Reply #4: More than one theory ...

[RoyGBiv]

It's not spelled out in such a way that one could argue decisively that the Temple must be rebuilt prior to the rapture, although that does seem to be the dominant theory because according to the timing in the prophecies, the temple is in existence at the time of the tribulation. The difficulty arises due to differing opinions over whether the rapture will occur at some point before the tribulation or at its beginning. At least this is what I've gotten out of listening to self-described prophecy scholars discussing the matter, so don't take my word for it.

You raise an interesting point here, though. One of the events surrounding the end-times is of course the coming of the antichrist, largely believed to be a Western political leader. The antichrist will effect a peace treaty between Arabs and Jews, which coincidentally would be necessary to lay the foundation for an agreement that would allow a literal temple to be built. So, if the Chimpster is trying to do this consciously, he's casting himself as the antichrist ... which is interesting in that this individual is a false prophet who brings millions of followers to his side with lies.

FWIW, I don't believe in a literal interpretation of these events, but I am interested in (and terrified by) self-fulfilling prophecies and those who seek to advance them.