When Sacrifice Offends God: The Coming Temple and the Tribulation

Posted May 11, 2025 | End Times Watch

As we watch the headlines and examine biblical prophecy, one significant event stands out on the horizon: the rebuilding of the Jewish temple in Jerusalem. For centuries, devout Jews have prayed for the day the temple would rise again. And now, with political shifts, renewed religious fervor, and increasing preparations among certain groups in Israel, the vision of a Third Temple no longer feels distant. But when it happens—and when animal sacrifices resume—what will it mean in the eyes of God?

The answer may surprise you.

A Holy Place—With a Fatal Flaw

According to the Old Testament Law, animal sacrifices were central to atonement (Leviticus 17:11). The blood of bulls and goats, though temporary and symbolic, pointed forward to something greater—the perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God (Hebrews 10:1–10).

But after Jesus died and rose again, no further sacrifice was needed. His blood was sufficient. His offering was once and for all. The temple veil was torn (Matthew 27:51), and access to God was made possible not through ritual, but through faith in Christ.

So, what happens when the Jewish people, in the near future, rebuild the temple and restart sacrifices?

They will do so in sincerity and deep tradition—but also in spiritual blindness, still rejecting the One their scriptures pointed to.

A Sacrifice That Offends

It may seem like a holy act to dedicate a rebuilt temple and offer a spotless red heifer, but in truth, it will be a grave insult to the finished work of Christ. The blood of Jesus Christs atoning sacrifice was the fulfilment of that which was needed to forgive mankind of their sins.

God will not be pleased when this occurs!

To offer blood sacrifices after the blood of His Son has been shed is to say, in effect:
“Jesus was not enough.”
It denies the very heart of the Gospel—salvation by grace through faith in the Messiah, not by works or rituals.

And this act, I believe, may be the trigger that launches Israel into the Tribulation period—the time of Jacob’s trouble (Jeremiah 30:7), when God will refine His people through fire.

Prophecy Fulfilled—But with Pain

Daniel 9:27 speaks of a seven-year covenant and a coming “abomination of desolation” that will occur in the temple. Revelation describes a time when a global leader—Antichrist—will deceive Israel, break his covenant, and desecrate the very temple they rebuilt.

Why does God allow this?

Because Israel must be brought to a place of desperation and repentance—to finally cry out for their true Messiah. Jesus said, “You shall not see Me again till you say, ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!’” (Matthew 23:39).

The Tribulation is not just judgment—it is a last-ditch rescue mission for the Jewish people.

The Key Differences between the TWO Tribulation Periods.

1. The 7-Year Tribulation (Daniel’s 70th Week)

• Biblical Basis: Daniel 9:27; Revelation chapters 6–19.
• Length: 7 years total.
• Overview: This entire 7-year period is known as the Tribulation. It begins when the Antichrist confirms a covenant (likely a peace treaty) with many, especially involving Israel (Daniel 9:27).
• Purpose: God’s judgment on a rebellious world, the refining of Israel, and setting the stage for Christ’s return.

2. The Great Tribulation (Last 3.5 Years)

• Biblical Basis: Matthew 24:21; Revelation 13; Daniel 7:25, 12:7.
• Length: 3.5 years (1,260 days, 42 months, or “time, times, and half a time”).
• When It Starts: At the midpoint of the 7-year Tribulation, when the Antichrist breaks the covenant and sets up the abomination of desolation (Daniel 9:27; Matthew 24:15).
• Description: This is the most intense period of suffering, persecution, and wrath. It includes:
  • The Antichrist’s global reign.
  • Severe persecution of believers and Jews.
  • God’s final judgments (trumpets and bowls).
• Jesus’ Words: He called this period “great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time” (Matthew 24:21, KJV).

Grace Still Stands

Here is the hope: even amid the chaos of the Tribulation, God will not forget His people. He will raise up witnesses (Revelation 11), preserve a remnant (Romans 11:5), and finally open blind eyes (Zechariah 12:10). The sacrifices will cease, but grace will still stand.

And when Jesus returns, it will not be to destroy Israel—but to save her.

Conclusion:

The coming temple is a sign. The sacrifices will be a mistake. But the God of grace will use even error to bring truth. Let us pray for the peace of Jerusalem, but even more, for her salvation—through faith in Jesus, the final and only sacrifice that truly saves.

“Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone that believeth.” – Romans 10:4 (KJV)

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May you Trust God to be with you today, and always. Much Love and Prayers headed your way.

River Wilde