11. What is the battle of Armageddon?

The names Gog and Magog were associated with the enemies of Israel, who were to attack God’s people and Jerusalem after the exile. Because of the people’s response, several Old Testament prophecies regarding Israel were not fulfilled (see Jeremiah 18:7-10). These prophecies will meet their fulfillment in spiritual Israel, those who keep God’s commandments because of their faith in Jesus. The mighty enemy confederation of which Ezekiel spoke, will find its fulfilment when God allows Satan and his armies of the dammed, to rise up against His people and His beloved city for the last battle in the Great Controversy. JTL27 13.1

Armageddon is the climax of the great battle of the ages between Christ and His angels, and Satan and His angels—between good and evil, truth and deception. One could suggest that the first phase of Armageddon is the attack by the dragon, the beast, and the false prophet against the commandment-keeping people of God just before their rescue at His Second Coming (see Step #22, The Remnant). The culminating phase of Armageddon is at the end of the millennium when Satan marshals his forces against the inhabitants of the Holy City. JTL27 13.2