A Silent Witness to Accurate Prophecy

IN CENTRAL ROME, ITALY, STANDS A TRIUMPHAL ARCH THAT ATTRACTS VISITORS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD.  THE ARCH HONORS ONE OF ROME'S FAVORITE EMPERORS-TITUS.

The arch of Titus has two large reliefs depicting a well-known historical event.  Less well-known, though is the fascinating link between the earth and the Bible-the Arch of Titus bears silent witness to the remarkable accuracy of Bible prophecy. 

A CITY CONDEMNED

Early in the first century C.E., the Roman Empire stretched from Britain ad Gaul (now France) to Egypt, and the region enjoyed unprecedented  stability and prosperity.  But one remote area was a source of constant frustration for Rome-the restless province of Judea.

The Encyclopedia of Ancient Rome states:  "Few territories under Rome's control were marked  by such intense dislike, on both sides, as Judea.  The Jews resented foreign master who cared noting for their traditions, and the Romans found Jewish stubbornnes cause for severe intolerance."  Many Jews hoped that  a political messiah would expel the hated Romans and restore a golden era  to Israel.  But in 33 C.E., Jesus Christ declared that Jerusalem faced a coming catastrophe. 

Jesus said:  "The days will come upon you when your enemies will build around you a fortification of pointed stakes and will encircle you and besiege you from every side.  They will dash you and your children within you to the ground, and they will not leave a stone upon in you." -LUKE 19:43:44. 

Jesus' words evidently puzzled his disciples.  Two days later, on viewing Jerusalem's temple, on of them exclaimed:  "Teacher, see! What wonderful stones and buildings!"   Indeed, some temple stones were reportedly over 35 feet (11 m)  long, 15 feet ( 5 m) wide, and 10 feet (3 m)  high! Yet, Jesus replied:  "As for these things that you now see, the days will come when not a stone will be left  upon a stone and not be thrown down." - MARK 13:1; LUKE 21:6.

Jesus further told them:  "When you see Jerusalem surrounded by encamped armies, then know that the desolating of her has drawn near.  Then let those in the  midst of her leave, and let those in the countryside not enter her." (Luke 21:20, 21) Did Jesus' words come true?

Next time: A Silent Witness to Accurate Prophecy - DEATH OF A CITY

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