Will China play a role in the end times?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

The Bible does not specifically mention modern-day China in relation to the end times, but certain passages are interpreted by some as potentially referring to China. Isaiah 49:12 mentions "the land of Syene," which some associate with China, and Revelation 16:12–16 speaks of "the kings from the east," which some believe could refer to China’s armies in preparation for the battle of Armageddon. Another passage, Revelation 9:16, describes a massive army of 200 million, which some link to China’s population and military potential, though the passage itself refers to a demonic horde, rather than human forces. Regardless of whether China is directly involved, its growing military and economic influence, as well as its persecution of Christians, suggest it could play a significant role in future end-times events. Ultimately, the Bible's message focuses on the salvation offered through Jesus Christ, and the specifics of end-times events are less important than being ready for Christ's return.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• Many people think "the land of Syene" in Isaiah 49:12 is associated with China.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• No one knows for sure whether modern-day China will play a role in the end times because modern-day China is not mentioned by name in the Bible. However, some believe the "kings from the east" in Revelation 16:12–16 to be a reference to China. The gathering of armies is in preparation for the battle of Armageddon, which takes place at the end of the tribulation. Some interpret "the kings from the east" marching toward the Middle East as the armies of China being able to cross the dried-up Euphrates.
• The kings of the east will join the forces of the Antichrist, and the final, seventh bowl judgment will be poured out. Jesus will return, and the world will be shaken. Ultimately, the armies of the east and the armies of the Antichrist will be destroyed (Revelation 16:17–20; 19:11–21).
• A lesser related passage, Revelation 9:16, is also sometimes associated with China. While writing about an earlier battle, John mentions the size of one of the armies: "The number of mounted troops was twice ten thousand times ten thousand; I heard their number." This is 200 million soldiers. China, with a population approaching 1.5 billion people, could field such an army, though the references to this battle and this huge army do not mention the army as coming from the east. Additionally, this army is described as having "breastplates the color of fire and of sapphire and of sulfur, and the heads of the horses were like lions' heads, and fire and smoke and sulfur came out of their mouths" (Revelation 9:17). This seems to describe a demonic horde, rather than a human army.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

Whether or not the coalition of eastern kings includes what we know today as China we cannot say for certain. However, China has one of the most powerful and numerous armies in history, and its military and economic power and influence are growing. Add to that its persecution of Christians, and other religions, and it seems possible China will be involved in end-times activities.

There are many people who think they know how to interpret the clues and identify the timing and the players of the end times as described in Revelation, Daniel, and other passages in the Bible. No one knows for sure how things will go. What we do know is how a person can be saved and live with God for eternity. Believe that Jesus Christ is the son of God, died for your sins on the cross, and was raised again from the dead. Accept Him as your Savior, and you shall be saved. Draw close to Him, and the events of Revelation will be secondary to you.

UNDERSTAND

• The Bible does not directly mention China in the end times.
• Some interpret "the kings from the east" in Revelation as possibly referring to China.
• China's growing power and persecution of Christians suggest it could play a role in end-times events.

REFLECT

• How does the idea of China's potential involvement in end-times events affect your understanding of the Bible's prophecies?
• How can we remain focused on Christ’s return and our salvation, rather than getting caught up in speculating about specific end-times events?
• What does the Bible teach about the importance of being prepared for Christ’s return, regardless of specific end-times scenarios?

ENGAGE

• How do the growing challenges faced by Christians in countries like China shape our prayers and actions in supporting the global church?
• How should we interpret and engage with passages that seem to allude to nations like China in relation to prophecy?
• How can we support the persecuted church in China and other regions where religious freedom is restricted, knowing that these challenges may intensify in the future?