Today we look at the process of restoration for Israel. We see how biblical prophecy not only predicts the re-gathering of Israel, but it also gives very accurate pictures of how that re-gathering will be accomplished. What a tremendous teaching.

As Derek has explained during this series, that very fact that restoration is needed indicates that the things to be restored have not been in their right place and condition. And, today he will deal primarily with the “Restoration of Israel” and talk about specifically about “prophecies” concerning the nation of Israel.

Learn how in the New Testament Church there was in general a lifestyle that sharply distinguished believers from the unbelieving world around them. The church brought authority, peace and prosperity.

When the Bible speaks about kingdom, it infers government. The gospel of the Kingdom of God is the Good News of the Government of God. That is the good news of the New Testament. If we meet God’s conditions, we can come under His government.

Paul, in the book Ephesians, tells us that God “gave gifts to men.” What were those gifts? They were people – leaders who demonstrated the fivefold ministry gifts: apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers. The church needs these ministries to function effectively.

Derek points out that the first essential thing in the process of restoration is for the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit to be in operation in the Church as it was in the Book of Acts. We must be absolutely dependent on the Holy Spirit to do this.

Does the Church today measure up to the New Testament account? If it does not, it is in need of restoration. But in what areas exactly? Derek tackles this topic using scriptural references – and comparing the Western church with the New Testament pattern.

Today Derek helps you see that God’s final purpose is not just to bless His people but to make His people a blessing. God sees the agony and confusion of our modern world. He’s not indifferent. He’s concerned. But what is He doing? He’s working in a very systematic and methodical way.

Today Derek speaks about the vine as presented in the book of Joel – and that is the Church. The restoration of the church is on a parallel with the fig tree: Israel. It’s part of God’s intervention on behalf of His people at the close of the age.

At the Western Wall in Jerusalem, Derek looked at all the scraps of paper inserted in its cracks and crevices and thought that sometimes there seems to be no answer to our needs. The Lord responded that one day He would answer all those prayer requests. So look up.