On Friday night, Megyn Kelly interviewed Vladimir Putin on “Dateline.”  In the midst of investigations regarding whether or not Russia interfered in US elections, Putin remains aloof and denies that Russians indicted for doing so are government officials.  In fact, he denies knowing any of the 13 Russian citizens named in the indictment, despite the fact he is pictured with one of the individuals on multiple occasions.

Regardless whether or not Putin knows those accused, he stated clearly “I couldn’t care less” about interference in US elections, and was defiant when it comes to looking into the allegations.

Putin was confronted with many things during the interview: “crony-ism” within his government, Russia’s blind eye to (and Putin’s denial of) the use of chemical weapons in Syria, Putin’s projection of “tough man” image, and Russia’s responsibility for the carnage in Syria (among several other things).  Throughout the interview, Putin’s KGB background and training seemed to beam through brightly.

Putin’s methods were described as “deflect and deny,” and such seemed to be the case during the interview.  For example, regarding Russian involvement in Syria (where the premise is that Russia is fighting terrorism), Putin denies that Syria has chemical weapons or that they are being used to kill children.  Why? In order to make it appear that Russia is not a strong ally of the Bashar al-Assad regime.  To be so invites additional sanctions.

One analyst seemed to indicate that Russia exists for the purpose and pleasure of Vladimir Putin, then suggested that Putin is “not going anywhere,” as Russia (as we know it today) has no one else who could keep the motor running in Russia.

As I watched the interview, one thing continued to strike me: the steely blue eyes of Putin, seeming to casually lie about obvious things…and seeming to ooze evil.  Defiance was the name of the game.  My perception?  Perhaps.  But it is difficult to deny the similar characteristics between Putin and the Russian czar Ezekiel 38 identifies as Gog of Magog.

“Gog” is a term that means “head” or “czar,” and Bible scholars identify “Magog” as Russia.  Undoubtedly, Gog of Magog will be an evil Russian czar, hungry for power and wealth, who will lead an invasion (alongside Iran and others) into Israel.  (Find more about that in Week 5 of the Looking for the Blessed Hope Bible study.)

So, is Vladimir Putin that man?  It is still too early to say for certain, but the characteristics are strikingly similar.  In addition, Russia and Iran have both set up shop in Syria and are within only a few miles of Israel’s northern border.  The stage is set, and if Putin is that man, we could see the fulfillment of Ezekiel’s prophecy (chapters 38-39) in our lifetime.

Some will say those of us who carefully follow Bible prophecy are getting carried away.  Well, I’ll let you decide for yourself.  Study Ezekiel 38-39, review the current news about what Russia is up to in Syria, and watch and listen to the interview just broadcast on “Dateline.”  (You will find it here.)  Then, see what you think.

But when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near
~Luke 21:28