The last seven years of Daniel’s prophecy of Seventy Weeks/Sevens (490 years) is mentioned in Daniel 9:27 and Daniel 12. It is also discussed in more detail in Revelation 4-19. These last seven years of the end times before Jesus returns at His 2nd Advent is also known as Jacob’s Trouble or the Tribulation.

The Tribulation’s duration, from the confirming of the covenant between the Antichrist and the many (Israel and others) to the beginning of Jesus’ millennium kingdom, will be for exactly 2520 days. The solar/Gregorian calendar of 365.2425 days is not used to calculate these last 7 years (and the other 483 years of Daniel’s prophecy) but rather the prophetic/biblical calendar (Noah’s calendar) of 360 days per year.

Whether you break down the Tribulation into two equal halves of 1260 days each or into two parts of 1230 and 1290 days (as described in In the Midst :: by Randy Nettles – Rapture Ready), most eschatologists agree the total duration is for 2520 days.

2520 is a special number in several ways. It is the smallest number divisible by all integers from 1 to 10, i.e., it is their least common multiple. It is a colossally abundant number with many factors or divisors, including: 12, 14, 15, 18, 20, 21, 24, 28, 30, 35, 36, 40, 42, 45, 56, 60, 63, 70, 72, 84, 90, 105, 120, 126, 140, 168, 180, 210, 252, 280, 315, 360, 420, 504, 630, 840, 1260, and 2520. It is half of 7! (5040), meaning 7 factorial, or 1 X 2 X 3 X 4 X 5 X 6 X 7.

2520 is also a number of the proportion of creation, especially the heavens. Here are a few examples:

1. A solar day is measured by one 360-degree revolution of the earth, so a 7-day week = 2520 (360 x 7) degrees.
2. The earth’s diameter is 7916.813 statute miles and is determined by multiplying 360 X 7 = 2520, and 2520 X pi = 7916.813.
3. The moon’s diameter is 2160 statute miles and is determined by subtracting the number of degrees in a circle, 360, from 2520.
4. The distance of the moon at its apogee from the earth is 252,088 statute miles.

King David realized and appreciated God’s creation when he wrote, “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork. Day unto day utters speech, and night unto night reveals knowledge. There is no speech nor language where their voice is not heard. Their line has gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them He has set a tabernacle for the sun, which is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoices like a strong man to run its race. Its rising is from one end of heaven, and its circuit to the other end; and there is nothing hidden from its heat” (Psalm 19:1-6).

Last but not least is the fact that 2520 is the product of the four great numbers of completion or perfection (God’s “perfect” numbers), 3 X 7 X 10 X 12 = 2520.

There is also an amazing correlation between the numbers 430 and 2520 regarding Jewish history and their servitude/tribulation by enemy kingdoms. The first 430 years began when God made a covenant with Abram (Abraham) regarding the ownership of the land of Canaan (by Abraham and his seed) in 1876 BC. The affliction of Abraham’s seed (Isaac and descendants) began in 1846 BC, 30 years after Abram’s original covenant, when Ishmael was 19 years old. The event that started this tribulation was when Ismael jealously mocked Isaac on the celebratory day he was weaned, as described in Genesis 21:8-20.

The affliction of Isaac continued in the land of Canaan until his death in 1671 BC. That same year, Isaac’s grandson, Joseph, was standing in front of the Pharaoh of Egypt, interpreting his dream. Isaac’s son, Jacob, and his family relocated to Egypt in 1661 BC. The children of Israel stayed in Egypt for 215 years until the Exodus in 1446 BC, which would be the end of the 430-year timeline. This timeline confirms the prophecy of 400 years (1846 BC – 1446 BC) mentioned in Genesis 15:13 and the 430 years (1876- 1446 BC) mentioned in Exodus 12:40-41. Paul reaffirms the 430 years in Galatians 3:17-18.

The next prophetic 430-year period is mentioned in Ezekiel 4:3-6 when God gave Ezekiel a prophecy concerning the judgment and punishment for Israel in lieu of her wickedness. Each day that Ezekiel was to lay on his side represented one biblical year (of 360 days) for Israel and Judah’s punishment. The start of this prophecy begins in 586-585 BC with the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple by the Babylonians.

God deducted 70 years of captivity in Babylon, as prophesied by Jeremiah, so now there remained a total of 360 years of further punishment beyond 536 BC, which marked the end of the Babylonian captivity. It should be noted that, historically, Israel did not repent of its sin at the end of the 70 years. For this sin, God’s divine principle for disobedience found in Leviticus 26 took effect. “And if you will not yet for all this hearken unto me, then I will punish you seven times more for your sins.” So now, instead of 360 years of further punishment, Israel would undergo 2520 biblical years of punishment. Then and only then would final restoration to the land be accomplished.

The starting date for the 2520 biblical years is 536 BC. 2520 biblical (prophetic) years X 360 = 907,200 days. Converting this figure into our Gregorian calendar of 365.2425 days and dividing 365.2425 into 907,200 days, we reach a total of 2483.8 calendar years. If you add 2483.8 years to 536 BC, you come to the year AD 1948. On May 14, 1948, the Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel was proclaimed to the world, and the Jewish kingdom/nation was reborn, fulfilling the prophecies of Ezekiel 4:3-6, Leviticus 26, and Ezekiel 37:1-14.

It appears the numbers 7, 360, and 2520 are not only prevalent in creation but also when it comes to God’s chosen (and not forgotten) people – the children of Israel. There is little doubt that the Tribulation mainly revolves around Israel and its restoration and conversion, even when it comes to the duration of “Jacob’s Trouble,” 2520 days.

These numbers make me, as a Bible numbers guy, wonder where God’s perfect numbers fit into God’s timeline for the end times known as the Day of the Lord. For those of you who aren’t familiar with these numbers, please refer to God’s Perfect Number: Part 1 :: By Randy Nettles :: Rapture Ready. In this article/s we examine the biblical significance of four special numbers, 3, 7, 10, and 12 that God uses repeatedly in a manner that quite often connotes perfection and/or completion. The number 3 signifies divine perfection, 7 is the number for spiritual perfection, 10 is the number for ordinal perfection, and 12 is the number for government perfection.

The number 7 has already been mentioned frequently throughout this article in relationship to the numbers 360 and 2520 and the duration of the Tribulation, which is 7 biblical years. These last 7 years of human history before Jesus returns to the earth to establish His Millennial Kingdom is the long-delayed 70th week of Daniel’s prophecy (Daniel 9:24-27) given to him by the angel Gabriel.

This prophecy gives the duration for 6 (the number for man) objectives for Israel and Jerusalem before Jesus will return as their Messiah: 1) To finish the transgression. 2) To make an end of sins. 3) To make reconciliation for iniquity. 4) To bring in everlasting righteousness. 5) To seal up vision and prophecy 6) To anoint the Most Holy. Once these deeds are accomplished, Jesus will begin His 1000-year reign as King of kings and Lord of lords.

The Day of the Lord begins with the Rapture of the Church as mentioned in But of that Day and Hour :: By Randy Nettles – Rapture Ready. No one knows the day and hour of the Rapture, and no one ever will until it happens. Jesus said even the angels of heaven didn’t know, and only God the Father knew the date and time, according to Matthew 24:36. When the Rapture happens (in the twinkling of an eye), I believe it will come as a surprise to every living human being on the planet, unbelievers as well as believers. Everybody will be going about their daily earthly routine with no thought of heavenly matters, such as the Rapture.

In my estimation, there will be a gap of time that transpires between the start of the Day of the Lord (Rapture) and the start of the Tribulation (confirming of the covenant by the Antichrist and Israel/many). Perhaps that is where the perfect numbers of 3, 7, 10, and 12 come into play. I think (hypothetically) that the Rapture might occur either 3 or 5 (number of grace) years before the start of the 7-year Tribulation. That would place the timing of the Rapture at either 10 or 12 years before Jesus’ 2nd Coming.

Many astute Bible teachers believe the prophecy of Ezekiel 38 (war of Gog/Magog) and the prophecy of Isaiah 17 (destruction of Damascus) will be fulfilled either slightly before or after the Rapture, which would also place the timing at 10 or 12 years before the 2nd Advent. Of course, this is only an educated hypothesis (definition: a supposition or proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation) concerning the timing of the Day of the Lord.

We do know a few certain facts concerning the Tribulation. It will last for 7 years, and it is getting close. We know it is getting close, as apostasy and lawlessness is abounding in all areas of society, including government institutions and municipalities (local, state, and national), politics, media, social media, religion, sports, entertainment, financial institutions, schools and universities, business and corporations, and the family unit. Crime is rampant and getting worse. Socialism and Communism are rearing their ugly heads as the New World Order is beginning to take form.

Lies and fake news are the main sources of information we get from politicians, media, and health organizations. Satan must be proud, as he is called the father of lies. “You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it” (John 8:44). Even nature and the animal kingdom seem to be rebelling as the end draws near.

I have given several theoretical examples of possible future timelines for the Tribulation and Jesus’ 2nd Coming in my article series In The Midst- Parts I – V. Based on limited evidence, I believe Part IV: Return of the King has the most merit, with 2026 as the start and 2033 as the finish. Hypothetically, in the year 2033, Jesus will return physically to the earth after a 2,000-year absence since he was crucified in the year AD 33. 2,000 years is as two days for the Lord according to the apostle Peter. “But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day with the Lord is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day” (2 Peter 3:8).

The Old Testament prophet Hosea had this to say about the subject, in my opinion: “After two days [2,000 years] He will revive us: in the third day [beginning of the 1,000-year reign of Jesus] He will raise us up, and we shall live in His sight. Then we shall know, if we follow on to know the LORD: His going forth is prepared as the morning; and He shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter [spring rain – 1st Advent] and former rain [fall rain – 2nd Advent] unto the earth” (Hosea 6:2-3). For more (limited) evidence, go to: https://www.raptureready.com/2020/06/20/in-the-midst-part-iv-return-of-the-king-by-randy-nettles/

According to my recent article/s Chronology of Mankind – 6000 Years of History, we are currently (AD 2021) 19 years away from the 6,000-year anniversary of mankind. Many Bible scholars are of the belief that there will be 6,000 years of recorded history for mankind before Jesus returns and establishes His millennial kingdom on planet Earth. They believe that just as the original creation week took 6 days of work and 1 day of rest (for a total of 7 days), so mankind will work on the earth for 6,000 years and will then rest for 1,000 years during the millennial reign of Jesus Christ. After 7,000 years, God will create a new heaven and earth for the faithful angels and redeemed man.

By my reckoning, in 2033, we will be 7 years shy of the benchmark 6,000 years of human history. However, we could be closer than that due to insufficient data regarding the exact age of the antediluvian and post-flood patriarchs at the time of their son’s birth, as recorded in the Bible…years are given but not years + months.

As mentioned before, the only one who knows for certain the exact timing of these end-time events is God (Father, Son, Holy Spirit), and He is silent on the subject. For those left behind after the Rapture, the start of the Tribulation will be known once the Antichrist confirms a 7-year (2520 days) covenant with Israel. His name in Greek or Hebrew gematria will have a numerical value that adds up to 666. The A.C. will break the covenant “in the midst” of the 7 years, and that is when all hell breaks loose on planet Earth and his true intentions will become known. His absolute reign over the entire earth will be short-lived, however, as it will only last for 3.5 biblical years or 1260 days. This is about the same duration as Jesus’ earthly ministry.

“And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth and destroy with the brightness of His coming” (2 Thessalonians 2:8). “And the Lord shall be king over all the earth: in that day there shall be one LORD and his name one” (Zechariah 14:9).

Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.

Randy Nettles

nettlesr@suddenlink.net

Comparing the attitudes and actions of today’s world to Matthew 24, Luke 21, Romans 1 and 2 Timothy 3, you might find all of them very similar. In fact, every evil trait and attitude that is listed there is here right now. Some have been refined to reach new levels of evil that we never thought we’d see in our lifetime. One thing can be said that is Biblically correct; we are very near to the time of the end that Jesus, Paul, Peter, John and others spoke of. (all emphasis mine)

Luke 21:25-26; “And there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on earth distress of nations in perplexity because of the sea and the waves, people fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world. For the powers of the heavens will be shaken.”

People today are walking in fear because of a so-called COVID pandemic, and the world leaders have the masses falling in step to whatever they say. Satan and his followers are rapidly gaining ground as evil is increasing everywhere. Nations are at odds with each other, and it’s possible there could be some major conflicts soon. Weather patterns are obviously changing to be more severe, and various places are either suffering from drought or severe flooding. In some places, record high temperatures have been noted.

If people would only seek the word of the Father, they could be assured that all the current events were prophesied to happen. His children – all who have called on Jesus to be their Savior – should be rejoicing. Why would I possibly suggest we should celebrate such events as being good?

Continuing in Luke 21:27-28, “And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (ESV).

The actual second coming of Jesus is at least seven years away. We do not know the day nor the hour; but before that 7-year wrath/tribulation takes place, God has a major covenant to fulfill. In 1 Thessalonians 1:10, 1 Thessalonians 5:9-10, and Revelation 3:10, we’re told that all who belong to the Savior will be kept from the coming wrath. This would be the “Harpazo,” “taking up,” or “Rapture,” whichever term you would choose (1 Thessalonians 4:13-17; 1 Corinthians 15:51-53).

For anyone who might say they will wait until the “trumpet of God” sounds and the shout comes from the archangel to be saved, they could never be fast enough. Paul uses the term “in the twinkling of an eye” in 1 Corinthians 15:52. Experts far beyond my capabilities have estimated this would be considerably less than one second. The best advice I can possibly give here is be prepared in advance and you won’t have to be concerned as to the “when.”

The tribulation officially starts when Jesus opens the first seal judgment, releasing the antichrist on the world (Revelation 6:2). There were “announcing trumpets” all through Israel’s history, and the one that sounds at the Rapture will announce that Jesus is taking His flock Home before the judgments ever start.

For anyone to say that satanic activity does not really exist, there’s an old saying, “There’s proof in the pudding.” Just recently, a gay men’s choir in California released a song called “We’re coming for your children.” All the “alphabet” groups that God calls abominations are out in the open and more active than ever in recruiting for their causes. Sadly, they’re aiming for the younger generations and are gaining ground all the way back to the 8- to 12-year-old children. Kids are being told they can be any gender they want, and that’s an insult to the Creator of the heavens and the earth.

Genesis 1:27; “So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.”

Matthew 19:4; “He answered, have you not read that He who created them from the beginning, made them male and female?”

Instead of being concerned about gender identity, the youth of America and the world should be getting educated about the soon coming of our Lord and Savior to call all true believers up to meet Him. Because of a turning away from Jesus that’s taking place today, our youths are either attending unbiblical services or don’t even attend any services at all.

Statistics are showing that even in many older crowds, the true Biblical word is not being taught. False prophets are giving ear-tickling messages designed to leave everyone with a “happy” feeling. Telling people that they are sinners in need of a Savior (Romans 3:23; Romans 6:23) only causes distress and is avoided. Instead, give them heart-thumping music and light shows and messages designed to keep the seats and collection plates full.

There are those who give estimates of what percentage of Americans are truly Christian, and overall, it’s believed to be only about 10% of the total population. One report stated that of the regular churchgoers, it’s below 40% of the total that are true believers. The others apparently believe that just because they attend services one to three hours a week, that’s all they need. They’ve never truly received and accepted the gift of the Lord that was paid for in full at Calvary.

Everyone should review the ABCs of Salvation in Romans 10:9-13; John 14:6; Acts 4:12 and others. Ephesians 2:8-9 should be reviewed to show that it is only through grace that we are saved, not by any works. The hardest part of all this is to have faith and believe God’s word says what He means, and He means what He says.

For those of us that have Jesus as our Savior, there is a longing to be with Him and also anticipation that it will happen soon. A song by William Arms Fisher in 1922 is a spiritual called “Goin’ Home.” The words are plain and simple but tell of the longing to go Home at last.

Goin’ Home; goin’ Home; I’m just goin’ Home. Quiet-like, some still day, I’m just goin’ Home.

It’s not far, just close by, through an open door; Work all done, care laid by, goin’ to fear no more.

Mother’s there expecting me; Father’s waiting too; Lots of folk gathered there, all the friends I knew.

All the friends I knew, Home, I’m goin’ Home! Nothing’s lost, all’s gain; no more fret nor pain; no more stumbling on the way; no more longing for the day; goin’ to roam no more.

Morning star lights the way, restless dream all done; Shadows gone, break of day; real life just begun.

There’s no break; there’s no end, just a living on; Wide awake with a smile, goin’ on and on.

Goin’ Home, goin’ Home; I’m just goin’ Home. It’s not far, just close by, through an open door; I am goin’ Home, I’m just goin’ Home.

Goin’ Home; Goin’ Home.

There are some prophecy experts that say the Rapture is closer than we can even imagine. As a novice, I see all the signs and realize we are obviously at the time very near the end of this age. Only the Father knows the exact day, hour, minute and even second that He will send Jesus to get us. My prayer to Him daily is, “It isn’t too early, Father. Come, Lord Jesus!”

Don’t be left behind to face the worst 7 years this world will ever endure. Call on Jesus today, and become a part of His Flock that will be “Goin’ Home” soon.

Shalom! Come, Lord Jesus!

huebshman46@gmail.com