press).

After the end of the sixty-nine weeks Messiah is to be cut off. By “Messiah” we must understand the same person who is spoken of in Daniel 9:25. It should also be observed that the word “prince,” which is applied to Messiah in Daniel 9:25, is here used of another person—some secular prince, who stands in opposition to the Messiah. (Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers, late 19th century)

The final revelation in Daniel 9:27 states, "He will confirm a covenant with many for one 'seven,' but in the middle of the 'seven' he will put an end to the sacrifice and offering..."...the covenant of Daniel 9:27 is not the covenant of grace...this refers to the coming world ruler at the beginning of the last seven years...He will make a covenant with Israel for a seven-year period. As Daniel 9:27 indicates, in the middle of the seven years he will break the covenant, stop the sacrifices offered...and become their persecutor instead of their protector (Walvoord JF. The Prophecy Knowledge Handbook. Victor Books/SP Publications, Wheaton (IL), 1990, pp. 256,257).

As mentioned before, a prophetic week is generally understood to refer to seven years. And half a week is 3 1/2 years (approximately 1260 days). Whether the agreement is "confirmed," "caused to prevail," pressed by, or initiated by him, a deal will be made that will be broken, 3 1/2 years after some point.

Notice also two other commentaries:

(26) After threescore and two weeks.--These words can only mean that in the seventieth week the Anointed one shall be cut off. Observe the care with which the seventy weeks are arranged in a series of the form 7 + 62 + 1. During the period of seven weeks Jerusalem is to be rebuilt. The "troublous times" are not to be restricted to this period, but may apply to the sixty-two weeks which follow. After the end of the sixty-nine weeks Messiah is to be cut off. By "Messiah" we must understand the same person who is spoken of in Daniel 9:25. It should also be observed that the word "prince," which is applied to Messiah in Daniel 9:25, is here used of another person--some secular prince, who stands in opposition to the Messiah. The Greek versions render "unction" instead of "anointed," whence Jacob of Edessa explains "the cutting off" to mean "the cessation of the unction by which judgment and sovereignty were established." The word "to cut off," however, applies to a person more appropriately than to a thing. It is frequently used of excommunication, e.g., Exodus 30:33; Exodus 30:38, Psalm 37:9, and must not be mistaken for the word "to cut off" (Isaiah 53:8). (Ellicotts Commnentary on the Bible)

Naturally it is connected with נגיד, not only according to the order of the words, but in reality, since in the following verse (Daniel 9:27) the people are no longer spoken of, but only the actions and proceedings of the prince are described. הבּא does not mean qui succedit (Roesch, Maurer), but is frequently used by Daniel of a hostile coming; cf. Daniel 1:1; Daniel 11:10,Daniel 11:13, Daniel 11:15. But in this sense הבּא appears to be superfluous, since it is self-evident that the prince, if he will destroy Jerusalem, must come or draw near. One also must not say that הבּא designates the prince as one who was to come (ἐρχόμενος), since from the expression "coming days," as meaning "future days," it does not follow that a "coming prince" is a "future prince." The הבּא with the article: "he who comes, or will come," denotes much rather the נגיד (which is without the article) as such an one whose coming is known, of whom Daniel has heard that he will come to destroy the people of God. But in the earlier revelations Daniel heard of two princes who shall bring destruction on his people: in Daniel 7:8, Daniel 7:24., of Antichrist; and in Daniel 8:9., 23ff., of Antiochus. To one of these the הבּא points. Which of the two is meant must be gathered from the connection, and this excludes the reference to Antiochus, and necessitates our thinking of the Antichrist. (Keil and Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary)

While they misidentify the Antichrist as the King of the North (most Protestants and Roman Catholics do), they also have concluded that the particular prince of Daniel 9:26 is NOT the Christ.

Perhaps it should be mentioned that the Roman Catholic 'doctor' Jerome reported that it the "Roman people were going to demolish the city and sanctuary under Vespasian" (Jerome' Commentary on Daniel) which happened in 70 A.D., thus both Catholic and Protestant sources acknowledge that a Roman leader is being discussed in Daniel 9:26-27.

A Seven Year Deal/Confirmation is Expected

The idea of this being related to a seven-year end-time period was also understood by the Catholic theologians Irenaeus of Lyon (second century) abd Hippolytus (died 235) of Rome:

And the angel Gabriel, when explaining his vision, states with regard to this person: "And towards the end of their kingdom a king of a most fierce countenance shall arise, one understanding [dark] questions, and exceedingly powerful, full of wonders; and he shall corrupt, direct, influence (faciet), and put strong men down, the holy people likewise; and his yoke shall be directed as a wreath [round their neck]; deceit shall be in his hand, and he shall be lifted up in his heart: he shall also ruin many by deceit, and lead many to perdition, bruising them in his hand like eggs." Daniel 8:23, etc. And then he points out the time that his tyranny shall last, during which the saints shall be put to flight, they who offer a pure sacrifice unto God: "And in the midst of the week," he says, "the sacrifice and the libation shall be taken away, and the abomination of desolation [shall be brought] into the temple: even unto the consummation of the time shall the desolation be complete." Now three years and six months constitute the half-week. (Irenaeus. Against Heresies, Book V, Chapter 25, verse 4)

With respect, then, to the particular judgment in the torments that are to come upon it in the last times by the hand of the tyrants who shall arise then, the clearest statement has been given in these passages. But it becomes us further diligently to examine and set forth the period at which these things shall come to pass, and how the little horn shall spring up in their midst. For when the legs of iron have issued in the feet and toes, according to the similitude of the image and that of the terrible beast, as has been shown in the above, (then shall be the time) when the iron and the clay shall be mingled together. Now Daniel will set forth this subject to us. For he says, "And one week will make a covenant with many, and it shall be that in the midst (half) of the week my sacrifice and oblation shall cease." By one week, therefore, he meant the last week which is to be at the end of the whole world of which week the two prophets... will take up the half. For they will preach 1,260 days clothed in sackcloth, proclaiming repentance to the people and to all the nations...(Hippolytus. On Christ and Antichrist, Chapter 43. Online edition Copyright © 2008 by Kevin Knight).

As these things, therefore, of which we have spoken before are in the future, beloved, when the one week is divided into parts, and the abomination of desolation has arisen then, and the forerunners of the Lord have finished their proper course, and the whole world, in fine, comes to the consummation, what remains but the manifestation of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, the Son of God, from heaven, for whom we have hoped; who shall bring forth fire and all just judgment against those who have refused to believe in Him? For the Lord says, "For as the lightning comes out of the east, and shines even unto the west, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be; for wheresoever the carcass is, there will the eagles be gathered together." (Hippolytus. On the End of the World, Chapter 36. Translated by J.H. MacMahon. From Ante-Nicene Fathers, Vol. 5. Edited by Alexander Roberts, James Donaldson, and A. Cleveland Coxe. (Buffalo, NY: Christian Literature Publishing Co., 1886.) Revised and edited for New Advent by Kevin Knight. <http://www.newadvent.org/fathers/0504.htm)

So, the idea of this deal somehow having a seven-year component, that is broken in the middle, with Jesus coming afterwards is not simply a recent one.

Despite Hippolytus' understanding, based upon what the Bible teaches about the seven churches of Revelation 2 & 3, it is my position that the seven-year component will not be clear enough to Greco-Roman Catholics, Protestants, nor most who claim to be in the Church of God (COG) for them to realize this is the deal. Just like they do not consider certain prophetic matters clear enough (e.g. How To Determine If Someone is a True Prophet of God), the vast majority will not truly understand the prophetic implications when the related deal is made.

While the leader in Daniel 9:27 is only referred to as a prince when he confirms the one week covenant, he probably will not be known as the "King" until shortly before he breaks the covenant at the mid-week point (most likely he will be considered simply one of several leaders negotiating a treaty when this deal in Daniel 9:27 is initially made). The two witnesses (who are prophets) rise up around the mid-point of the week. The iron and clay mingled together refers to a power (like Europe) that is not totally cohesive.

The result of the deal in Daniel 9:27 is that 3 1/2 years after it is confirmed, a military force from Europe will enter Israel (Daniel 11:31), and according to Jesus will be a sign that the Great Tribulation is about to begin (Matthew 24:15-21).

The disciples asked Jesus for the end time signs:

3 Now 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 end of the age?"

4 And Jesus answered and said to them: "Take heed that no one deceives you..." (Matthew 24:3-4; cf. Mark 13:3-5)

After listing signs that were not the end (Matthew 24:3-11; Mark 13:5-8), Jesus tied this in with the book of Daniel (Matthew 24:15; Mark 13:14), fleeing (Matthew 24:15-20; Mark 13:14-18), and the start of the Great Tribulation (Matthew 24:21; Mark 13:19). And the tie in with Daniel, leads to the tie in with Daniel 9:27.

Although he has several events out of sequence (and numbers 1 & 6 are NOT pre-tribulation events, see Is There A Secret Rapture for the Church? When and Where is the Church Protected? and respectively Russia and Ukraine: Their Origins and Prophesied Future), even the famed Protestant theologian John Walvoord understood the importance of the deal in Daniel 9:27:

1. Rapture of the church ...
2. Revival of the Roman Empire ...
3. Rise of the Antichrist ...
4. The seven-year peace treaty with Israel; consummated seven years before the second coming of Christ (Dan. 9:27; Revelation 19:11-16).
5. Establishment of a world church (Revelation 17:1-5).
6. Russia springs a surprise attack on Israel four years before the second coming of Christ (Ezek. 38-39).
7. Peace treaty with Israel broken after 3 1/2 years...final three-and-a-half years before the second coming of Christ ... (Walvoord J. The Prophecy Knowledge Handbook. Victor Books, 1990, p. 551)

Despite his various errors above, Dr. Walvoord realized a deal/covenant, like a peace deal, would be made then violated 3 1/2 years later.

Why is this believed to be a type of 'peace deal'?

There are several reasons.

Notice some other scriptures that discuss this leader:

25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand; and he shall magnify himself in his heart, and by peace shall destroy many: he shall also stand up against the Prince of princes; but he shall be broken without hand. (Daniel 8:25, KJV).

23 And after the league is made with him he shall act deceitfully, for he shall come up and become strong with a small number of people. 24 He shall enter peaceably, even into the richest places of the province; and he shall do what his fathers have not done, nor his forefathers: he shall disperse among them the plunder, spoil, and riches; and he shall devise his plans against the strongholds, but only for a time. (Daniel 11:23-24, NKJV)

So this leader gives people the impression that there will be "peace" and is involved in some type of deal. This is the same leader that confirms the covenant in Daniel 9:27. The term is translated as "peace" in Daniel 8:25 is from the Hebrew term shalvah and essentially means security. In other words, this leader will destroy "many" who are under the impression that they are secure because of some type of security and/or trade arrangement. Such arrangements are now commonly referred to as peace deals or treaties. Land swaps or changes to territories are likely.

Since the prophesied deal has not been confirmed, at least not publicly, the Great Tribulation would seem to be at least 3 1/2 years away (you may also wish to check out the article When Will the Great Tribulation Begin?).

Verse 24 also shows that this leader will somehow also be accumulating wealth. Perhaps to back up a European supported currency, he may end up with personal and/or national gold reserves and/or wealth from the Vatican. The Vatican has a vast amount of wealth and is prophesied to be improperly involved with the kings of the earth in the end times per Revelation 17. A pope will probably endorse/encourage the deal (cf. Revelation 13:11-17)--various false prophets will likely see this deal and other forms of international cooperation as signs of real peace, when there is no peace (Ezekiel 13:10-16). This 'prince' of Daniel 9:27 is not representing Russia as Russia is NOT the King of the North of biblical prophecy.

Although Jesus said that the 'peacemakers' are blessed (Matthew 5:9), He also warned about those who like like sheep/lambs that are truly dangerous:

15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. (Matthew 7:15)

11 Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth, and he had two horns like a lamb and spoke like a dragon. (Revelation 13:11)

People will be misled about the deal and will tend to believe it is good (1 Thessalonians 5:3; cf. Ezekiel 13:10-14).

Based upon what the Bible teaches about the seven churches of Revelation 2 & 3, it is my position that the seven-year component will not be clear enough to Catholics, Protestants, nor most who claim to be in the Church of God for them to realize this is the deal.  Just like they do not consider certain prophetic matters clear enough (e.g. How To Determine If Someone is a True Prophet of God), the vast majority will not truly understand the prophetic implications when the related deal is made.

That being said, I do believe that the Vatican will be involved in the peace deal and items that happen prophetically thereafter. The Vatican wants more access to certain sites in Jerusalem (such as Church of God on Jerusalem's Western Hill) and wants to establish itself as an intermediary between more nations and has taken some steps related to this.

Secular Leaders Hope for a Deal

Political leaders have long hoped for a deal. There has been political pressure leveled at both the Israelis and Palestinians to make a deal.

In 2015, a RAND study attempted to quantify the economic benefits if Israel and the Palestinians would make a truly successful peace deal:

June 8, 2015

There is no doubt that war, terrorism, and violent conflict hurts not only the economy, but every day life. It must also be concluded that Israeli and Palestinian leaders realize this.  However, since it takes both sides to have peace, it remains elusive there.

While the USA is likely to be involved in the peace deal, in August 2018 the Palestinians rejected then US President Donald Trump’s ‘deal of the century’ as worthless (see Palestinians consider Donald Trump’s peace ‘deal of the century’ worthless).

Both the Israelis and the Palestinians are not currently willing to give up enough for a deal, despite economic and international pressures to do so.

However, according to biblical prophecy a type of peace deal will come to the region BEFORE Jesus returns. Neither the Israelis nor the Palestinians will like the deal very much and the reality is that it will not end well for Israel. Lands that Israel currently claims will end up under control by those who are currently in opposition to Israel according to the Bible. 

In 2011, a plan was proposed that had a time period (see Interim Peace Deal for the Middle East). A temporary deal will be more likely to get approval by both the Israelis and the Palestinians, though it will likely be a deceptive one (cf. Daniel 11:22-27). An eight-year Middle East deal was also in the news in 2015 (see Hamas allegedly ready to sign 8-year peace deal, but Israel denies discussion in progress).

The World Council of Churches also has its own peace plan (watch World Council of Churches Peace Plan) consistent with that of the Pope and the United Nations (watch UN's 'New Universal Agenda' is a False Gospel! and United Nations and Vatican Are Planning the New World Order and Will the Interfaith Movement lead to World War III?).

Pope Francis told Germans that peace requires many to agree of different faiths. Here is what he said on May 10, 2018:

Peace continues to grow also when Christians of different confessions manifest themselves publicly united in their witness to Christ and commit themselves together in society, because Christ is our peace (Eph 2:14). Peace requires the respectful coexistence of all people of good will of all religions and of all confessions. ...

The equitable participation of all men and women in the welfare of their society is the foundation of lasting peace. However, the equal participation of all also applies to all men of all societies throughout the world. The great help of the Church, the associations and many parishes makes a valuable contribution in this area. ...

We also look to Mary, who as Mother of the Church has prayed together with the apostles for the coming of the Holy Spirit. May Mary accompany and support our search for peace. ... I cordially impart my apostolic blessing to those of you who have gathered in Münster, and to all the faithful of God’s people in Germany. (Pope’s Message for 101st German Catholic Convention in Munster. https://zenit.org/articles/popes-message-for-101st-german-catholic-convention-in-munster/)

The Pope expects the Vatican to be involved in major peace deals. Expect Vatican endorsement of the Daniel 9:27 deal.

And a partial area three year deal was proposed in 2018. Notice something about it:

November 4, 2018

On Saturday, a Hamas-affiliated media released a draft of what they claim is a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. If such an agreement is signed, it could theoretically end the hostilities on Israel’s southern border.

On Saturday,  Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Sharm el-Sheikh as part of Egypt’s efforts to negotiate a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel. …

I{f} signed by both sides, the agreement will be binding for three years. The ceasefire was also reported by Palestinian news, Al Quds, which described the agreement as an exchange of “quiet-for-quiet” and “staged incentives.”

Though Hamas ousted the Palestinian Authority in 2007 and rules in Gaza, the Palestinian Authority is included in the deal. Hadashot news analyst Ehud Yaari explained.

“Sissi is pressuring [Abbas] to back the plan for calm by agreeing to pay salaries and to take the responsibility for Qatar passing funds to Hamas leaders in the Strip,” Yaari said. https://www.breakingisraelnews.com/116368/text-of-alleged-ten-point-hamas-israel-ceasefire/

The Hamas-affiliated Lebanese newspaper Al Akhbar published Saturday an initial draft of the ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel, including ten provisions, with every provision constituting a condition for the next one.

The clauses of the draft are as follows:

1. Hamas will restrain the riots along the Gaza border fence, punishing protesters violating the terror organization’s orders.

2. Cessation of Monday’s weekly demonstrations—including the flotillas embarking from Gaza towards the strip’s naval border with Israel—in northern Gaza near Kibbutz Zikim.

3. The continuation of the “March of Return” campaign in its non-violent manner form until the end of the year.

4. Egypt will work to lift 70 percent of the siege imposed on Gaza until the complete termination of the riots.

5. Gaza’s fishing zone will increase up to 14 nautical miles.

6. The strip’s crossings will open permanently, and 5,000 Gazans under the age of 40 will be granted work permits allowing them to be employed in Israel. …

7. Egypt will work to implement the prisoner exchange deal between Hamas and Israel, on which currently negotiations talks are not being held.

8. A calm of at least three years on the Gaza border under international supervision under the auspices of the United Nations and Russia.

9. A permanent opening of the Rafah crossing and additional crossings for transferring goods into Gaza in order to support the strip’s power station and infrastructures.

10. Launching projects meant to provide 30,000 work places for universities graduates in Gaza.

The draft is yet to be finalized, since both sides are still holding negotiations talks.

It is the 8th point that caught my attention for two reasons.

First, it is a timed deal–a deal with a time limit. Hamas and the Palestinians do not wish to permanently give up the rights to go for what they want. This is consistent with the deal of Daniel 9:27.

Second, the deal involves the United Nations and Russia. In other words, an international ‘peace keeping’ (or in this case ‘peace monitoring’) force looks to be involved. That brings to mind the following words of Jesus:

20 But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation is near. 21 Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, let those who are in the midst of her depart, and let not those who are in the country enter her. 22 For these are the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. (Luke 21:20-22)

While the proposed ceasefire puts forces on the Gaza border, it is not much of a stretch to realize that a deal in the future involving Jerusalem would put armies there.

Therefore, because it involves a time limit and outside forces, the Hamas plan looks to be a possibly precedent for what will happen in Daniel 9:27.

The Europeans expect to be part of any peace deal (e.g. see EU must be part of U.S. Middle East peace push, Ireland says) and will be involved in the Daniel 9:27 deal. Notice also the following:

Europe must stand by the two-state solution for Israel and Palestine

High-ranking former European politicians urge the EU to reject any US Middle East peace plan unless it is fair to Palestinians

14 April 2019

We are reaching out at a critical point in time in the Middle East, as well as in Europe. The EU is heavily invested in the multilateral, rules-based international order. International law has brought us the longest period of peace, prosperity and stability our continent has ever enjoyed. For decades, we have worked to see our Israeli and Palestinian neighbours enjoy the peace dividends that we Europeans have through our commitment to that order.

In partnership with previous US administrations, Europe has promoted a just resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in the context of a two-state solution. To this date, despite subsequent setbacks, the Oslo agreement is still a milestone of transatlantic foreign policy cooperation.

Unfortunately, the current US administration has departed from longstanding US policy and distanced itself from established international legal norms. It has so far recognised only one side’s claims to Jerusalem and demonstrated a disturbing indifference to Israeli settlement expansion. …

It is, of course, preferable for Europe to be working in tandem with the US to solve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, as well as to address other global issues in a strong, transatlantic alliance. However, in situations in which our vital interests and fundamental values are at stake, Europe must pursue its own course of action. …

Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories are sliding into a one-state reality of unequal rights. This cannot continue. For the Israelis, for the Palestinians or for us in Europe. https://amp.theguardian.com/world/2019/apr/14/europe-must-stand-by-the-two-state-solution-for-israel-and-palestine

The above letter was signed by 37 current and former political leaders in Europe Yes, many leaders in Europe want Europe to be involved in the deal and on European, not necessarily American, terms.

The Palestinians also want Europe to be involved:

29 August 2019

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas … called for Europe to play a greater role in the Middle East peace process. …

German Chancellor Angela Merkel called on Thursday for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict even if this goal is “increasingly difficult to achieve.”

Speaking alongside Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Berlin, Merkel said that Palestinians and Israelis must be able to live side-by-side in peace and security. …

The Palestinians have cut off relations with the United States and no longer view Washington as a neutral arbiter.

Germany, on the other hand, has taken efforts to support a multilateral approach instead of unilateral imposition, Abbas said.

“Therefore we demand that negotiations fall under an international umbrella” composed of a quartet of European states and Arab states to guide talks between Israelis and Palestinians, Abbas said. https://www.dw.com/en/germanys-merkel-insists-on-two-state-solution-in-israel-palestine-conflict/a-50211907

EuroNews reported:

It's the right time for the EU to step in and bring peace to the Middle East 

February 23, 2023

Let’s face it: for all efforts and money spent, the European Union has been a junior partner in the now nearly non-existent Israeli-Palestinian peace process. 

Two circumstances might force the EU to go beyond playing solely a supportive role: first, the ultranationalist makeup — and the policy that goes with it — of the new Netanyahu government.

Secondly, there is the limited capacity of the United States to offset a descent into chaos of Israeli-Palestinian relations — a prospect that New York Times columnist and Middle East veteran Thomas Friedman has dubbed “the One Big Mess Solution.”  ...

Can the EU pick up the slack? ...

Only Israelis and Palestinians can bring peace between themselves. But they can do it with some help. ...

In the Middle East, as elsewhere, Washington needs to rely more on European support. ...

The time has come for the EU to give it a try by partnering not only with the US but also with regional players. https://www.euronews.com/2023/02/23/its-the-right-time-for-the-eu-to-step-in-and-bring-peace-to-the-middle-east

Clearly the stage is being set for European involvement in a Middle East peace deal consistent with Daniel 9:26-27.

Some Roman Catholics Once Understood, But Now Do Not Seem To

As mentioned before, the Roman Catholic saint and bishop Hippolytus believed that around when the deal of Daniel 9:27 was broken, the two witnesses would rise up. Since the Greco-Roman churches believe that the two witnesses arise in the time of the end, Hippolytus clearly believed in an end time fulfillment of Daniel 9:27.

Perhaps it should be mentioned that according to The Catholic Encyclopedia Hippolytus was “the most important theologian…of the Roman Church in the pre-Constantinian era” (Kirsch, Johann Peter. “St. Hippolytus of Rome.” The Catholic Encyclopedia. Vol. 7. New York: Robert Appleton Company, 1910. 18 Jul. 2012 <http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/07360c.htm>).

The Catholic saint and 'doctor of the church' Jerome wrote this about Hippolytus' position:

Moreover Hippolytus places the final week at the end of the world and divides it into the period of Elias and the period of Antichrist, so that during the [first] three and a half years of the last week the knowledge of God is established. And as for the statement, "He shall establish a compact with many for a week" (Dan. 9:27), during the other three years under the Antichrist the sacrifice and offering shall cease. But when Christ shall come and shall slay the wicked one by the breath of His mouth, desolation shall hold sway till the end. (St. Jerome, Commentary on Daniel (1958). Translated by Gleason L. Archer. This text was transcribed by Roger Pearse, Ipswich, UK, 2004. http://www.tertullian.org/fathers/jerome_daniel_02_text.htm pp. 15-157 viewed 05/14/14)

Elias is Latin for Elijah. Most Catholics consider that one of the two witnesses will be Elijah. Hence, between the Elias and Antichrist comment, Jerome confirms that Hippolytus taught that Daniel 9:27 was for the end time.

Interestingly, notice the following Catholic prophecy about betrayal:

Nostradamus: The Great Arab shall progress well forward, But betrayed shall be by the Byzantines. (Turks).

Comment on above from Catholic writer Yves Dupont: Here, we are told that Turkey will break its faith with the rest of the Arab world. (Dupont, Yves. Catholic Prophecy: The Coming Chastisement. TAN Books, Rockford (IL), 1973, p. 107).

The "Great Arab" is probably supposed to represent the Mahdi/Caliph, the final King of the South. The Turks currently control Byzantium and have for many centuries. Hence, Catholic prophecy indicates that Turkey will betray the Islamic Arabic power. In the Bible, Daniel 11:25-26 is quite clear that an ally of the King of the South will betray the King of the South:

25 "He shall stir up his power and his courage against the king of the South with a great army. And the king of the South shall be stirred up to battle with a very great and mighty army; but he shall not stand, for they shall devise plans against him. 26 Yes, those who eat of the portion of his delicacies shall destroy him; his army shall be swept away, and many shall fall down slain. (Daniel 11:25-26)

Presuming that Daniel 11:25-26 has a future fulfillment (and as it seems to parallel Daniel 11:40-43 so it appears to), there will be close allies (like Turkey) that will betray the King of the South according to scripture as well. Many events will not turn out well in the Arab World for a time--watch also the video War is Coming Between Europeans and Arabs.

Although Jerome mentioned that some others had differing views on Daniel 11, he also reported the following:

On the other hand Apollinarius of Laodicea in his investigation ... and I translate him word for word: " ... Jerusalem and the Temple shall be rebuilt during three and a half years within the final week, beginning with the advent of Elias, who according to the dictum of our Lord and Savior (Luke 1) [sic!] is going to come and turn back the hearts of the fathers towards their children. And then the Antichrist shall come, and according to the Apostle [reading apostolum for apostolorum] he is going to sit in the temple of God (II Thess. 2) and be slain by the breath of our Lord and Savior after he has waged war against the saints. And thus it shall come to pass that the middle of the week shall mark the confirmation of God's covenant with the saints, and the middle of the week in turn shall mark the issuing of the decree under the authority of Antichrist that no more sacrifices be offered. For the Antichrist shall set up the abomination of desolation, that is, an idol or statue of his own god, within the Temple. Then shall ensue the final devastation and the condemnation of the Jewish people, who after their rejection of Christ's truth shall embrace the lie of the Antichrist. Moreover this same Apollinarius asserts that he conceived this idea about the proper dating from the fact that Africanus, the author of the Tempora [Chronology],whose explanation I have inserted above, affirms that the final week will occur at the end of the world. (St. Jerome, Commentary on Daniel (1958). Translated by Gleason L. Archer. This text was transcribed by Roger Pearse, Ipswich, UK, 2004. http://www.tertullian.org/fathers/jerome_daniel_02_text.htm pp. 15-157 viewed 05/14/14)

Note: The scriptures and sic! were in the source I got this from (I did not add anything to it).

Thus, some Catholic writers realized that Daniel 9:27 had end time application. But not all. Notice a 21st century Catholic position by Priest Kurz:

Daniel 9:27 seems to apply directly to circumstances related to Emperor Antiochus and the Macabees: ... Antiochus made agreements with Hellenizing Jews that Jewish culture and religion would conform more closely to their Hellenistic Greek milieu.

Halfway through the period the emperor put an end to the temple sacrifices and profaned the temple with the "abomination that makes desolate" (Daniel 11:31; 12:11; see 1 Maccabees 1:54; 6:7). However, merely three and a half years after he profaned the temple, the emperor Antiochus died an ignominius death: ... (2 Maccabees 9:28). ... Mark 13:14 makes a mysterious reference to a future abomination that will be similar to the abomination in Daniel: (Kurz W. What Does the Bible Say About the End Times? A Catholic View. Servant Books, Cincinnati. Nihil Obstat: Kistner H., Schehr T.P. Imprimi Potest: Link F., Paul J.M. Imprimatur: Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxillary Bishop, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, July 19, 2004. Servant Books, Cincinnati, 2004, p. 76)

Now, what Priest Kurz is basically saying is that while the Bible shows that something will happen in the future related to the abomination, he believes that Daniel 9:27 has been fulfilled.

Various Protestant leaders also hold this view. Those who hold to that view will not be looking for a deal in Daniel 9:27 and are not likely to understand nor appreciate the significance of the deal when it does happen.

But the deal is for the future and even some respected Catholic leaders have realized that.

Islam Sort of Understands But Will Ignore It

It not just Catholic writers that have understood about the deal, Islamic ones have as well. But they will overlook it.

A seven year deal is in Islamic prophecy:

Rasaullah [Muhammed] said: "There will be four peace agreements between you and the Romans [Christians].  The fourth agreement will be mediated through a person who will be the progeny of Hadrat Haroon [Honorable Aaron -- Moses' brother] and will be upheld for seven years (Richardson J. Antichrist: Islam's Awaited Messiah. Pleasant Word, 2006, p. 48)

The above sounds similar to the seven year (one week in biblical language) agreement discussed in Daniel 9:27 that involves a "prince" who appears to be the one the Bible warns will become the King of the North and apparently the nation of Israel. It certainly would make sense that there would be Muslim representation in a peace deal.

Here is something else along those lines:

{Muslim} Adnan Oktar, a media personality and prolific author, about what Islam expects to happen as the world grinds down to the last days. …

There are bad djinn and good djinn, with the good djinn being Muslim.

“Yes the Mahdi will communicate with the djinns,” Oktar says in the film. “Mahdi is the leader of both djinns and men. Muslim djinns, djinns that believe in God, will assist the Muslims in making Muslims prevail throughout the world.”

Oktar goes on to explain that the Mahdi will rule for seven years, which eerily resembles the reign of another character that the Bible warns Christians to beware of in the last days. (Hohmann L. Popular Muslim personality: 'Jesus Christ is among us' New documentary sheds light on Islamic views about end times. World News Daily, October 26, 2014. http://www.wnd.com/2014/10/popular-muslim-personality-jesus-christ-is-among-us/#Llx0l0MmRdAXVu5w.99  viewed 10/27/14)

Notice also:

The last days, as described in Islam, are marked by the figures of Gog and Magog (Juj wa Jajuj), the Mahdi, the Antichrist (Dajjal), and Jesus...Gog and Magog, representing the forces of chaos, have been kept at bay...At the end of time, chaos will break through the wall of Divinely imposed order, and the world will succumb to "outer darkness". At the same time, it is believed, there will be a countercurrent, or a brief return to the state of spiritual lucidity and primordial integrity that obtained at the dawn of time. This is the reign of the Mahdi, the "rightly guided one"...

The reign of the Mahdi will be followed by that of the Antichrist... once the Antichrist has led away his followers, Jesus will then come to destroy the Antichrist in the closing moments of the cosmic drama. (Glasse C. New Encyclopedia of Islam: A Revised Edition of the Concise Encyclopedia of Islam, 3rd edition, 2008, pp. 143, 316).

Some in Islam seem to essentially understand that the reign of the Beast and Antichrist will happen after the Mahdi's death. Now this is true, for the Arab lands. However, the Beast (King of the North) will rule in Europe and in some of the American lands, though, prior to his reign over Arab lands as the Great Tribulation begins with Daniel 11:39, and not Daniel 11:40 when the Kings of the North and South fight.

The time of the 'Mahdi' is the time that Islam believes it will be rising up. This is consistent with the prophesied rise of the King of the South in Daniel 11:27, 40. Because of this rise, they will not pay attention enough to the deal.

Notice that this too, however, seems to be consistent with some Islamic prophecy:

5 General anarchy and bloodshed, that no Arab household will be spared from it 6 Then a life of peace as a result of a peace agreement between you and the Banil Asfaar (Romans) which they will break and attack you with a force consisting of eighty flags and under each flag will be an army of twelve thousand men.  (Ibn Zubair Ali, Mohammed Ali. The minor signs of Last Days from: The Signs of Qiyamah. http://www.islamawareness.net/Prophecies/minor.html viewed 08/11/12).

5 General anarchy and bloodshed, that no Arab household will be spared from it
6 Then a life of peace as a result of a peace agreement between you and the Banil Asfaar
(Romans) which they will break and attack you with a force consisting of eighty flags and under each flag will be an army of twelve thousand men." (Hadith: Sahih Bukhari). (From "Signs of Qiyamah" (excerpts) by Mohammed Ali Ibn Zubair Ali. The Minor Signs of the Last Day. http://www.islam.tc/prophecies/qiyaam2.html viewed 07/03/14)

Notice that not only biblical and Catholic prophecy indicate that the King of the South/Great Arab will be betrayed, even Islam indicates that the Roman "Catholics" will turn against its leader, the Madhi (the King of the South) (see also The Arab and Islamic World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy).

Hamas and Muslim Brotherhood Do Not Want a Lasting Deal

The group calling itself Hamas is against a real peace deal with Israel.

Here is some information about Hamas' official goals:

THE COVENANT OF THE HAMAS - MAIN POINTS . . .

Goals of the HAMAS:    

------------------    

'The Islamic Resistance  Movement is a distinguished Palestinian movement, whose allegiance is to Allah, and whose way of life is Islam. It strives to raise the banner of Allah  over  every  inch  of Palestine.' (Article 6)    

On the Destruction of Israel:    

-----------------------------    

'Israel will exist and  will  continue  to  exist  until  Islam  will    obliterate it, just as it 

obliterated others before it.' (Preamble)    

The Exclusive Moslem Nature of the Area:    

----------------------------------------    

'The land of Palestine is an Islamic Waqf  [Holy Possession] consecrated for future Moslem  generations until Judgment Day. No one can renounce it or any part, or abandon it or any part  of  it.' (Article 11)    

'Palestine is an Islamic land...  Since this is the case, the Liberation of Palestine is an individual duty for every Moslem wherever he may be.' (Article 13)    

The Call to Jihad:    

------------------    

'The day the enemies usurp part of Moslem  land, Jihad becomes the individual duty of every Moslem. In the face of the Jews' usurpation, it is compulsory that the banner of Jihad be raised.' (Article 15)    

'Ranks will close, fighters joining other fighters, and masses everywhere in the Islamic world will 

come forward in response to the call of duty, loudly proclaiming: 'Hail to  Jihad!'. This cry will 

reach the heavens and will go on being resounded until liberation is achieved, the invaders vanquished and Allah's victory comes about.' (Article 33)    

Rejection of a Negotiated Peace Settlement:    

-------------------------------------------    

'[Peace]  initiatives, and so-called peaceful solutions and international conferences are in 

contradiction to the principles of the Islamic Resistance Movement... Those conferences are no more than a means to appoint the infidels as arbitrators in the lands of Islam... 

There is no solution for the Palestinian problem except by Jihad. Initiatives, proposals and 

international conferences are but a waste of time, an exercise in futility.' (Article 13)    

Condemnation of the Israel-Egypt Peace Treaty:    

----------------------------------------------    

'Egypt was, to a great extent, removed from the circle of struggle [against Zionism] through the treacherous Camp David  Agreement.  The Zionists are  trying to draw other Arab countries  into 

 Similar agreements in order to bring them outside the circle of struggle.    ...

Leaving the circle of struggle against Zionism is high treason, and cursed be he who perpetrates 

such an act.' (Article 32) . . . 'The HAMAS regards itself the spearhead and the vanguard of the    circle of struggle against World Zionism... Islamic groups all over the Arab world should also do the same, since they are best equipped for their future role in the fight against the warmongering Jews.' (Article 32)

Despite what the above states, Hamas has had temporary 'peace deals' (called "cease fires") with Israel. It tends to call for them after they launch attacks and are getting retaliated against by Israel.

What about the more 'moderate' Muslim Brotherhood?

Notice something about them in 2019:

June 28, 2019

"The Muslim Brotherhood condemns all forms of normalization with the Zionist enemy, and all the actions leading up to the Zionist-American deal, and confirms that all Arab regimes involved in the "Deal of the Century" are anti-Arab peoples, and traitors to the Palestinian cause," the Muslim Brotherhood said on its Facebook page Tuesday. "The Arab and Islamic people's position will remain firm in support of the Palestinian cause, not recognized by the Zionist entity, and is alien to all forms of normalization."

The U.S. proposal would devote $27.5 billion to building up the West Bank and Gaza, including a $5 billion transportation corridor to connect the territories. It is part of a proposed $50 billion economic investment in the region akin to the post-World War II Marshall Plan. Saudi Arabia contends the plan leads to a fully independent Palestinian state.

The International Union of Muslim Scholars (IUMS), which for years was led by Muslim Brotherhood ideologue Sheikh Yusuf Qaradawi, joined the Muslim Brotherhood in condemning the Manama conference and the "Deal of the Century," vowing that compromise was impossible.

"The land of Palestine is all Islamic and not one inch of it can be given up, nor its inheritance sold," IUMS Trustee Sheikh Hassan Ould Aldo said in statement on the Muslim scholars' group's website. "This is not a deal."

Aldo and the Brotherhood use language similar to what Hamas used in its original charter. It rejected any peaceful coexistence. To them, Palestine is part of a waqf, a holy Islamic trust, that no person can negotiate away ...

On Monday, in an Arabic press release, Hamas, the Brotherhood's Palestinian offshoot, described all of Israel as "territories occupied in 1948" . The English version of that statement omitted the reference but described the U.S. plan as "dead letters, as the Palestinian people, who have been fighting for their freedom for more than 100 years, will not be lured into waving their claim to their homeland in return for the world's wealth."

The statements make it clear that, to the Brotherhood and to Hamas, the problem is not Israeli government actions or policies. It is the country's existence that can never be accepted in a negotiation. https://www.investigativeproject.org/7968/muslim-brotherhood-hamas-no-peace-as-long-as

Yet, a temporary peace deal will come. Because it will have a time-period attached to it, many Muslims will support it for a time.

Could the Prince of Daniel 9:26 be an Islamic Arab?

Not all Muslims are calling for Israel's elimination.

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has publicly backed Israel's right to territory and the need for a peace deal:

3 April 2018

Israel has a "right" to a homeland alongside the Palestinians, Saudi Arabia's influential crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, said on Monday in an interview with US magazine The Atlantic.

Asked whether the "Jewish people have a right to a nation-state in at least part of their ancestral homeland," bin Salman said: "I believe the Palestinians and the Israelis have the right to have their own land."

Riyadh has sponsored an initiative supporting a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict since 2002, but Salman is the first senior official to explicitly acknowledge Israel's right to any territory in the region.

The 32-year-old prince, who is widely seen as Saudi Arabia's de facto leader and a reformer, added that "we have to have a peace agreement [between Palestinians and Israelis] to assure the stability for everyone." ...

Saudi Arabia does not officially recognize Israel and has said any normalization of relations requires Israel to withdraw its claim to Palestinian territory seized during the 1967 Arab-Israeli war.

But the crown prince's acknowledgment marks the latest sign that diplomatic ties between Riyadh and Tel Aviv are growing closer amid their common opposition to regional rival Iran. http://www.dw.com/en/saudi-crown-prince-mohammed-bin-salman-says-israel-has-right-to-homeland/a-43229551

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also made statements committing to interfaith tolerance (see Saudi Crown Prince ‘commits to interfaith tolerance’).

Could he be the "prince" of Daniel 9:26?

Instead of the prince of Daniel 9:26 being European, Joseph Farah, editor of World Net Daily, posted something trying to teach that it was Arabs, and not Europeans, that destroyed the Temple in 70 A.D. Here is some of what he posted:

Temple? What Temple? The one Arabs destroyed

August 12, 2017

Who destroyed the Temple in A.D. 70?

The Temple was destroyed by the forces of Rome, but, interestingly, according to the historian Josephus, not at the command of Rome or the people of Rome.

Did you know that? You do now.

By A.D. 70 the Roman armies in the Middle East were made up largely of men who were not from Europe, not from Italy. They were comprised of provincial soldiers from Syria, Arabia – local forces. While they were under the command of Roman officers, they were not ordered to destroy the Temple. In fact, they were ordered to stop the destruction by Titus, who would later become emperor.

First let me quote from the Roman historian Tacitus who meticulously described the forces that sacked Jerusalem and destroyed the Temple.

“Early in this year Titus found in Judea three legions, the 5th, the 10th and the 15th,” he wrote. “To these he added the 12th from Syria and some men belonging to the 18th and 3rd, whom he had withdrawn from Alexandria (Egypt). This force was accompanied by a strong contingent of Arabs, who hated the Jews with the unusual passion of neighbors.”

Now, I stopped his article here to point out that the quote above has been truncated and parts left out. Here is the full quote of this section from Tacitus:

[5.1] EARLY in this year Titus Caesar, who had been selected by his father to complete the subjugation of Judaea, and who had gained distinction as a soldier while both were still subjects, began to rise in power and reputation, as armies and provinces emulated each other in their attachment to him. The young man himself, anxious to be thought superior to his station, was ever displaying his gracefulness and his energy in war. By his courtesy and affability he called forth a willing obedience, and he often mixed with the common soldiers, while working or marching, without impairing his dignity as general. He found in Judaea three legions, the 5th, the 10th, and the 15th, all old troops of Vespasian’s. To these he added the 12th from Syria, and some men belonging to the 18th and 3rd, whom he had withdrawn from Alexandria. This force was accompanied by twenty cohorts of allied troops and eight squadrons of cavalry, by the two kings Agrippa and Sohemus, by the auxiliary forces of king Antiochus, by a strong contingent of Arabs, who hated the Jews with the usual hatred of neighbours, and, lastly, by many persons brought from the capital and from Italy by private hopes of securing the yet unengaged affections of the Prince. With this force Titus entered the enemy’s territory, preserving strict order on his march, reconnoitring every spot, and always ready to give battle. At last he encamped near Jerusalem. (The Histories by Publius Cornelius Tacitus. http://mcadams.posc.mu.edu/txt/ah/tacitus/TacitusHistory05.html accessed 08/13/17)

So, while there were Arabs, they were only part of the conquering force, and there were many brought from Italy and Rome.

As far as those Roman legions go, I looked up information on each of the above legions and they all appear to have been initially begun by Romans. Romans did include others in their military, but these tended to be peoples from Europe, not mainly Arabs. Consider also the following:

Up to about 88 BC the legions were made of citizens of Rome and surroundings and colonies. Thereafter also the allies were Roman citizens, the legions were recruited from Italian males. In the professional army created by Augustus the legions were filled with citizens, more and more recruited also in the provinces. The auxilia units were made of non-citizens from all places in and beyond the frontiers. After the proliferation of the citizenship to almost all male inhabitants of the whole empire by Aurelius Severus (Caracalla) the distinction between legions and auxilia vanished. The preferred recruitment was local. So people from all the empire served. From the late third century onwards more and more “barbarians” from outside the empire served in the army as individuals. In the later fourth and the fifth century a big part of the army was made of such foreigners, perhaps up to 30 percent … (http://historum.com/ancient-history/108044-ethnic-composition-roman-legions.html accessed 08/13/17)

During the reign of Augustus and Trajan the army became a professional one. Its core of legionaries was composed of Roman citizens who served for a minimum of twenty five years.(Ancient Roman Military. http://www.crystalinks.com/romemilitary.html accessed 08/13/17)

Presuming the above is correct, then in the first century, the vast bulk of the soldiers were Roman citizens. Most of which would have been ethnically European (Italian, Greek, etc.).

Anyway, Joseph Farah then brings in the first century Jewish historian Josephus:

Josephus reports in his own words: “The multitude of the Arabians, with the Syrians, cut up those that came out as supplicants, and searched their bellies (looking for gold they had swallowed). Nor does it seem to me that any misery befell the Jews that was more terrible than this, since in one night’s time about 2,000 of these deserters were thus dissected.”

Finally, after the Romans and these Middle Eastern provincial forces of Rome broke through the city walls and captured the Temple, it was set on fire.

Here’s Josephus’ account: “Now a certain person came running to Titus, and told him of this fire … whereupon he rose up in great haste, and, as he was, ran to the holy house, in order to have a stop put to the fire; after him followed all of his commanders, and after them followed the several legions, in great astonishment; so there was a great clamor and tumult raised, as was natural upon the disorderly motion of so great an army. Then did Caesar, both by calling to the soldiers that were fighting, with a loud voice, and by giving a signal to them with his right hand, order them to quench the fire.”

In other words, Titus had no desire to see the Temple destroyed. Rome loved its treasures of conquest, and this Temple was one of the greatest prizes ever. The emperor’s son didn’t order the Temple destroyed. He tried desperately to stop it.

Why didn’t that work?

Josephus explains: “Titus supposing that the house itself yet be saved, he came in haste and endeavored to persuade the soldiers to quench the fire. Yet were the regards they had for Caesar, and their dread of him who forbade them, not as hard as their passion and their hatred of the Jews, and a certain vehement inclination to fight them. … And thus was the holy house burnt down, without Caesar’s approbation.” http://www.wnd.com/2017/08/temple-what-temple-the-one-arabs-destroyed/

Now, although it is true that Titus himself preferred to not destroy the Temple and the above seems to support Joseph Farah’s view of Arab destruction, this is only partially what Josephus wrote.

Notice more of what Josephus wrote:

1 … But when Titus perceived that his endeavors to spare a foreign temple turned to the damage of his soldiers, and then be killed, he gave order to set the gates on fire. (Wars of the Jews, Book VI, Chapter 4, section 1)

5. So Titus retired into the tower of Antonia, and resolved to storm the temple the next day, early in the morning, with his whole army, and to encamp round about the holy house. But as for that house, God had, for certain, long ago doomed it to the fire; and now that fatal day was come, according to the revolution of ages; it was the tenth day of the month Lous, [Ab,] upon which it was formerly burnt by the king of Babylon; although these flames took their rise from the Jews themselves, and were occasioned by them; for upon Titus’s retiring, the seditious lay still for a little while, and then attacked the Romans again, when those that guarded the holy house fought with those that quenched the fire that was burning the inner [court of the] temple; but these Romans put the Jews to flight, and proceeded as far as the holy house itself. At which time one of the soldiers, without staying for any orders, and without any concern or dread upon him at so great an undertaking, and being hurried on by a certain divine fury, snatched somewhat out of the materials that were on fire, and being lifted up by another soldier, he set fire to a golden window, through which there was a passage to the rooms that were round about the holy house, on the north side of it. As the flames went upward, the Jews made a great clamor, such as so mighty an affliction required, and ran together to prevent it; and now they spared not their lives any longer, nor suffered any thing to restrain their force, since that holy house was perishing, for whose sake it was that they kept such a guard about it.

6. And now a certain person came running to Titus, and told him of this fire, as he was resting himself in his tent after the last battle; whereupon he rose up in great haste, and, as he was, ran to the holy house, in order to have a stop put to the fire; after him followed all his commanders, and after them followed the several legions, in great astonishment; so there was a great clamor and tumult raised, as was natural upon the disorderly motion of so great an army. Then did Caesar, both by calling to the soldiers that were fighting, with a loud voice, and by giving a signal to them with his right hand, order them to quench the fire. But they did not hear what he said, though he spake so loud, having their ears already dimmed by a greater noise another way; nor did they attend to the signal he made with his hand neither, as still some of them were distracted with fighting, and others with passion. But as for the legions that came running thither, neither any persuasions nor any threatenings could restrain their violence, but each one’s own passion was his commander at this time; and as they were crowding into the temple together, many of them were trampled on by one another, while a great number fell among the ruins of the cloisters, which were still hot and smoking, and were destroyed in the same miserable way with those whom they had conquered; and when they were come near the holy house, they made as if they did not so much as hear Caesar’s orders to the contrary; but they encouraged those that were before them to set it on fire. As for the seditious, they were in too great distress already to afford their assistance [towards quenching the fire]; they were every where slain, and every where beaten; and as for a great part of the people, they were weak and without arms, and had their throats cut wherever they were caught. Now round about the altar lay dead bodies heaped one upon another, as at the steps going up to it ran a great quantity of their blood, whither also the dead bodies that were slain above [on the altar] fell down.

7. And now, since Caesar was no way able to restrain the enthusiastic fury of the soldiers, and the fire proceeded on more and more, he went into the holy place of the temple, with his commanders, and saw it, with what was in it, which he found to be far superior to what the relations of foreigners contained, and not inferior to what we ourselves boasted of and believed about it. But as the flame had not as yet reached to its inward parts, but was still consuming the rooms that were about the holy house, and Titus supposing what the fact was, that the house itself might yet he saved, he came in haste and endeavored to persuade the soldiers to quench the fire, and gave order to Liberalius the centurion, and one of those spearmen that were about him, to beat the soldiers that were refractory with their staves, and to restrain them; yet were their passions too hard for the regards they had for Caesar, and the dread they had of him who forbade them, as was their hatred of the Jews, and a certain vehement inclination to fight them, too hard for them also. Moreover, the hope of plunder induced many to go on, as having this opinion, that all the places within were full of money, and as seeing that all round about it was made of gold. And besides, one of those that went into the place prevented Caesar, when he ran so hastily out to restrain the soldiers, and threw the fire upon the hinges of the gate, in the dark; whereby the flame burst out from within the holy house itself immediately, when the commanders retired, and Caesar with them, and when nobody any longer forbade those that were without to set fire to it. And thus was the holy house burnt down, without Caesar’s approbation.

8. Now although any one would justly lament the destruction of such a work as this was, since it was the most admirable of all the works that we have seen or heard of, both for its curious structure and its magnitude, and also for the vast wealth bestowed upon it, as well as for the glorious reputation it had for its holiness; yet might such a one comfort himself with this thought, that it was fate that decreed it so to be, which is inevitable, both as to living creatures, and as to works and places also. However, one cannot but wonder at the accuracy of this period thereto relating; for the same month and day were now observed, as I said before, wherein the holy house was burnt formerly by the Babylonians. Now the number of years that passed from its first foundation, which was laid by king Solomon, till this its destruction, which happened in the second year of the reign of Vespasian, are collected to be one thousand one hundred and thirty, besides seven months and fifteen days; and from the second building of it, which was done by Haggai, in the second year of Cyrus the king, till its destruction under Vespasian, there were six hundred and thirty-nine years and forty-five days. (Wars of the Jews, Book VI, Chapter 4, sections 5-8)

So, Titus did not want to destroy the Temple, but he and his troops did so.

Josephus also wrote:

5. And now Titus, upon consideration that the alacrity of soldiers in war is chiefly excited by hopes and by good words, and that exhortations and promises do frequently make men to forget the hazards they run, nay, sometimes to despise death itself, got together the most courageous part of his army, and tried what he could do with his men by these methods. “O fellow soldiers,” said he, “to make an exhortation to men to do what hath no peril in it, is on that very account inglorious to such to whom that exhortation is made; and indeed so it is in him that makes the exhortation, an argument of his own cowardice also. I therefore think that such exhortations ought then only to be made use of when affairs are in a dangerous condition, and yet are worthy of being attempted by every one themselves; accordingly, I am fully of the same opinion with you, that it is a difficult task to go up this wall; but that it is proper for those that desire reputation for their valor to struggle with difficulties in such cases will then appear, when I have particularly shown that it is a brave thing to die with glory, and that the courage here necessary shall not go unrewarded in those that first begin the attempt. And let my first argument to move you to it be taken from what probably some would think reasonable to dissuade you, I mean the constancy and patience of these Jews, even under their ill successes; for it is unbecoming you, who are Romans and my soldiers, who have in peace been taught how to make wars, and who have also been used to conquer in those wars, to be inferior to Jews, either in action of the hand, or in courage of the soul, and this especially when you are at the conclusion of your victory, and are assisted by God himself; for as to our misfortunes, they have been owing to the madness of the Jews, while their sufferings have been owing to your valor, and to the assistance God hath afforded you; for as to the seditions they have been in, and the famine they are under, and the siege they now endure, and the fall of their walls without our engines, what can they all be but demonstrations of God’s anger against them, and of his assistance afforded us? It will not therefore be proper for you, either to show yourselves inferior to those to whom you are really superior, or to betray that Divine assistance which is afforded you. And, indeed, how can it be esteemed otherwise than a base and unworthy thing, that while the Jews, who need not be much ashamed if they be deserted, because they have long learned to be slaves to others, do yet despise death, that they may be so no longer; and do make sallies into the very midst of us frequently, no in hopes of conquering us, but merely for a demonstration of their courage; we, who have gotten possession of almost all the world that belongs to either land or sea, to whom it will be a great shame if we do not conquer them, do not once undertake any attempt against our enemies wherein there is much danger, but sit still idle, with such brave arms as we have, and only wait till the famine and fortune do our business themselves, and this when we have it in our power, with some small hazard, to gain all that we desire! For if we go up to this tower of Antonia, we gain the city; for if there should be any more occasion for fighting against those within the city, which I do not suppose there will, since we shall then be upon the top of the hill and be upon our enemies before they can have taken breath, these advantages promise us no less than a certain and sudden victory. As for myself, I shall at present wave any commendation of those who die in war, and omit to speak of the immortality of those men who are slain in the midst of their martial bravery; yet cannot I forbear to imprecate upon those who are of a contrary disposition, that they may die in time of peace, by some distemper or other, since their souls are condemned to the grave, together with their bodies. For what man of virtue is there who does not know, that those souls which are severed from their fleshly bodies in battles by the sword are received by the ether, that purest of elements, and joined to that company which are placed among the stars; that they become good demons, and propitious heroes, and show themselves as such to their posterity afterwards? while upon those souls that wear away in and with their distempered bodies comes a subterranean night to dissolve them to nothing, and a deep oblivion to take away all the remembrance of them, and this notwithstanding they be clean from all spots and defilements of this world; so that, in this ease, the soul at the same time comes to the utmost bounds of its life, and of its body, and of its memorial also. But since he hath determined that death is to come of necessity upon all men, a sword is a better instrument for that purpose than any disease whatsoever. Why is it not then a very mean thing for us not to yield up that to the public benefit which we must yield up to fate? And this discourse have I made, upon the supposition that those who at first attempt to go upon this wall must needs be killed in the attempt, though still men of true courage have a chance to escape even in the most hazardous undertakings. For, in the first place, that part of the former wall that is thrown down is easily to be ascended; and for the new-built wall, it is easily destroyed. Do you, therefore, many of you, pull up your courage, and set about this work, and do you mutually encourage and assist one another; and this your bravery will soon break the hearts of your enemies; and perhaps such a glorious undertaking as yours is may be accomplished without bloodshed. For although it be justly to be supposed that the Jews will try to hinder you at your first beginning to go up to them; yet when you have once concealed yourselves from them, and driven them away by force, they will not be able to sustain your efforts against them any longer, though but a few of you prevent them, and get over the wall. As for that person who first mounts the wall, I should blush for shame if I did not make him to be envied of others, by those rewards I would bestow upon him. If such a one escape with his life, he shall have the command of others that are now but his equals; although it be true also that the greatest rewards will accrue to such as die in the attempt.” (Wars of the Jews, Book VI, Chapter 1, section 5)

So, Titus ordered the destruction of the city and said his troops were Roman. And notice further that the Romans had been waging war against the Temple according to Josephus:

7. In the mean time, the rest of the Roman army had, in seven days’ time, overthrown [some] foundations of the tower of Antonia, and had made a ready and broad way to the temple. Then did the legions come near the first court, and began to raise their banks. The one bank was over against the north-west corner of the inner temple another was at that northern edifice which was between the two gates; and of the other two, one was at the western cloister of the outer court of the temple; the other against its northern cloister. However, these works were thus far advanced by the Romans, not without great pains and difficulty, and particularly by being obliged to bring their materials from the distance of a hundred furlongs. They had further difficulties also upon them; sometimes by their over-great security they were in that they should overcome the Jewish snares laid for them, and by that boldness of the Jews which their despair of escaping had inspired them withal; for some of their horsemen, when they went out to gather wood or hay, let their horses feed without having their bridles on during the time of foraging; upon which horses the Jews sallied out in whole bodies, and seized them. And when this was continually done, and Caesar believed what the truth was, that the horses were stolen more by the negligence of his own men than by the valor of the Jews, he determined to use greater severity to oblige the rest to take care of their horses; so he commanded that one of those soldiers who had lost their horses should be capitally punished; whereby he so terrified the rest, that they preserved their horses for the time to come; for they did not any longer let them go from them to feed by themselves, but, as if they had grown to them, they went always along with them when they wanted necessaries. Thus did the Romans still continue to make war against the temple, and to raise their banks against it. (Wars of the Jews, Book VI, Chapter 2, section 7)

9. In the mean time, the Jews were so distressed by the fights they had been in, as the war advanced higher and higher, and creeping up to the holy house itself, that they, as it were, cut off those limbs of their body which were infected, in order to prevent the distemper’s spreading further; for they set the north-west cloister, which was joined to the tower of Antonia, on fire, and after that brake off about twenty cubits of that cloister, and thereby made a beginning in burning the sanctuary; two days after which, or on the twenty-fourth day of the forenamed month, [Panemus or Tamuz,] the Romans set fire to the cloister that joined to the other, when the fire went fifteen cubits farther. The Jews, in like manner, cut off its roof; nor did they entirely leave off what they were about till the tower of Antonia was parted from the temple, even when it was in their power to have stopped the fire; nay, they lay still while the temple was first set on fire, and deemed this spreading of the fire to be for their own advantage. However, the armies were still fighting one against another about the temple, and the war was managed by continual sallies of particular parties against one another. (Wars of the Jews, Book VI, Chapter 2, section 9)

1. NOW as soon as the army had no more people to slay or to plunder, because there remained none to be the objects of their fury, (for they would not have spared any, had there remained any other work to be done,) Caesar gave orders that they should now demolish the entire city and temple, but should leave as many of the towers standing as were of the greatest eminency; that is, Phasaelus, and Hippicus, and Mariamne; and so much of the wall as enclosed the city on the west side. This wall was spared, in order to afford a camp for such as were to lie in garrison, as were the towers also spared, in order to demonstrate to posterity what kind of city it was, and how well fortified, which the Roman valor had subdued; but for all the rest of the wall, it was so thoroughly laid even with the ground by those that dug it up to the foundation, that there was left nothing to make those that came thither believe it had ever been inhabited. This was the end which Jerusalem came to by the madness of those that were for innovations; a city otherwise of great magnificence, and of mighty fame among all mankind. (Wars of the Jews, Book VII, Chapter 1, section 1)

Getting back to Joseph Farah, he also wrote:

Why is it today that so many Christians believe that the future Antichrist will be from Europe, from a revived Roman Empire?

If you think about it, and correct me if I am wrong, all of our theories about a Roman Antichrist start and pretty much end with the interpretation of Daniel and Revelation, with the cornerstone being Daniel 9:26. That verse reads: “After threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined.”

“The people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary.” The prince that shall come is the Antichrist. So, naturally, many have concluded that since Rome destroyed the Temple, a Roman prince would have to be the Antichrist.

Yet, Roman authority did not seek to destroy the Temple. It sought to avert it. And the people who destroyed it were not Romans either. They were Arabs whose anti-Israel passions were inflamed. They even disobeyed direct orders from Rome to stop the destruction.

And notice how carefully Daniel’s prophecy is written: “The people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary.” http://www.wnd.com/2017/08/temple-what-temple-the-one-arabs-destroyed/

Now, who did Josephus claim destroyed the city?

The Romans.

Who destroyed the sanctuary?

The Romans.

It is not that Arabs had nothing to do with it, but they were not the initiators and of themselves did not destroy the city--the Romans did. The Roman army fulfilled Daniel 9:26.

Joseph Farah’s article also has the following within it:

Get Joel Richardson’s groundbreaking New York Times best-seller, “The Islamic Antichrist,” for the full, comprehensive case.

Just because a book may be a best seller, that does not mean that it is accurate (remember The Da Vinci Code?). Regular readers of the COGwriter Church of God News page are aware that I have dispelled many of the errors of Joel Richardson and that book.

Let’s also dispel a few more.

The use by Joseph Farah of Daniel 9:26, of necessity, ties in with Daniel 11:31 and subsequent verses (see also Who is the King of the North?). Joel Richardson and Joseph Farah would seemingly agree with the tie of Daniel 9:26 and Daniel 11:31, etc.

But the 11th chapter of Daniel is also problematic for the view that the final Antichrist power is Islamic.

Daniel 11:39 tells of the King of the North destroying the strongest fortresses. This King is the one referred to as a prince in Daniel 9:26. In the 21st century, that would be the King of the North destroying the USA as it has the strongest military forces (for more details, see USA in Prophecy: The Strongest Fortresses).

Then the Bible shows that the King of the North will destroy the King of the South. Notice:

40 “At the time of the end, the king of the south shall attack him, but the king of the north shall rush upon him like a whirlwind, with chariots and horsemen, and with many ships. And he shall come into countries and shall overflow and pass through. 41 He shall come into the glorious land. And tens of thousands shall fall, but these shall be delivered out of his hand: Edom and Moab and the main part of the Ammonites. 42 He shall stretch out his hand against the countries, and the land of Egypt shall not escape. 43 He shall become ruler of the treasures of gold and of silver, and all the precious things of Egypt, and the Libyans and the Cushites shall follow in his train. (Daniel 11:40-43, ESV)

Notice that the King of the North is prophesied to destroy what are now predominantly Islamic regions of the Middle East and North Africa.

While the King of the South would seemingly have to be Islamic (perhaps called a Mahdi), that is not the case for the King of the North.

Let’s now also see more about those peoples allied with the King of the South in Ezekiel 30:

1 The word of the Lord came to me: 2 “Son of man, prophesy, and say, Thus says the Lord God:

“Wail, ‘Alas for the day!’
3 For the day is near,
the day of the Lord is near;
it will be a day of clouds,
a time of doom fora the nations.
4 A sword shall come upon Egypt,
and anguish shall be in Cush,
when the slain fall in Egypt,
and her wealth is carried away,
and her foundations are torn down.

5 Cush, and Put, and Lud, and all Arabia, and Libya, and the people of the land that is in league, shall fall with them by the sword.

6 “Thus says the Lord:
Those who support Egypt shall fall,
and her proud might shall come down;
from Migdol to Syene
they shall fall within her by the sword,
declares the Lord God.
7 And they shall be desolated in the midst of desolated countries,
and their cities shall be in the midst of cities that are laid waste.
8 Then they will know that I am the Lord,
when I have set fire to Egypt,
and all her helpers are broken.

9 “On that day messengers shall go out from me in ships to terrify the unsuspecting people of Cush, and anguish shall come upon them on the day of Egypt’s doom; for, behold, it comes! (Ezekiel 30:1-9, ESV)

While there was a prophesied earlier fulfillment of this by Nebuchadnezzar (Ezekiel 30:10-19), Ezekiel 30:3 has a fulfillment near “the day of the Lord”–which means it still has not been completely fulfilled. Furthermore, notice the following:

25 … Then they shall know that I am the Lord, when I put my sword into the hand of the king of Babylon and he stretches it out against the land of Egypt. 26 And I will scatter the Egyptians among the nations and disperse them throughout the countries. Then they will know that I am the Lord.” (Ezekiel 30:25-26, ESV)

Please realize that the Egyptians did not learn that the God of the Bible was Lord back then. Ezekiel 30 is referring to a time when the end time King of Babylon, the European King of the North, will destroy Egypt and its allies.

Those allies are the predominantly Islamic peoples of North Africa and the Middle East, including the Arabs.

Thus, it is not logical to conclude that the King of the North, who Joel Richardson and Joseph Farah are identifying as the final Antichrist, is an Islamic power based in Saudi Arabia (Joel Richardson and others have claimed that Mystery Babylon is the Saudi city of Mecca; watch also the video Mystery Babylon USA, Mecca, or Rome?). The prince of Daniel 9:26 is not an Arab, like Saudi Arabia's current Crown Prince.

Perhaps I should add that while I do believe that the final King of the South will be anti-Jesus, biblically, there is no way that the final Antichrist will be an Arabic Islamic leader.

The Bible does NOT support the view that the final Antichrist is an Islamic Arab. Much more information about why the that is so is in the article Can the Final Antichrist be Islamic?

Could 'Mary' or Russia Be Involved?

A while back, Pope Francis held a vigil to 'Mary' in order to promote peace in Syria (see Pope Francis’ ‘solution’ to Syrian crisis will not work and Francis prays and fasts to ‘Mary’). And after that vigil, it turned out that the USA did NOT end up bombing Syria like had been widely expected. While some might see that as a victory, it is also widely believed that the lack of action by the USA, which many rebels apparently believed was coming, was a factor in the rise of the group now terrorizing and calling itself the Islamic State.

However, many consider that their version of 'Mary' will bring peace.

Notice what one allegedly "Marian" message stated in Pfaffenhofen, Germany on April 25, 1946:

Wherever it is taught that I am all-powerful, I will spread peace, for peace will be where all men have faith in my power...I am the sign of the Living God..." (Culleton, Reign of Antichrist, p. 216).

Notice also the following:

Dragicevic was one of six poor shepherd children who first reported visions of the Virgin Mary in 1981. She identified herself to the four girls and two boys as the “Queen of Peace” and handed down the first of thousands of messages admonishing the faithful to pray more often and asking sinners to repent. (National Geographic, December 2015 http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2015/12/virgin-mary-text)

Back in 1917, in Fatima, Portugal, three children claimed to see a 'Lady' who gave messages. Some believe obeying those messages will lead to world peace and prosperity.

Notice something related to a conference in Niagara Falls in 2013:

“Fatima: The Path To Peace Conference”.

TO SAVE THE EARTH, we must look to:
Consecrate Russia To The Immaculate Heart Of Mary As Our Lady Of Fatima Requested!

Government without God – secularism – has failed! How could anyone ever believe it might have succeeded? How can you ignore the Creator and His laws and think that His Creation is yours to refashion according to your own ideas? Secularism has been the most insane experiment in the history of human folly!

How many times have talks aimed at peace ended in war? How many times will we trust in the wisdom of leaders who have no wisdom, because they have no fear of God? How long will the leaders of the Catholic Church ignore the only hope for peace in the Church and peace in the world? How long will we risk Heaven’s wrath by failing to obey Our Lady?

But still we can have Peace Right Now!

PRESS RELEASE REGARDING
“FATIMA: THE PATH TO PEACE!” CONFERENCE

Father Gruner noted that the Pope has just completed a worldwide day of prayer and fasting for the intention of avoiding war in Syria.  “Pope Francis’ Friday message regarding the threat of war invoked the very theme of our conference. As the Pope said: ‘Let us ask Mary to help us to respond to violence, to conflict and to war, with the power of dialogue, reconciliation and love. She is our Mother: may She help us to find peace; all of us are Her children!’”

      “Indeed, Mary is our Mother — the Mother of the Redeemer — and thus the Mother of all humanity,” said Father Gruner.  “And She can indeed help us find peace.  The Catholic Church calls Her the very Queen of Peace, and She gave the whole world a peace plan at Fatima. That is what the Message of Fatima is all about.”

      The Message of Fatima is contained in a series of Church-approved apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary to three shepherd children at Fatima, Portugal in 1917. Two of the children, Francisco and Jacinta, were beatified — declared blessed, the final step before canonization — by Pope John Paul II. The last surviving Fatima visionary, Sister Lucia, died in 2005.  In the Message, the Virgin promises a period of world peace if and when Russia is specifically consecrated to Her Immaculate Heart, which ceremony would, the Virgin said, bring about the religious conversion of Russia and with it a time of peace for all humanity. 

      “God has chosen Russia as the object of this consecration because Russia is where so much of the suffering of the 20th century began, following the Bolshevik Revolution,” Father Gruner noted.  “Furthermore, Our Lady warns that if Her request for the Consecration is not heeded, the world will face even worse chastisements than the two world wars, including what She warned would be the ‘annihilation’ of ‘various nations.’”

      “In fact,” said Father Gruner, “Pope Francis has had his entire pontificate consecrated to Our Lady of Fatima by the bishops of Portugal.  This shows how seriously the Pope takes the Fatima message, as did his two predecessors, who both made pilgrimages to Fatima.”  

      On October 13 Pope Francis will consecrate the world to Mary in a public ceremony before the original statue of Our Lady of Fatima flown from Portugal to Rome for this ceremony. “We are hoping and praying that the Pope will consecrate Russia specifically to Mary, since this, not a consecration of the world, is what She requested,” Father Gruner observed.  “And anyone can see that Russia has yet to be converted and there is obviously no world peace. Furthermore, as we begin this conference the USA and Russia seem to be willing to trigger events that could bring on World War III over Syria.” 

      “I invite members of the press who are capable of objectivity and honest reporting to attend our conference and listen to what the participants actually say about the problem of achieving peace in the world. It all involves the Message of Fatima,” Father Gruner concluded.

Consider that there are people who actually believe that if the nation of Russia is 'dedicated to the Immaculate Heart of Mary' as the Fatima apparition supposedly asked over 90 years ago, that there would be world peace and new prosperity around the world. Therefore, it is possible that during the seven years following the confirmation of a deal in Daniel 9:27 fulfills this 'prophecy.' Pope Francis' devotion to his version of 'Mary' is another reason to feel that 'Mary' may receive credit for one or more peace deals in the future, including the one alluded to in Daniel 9:27.

The Bible, however, repeatedly warns against false declarations of peace (Ezekiel 13:10-16; Jeremiah 6:14, 8:11; 1 Thessalonians 5:3), and 'Mary' may be pointed to as the source of 'peace' by many--especially since many now call her the Queen of Peace.

Could Russia, however, be involved in brokering the deal of Daniel 9:27?

Yes.

Breaking Israel News had the following related to a video link:

Could Russia Be the Broker of an Israeli-Palestinian Deal?

April 17, 2019

The Palestinians are unwilling to negotiate a deal with Israel under the auspices of the United States, but could Russia step in to fill that role?

Others are wondering the same thing:

FM: Russia willing to host Palestine-Israel meeting

April 17, 2019

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov yesterday reiterated Moscow’s willingness to host a meeting for Palestinian and Israeli representatives without “preconditions”.

Speaking on the sidelines of the 5th Session of the Arab-Russian Ministerial Forum in Moscow, Lavrov said that Russia rejects “foreign dictates and prepared prescriptions” to resolve the crises in the region.

For his part, Arab League Secretary-General, Ahmed Aboul Gheit, praised Russia’s rejection of the US recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, saying the US position was a flagrant violation of international law and destroyed the basis for the Middle East peace process and the principle of land for peace. https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20190417-fm-russia-willing-to-host-palestine-israel-meeting/

Russia could be involved. And that would also confuse some who believe that Russia is the King of the North (see also Is Russia the King of the North?).

Remember, although Russia is NOT the prophesied King of the North (see also Is Russia the King of the North?), the Bible does not specify that the King of the North actually brokers the deal, but only that he, when a ‘prince,’ confirms it for a period of time.

If Jesus was killed in 31 A.D., presuming there is a 6,000 year plan (see Could God Have a 6,000 Year Plan? What Year Does the 6,000 Years End?), and the 6,000 years ends at the start of the "Day of the Lord," we may see the confirmation of the deal of Daniel 9:27 perhaps by the Fall of 2025.

The Deal Will Be Broken and Time of the Gentiles?

Of course, Daniel 9:27 says that the deal will be broken. There will be many political reasons for this, but there will be a certain public spin, in my view--animal sacrifices.

Back in 2009, I warned that the prophesied "starting of sacrifices in Israel might be perceived as the terrible crime" (2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect, p. 302) that the King of the North may point to as a reason to stop them as is taught in Daniel 11:31.

In late 2014, a court in India banned religious animal sacrifices as barbaric (see India court bans religious animal sacrifices: will this impact the Jews?).

Jewish group like The Temple Institute believe that the fate of the world depends on upon a red heifer being found and then sacrificed.  The Old Testament clearly teaches that those who follow it alone are to sacrifice animals (e.g. Exodus 12:1-7; Leviticus 16:15-16).  Although, the New Testament does away with this (Hebrews 9:9-12; 10:1-7), the Jews that do not accept that Jesus was the Christ (which is the vast majority of them), do not consider that the New Testament is scripture, hence their only religious text commands them to sacrifice animals.  And the Bible shows that this will happen again and will be stopped by the final King of the North:

27 Then he shall confirm a covenant with many for one week;
But in the middle of the week
He shall bring an end to sacrifice and offering.
And on the wing of abominations shall be one who makes desolate,
Even until the consummation, which is determined,
Is poured out on the desolate. (Daniel 9:27)

31 And forces shall be mustered by him, and they shall defile the sanctuary fortress; then they shall take away the daily sacrifices, and place there the abomination of desolation. (Daniel 11:31)

It is not just the Indian court decision that I believe that the King of the North will point to.  I believe that animal rights' groups will scream in protest against Israel once it allows animal sacrifices again.  I also believe that the Arab and Islamic world will protest such sacrifices.

Interestingly, notice the following Catholic writings:

Abbot Herman of Lehnin (died 1300) Towards the end of the world “Israel will commit a terrible crime for which it will suffer death.” (Culleton, R. Gerald.  The Prophets and Our Times. Nihil Obstat: L. Arvin.  Imprimatur: Philip G. Scher, Bishop of Monterey-Fresno, November 15, 1941.  Reprint 1974, TAN Books, Rockford (IL), p. 151)

Catholic priest and writer R. Gerald Culleton (20th century): After the birth of Anti-Christ and shortly before the rise of the Great Monarch, the false doctrines were to multiply …In the last days before Anti-Christ, there are to appear many anti-christs… Towards the end of the world the Jews are to commit some atrocious crime for which they will be greatly persecuted…the Great Monarch…This Lion Monarch… together with the Great Pope or Angelic Pastor, shall appear after socialism…(Culleton, pp. 25,27,28,50)

Perhaps “after socialism” may mean after communism falls, like it mainly did in the late 20th century.  True Church of God Christians with “Jewish practices,” who could be considered a type of “Anti-Christ” by Greco-Romans (see Do Certain Catholic Prophecies About Antichrist Warn Against Jesus? ), are to be greatly persecuted around the time of the Great Catholic “Lion” Monarch (see Persecutions by Church and State).  The “atrocious crime” could refer to the “crime” of pointing out that the modern Roman Catholics are not the faithful representatives of true apostolic Christianity and that their apparent Great Monarch represents not the solution, but the ten-horned beast of Revelation.  Or maybe it refers to the Jews re-instituting sacrifices.  Or perhaps a combination of factors.

Either way, the King of the North is prophesied to stop animal sacrifices and break the deal of Daniel 9:27.  He may very well state that he is stopping international 'crime' by causing animal sacrifices to cease--despite having many other motives.

Now let's look at some words of Jesus:

20 "But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation is near. 21 Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, let those who are in the midst of her depart, and let not those who are in the country enter her. 22 For these are the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. 23 But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days! For there will be great distress in the land and wrath upon this people. 24 And they will fall by the edge of the sword, and be led away captive into all nations. And Jerusalem will be trampled by Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled. (Luke 21:20-24)

14 So when you see the 'abomination of desolation,' spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not" (let the reader understand), "then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. (Mark 13:14-15)

So, Jesus is tying in the desolation with the fulfillment of the times of the Gentiles with Daniel (9:27, 11:31). The final time of the Gentiles is either the entire seven-year period or at least begins around the midst of the week in Daniel 9:27 (Revelation 11:2; cf. Daniel 7:25). The Great Tribulation starts in the midst of that prophetic seven-year week.

Two Reasons Why a Peace Deal Can Precede Sudden Destruction

Does not the Bible teach that sudden destruction comes when a peace deal is made?

Although some have claimed that, this is not exactly correct. Notice what the Bible says:

3 For when they say, "Peace and safety!" then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape. (1 Thessalonians 5:3)

Does this not mean that there will not be a peace deal in place for 3 1/2 years prior to the start of the Great Tribulation?

Not necessarily.

Why?

There are at least two reasons.

The first is that there are multiple times in the Bible where it shows that people will declare times of peace.  And not all of them have the sudden destruction element to them.  For example, in my book 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect I mentioned at least three of them. 

The second reason is that the sudden destruction that the Apostle Paul warned about in 1 Thessalonians 5:3 seems to be tied to the events of Daniel 11:31 and Daniel 9:27. Notice that Jesus tied a suddenness to the events that Daniel was referring to:

15 "Therefore when you see the 'abomination of desolation,' spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place" (whoever reads, let him understand), 16 "then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains.  17 Let him who is on the housetop not go down to take anything out of his house.  18 And let him who is in the field not go back to get his clothes.  19 But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days!  20 And pray that your flight may not be in winter or on the Sabbath.  21 For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be.  (Matthew 24:15-21)

(Note: Jesus taught all of this while on the Mount of Olives, a related sermon video is The Great Tribulation from the Mount of Olives.)

Consider that Daniel was inspired to write that a seven year deal was made, that in the middle of the deal it would be broken, and that this break happens when the abomination is set up.  The elements of something happening in the middle of the seven year deal (which is 3 1/2 years after the deal), combined with Jesus' warnings in Matthew 24, suggest it is then that the suddenness is a factor. And when you consider that the King of the North destroys after a "league" (probable peace deal) is made, this supports the idea that there would be a gap between the peace deal of Daniel 9:27/11:23 and the destruction that comes later (Daniel 11:31-39; Matthew 24:15-22). Revelation 6 also shows events that happen when the fifth seal (the start of the Great Tribulation) and the sixth seal (which related to events related to the Day of the Lord) are opened.

Thus, if we look at all the scriptures, we see that there will be a peace deal that will precede the establishment of the abomination of desolation being set up and that once that abomination is set up there will be a new urgency as that is when the Great Tribulation will be ready to commence.  As I have written in both my 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect book as well as my article about the King of the North, the King of the North will pretend to be promoting peace even though he will be a military leader according to Bible prophecy (Daniel 11:24; 29-43; Revelation 13:3-4).

The prophesied 'peace' deal is to proceed sudden destruction for about 3 1/2 years. And when the faithful proclaim this is what is happening, many will not like to hear that (see Who is the King of the North?).

Peace Deals Normally Come After a War

Neither Israel nor the Palestinians wish to give up claims to certain territories at this time for a peace deal. There have been rockets, retaliations, and other fighting between Israel and the Palestinians. Although there have been temporary cease-fires, it has been stated that, "Neither side appeared ready to accept the other’s conditions for a permanent cease-fire" (http://www.voanews.com/content/israel-hamas-resume-fighting-as-cairo-talks-break-down/2419518.html). A multi-year temporary peace deal will come about per Daniel 9:27. Israel, likely because of threats and international pressures (some of which are growing now) will decide it has to accept a deal that it does not want to now expect. It should also be understood that, at some point, Gaza will apparently end up with more territory (see also Gaza and the Palestinians in Bible Prophecy).

Iraq does not want to loose territory to ISIS or the Kurds (see also Iraq, the King of the South, Armageddon, and Prophecy).  Iran wants to pursue its nuclear and Islamic ambitions, while Syria’s Assad wants to stop its civil war and stay in power–yet the time will come when Damascus will be destroyed (watch also Damascus and Syria in Prophecy). It may well be that the deal will not come about until after weapons of mass destruction are used in the Middle East. The nuclear deal that Iran has been involved with is NOT the deal of Daniel 9:27 (for more on Iran, see Iran in Prophecy). This is NOT the deal with 'many' per se. However, let me add that the fact that it has a time element to it, in that sense will help set a precedent for a time period like the one for Daniel 9:27. Daniel 9:27 could be, for example, a ten-year deal, that is 'confirmed' after three years (or an eight year deal confirmed after one, etc.).

Interestingly, the Jews have a centuries old tradition that they will end up with some type of peace related to Iran:

Kessin, who holds has a Ph.D. in psychology from Fordham University and is a noted lecturer on Jewish philosophy in the U.S., Canada, South Africa and Israel, also sees significance in the recent U.S. deal with Iran over nuclear weapons.

There is an 800-year-old rabbinic commentary known as Yalkut Shimoni, which he translates: “Paras (Persia-Iran) will be the dread of humanity. The world’s leaders will be frustrated in their futile efforts to save what they can, but to no avail. The people of Israel will also be petrified by the impending danger. And HaShem (God) will say to us, ‘Why are you afraid? All of this I have done in order to bring you the awaited redemption. And this redemption will not be like the redemption from Egypt, which was followed by suffering. This redemption will be absolute, followed with peace.’” ...

“We have now entered the countdown to the messiah, which is unbelievable,” Kessin said.(Rabbi: Blood moons mean 'messianic advancement'. World News Daily, August 30, 2015. http://www.wnd.com/2015/08/rabbi-blood-moons-mean-messianic-advancement/#PvyBhDZJ5CBl3mwm.99)

So Jews, based on tradition, may believe that after conflict with Iran, Israel will have peace. Now a temporal peace deal, like the one related to Daniel 9:27 could come after a regional war involving Iran, Israel, and possibly Syria and/or the USA. The existence of the Jewish tradition may incline the Jews to accept a timed peace deal which will NOT turn out well for the tiny nation of Israel (cf. Daniel 9:27; 11:31). However, the Bible itself shows that this deal will be broken (Daniel 9:27) and the King of the North will invade Jerusalem (Daniel 11:31) and this will not turn out well for the tiny nation of Israel..

Iran (see also Iran in Prophecy) itself has taken steps that may provoke a regional with Israel or larger war (the USA itself could sustain damage). What may happen is a regional or even the current civil war in Syria, that somewhat gets out of control and may involve others (including many based in Lebanon) beyond Iran and Israel, may happen and could be a factor that ultimately leads to the fulfillment of Daniel 9:27 (which seems to be a peace deal).

Iran and Syria do not have enough military power to win an actual war with the USA if such a war were to happen.  They could, however, severely damage Israel, and since Israel knows that, it may decide it has to hit Iran and/or Syria quite hard if attacked. Understand that if Iran was able to set off some type of EMP, electromagnetic pulse, bomb or nuclear device in the USA, or Syria release biological weapons, etc. that impact the USA, they could cause some real damage.

Various Western analysts are convinced that if there is a war of some type between Iran and Israel that Iran (as well as likely Syria) will try to strike at what it perceives to be US targets/allies, both within the USA and outside of it. Specifically, perhaps in Iraq and Saudi Arabia, elsewhere, and/or within the USA itself through various “cells” (possibly also involving al Qaeda). This may well happen, but if so, Iran and/or Syria will likely find they has overestimated their power and underestimated what Israel and/or the USA may do in retaliation.

Of course, the Bible shows that Syria’s capital city Damascus (Isaiah 7:8) will be destroyed (Isaiah 17:1). Whether this will happen because of internal civil war and/or an attack involving Israel and/or the West remains to be seen.  As I have written for some time, the use of chemical and/or biological weapons by Syria could be a major factor in Damascus being destroyed.  But Bible prophecy also shows that nations like Syria will be involved in a plot to destroy Israel (Psalm 83:3-8; see also New fighting in Syria and ramifications for Israel).  Israel may have some victories, but before Jesus returns, it will suffer major defeat.

A major regional war may be a prelude to a peace deal that could fulfill Daniel 9:27.

And the rest of the Arab world?

Currently, many in the West and elsewhere are pushing for some type of coalition in North Africa and the Middle East to deal with groups like al Qaeda and the Islamic State (see How Will Middle East Peace be Brought About?). This would seem to help set the stage for a deal such as the one Daniel 9:27 alludes to.

“And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!” (Mark 13:37).

It should also be noted that we will likely see a major reduction of Islamic terrorism when such a deal takes place--especially once the final King of the South is able to consolidate his power. But terror will again be unleashed, probably after about 3 1/2 years after the deal is confirmed (see also Why Terrorism? Is Terrorism Prophesied?).

Will We Have 1185 Days until the Start of the 1335 Days? Can We Know About When Jesus will Return?

Once we know when the deal of Daniel 9:27 is confirmed, and the exact confirmation date may not be clear, we can know that Jesus will return in seven years.

Why?

Well, the time of the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord is shown to be a time, times, and half a time (Daniel 7:25; 12:7) and that is the amount of time the Philadelphian Christians are to be protected in the wilderness (Revelation 12:14)-- which is 3 1/2 years. The Bible shows that the two witnesses have power for 1260 days (Revelation 11:3).

Further consider that there is a prophecy in Daniel that states:

11 "And from the time that the daily sacrifice is taken away, and the abomination of desolation is set up, there shall be one thousand two hundred and ninety days. 12 Blessed is he who waits, and comes to the one thousand three hundred and thirty-five days. (Daniel 12:11-12)

Since the daily sacrifices are shown to be taken away in the middle of the week in Daniel 9:27, we see a tie between periods called 1290 days to it, which is also tied to the mention of 1335 days.

Now as far as Jesus' return goes, since the sacrifices are stopped in the middle of the week in Daniel 9:27, this indicates that there are 1290 days from the time those sacrifices are stopped until Jesus will return. While the date of His return was not known to Jesus nearly two thousand years ago, these prophecies in Daniel show that God will be making that date knowable in the future.

Now, some have suggested/taught that the prophetic week mentioned in Daniel 9:27 must be a reference to seven 360 day years. Based upon this, they have multiplied 7 times 360 to come up with 2520 days.

In order to then figure out when the 1335 days will begin, they have subtracted those days from the 2520 days to arrive at 1185 days. The idea that we thus might be able to add 1185 days to the confirmation date in order to reach the 1335 date certainly makes some mathematical sense. But, my experience has been that those who put greater emphasis on mathematical calculations than on the actual signs that Jesus gave in Matthew 24 are bound to make some errors as there are still calendar issues to consider.

For example, there are some years in the Hebrew calendar with 13 months, hence the years do NOT average 360 days. Thus holding rigidly to 1185 days, when it could be 1215 days or so could be problematic if one insists that 1185 days must be followed. So, while I believe it could be that adding 1185 days to the Daniel 9:27 confirmation date will bring us to the approximate date of the start of the 1335 days, I would suggest that we also would need to look at events related to that date which Jesus and Daniel tell of (which would happen then) to be certain.

While we still see many matters "dimly" (2 Corinthians 13:12), certain things will be clearer as we get closer (cf. 1 Thessalonians 5:4-10; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5).

More on the 1290 and 1335 days can be found in the article Who is the King of the North?

Why Will Most Not Understand?

Why will most people not understand when the deal of Daniel 9:27 happens?

At least seven reasons.

First, many believe that the prophecies in Daniel 9 have already been fulfilled prior to the time of Jesus. They will thus not consider that any peace deal is related to any prophecy there.  Many, but not all, of the Greco-Roman faiths are in this category.

Second, some will not truly be watching (Mark 13:35-36).

Third, even claimed COG groups like the Philadelphia Church of God (PCG), Church of God a Worldwide Association (COGWA), and the Restored Church of God (RCG) believe that the prophecies, or key elements of Daniel 9:27 have already been fulfilled, and hence they are not looking for a peace deal.  Notice what they have published:

That was foretold by the Prophet Daniel. It is within the context of the 70 weeks prophecy in Daniel 9. As we have already seen, there were 69 prophetic weeks from the decree of Artaxerxes to the coming of the Messiah. That means one week remained—seven days—or seven years, prophetically. “And he [Christ] shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease …” (Daniel 9:27). Christ caused the sacrifices to cease when He died, because He became that sacrifice (Hebrews 10:4, 12). That occurred in the midst of this prophetic seven-day week—or after 3½ years.  (Flurry S. From Good Friday to Easter Sunday.  PCG, April 16, 2014. http://www.pcog.org/36868/from-good-friday-to-easter-sunday/ viewed 05/08/14)

So the phrase “he shall confirm a covenant with many for one week” refers to the Messiah. (Henson D. 70 Weeks of Daniel: What Does the Prophecy Mean? COGWA, http://lifehopeandtruth.com/prophecy/understanding-the-book-of-daniel/70-weeks-of-daniel/ viewed 06/03/14)

Daniel 9...Verse 27 speaks of one additional week in which the Messiah would confirm the covenant. It further shows that the Messiah would cause the sacrifice and oblations to cease in the midst of the week—after three and one-half years.  (What Is the “Seventy Weeks” Prophecy? RCG, http://rcg.org/articles/witswp.html viewed 05/08/14)

Although those groups tend to believe that the last half of Daniel 9:27 remains to be fulfilled, they are not looking for a deal to be confirmed for seven years.  Hence, when such a deal is made, they will not believe it is as highly relevant as it will be.  There are also groups with claimed COG ties like them that have similar misunderstandings.

Fourth, since there will NOT be a pre-tribulation 'rapture of the church (see Is There A Secret Rapture for the Church? When and Where is the Church Protected?), those who believe that will not understand. Also, the Russia-related attack in Ezekiel 38-39 DOES NOT HAPPEN UNTIL AFTER THE RETURN OF JESUS (for some details, please see Russia and Ukraine: Their Origins and Prophesied Future). Thus, those who cling to the false expectation for those two events will discount/ignore the deal. Protestants Tim LaHaye and Jerry Jenkins, famous for the "Left Behind" series of fiction, hold a similar view to Dr. Walvoord and teach that Daniel 9:27 comes after their improperly hoped for "pre-tribulation rapture" (see LaHaye T, Jenkins J.  Are We Living in the End Times?  Tyndale House, Wheaton (IL), 1999). The article Is There A Secret Rapture for the Church? When and Where is the Church Protected? dispels each and every of their so-called scriptural 'proofs' for their "pre-tribulation rapture" view.

Fifth, many in Islam will think that they have risen up, with more to rising to go, and few will consider the downside (even though Islamic prophecy warns about it).

Sixth, if this is a 'peace deal' that comes after a war, many will believe the peace propaganda. The Bible warns that many will be misled by false declarations of peace:

10 "Because, indeed, because they have seduced My people, saying, 'Peace!' when there is no peace — and one builds a wall, and they plaster it with untempered mortar — 11 say to those who plaster it with untempered mortar, that it will fall. There will be flooding rain, and you, O great hailstones, shall fall; and a stormy wind shall tear it down. 12 Surely, when the wall has fallen, will it not be said to you, 'Where is the mortar with which you plastered it?'"

13 Therefore thus says the Lord God: "I will cause a stormy wind to break forth in My fury; and there shall be a flooding rain in My anger, and great hailstones in fury to consume it. 14 So I will break down the wall you have plastered with untempered mortar, and bring it down to the ground, so that its foundation will be uncovered; it will fall, and you shall be consumed in the midst of it. Then you shall know that I am the Lord.

15 "Thus will I accomplish My wrath on the wall and on those who have plastered it with untempered mortar; and I will say to you, 'The wall is no more, nor those who plastered it, 16 that is, the prophets of Israel who prophesy concerning Jerusalem, and who see visions of peace for her when there is no peace,'" says the Lord God. (Ezekiel 13:10-16)

2 For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. 3 For when they say, "Peace and safety!" then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape. (1 Thessalonians 5:2-3)

That being said, some Protestant and COG writers do understand certain parts of what is going on in Daniel 9:27:

This brings us to the controversial verse 27: "Then he shall confirm a covenant with many for one week; but in the middle of the week he shall bring an end to sacrifice and offering. And on the wing of abominations shall be one who makes desolate, even until the consummation, which is determined, is poured out on the desolate" (margin, desolator). The controversy centers around who is the "he" of this verse. The nearest antecedent of the pronoun "he" is the prince (ruler) who is to come of verse 26. Some commentators attempt to make the word "Messiah" in verse 26 serve as the antecedent for the pronoun "he" in verse 26. The attempt to make this connection centers on an attempt to link a Wednesday crucifixion with the expression, "Then he shall confirm a covenant with many for one week; but in the middle of the week He shall bring an end to sacrifice and offering" (Verse 27a).

Let's examine the facts. The pronoun "he" refers to the nearest antecedent noun, the prince who is to come. This prince destroys Jerusalem and the sanctuary. Jesus did not confirm any covenant with anyone for a week. The Hebrew states that this person confirms (Hebrew, gabar meaning to prevail, have strength, be strong) a covenant for one week. Christ perfectly fulfilled the conditions of the Old Covenant, but He did not come to confirm the Old Covenant. He came to install and mediate the New Covenant. He established the New Covenant on the night of the Passover before his death. He did not confirm any covenant with anyone for one week. Moreover, the death of Christ did not cause the sacrifice and oblation to end. The Jews continued to offer sacrifices until the Romans destroyed the temple. Furthermore, the last part of verse 27 states that on a wing of the temple shall be one who makes desolate. In addition, this abomination remains on the wing of the temple until the consummation is poured out on the desolator i.e., the one who make it desolate. Jesus does not place an abomination on the wing of the temple. But of more significance, the returning Jesus Christ is the one who pours out the consummation on the desolator. Christ is surely not the "desolator." (Ward D.  Abomination of Desolation. UCG, http://www.ucg.org/news-and-prophecy/abomination-desolation/ viewed 05/08/14)

Bible prophecy reveals that, at the end of the age, a German-led European Beast power will enter a seven-year peace deal with many Middle Eastern nations (Daniel 9:27; Psalm 83:5-8), but this Beast power will terminate the agreement after only 3.5 years and attempt to exert total control over the region (Daniel 9:27; 11:40-43)—a desperate time may call for desperate measures! (Bloodbath in Egypt! LCG, August 13, 2013. http://www.lcg.org/cgi-bin/lcg/newsprophecy/lcg-np.cgi?category=NewsProphecy1&item=1376601375 viewed 05/08/14)

I personally was involved in the decision of the Living Church of God to teach about the deal of Daniel 9:27. Dr. Meredith and I spoke about this years ago before LCG made it public--and he agreed with my position. Actually, we were both working on it the same time as when I telephoned him about it, he told me that.

Here is something from a Catholic writer:

Ronald Conte, Jr. (21st century): The kingdoms of the ten kings will each be very sinful kingdoms. Their laws will permit all manner of serious sins. Their culture promotes all manner of serious sins. They generally have an exterior peace, but it is obtained through very severe punishments and through stringent restrictions on freedoms. This exterior peace obtained by unjust actions is the false peace often spoken of as preceding the time of the Antichrist.

The Book of Daniel (CPDV) describes the events leading up to the abomination:

{9:24} Seventy weeks of years are concentrated on your people and on your holy city, so that transgression shall be finished, and sin shall reach an end, and iniquity shall be wiped away, and so that everlasting justice shall be brought in, and vision and prophecy shall be fulfilled, and the Saint of saints shall be anointed.
{9:25} Therefore, know and take heed: from the going forth of the word to build up Jerusalem again, until the Christ leader, there will be seven weeks of years, and sixty-two weeks of years; and the wide path will be built again, and the walls, in a time of anguish.
{9:26} And after sixty-two weeks of years, the Christ leader will be slain. And the people who have denied him will not be his. And the people, when their leader arrives, will destroy the city and the sanctuary. And its end will be devastation, and, after the end of the war, the desolation will be set up.
{9:27} But he will confirm a covenant with many for one week of years; and for half of the week of years, victim and sacrifice will nearly cease; but there will be in the temple the abomination of desolation. And the desolation will continue even to the consummation and the end. ...

They will obtain a kind of false peace, which is an exterior-only peace brought about by severities in law enforcement, by excessively harsh punishments...There will also be little or no war, except between the kingdom of the North (Europe) and the kingdom of the South (Israel, Middle East, northern Africa)...The Antichrist then decides to try to destroy the Church from within, by making it legal for these apostates and heretics to openly practice their perverse version of Catholicism.  He give {sic} them control of church buildings and he alters laws, customs, and culture in order to support their ideas. (Conte Jr., Ronald L. The Great Apostasy and the Abomination of Desolation. December 23, 2005. http://www.catholicplanet.com/articles/article131.htm viewed 03/11/18)

Now, since certain Protestants, certain Catholic and certain COGs understand that there is to be a deal in Daniel 9:27, why will most still not understand it?

Well, and this is the seventh reason, if you look in 2nd and 3rd chapters of Revelation, you will find that parts of at least four Christian groups are left at the time of the end. Because these are sequential, the implication is that the largest is the 'church of the Laodiceans' Revelation 3:14).  This is the only group where the plural is used; the prior group, for example, is called 'the church in Philadelphia' (Revelation 3:7), singular. And these are COG groups, NOT Greco-Roman Catholic or Protestant groups.

9 And he said, "Go your way, Daniel, for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end. 10 Many shall be purified, made white, and refined, but the wicked shall do wickedly; and none of the wicked shall understand, but the wise shall understand.

11 "And from the time that the daily sacrifice is taken away, and the abomination of desolation is set up, there shall be one thousand two hundred and ninety days. 12 Blessed is he who waits, and comes to the one thousand three hundred and thirty-five days. (Daniel 12:9-12)

Only the wise--that is NOT a reference to ALL Christians, but only the most faithful Philadelphian remnant.

In Revelation 2 & 3, only one COG group (Philadelphia) is promised protection for the coming hour of trial:

7 "And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write,

'These things says He who is holy, He who is true, "He who has the key of David, He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens":  8 "I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.  9 Indeed I will make those of the synagogue of Satan, who say they are Jews and are not, but lie — indeed I will make them come and worship before your feet, and to know that I have loved you.  10 Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth.  11 Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown.  12 He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new name.  (Revelation 3:7-12).

Philadelphians have the 'Philadelphia work' (see The Final Phase of the Work ) and put the proper emphasis on the word of God watch the sermons on ContinuingCOG channel), and truly represents the "pillar and ground of truth" (1 Timothy 3:15), without accepting the type of doctrinal and/character compromises that others have tolerated (see also Why Bob Thiel Left the Living Church of God).  Also, many groups whose leaders once were part of the old Worldwide Church of God no hold fast to officially teach church eras as they were once taught (e.g. UCG, COGaIC, COGWA, ICG, CGOM, CGI, CGG), hence they, like those in Sardis (e.g. CG7), will not be aware or prepared enough.  As far as 'independents' go, the Bible warns that all should "gather together" "before the decree is issued" so that they "may be hidden in the day of the Lord's anger" (Zephaniah 2:1,2,3).  Those who fail to support the true remnant of the Philadelphia portion of the Church of God will not be protected, as only the faithful Philadelphians are promised that protection (Revelation 3:7-10).

It should perhaps be pointed out that neither LCG nor PCG understand the sequence of Daniel 11 and that because of that, neither PCG nor LCG will know when the Great Tribulation will begin (details are in the article The Future King of the South is Rising)--both of those groups also have sometimes insisted on a configuration for the final Beast power that the Bible does NOT insist upon (see LCG and PCG insisting on 10 or 11 ‘nations’ for the Beast? What does the Bible teach?).

Speaking of LCG, notice something from its top evangelist Gerald Weston:

We discussed a wide range of topics during our May 2019 Council of Elders meetings, and there is one area of discussion that I particularly want to share with you. We talked with each other at length on the “70 Weeks Prophecy” of Daniel 9, a topic we have discussed numerous times over several years. We have traditionally understood the 70 weeks to begin with the decree of Artaxerxes in 457 B.C. From that time until the coming of the Messiah there would be a total of 69 weeks, meaning that Christ began His ministry in 27 A.D. (Each week has seven days, given the “day for a year” principle of prophecy—and remember that you must add one year when going from B.C. to A.D., as there is no year zero.) The meaning of verse 27 is a bit more ambiguous. Is the subject here the Messiah or the Roman prince, both of whom are mentioned in verse 26? Or is this an example of prophetic duality? ...

Verse 26 introduces a “prince who is to come.” This is not the Messiah, but one who destroys “the city and the sanctuary.” So when verse 27 says that “he shall confirm a covenant with many for one week; but in the middle of the week He shall bring an end to sacrifice and offering,” it is not clear whether this refers to Christ, who was cut off in the middle of the week, ending the need for animal sacrifices, or whether it refers to a prince who makes a seven-year agreement with the Jews, which is broken after three-and-a-half years. Note that the capitalization of the pronouns—“he” and “He”—provide no clues; the original Hebrew did not possess capital letters, so those differences only reflect the interpretations of the translators. A strong case can be made for either opinion, or for a combination of the two, which would be duality. ...

A full discussion of Daniel 9:27 would require more attention than I can give here, but this is the point the Council and I want to convey: Many in both the Church and the world look for the countdown to the return of Christ to begin with a seven-year peace treaty (though the scripture does not say “peace treaty” but “a covenant”). Bible commentaries and many evangelicals are looking for this, but Daniel tells us that only the wise (those who keep God’s law) will understand (Daniel 12:10). Those looking specifically for a seven-year treaty may be wrong. Jesus instructed us to watch for the events He gave in the Olivet prophecy, and one of those events is the abomination of desolation being set up, as spoken of by Daniel (Matthew 24:15; Daniel 12:11).

It is evident that the full meaning of Daniel 9:26–27 is not completely clear at this time. We understand Jesus appeared at the end of 69 prophetic weeks, and that three-and-a-half years later—in the middle of a prophetic week—He was cut off and we no longer need to make animal sacrifices. Whether there is a duality to these verses, we do not know. If there is a duality, this means we have the seventieth week fulfilled by Christ and a totally separate week referring to what the Roman prince does. ...

Jesus tells us the abomination of desolation is a sign that it is time to flee. Therefore, we believe it is wise not to focus on a seven-year treaty, but on the clear statement of Scripture that the abomination of desolation and cessation of sacrifices begins the countdown of 1290 days to the end. (Weston G. Why a Council of Elders. Living Church News, July-August 2019)

Gerald Weston is correct that only the wise will understand. But it that is NOT defined as those who keep the law as the Laodiceans and the remnant of Sardis also do that (cf. Revelation 12:17), but they will not understand well enough to flee at the right time (cf. Revelation 12:14-17; Revelation 3).

Gerald Weston is correct that those specifically looking for a seven-year treaty may be wrong. As I have written for years, the deal of Daniel 9:27 is confirmed by the prince (Beast) for a seven-year period--the deal/covenant itself could be longer or shorter. Most, including most Christians, will NOT understand until it is essentially too late to flee.

In Revelation 12, we also read that only a portion of true Christians will get protected in a place of safety in the wilderness:

14 But the woman was given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness to her place, where she is nourished for a time and times and half a time, from the presence of the serpent. 15 So the serpent spewed water out of his mouth like a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away by the flood. 16 But the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed up the flood which the dragon had spewed out of his mouth. 17 And the dragon was enraged with the woman, and he went to make war with the rest of her offspring, who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.  (Revelation 12:14-17)

So, the Bible is teaching that only some, and not all, Christians will receive protection.

If most Christians knew about the deal, they would be able to calculate that 3 1/2 years after it was confirmed that it would be time to flee.  Jesus made it clear that when the second portion of Daniel 9:27 was fulfilled, which it is shown to be in Daniel 11:31, that this was the time to flee.  Notice what Jesus taught:

14 "So when you see the 'abomination of desolation,' spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not" (let the reader understand), "then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. 15 Let him who is on the housetop not go down into the house, nor enter to take anything out of his house. 16 And let him who is in the field not go back to get his clothes. 17 But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days! 18 And pray that your flight may not be in winter. 19 For in those days there will be tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the creation which God created until this time, nor ever shall be. 20 And unless the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect's sake, whom He chose, He shortened the days. (Mark 13:14-20)

Matthew 24:15-22 says basically the same thing, thus Jesus' warning is repeated twice (also basically a third time in Luke 21, though only mentioning a coming desolation and not Daniel by name). It can be concluded that the abomination spoken of by Daniel is a very key prophecy.  And since it is tied in with the deal that is confirmed for 7 years, if everyone would understand it when it happens, nearly everyone would flee.  But we see in passages such as Revelation 12:17 that this does not happen.

Why?

Most Christians and others who profess Christianity will not be protected, thus they will not be able to see the fulfillment of this prophecy and/or will discount what it means.

This type of thing happened in the past. The Jewish religious leaders all knew that the Messiah was prophesied, and many understood that the arrival of Jesus was consistent with the timing of when the Messiah would arrive.  Yet, while a few leaders did recognize Jesus, most did not.

The same misunderstanding of fulfilled prophecy will happen at the end.

Since Jesus only promised to protect the Philadelphians, most others will not see it.

How might it happen?

While various Catholic and Protestant prophecy watchers have long felt that this has to be a deal with a seven-year term involving 'the Beast,' the Bible does not state that the deal itself must be seven years. Plus the leader that CONFIRMS the deal for seven-years is only called a 'prince' related to this deal--he is not a 'king' (actually the King of the North) until later, when he also will be the Beast of Revelation.

It is very likely that the peace deal related to Daniel 9 will have a different length of time associated with it other than seven-years. Thus, this will be a reason people will point to that it is not the deal related to Daniel 9:27.  It also is likely to come about differently than many expect. Even the man who became the Apostle Nathaniel tried to argue against Jesus because of where he thought Jesus was from (John 1:43-51). Others did the same and indicated that scripture supported their view (John 7:41-42).  But Jesus was the Messiah.  Others will likely point to scriptures as proof that they are right to discount the deal in Daniel 9:27, but they too, will be wrong.

Here is something that the Living Church of God has claimed about it:

Bible prophecies have long foretold that at the time of the end, a great world-church would "ride" or direct the final European Beast power (Revelation 13:11-14; Revelation 17). This Beast will broker a temporary peace in the Holy Land between Muslims, Jews and Christians (Psalm 83:5-8; Daniel 9:27; 11:29-39). Events in Rome, Berlin and the Holy Land appear to be moving toward the development of the prophesied short-lived "truce" between Christians, Jews and Muslims. (Vatican and Germany Promote Peace Between Religions. World Ahead Weekly Update, June 13, 2014)

But what if the Beast does not actually broker the deal?

What is he only confirms a portion for seven years?

What if a group does not know who the Beast will be?

Since the deal will start to be broken by Daniel 11:31, many will not understand.

All Daniel 9:26-27 literally requires is that a 'prince' from the areas once controlled by the old Roman Empire will confirm a deal for a seven-year period. This confirmation could also simply be for one part of a more complex agreement. Based on current geopolitics, it would seem that the USA will be involved in the negotiations and possibly Russia--but they are NOT specified in the scriptures doing so (though there are other hints in Daniel 11 that the USA will be involved).  However, since Jesus hints of international involvement in Luke 21:20), perhaps the United Nations or something like that will also have some involvement at some time--that is also consistent with current geopolitics and the UN's agenda (see also United Nations: Humankind's Last Hope or New World Order?). The deal itself seems to include Israel and some of the Arab lands.

Many will discount the deal and hope to see certain signs that will not necessarily be there.

Notice also something else that Jesus taught:

39 An evil and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and no sign will be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. 40 For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. 41 The men of Nineveh will rise up in the judgment with this generation and condemn it, because they repented at the preaching of Jonah; and indeed a greater than Jonah is here. 42 The queen of the South will rise up in the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and indeed a greater than Solomon is here. (Matthew 12:39-42)

Those Jesus was speaking to would not have considered that Jonah being in the belly of the 'great fish' was a prophetic type of the Messiah. The Jews expected a conquering military Messiah. And while Jesus will return as such (Revelation 19), that is not how He came the first time. Most people pointed to the wrong signs, despite the truths that Jesus taught and the miracles the Father allowed Him to do (cf. John 5:30; 8:45; 10:37; 14:11).

JESUS CAME NEAR THE WHEN MANY EXPECTED THE MESSIAH. YET, SINCE JESUS DID NOT APPEAR AS MANY EXPECTED AND THEY DISBELIEVED. SOME COUNTED ON SCRIPTURES THAT THEY WERE SURE WERE PROOF JESUS WAS NOT THE MESSIAH, BUT BECAUSE THEY DID NOT UNDERSTAND ALL ABOUT JESUS, THEY WERE WRONG.

Even great prophet John the Baptist (Luke 7:38) had doubts about Jesus (Luke 7:19-21), and Jesus then decided to say that those are blessed who were not offended because of Him (Luke 7:22-23). Some will be offended by the truth and not accept it--even many Christians.

It reasonable to conclude that the DEAL of Daniel 9:27 will not be clear enough for most true Christians to believe that it is the biblical one.

The Bible only says that the "prince" of Daniel 9:26 will confirm, or cause to prevail, the covenant for the one week.  It does NOT say that he necessarily makes it, or that he necessarily put it together (though he may well have had major input).  He may simply confirm that he likes the deal some time after it is made.  If if were a ten year deal and he confirmed it three years later or caused it to be implemented three years later that would biblically suffice.  It is also possible that he will be part of a less public deal.  There also could be simply a provision in the deal that is for seven years, as opposed to the main deal itself.  The deal also could be a trade deal, as opposed to a peace deal.  There are many possibilities.

Differing Translations

Now, let us look at a variety of translations of Daniel 9:27:

New International Version
He will confirm a covenant with many for one 'seven.' In the middle of the 'seven' he will put an end to sacrifice and offering. And at the temple he will set up an abomination that causes desolation, until the end that is decreed is poured out on him."

New Living Translation
The ruler will make a treaty with the people for a period of one set of seven, but after half this time, he will put an end to the sacrifices and offerings. And as a climax to all his terrible deeds, he will set up a sacrilegious object that causes desecration, until the fate decreed for this defiler is finally poured out on him."

English Standard Version
And he shall make a strong covenant with many for one week, and for half of the week he shall put an end to sacrifice and offering. And on the wing of abominations shall come one who makes desolate, until the decreed end is poured out on the desolator.”

New American Standard Bible
"And he will make a firm covenant with the many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering; and on the wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate, even until a complete destruction, one that is decreed, is poured out on the one who makes desolate."

King James Bible
And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
He will make a firm covenant with many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and offering. And the abomination of desolation will be on a wing of the temple until the decreed destruction is poured out on the desolator."

International Standard Version
He will make a binding covenant with many for one week, and for half of the week he will suspend both the sacrifice and grain offerings. Destructive people will cause desolation on the pinnacle until it is complete and what has been decreed is poured out on the desolator.'"

NET Bible
He will confirm a covenant with many for one week. But in the middle of that week he will bring sacrifices and offerings to a halt. On the wing of abominations will come one who destroys, until the decreed end is poured out on the one who destroys."

GOD'S WORD® Translation
He will confirm his promise with many for one set of seven time periods. In the middle of the seven time periods, he will stop the sacrifices and food offerings. This will happen along with disgusting things that cause destruction until [those time periods] come to an end. It has been determined that this will happen to those who destroy [the city]."

Jubilee Bible 2000
In one week (they are now seventy) he shall confirm the covenant by many: and at the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and because of the many abominations, desolation shall come, even until complete destruction shall be poured out upon the abominable people.

King James 2000 Bible
And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the offering to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.

American King James Version
And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the middle of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured on the desolate.

American Standard Version
And he shall make a firm covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease; and upon the wing of abominations' shall come one that maketh desolate; and even unto the full end, and that determined, shall wrath be poured out upon the desolate.

Douay-Rheims Bible
And he shall confirm the covenant with many, in one week: and in the half of the week the victim and the sacrifice shall fall: and there shall be in the temple the abomination of desolation: and the desolation shall continue even to the consummation, and to the end.

Darby Bible Translation
And he shall confirm a covenant with the many [for] one week; and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and because of the protection of abominations [there shall be] a desolator, even until that the consumption and what is determined shall be poured out upon the desolate.

English Revised Version
And he shall make a firm covenant with many for one week: and for the half of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease; and upon the wing of abominations shall come one that maketh desolate; and even unto the consummation, and that determined, shall wrath be poured out upon the desolator.

New Jerusalem Bible
He will strike a firm alliance with many people for the space of a week; and for the space of one half-week he will put a stop to sacrifice and oblation, and on the wing of the Temple will be the appalling abomination until the end, until the doom assigned to the devastator.'

Webster's Bible Translation
And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations, he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.

World English Bible
He shall make a firm covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the offering to cease; and on the wing of abominations [shall come] one who makes desolate; and even to the full end, and that determined, shall [wrath] be poured out on the desolate.

Young's Literal Translation
And he hath strengthened a covenant with many -- one week, and in the midst of the week he causeth sacrifice and present to cease, and by the wing of abominations he is making desolate, even till the consummation, and that which is determined is poured on the desolate one.'

Notice that although some state that the deal is a one week deal that he makes, some state the deal is only confirmed for that period, and some suggest he implements or strengthens the deal.  Scripture is NOT CLEAR that the deal must have originally been made for seven years.

But even IF the deal is clear, most still will not believe it. They will discount that it matters and/or misunderstand it.

While how the seven-year beginning is to be calculated is not currently clear, the fact that most will not understand the agreement in Daniel 9:27 is clear.

Sequential Order of End Time Events

There is a work that will be completed about 3 1/2 years after the deal in Daniel 9:27 is completed.

What work? Notice what Jesus and Daniel taught:

9 "Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name's sake. 10 And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. 11 Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. 12 And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. 13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved.

14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.

15 "Therefore when you see the 'abomination of desolation,' spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place" (whoever reads, let him understand), 16 "then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. (Matthew 24:9-16)

31 And forces shall be mustered by him, and they shall defile the sanctuary fortress; then they shall take away the daily sacrifices, and place there the abomination of desolation. (Daniel 11:31)

Are you truly supporting the work to proclaim the gospel to the world as a witness? The end, meaning the Great Tribulation, comes shortly after it has been done. In vs. 15 Jesus refers to something that is part of the second 1/2 of Daniel 9:27 (and ties in with Daniel 11:31)--that which begins 3 1/2 years after the deal is confirmed in the first 1/2 of the verse. Daniel 11:32-35 ties this in with persecution (italicized words not in the Hebrew):

32 Those who do wickedly against the covenant he shall corrupt with flattery; but the people who know their God shall be strong, and carry out great exploits. 33 And those of the people who understand shall instruct many; yet for many days they shall fall by sword and flame, by captivity and plundering. 34 Now when they fall, they shall be aided with a little help; but many shall join with them by intrigue. 35 And some of those of understanding shall fall, to refine them, purify them, and make them white, until the time of the end; because it is still for the appointed time. (Daniel 11:32-35)

Instructing MANY also ties in with Matthew 24:14 and Mark 13:10. This is also tied to short work of Romans 9:28 (see Preparing for the 'Short Work' and The Famine of the Word) and the final phase of the work (see The Final Phase of the Work).

Since I listed a partially wrong prophetic sequence from Dr. Walvoord, let's look on a proper sequence based upon Daniel and Jesus' words in the Gospels:

1. The beginning of sorrows--this has begun.
2. A seven year deal is confirmed/advanced and the final countdown begun-- this has not happened yet, though some have been working on it.
3. There will be persecution against those the support the true end-time Philadelphia work --this will intensify.
4. The Gospel of the Kingdom will reach the world as a witness -- this is in progress by not finished.
5. The sacrifices will stop and the abomination spoken of by Daniel will be set up. This is about 3 1/2 years after item 2.
6. The most faithful will flee.
7. The Great Tribulation will begin and Jerusalem will be trampled down by Gentiles for 42 months.
8. Jesus will return 3 1/2 years after the Great Tribulation begins.
9. Jesus will bring peace (see How Will Middle East Peace be Brought About?).

Notice how many items are directly predicated on the seven year deal of Daniel 9:27. Note: The sacrifices will have to start before they are stopped, but precisely where that appears in the sequence is unclear, other than it if after item 2 and prior to item 5.

What About Daniel 9:27 b?

The focus of this article has mainly been the first half of Daniel 9:27. But what about the last half? Here is what it says:

Even until the consummation, which is determined, Is poured out on the desolate. (Daniel 9:27b)

Ten times in the Book of Revelation (NKJV) it speaks of God's wrath--many of those times speak of His wrath being poured out (e.g. Revelation 16:1).

The consummation in Daniel 9:27b seems to be related to the final "Day of the Lord." When it happens (and it starts 2 1/2 years after the start of the Great Tribulation), the world will basically be desolate spiritually--and it is on the desolate it will be poured out on. Information on the Great Tribulation and Day of the Lord is found in the article When Will the Great Tribulation Begin?

Do What Jesus Said

The fulfillment of Daniel 9:27 will begin the countdown to the start of the Great Tribulation and what could be called World War Three.

The reason that most Christians will not see the deal is that most will think that they are fine, will not believe the confirmation is the correct one, and will NOT do ALL that Jesus wants His people to do in the end time.

Jesus told his people to pray about this as most would not understand:

35 For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man. (Luke 21:35-36)

You might say, I pray about this.

Good. But notice what James wrote:

22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. 23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; 24 for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. 25 But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does. (James 1:22-25)

Why is that important?

One is not only to pray to be accounted worthy, one is to be A DOER OF THE WORK. Many falsely believe that they simply be a "watcher" and not a supporter of the work to fulfill Matthew 24:14--those who feel that way are deceiving themselves.

You do not need to be among those that will not see. Gather together (Zephaniah 2:1). It is the highly dedicated Philadelphians in the real Church of God that will finish the final phase of the work before (Matthew 24:14; Daniel 11:32-33) and during (Revelation 11:3-14) the Great Tribulation and Day of the Lord.

We could consider that when what is prophesied to happen in Daniel 9:27 occurs, it will be about 2520 days until the establishment of the millennial Kingdom of God.

As it says repeatedly in the Book of Revelation:

"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." (Revelation 2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22)

Will you truly hear?

Thiel B. The 'Peace Deal' of Daniel 9:27. http://www.cogwriter.com/daniel-9-27-deal.htm (c) 2014/2015/2016/2017/2018/2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 1007

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