In a recent message, Pastor Joel Engel stated that the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel is rooted in a spiritual battle described in the Bible.

“We are living in an unprecedented moment in history,” he declared in his sermon, emphasizing that recent events in the Middle East are fulfilling biblical prophecies and pointing to the nearness of Christ’s return.

Engel read from Daniel 10:12–13, which says: “‘Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them. But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia.’”

The pastor explained that this passage refers to a spiritual war that took place more than 2,500 years ago, involving ancient Persia—territory that corresponds today to modern-day Iran.

“This war has been going on for thousands of years,” he said. “In Daniel’s time, Persia had taken the people of Israel into captivity, and they remained there for 70 years. As that period came to a close, Daniel discerned through the Scriptures that it was time for God to bring deliverance. After 21 days of prayer, Daniel was able to perceive the spiritual war that was unfolding.”

Engel emphasized that it was the archangel Gabriel who appeared to Daniel and revealed what had delayed the answer to his prayers: the principality of Persia. According to the pastor, this is a demonic spiritual power that was active in ancient times and continues to influence Iran’s leadership today.

“All truth is parallel,” Engel declared. “What happens on earth mirrors what happens in the heavens. This war is, above all, spiritual. The principality of Persia is the primary force driving Iran’s current hostility toward Israel.”

The sermon came shortly after a public statement by Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who threatened Israel with a “great surprise that will be remembered for centuries.” The threat, made on June 17, ultimately did not materialize.

For Engel, this was a clear sign of divine intervention. “As long as there are people praying, there can be a force that restrains the plans of evil,” he affirmed.

Israel Is the World’s Clock

In the pastor’s view, Israel is the center of prophetic fulfillment and serves as a spiritual thermometer for the entire world.

“It is a privilege to be alive in the generation that is witnessing prophecy being fulfilled,” Engel said. “The greatest fulfillment of prophecy will be seen in Israel’s most difficult hour. Israel is the world’s clock—what happens there also happens in the Church. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit in the last days that will come upon Israel will likewise come upon the Church.”

According to Engel, Scripture makes it clear that Jesus will return when Israel is surrounded by enemies.

“Suddenly, the heavens will open, and in Israel’s darkest hour, Jesus will descend from the clouds with thousands of angels,” he proclaimed.

During the message, Pastor Engel also voiced strong criticism of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who has condemned Israel’s military actions and adopted a stance of opposition toward the Israeli government.

“I completely disagree with President Lula’s position regarding the State of Israel,” Engel said.

 “The same word that is coming against the enemies of Israel will also come upon this government. There will be no escape. Anyone who rises against the people of Israel rises against God. May the Lord have mercy on our nation!” 

The Stage Is Being Set

Concluding his message, the pastor warned that the world is on the verge of profound transformation, and that current events are paving the way for the return of Christ.

“What will unfold in the coming days will reshape the geography of the Middle East—and it will affect the entire world,” Engel warned.

 “The signs of Jesus’ return are all around us. How many of you sense that something is different in the world? That something great is about to happen? Our spirit bears witness that the global stage is being prepared.”

Watch the full sermon: