Forcing God’s Hand
Summary of the Book
Forcing God’s Hand: Why Millions Pray for a Quick Rapture—and Destruction of Planet Earth by Grace Halsell examines the rise of Armageddon theology, Christian Zionism, and end-times beliefs within segments of American evangelical Christianity.
The book argues that many influential preachers teach that the modern State of Israel and conflicts in the Middle East are necessary steps toward biblical prophecy, culminating in the Rapture, Armageddon, and Christ’s return.
Halsell investigates how these beliefs have shaped American religious culture and politics, particularly U.S. support for Israel. Drawing on her background as a journalist and extensive research, she questions whether some Christians have come to welcome or even hasten catastrophic global conflict because they believe it fulfills God’s prophetic plan.
The book also discusses Christian fundamentalism, the Rapture, Gog and Magog, Jerusalem, Christian Zionism, influential televangelists, and the relationship between religion and American foreign policy.
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Short Biography of the Author
Grace Halsell (1923–2000) was an American investigative journalist, author, and former White House speechwriter for President Lyndon B. Johnson. She reported from numerous regions around the world, including the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and Latin America. Throughout her career, she wrote extensively on social justice, religion, race, and Middle Eastern affairs.
Among her notable works are Journey to Jerusalem, Prophecy and Politics, and Forcing God’s Hand. In this book, Halsell draws upon decades of journalism and firsthand research to critically examine the influence of apocalyptic theology on American politics and U.S.–Israel relations.