Crosstalk: April 24, 2018

Last Wednesday through Saturday (April 18-21, 2018) Israel began a celebration for 70 years in the land of Israel - as the State of Israel. Joining Jim to shed some light on the celebration is Dr. Jimmy DeYoung of Prophecy Today Ministries. Dr. DeYoung is a student of bible prophecy and is considered an expert on the Middle East. 

History tells us that on May 14th, 1948 the Jewish people were reunited with their homeland. Many have asked the question 'So why are they celebrating in April?' Dr. DeYoung teaches us that Israel does not operate based on a 365 day calendar (like we do) but, on a lunar one (30 day month) 'hence the timing of it all.  Dr. DeYoung explains Israel's current Memorial Day observance and the very popular new testament 'bible study' with contests for Jewish youth where even the Prime Minister gets involved. DeYoung says it's an event 'like the Super Bowl.'

Jim asks Dr. DeYoung 'What did the United States and President Truman have to do with the state of Israel?' Dr. DeYoung answers that Israel's primary national founder (and first Prime Minister) Ben Gurion, went looking for the approval of world nations - DeYoung says that President Truman 'was the 1st world leader to offer it' and that President Truman was 'a student of the Word of God, himself.' Then, reference is made to a memo dated 'May 14, 1948' (6:11p.m. when the U.S. officially recognized the state of Israel).

Dr. DeYoung then goes on to respond to the question of there actually being any 'significance to 70 years for Israel?' He says seventy 'is a jubilee year' for the Jews but, then makes the all more important reference to Jesus' well known prophecy found in Matthew chapter 24 where the generation present at that time, would see Messiah return. Is that 'generation' this one? Dr. DeYoung explains from the bible.

Other parts of the discussion includes the theme of Israel's celebration 'A Legacy of Innovation' - a look at the many ways Israel's innovation has benefited the entire world. DeYoung also comments on the ongoing and most recent threats to Israel's security and more importantly, how Israel is prepared to respond saying 'they're going to continue to protect themselves.' DeYoung also touts the United States forthcoming embassy which has sparked several other world nations to follow suit. Crosstalk takes your calls.

Dr. Jimmy DeYoung – Student of Bible prophecy and expert on the Middle East.  He leads a ministry, Prophecy Today and has spent many years living in Israel as well as having led many trips there.  He is a noted conference speaker. He constantly monitors news regarding Israel and the Middle East and provides a unique blend of political, biblical and prophetic insight that is absent from the media today.