Is World War III About to Begin?

WARS. Rumors of wars. Rising global tensions. The headlines are filled with talk of potential global conflict, of WW3—Russia’s invasion of Ukraine; presence of North Korean's and China's army in Russia; China’s growing aggression toward Taiwan, and the shifting military alliances between world powers. Israel is flexing its power in the Middle East as it threatens anew the bombing of Iran's nuclear sites. This year, 2025, after winning the election, US Pres. Trump's policies towards its traditional allies have shifted, declared trade wars, and are now leaning towards authoritarianism, as he openly talks about annexing Canada and Greenland!

As Christians, we must ask: Are we witnessing the beginning of World War III? What does the Bible say about the times we are living in?

“You Will Hear of Wars and Rumors of Wars”

Jesus Christ, in His Olivet Prophecy, warned His disciples about the signs of the end of the age. In Matthew 24:6-7, He said,

“You will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.”

We are certainly hearing those rumors today—and seeing nations prepare for war. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has already upended Europe’s post-Cold War peace. NATO, once a defensive alliance, is increasingly arming Ukraine and bolstering its presence in Eastern Europe. The West's military buildup looks eerily like the prelude to something bigger.

Meanwhile, China has become more open in its threats toward Taiwan, and tensions have also emerged in the South China Sea. The Philippines, a long-time ally of the U.S., is caught in the crosshairs. As nations choose sides, we see a pattern emerging—a war of nations that mirrors Christ’s warning.

Is History Repeating Itself?

History teaches us that appeasement often leads not to peace, but to more aggressive conflict. In the 1930s, the Western powers hoped to avoid war with Hitler by conceding to his territorial demands. That policy of appeasement failed disastrously, leading directly to World War II.

Today, many see parallels. Some Western leaders have been hesitant to confront Russia too directly, fearing escalation. But this hesitancy may only embolden aggressors. The situation resembles the uneasy calm before the storm—a world walking on the edge of another global conflict.

Could World War III be on the horizon? Only God knows the exact time and manner of events to come. But the conditions—military alliances, national unrest, political instability, and a rise in authoritarianism—fit the prophetic warning signs.

What Does Bible Prophecy Say?

Matthew 24 gives a broad outline of the “beginning of sorrows.” Jesus doesn’t point to one war, but to a time of global upheaval. The wars are joined by famines, pestilences, and earthquakes. He says these are not the end, but the beginning of birth pangs—a sign that something greater is coming.

The book of Revelation and the writings of the prophets speak of a future time when the nations of the world will gather for a climactic battle. Revelation 16:14 describes “the kings of the earth and of the whole world” being gathered to “the battle of that great day of God Almighty”—what many call Armageddon.

While we are not yet at that final battle, the road leading there is being paved. The war of nations, increasing lawlessness, and rising fear are all signs that the age of man’s rule is nearing its end.

Europe vs USA?

Some are even questioning whether the U.S. and Europe remain allies. Political rifts and diverging strategies raise concerns that Western unity could fracture. At the moment NATO is holding up, but the US is abandoning its role as the world's policeman, emboldening Germany to rearm itself. Prophetically, this is significant. The Bible indicates that a final power known as the "Beast" will arise in Europe, not the United States (Dan. 7, Rev. 13). America’s waning influence may be part of the reshaping of global power. But will Trump's isolationist foreign policy lead to the prophetic "Jacob's trouble" for all Israel (Jer. 30:7)? Only time will tell.

What Should Christians Do?

In such troubled times, it is easy to be anxious. But Christ warned us: “See that you are not troubled” (Matthew 24:6). We are not called to panic, but to prepare—spiritually.

During these times, God's people are targeted too; they will be the most hated:

"Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another." (Matthew 24:9-10)

Jesus exhorted His followers to watch and pray (Luke 21:36), to stay alert and faithful in doing the will of God. Our job is not to stockpile weapons or join political battles, but to be lights in a dark world, proclaiming the true hope of the Kingdom of God.

The Hope of the Gospel

Speaking of the end-time world conditions, Isaiah prophesied:

"The way of peace they have not known,

And there is no justice in their ways;

They have made themselves crooked paths;

Whoever takes that way shall not know peace." (Isaiah 59:8)

While the world trembles in fear of what may come, we have an unshakable hope. Jesus Christ will return—not to negotiate peace treaties, but to establish His Kingdom.

“And the Lord shall be King over all the earth” (Zechariah 14:9).

No human government can bring lasting peace. The nations are divided, but God's Kingdom will unite the world in righteousness. That’s the message of the gospel—the “good news” Jesus preached from the beginning.

"And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come." (Matthew 24:14)

Final Thoughts

So, is World War III about to begin? Perhaps. But whether it is or isn’t, we know the world is heading toward a final conflict. More importantly, we know who wins in the end.

As Christians, we must keep our eyes on the signs—but more importantly, on our Savior, Jesus Christ. Our hope is not in NATO, US, or man's diplomacy, or weapons as deterrence, but in the return of Jesus Christ and the coming Kingdom of God.

So let us be found faithful!

"But he who endures to the end shall be saved." (Matthew 24:13)