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The pride of Egypt likened to that of Assyria. Pride, whether it be national or that of an individual is a forerunner of a downfall. Pr. 16:18 We find in the scriptures that Asshur is used in a threefold manner, as the name of a man. 1 Chron. 1:17. Likewise the name of a city or a people. Num. 24:22, 24 Also the name of one of their gods, who was to them the god of strength and power in warfare. Hos. 14:3.
In the description given concerning the great stature of Asshur, there are some foreshadowingís of the spirit and nature of the antichrist. It was the envy of the trees in Eden, the garden of God. Eze. 31:9 In this prophecy, the Lord speaks of the great beauty of what He referred as a stately cedar tree, towering above all the other trees of the forest, causing them to having to look up to him. Its branches were of great beauty spreading out over the forest. There was a great supply of waters, from flowing streams and deep fountains, causing it to flourish. It was a gathering place for the birds of the air, the beasts of the field, even reaching out to the nations of the world who gathered beneath its shelter. It was majestic in its beauty with its boughs which spread out for great distances. Its roots were planted deep because of the great supply of waters. It was so distinct in its character that the other trees of the garden of God felt that they could not equal it in all of its majesty. Eze. 31:2-9 We get the impression of one who is haughty, high minded and deeply impressed with their self importance.
For such a tree to have so impressive a place and appearance in the very Paradise of God illustrates once again the outstanding nature and character of the one who will be the antichrist. Everything about that special tree is unique and exceptional, to an astonishing degree. From the description given it is the most majestic and beautiful of all the trees in the garden. The appearance and appeal of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil was exceedingly attractive, or Eve would never have partaken of it. She completely failed to see beyond that first appeal to the eye and the supposed knowledge and pleasure that she would gain by partaking of it. She had no comprehension of the dark side of sin and its consequences. Her vision was limited to that which is common to mankind. She believed the lie of the serpent that she would be come as wise as God. She was like those described in 2 Tim. 3:6 who will see only that which is the exterior and miserably fail to consider the cost of being turned aside by the pomp and grandeur of that one who is to be revealed in the end of the age.
2 Thess. 2:3 Christ will not return until after the son of perdition has been revealed for He will destroy the antichrist at His coming. 2 Thess. 2:8.