The Significance of 1914 in Biblical Chronology

The year 1914 is significant in biblical chronology, primarily for those who follow the teachings of Jehovah's Witnesses. They believe this year marks the beginning of a prophesied period leading to the fulfillment of biblical prophecies regarding the end of the current system of things.

Unique Beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses

According to Jehovah's Witnesses, in 1914, Jesus Christ was enthroned as King in heaven, initiating a series of events leading to the fulfillment of biblical prophecies. They interpret this date as a significant increase in global turmoil, including World War I, as a sign of the impending conclusion of the current system.

The Trampling of Jerusalem

Applying biblical chronology, the year 1914 aligns with the prophecy of the 'trampling' of Jerusalem, which began in 607 B.C.E. when Jerusalem was destroyed and King Zedekiah was dethroned.

Historical Context

After Jerusalem was plundered by the Babylonians, the Davidic line of kings was interrupted. The prophecy of Ezekiel spoke of a future king, Jesus Christ, who would restore the Davidic rule:

“Ezekiel 21:26-27 - After reporting Jerusalem’s last king Zedekiah, the Bible states, ‘It will not belong to anyone until the one who has the legal right comes and I will give it to him.’"

From this, it is derived that Jesus would be crowned as King and bring an end to the 'trampling'.

Biblical Interpretation and Timing

Using biblical principles, a 'day' can represent a 'year' (Numbers 14:34, Ezekiel 4:6). Applying this principle, 2520 'years' are said to pass from 607 B.C.E., leading to the year 1914 C.E. or A.D., which marks the end of the 'trampling' of Jerusalem.

Mathematical Explanation

Calculating 2520 years from 607 B.C.E.:

Adding 1 to 1913 (to account for the missing zero year), we arrive at 1914 C.E.

Jesus Christ's Coronation

In the year 1914, the 'trampling' ended, and Jesus Christ, the king of the Davidic line, was installed as God's appointed King. This is prophesied in Daniel 7:13-14 and Matthew 24:14:

“Daniel 7:13-14 - 'Behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of Days, and they brought him near before him. And there was given him dominion and glory and a kingdom'

“Matthew 24:14 - 'And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations, and then shall the end come.'"

According to these scriptures, Jesus Christ's reign marks the fulfillment of the prophecy of the 'trampling' of Jerusalem and heralds the end of the current system of things.

Conclusion

The year 1914 in biblical chronology is a critical milestone for Jehovah's Witnesses, marking the beginning of a new era of fulfillment of prophetic promises. This unique interpretation has significant implications for understanding biblical prophecy and the unfolding of God’s plan.