Art opens the show by extending a warm welcome to listeners from across the United States, highlighting the show’s wide reach from Houston to the Hawaiian Islands and from the US Virgin Islands to the Caribbean. Art shares an update on the US Virgin Islands, particularly Saint Thomas, which was severely impacted by a hurricane, and invites first-time callers from the area to share updates on the situation, reflecting the show’s community-oriented approach.
Art then introduces the evening’s guest, Larry Wilson, with a cautionary note for listeners who might find discussions on catastrophic predictions unsettling. Wilson’s views center around impending comets predicted to collide with Earth, a topic that ties into broader discussions on natural disasters, including significant earthquakes in California and an unprecedented hurricane season. Art mentions that the day’s discussion will also touch on biblical interpretations of these events, offering a unique perspective on prophecy and end-of-times predictions.
The show takes a deeper dive into near-Earth objects and the potential threats they pose, as highlighted by Wilson’s research on near misses and the capabilities of satellites like Clementine to map and photograph celestial bodies. A particularly close call with an asteroid underscores the real and present danger of space objects impacting Earth.
As the conversation progresses, Wilson shares his alarming conclusion that the world as we know it may be approaching its end, driven by a series of cataclysmic events leading to the establishment of God’s kingdom.
Art delves into Larry Wilson’s interpretations of the events described in the Book of Revelation. Wilson, initially from a health promotion background, shares his journey into biblical prophecy fueled by his curiosity and love for puzzles. Despite his unconventional path, Wilson became deeply engrossed in understanding and interpreting Revelation, leading him to publish several books and a monthly newsletter called “Daystar,” focusing on the imminent fulfillment of these prophecies.
Wilson’s studies led him to a startling conclusion in 1988: the prediction of two binary asteroid impacts on Earth. This assertion places him in the company of other guests Art has interviewed, like Gordon Michael Scallion, who also predict cataclysmic events from different perspectives. Despite facing criticism and being labeled a false prophet, Wilson stands firm on his interpretations of Revelation, specifically citing passages that describe celestial bodies impacting Earth, leading to widespread devastation.
Wilson elaborates on his methodical approach to biblical prophecy, suggesting a timeline for these events based on his understanding of the scriptures. He anticipates significant asteroid impacts within a window from 1994 to around the turn of the century, emphasizing the unpredictability but inevitability of such events. Wilson’s narrative connects contemporary scientific findings, like those from the University of California at Berkeley, with biblical prophecies, suggesting a convergence of science and scripture in predicting Earth’s cataclysmic future.
Art Bell’s exploration of catastrophic predictions continues with a discussion on the discovery of Gigantic-saurus in Argentina, a dinosaur that lived a hundred million years ago. This segues into a broader conversation about the impact of comets on Earth’s history and the potential future threats they pose. Larry Wilson, leveraging his scientific research, sets up a scenario describing the catastrophic effects of a comet hitting the ocean, offering listeners a complimentary copy of his book “Warning: Revelation is About to be Fulfilled” to further delve into his findings.
Wilson outlines a sequence of cataclysmic events based on the Book of Revelation, starting with a meteoric firestorm that leads to global fires, followed by a devastating asteroid impact on the sea, creating tsunamis capable of washing away coastal cities. He predicts this sequence will culminate in another asteroid impact that contaminates the planet’s water supply, leading to widespread death. These predictions, grounded in both biblical prophecy and scientific speculation, paint a grim picture of Earth’s potential future, inciting a mix of fascination and fear.
As Art navigates this conversation, he highlights the unsettling agreement among various predictors, like Gordon Michael Scallion and Wilson, despite their diverse perspectives. This consensus on Earth’s dire fate, drawn from different sources, underscores the episode’s theme of impending doom and the importance of heeding these warnings. Wilson’s belief in the near-term fulfillment of these prophecies, before the year 2000, adds urgency to his message, urging listeners to consider the confluence of science and scripture in understanding the threats facing humanity.
Wilson explains the difficulty in tracking the numerous, fast-moving objects in space, likening finding a one-mile asteroid to searching for a needle in a haystack. This conversation follows on a broader discussion about the constant barrage of smaller cosmic debris Earth faces daily, highlighting the planet’s vulnerability to larger, civilization-threatening impacts.
Wilson positions these celestial events within a biblical context, suggesting that the predicted catastrophic events are a divine method of communicating with humanity. He draws parallels between these potential disasters and current natural phenomena, such as an unprecedented hurricane season and increased seismic activity around the globe, proposing these as signs of the Earth “waxing old” and bearing the burden of its history.
The discussion shifts towards volcanic activity, with Wilson noting the concern among seismologists about the potential for major eruptions near populated areas, such as Mexico City and Mount Vesuvius in Italy. These observations tie back to the predictions of Gordon Michael Scallion, another guest on Art’s show, particularly regarding the activity of Vesuvius and Etna as indicators of a broader, catastrophic phase.
Wilson then introduces the fourth trumpet of Revelation, suggesting that the entire Pacific Rim, known as the Ring of Fire, could ignite due to tectonic movements and volcanic activity. This assertion aligns with his interpretation of biblical prophecies and the signs he believes are currently manifesting, from earthquakes in diverse locations to volcanic pressures building around the world.
Larry Wilson elaborates on his interpretative approach to the Book of Revelation, emphasizing a methodical, almost scientific methodology to understanding its prophecies. He couches his predictions with the acknowledgment of the possibility of error, underlining the complex nature of interpreting biblical texts through a contemporary lens. Wilson’s reflections on the challenges of predicting specific celestial events resonate with the broader uncertainties inherent in prophecy and scientific prediction alike.
Wilson recounts feeling vindicated when scientists like Clark Chapman and David Morrison publicly acknowledged the historical and future potential of asteroid impacts on Earth, bridging the gap between scientific understanding and biblical prophecy. This confluence of science and scripture provides a compelling narrative for Wilson, who sees it as a harmonization of two fields often seen in opposition.
The conversation takes a momentary detour to discuss Art Bell’s book offer, illustrating the broad appeal and varied content of his show. This interlude serves as a reminder of the show’s role as a platform for diverse discussions, ranging from scientific debates to personal stories and promotional moments.
The conversation between Art and Larry Wilson continues to delve into the intersection of biblical prophecy and scientific understanding, focusing on the imminent cataclysmic events predicted by Wilson. He reiterates his belief that two comets are destined to collide with Earth before the year 2000, one impacting the ocean to create a massive tidal wave and the other hitting a landmass, causing unprecedented devastation.
Listeners from across the country join the conversation, expressing a range of reactions from skepticism to concern. One caller from Wisconsin questions the utility of worrying about events prophesied in the Bible, suggesting that if such events are indeed biblical, there’s little to be done to prevent them. Wilson agrees but emphasizes the importance of being spiritually prepared for the return of Christ, which he believes is signaled by the events he predicts.
Another caller, Keith from Seattle, comments on the overwhelming nature of the world’s problems, including environmental pollution, nuclear waste, and natural disasters. He suggests that the multitude of dire predictions feels like “beating a dead horse,” questioning the subtlety of God’s message amid such calamities. Art shares his own unease, noting the frequent occurrence of natural disasters whenever discussions like these arise on his show.
Wilson insists on the inevitability of catastrophic events as foretold in Revelation, particularly focusing on the symbolism of the star called “Wormwood” which is mentioned in Revelation 8:11. This star, upon impact, is said to poison a third of the Earth’s water sources, leading to widespread death from contaminated water. The name “Wormwood” is derived from ancient texts, symbolizing divine retribution through the poisoning of water as a consequence of apostasy.
The conversation also touches upon the scientific community’s efforts to predict and potentially avert such catastrophic asteroid impacts. Wilson acknowledges these efforts but views them through a fatalistic lens, suggesting that if these events are indeed prophesied, they may be inevitable regardless of human intervention. This perspective raises questions about the role of science in the face of prophesied destiny and the tension between human agency and divine will.
Listeners contribute to the dialogue with inquiries about the specifics of the prophecies and the implications for the planet. One caller from Kansas City introduces the topic of the asteroid being metaphorically named “Wormwood,” drawing parallels to its biblical significance and questioning whether this event is visible and forewarned or will come as a surprise.
Larry Wilson elucidates on the sequence of events predicted in Revelation, beginning with natural disasters that precede the sounding of the trumpets. Wilson emphasizes that these events are not just random occurrences but are divinely orchestrated as part of a dramatic rescue plan by God. He distinguishes between the salvation of those who live by faith and the mere religious adherence, suggesting that true faith, rather than religious identity, is what will be recognized in times of judgment.
Listeners continue to engage with questions, highlighting concerns about specific prophecies such as the destruction of Babylon and the sequence of cataclysmic events. One caller speculates about a future asteroid mission and its potential implications for Earth, while another inquires about the order in which the predicted disasters will unfold. Wilson responds by detailing the expected sequence, starting with global disturbances followed by meteoric showers, asteroid impacts, and finally, volcanic eruptions along the Ring of Fire. This detailed account underscores the gravity of the predicted events and their potential impact on humanity.
Wilson’s discussion also touches on recent scientific reconsiderations regarding the possibility of a global earthquake, a concept that was once dismissed by seismologists but is now deemed plausible due to the understanding of Earth’s tectonic and molten core dynamics. This convergence of scientific discovery with biblical prophecy adds a layer of credibility to Wilson’s claims, bridging the gap between faith and science.
The conversation deepens into the interpretation of the Book of Revelation and its implications for the modern world, as discussed by Larry Wilson and Art Bell, with input from callers. Wilson elaborates on the predicted cataclysmic events and their alignment with both scientific observations and biblical prophecy. One notable point is the discussion of a recent earthquake that occurred in Colombia, South America, which was felt all the way into Canada, marking it as one of the first earthquakes to move an entire hemisphere, suggesting the possibility of global seismic activity as foretold in Revelation.
Callers contribute varied perspectives, questioning the timeline of the tribulation, the significance of events like the battle of Jerusalem and Armageddon, and the validity of setting specific dates for prophesied events. Wilson clarifies his stance on the duration of the tribulation, suggesting it to be shorter than the commonly believed seven years, and discusses the specific time periods mentioned in the Bible, which he believes reveal a larger pattern of prophecy.
The conversation also touches on the ethical and spiritual implications of prophecy, with callers and Art expressing concerns about the impact of date-setting on faith and the interpretation of good versus evil within a religious context. This leads to a broader discussion on the nature of salvation, the criteria for being saved, and the potential for eternal consequences based on belief and faith.
Wilson’s perspective on the end times, based on his interpretation of the Bible, particularly the Book of Revelation, has evidently struck a chord with both Art and his listeners. The discussion touched upon the inevitability of prophesied events, the moral judgment of humanity, and the potential for salvation beyond religious denominations or practices.
Art shares his personal struggle with religion and its role in understanding such prophetic messages. He mentions his attempt to balance the various viewpoints presented on his show by introducing a biblical perspective through Wilson. However, rather than providing a counterbalance, Art finds that Wilson’s insights have reinforced the overarching theme of an inevitable cataclysmic event, further complicating his contemplation of faith, science, and destiny.
Listeners’ calls added to the complexity of the discussion, with one caller emphasizing the importance of personal and spiritual preparedness in the face of prophetic warnings. Another caller questioned the practice of setting dates for prophetic events, which has historically led to confusion and disillusionment among believers. Wilson defended his approach by discussing the specific time periods mentioned in the Bible, suggesting that these timelines offer a pattern that can help understand the unfolding of end-time events.
As the conversation concludes, Art grapples with the implications of the discussion, pondering the power of science versus the determinism of prophecy. He muses on the nature of cometary impacts as sudden, unforeseen events that could align with Wilson’s predictions. Despite his reservations about the certainty of such prophecies, Art acknowledges the importance of exploring these themes, recognizing the value of confronting unsettling questions about humanity’s future.
Art Bell, reflecting on his recent conversation with Larry Wilson, shares a mix of personal reflections and recent accolades for his radio show, “Dreamland,” highlighting its recognition as the best radio talk show in a Phoenix newspaper.
The conversation with Wilson, centered around the inevitability of prophesied catastrophic events and the spiritual readiness required for such times, leaves Art contemplating the intersection of religion, prophecy, and the role of good versus evil in the cosmic scheme. Despite the divergence of topics, from the complexity of biblical prophecy to the stability of the telephone company, there’s an underlying current of seeking understanding in a rapidly changing world.
Art’s musings on the telephone company’s split serve as a metaphor for broader societal changes and the quest for solidity in an era of uncertainty. This reflection on the past, juxtaposed with the discussion of impending apocalyptic events, underscores a yearning for stability amidst the unknown.
Art Bell transitions from discussing his recent conversation with Larry Wilson to a broader range of topics, including the O.J. Simpson trial, political insights regarding Colin Powell’s potential presidential candidacy, and the situation in Bosnia. He expresses his concerns about the unpredictable nature of political and natural events and their impact on society.
The discussion on Colin Powell highlights public interest and speculation about Powell’s political alignment and potential impact on future elections, underscoring the public’s desire for change. Art’s reflection on Powell’s poll numbers versus public knowledge about him points to a broader dissatisfaction with the current political landscape and a yearning for new leadership.
The segment also touches on international issues, specifically the situation in Bosnia, where the UN’s decision to suspend bombing due to Serbian compliance brings temporary relief but leaves unresolved tensions and the prospect of American involvement to enforce peace. Art questions the effectiveness of such interventions, predicting that they may not lead to lasting peace due to underlying ethnic and territorial conflicts.
Art Bell navigates through various topics, from local issues like a surprising snowstorm in Denver affecting both the city’s infrastructure and Clinton and Gore’s travel plans, to broader discussions about the sense of unease permeating the public consciousness. A caller from Denver describes the unexpected heavy snowfall and its consequences, highlighting the unpredictable nature of weather and its impact on daily life. This leads to a discussion about emergency preparedness, with Art recommending solar-powered emergency equipment, underscoring the importance of being prepared for unforeseen events.
The conversation then shifts to a more personal note, with Art discussing the overwhelming response to his book offer and his decision to extend the opportunity for autographs due to high demand. This reveals Art’s commitment to his audience and his willingness to connect with listeners on a personal level, even when faced with logistical challenges.
A caller from Oakland brings up the topic of prophecy and religion, questioning the validity of prophecy as an indicator of the truth of any particular religion. This conversation touches on the diversity of religious beliefs and the randomness of historical developments that have led to the predominance of certain religious figures and teachings.
Art then poses a thought experiment to his audience, asking what they would do if they were in the position of God, looking down on the current state of the world. This question prompts listeners to consider the responsibility of divinity and the complex choices faced by an omnipotent being in addressing the challenges and behaviors of humanity.
Further discussions include a caller from Portland expressing skepticism about religious exclusivity in salvation and the fate of good people outside specific religious confessions. This leads to a broader conversation about inclusivity, morality, and the fairness of divine judgment.
Art also addresses a controversial custody case in Texas, highlighting issues of language, culture, and judicial overreach. This case sparks a debate about the importance of bilingual education, the value of cultural heritage, and the limits of governmental authority in personal and familial decisions.
Art Bell delves into a disturbing story about a break-in at a mortuary in Los Angeles, where the perpetrators committed acts that highlight a disturbing side of humanity. This story underscores Art’s broader contemplation of the state of mankind and the societal and ethical decay that seems to pervade modern life.
Art reflects on the Unabomber’s critique of modern technology, questioning the role of technological advancement in societal degradation. He argues against the notion that technology itself is to blame for social ills, suggesting instead that the root causes of moral decline lie elsewhere. This perspective invites listeners to consider the complex interplay between technological progress and human behavior.
The discussion shifts to politics, with a focus on Colin Powell’s potential candidacy and its implications for the Republican Party and the upcoming election. Art and his callers debate Powell’s political positions, comparing him to other figures like Walter Mondale, Mike Dukakis, and Pete Wilson, and discussing the ideological purity expected by delegates at political conventions. This conversation reflects the political polarization and the challenges of finding candidates who align with the party’s core values while appealing to a broader electorate.
Art Bell revisits the theme of the “quickening,” a term he uses to describe the acceleration of societal, technological, and environmental changes that seem to be leading toward significant, perhaps even cataclysmic, transformations.
A caller from Alaska brings up Colin Powell’s commentary on race relations and the controversial figure Mark Fuhrman, juxtaposing it with the actions of Colin Ferguson, a black man who committed a mass shooting. This conversation leads to a broader discussion on race relations in America, with Art acknowledging the complexities and challenges inherent in these dynamics. He suggests that incidents of racial violence and prejudice, regardless of the perpetrator’s or victim’s race, are symptomatic of broader societal issues that need to be addressed.
Art reflects on the notion of leadership and responsibility, pondering how figures like Colin Powell address and interpret the state of race relations and societal morality. He expresses concern about the hardening of attitudes and the worsening of race relations, viewing these as part of the “quickening” phenomena affecting all aspects of human life.
The conversation then shifts to a discussion of the Book of Revelation and its prophetic contents, with a caller mentioning the ten kings who give their power to the beast, suggesting parallels between biblical prophecies and current global political and military dynamics. This leads to contemplation on the nature of warfare and the moral implications of conflicts like the Persian Gulf War, where the suffering of ordinary people contrasts sharply with the untouched status of leaders like Saddam Hussein.
Art Bell engages with a caller named Charles from California, who expresses frustration with “end of the world” proponents, particularly those with a religious bent. Charles criticizes the focus on apocalyptic themes and the neglect of forward-thinking, solution-oriented discussions. He advocates for addressing the challenges of the future, especially for the sake of the next generation, rather than succumbing to fear and ignorance.
The conversation shifts to a disturbing story out of Los Angeles involving two men who broke into a mortuary and committed acts of necrophilia. This story serves as a springboard for broader discussion about the state of human morality and the progression or regression of societal norms over time. Charles acknowledges that while humanity has made progress in areas like abolishing slavery, there has been regression in others. He challenges the notion that the end of the world is imminent based on such incidents, arguing instead for a balanced view of human history that recognizes both advancements and setbacks.
Art raises another troubling incident involving two young girls and a violent altercation over a Barbie doll, further illustrating his concern about the apparent decline in social morality. Charles counters by highlighting historical instances of violence and barbarism, suggesting that such behavior is not new but perhaps more visible in today’s society.
The discussion shifts to a consideration of humanity’s inherent dual nature, capable of both barbarism and profound positive change. Art acknowledges the historical presence of barbarism but expresses concern that the scale and irrational nature of contemporary societal issues seem to be worsening. He admits to feeling melancholy and reflective, attributing his mood to the barrage of negative news and the challenges of grappling with these issues on air.
A caller from California, expressing frustration with the focus on apocalyptic predictions, argues for a more balanced view of human history, acknowledging both the progress made and the atrocities committed. This discussion highlights the dual nature of humanity and the choices that will shape the future.
Art, while appreciating the caller’s optimism, shares his own observations and concerns about the current state of society. He notes an increase in irrational and barbaric behaviors and questions whether these are signs of societal decline. Art’s melancholy mood reflects his struggle to reconcile the news he covers with his belief in a higher power and the potential for human goodness.
A pastor from Spokane calls in, attempting to offer Art spiritual comfort. She emphasizes the sweetness of experiencing God’s love, a sentiment Art respects but finds difficult to fully embrace. He explains his need for tangible evidence before he can commit to faith, highlighting his struggle with accepting religious beliefs amidst the troubling news stories he encounters.
Art and his callers explore the concept of the “quickening” and the signs of the times, considering whether societal deterioration could continue indefinitely, potentially leading to a future where the living envy the dead. These discussions touch on the role of faith, the importance of addressing social issues, and the possibility of change, either toward further degradation or improvement.
Art Bell continues his deep dive into societal issues, reflecting on a particularly distressing year in the realm of news and societal behavior. He expresses a sense of dismay at the increasing frequency of irrational and barbaric incidents, highlighting a story from Los Angeles as emblematic of the depths to which humanity can sink. This leads to a broader conversation about the state of society, with Art and his callers exploring themes of moral decay, societal cycles, and the potential for regeneration.
A caller introduces the idea of cycles in generational behavior, suggesting that society might be at a low point similar to previous historical periods of turmoil, but with the potential for improvement as these cycles progress. This perspective offers a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness, proposing that the current state of societal dysfunction might not be permanent.
However, Art remains concerned about the impact of current societal trends on the younger generation. He points to disturbing incidents involving young people as indicative of a deep-seated moral and ethical crisis that threatens the future. The discussion touches on the potential for societal regeneration but acknowledges the challenges posed by a seeming increase in willingness among individuals to commit heinous acts.
A caller speculates that today’s seemingly debauched and valueless younger generation will evolve into the pragmatic and resilient leaders of tomorrow, capable of addressing the challenges ahead. This perspective offers a counterpoint to the evening’s darker themes, suggesting that the current cycle of societal issues may give rise to a generation equipped to handle future crises.
However, Art remains cautious, expressing his worries about the direction society is heading and the impact on future generations. Another caller from Leavenworth, Kansas, seeks contact information for a previous guest, highlighting the engagement and interest of Art’s audience in the topics discussed on his show.
The conversation shifts briefly to frustrations with the telecommunications industry, reflecting broader societal concerns about the fragmentation and reliability of essential services. This segues into a symbolic moment where the last caller of the night bids “Good night, America,” from Kansas, offering a moment of national solidarity and reflection.
As Art closes the show, he acknowledges the complexity of the issues discussed, leaving listeners with a mix of apprehension and cautious optimism.