Tag: John 10:27

Light in the Last Days – Day 49

On By KateIn Devotionals, Light in the Last DaysLeave a comment

The Different Views of the Rapture

Establishing a defense for the Pre-Tribulation Rapture begins with a clear understanding of how it differs from the alternative viewpoints. At the heart of these lies the element of prophetic timing. To understand why timing is crucial, consider a family member or close friend traveling from far away. Your anticipation fuels your preparation: you stock the pantry, clean the house, and clear your schedule. Similarly, our view on the timing of Christ coming at the Rapture shapes the urgency and nature of our being “ready.”

So let’s cover the different views and see where this takes us. There are four viewpoints when it comes to the Rapture. They are:

  1. Pre-Tribulation (imminent – no prophecy needs to be fulfilled – it can happen at any time)
  2. Mid-Tribulation (half-way through the Tribulation at the 1,260 day mark)
  3. Pre-Wrath (at the sixth seal judgment)
  4. Post-Tribulation (after the Tribulation at the 2,520 day mark)

Let’s start by exploring the Pre-Tribulation position, as its unique characteristics serve as an excellent lens through which to view the entire prophetic landscape. Jesus beautifully captured the “spirit” of this watchful expectation in the Parable of the Ten Virgins. By looking at this story first, we can better appreciate the ‘blessed hope’ of a Saviour who calls His people to a state of perpetual readiness and joy.

Matthew 25:1-13  Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom.  (2)  And five of them were wise, and five were foolish.  (3)  They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them:  (4)  But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.  (5)  While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.  (6)  And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.  (7)  Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps.  ( 8 )  And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out.  (9)  But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.  (10)  And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.  (11)  Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.  (12)  But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.  (13)  Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.

Pre-Tribulation

This parable offers a stunning portrait of the Bride in quiet anticipation of her Groom. Within the story, we encounter ten virgins; while all possessed lamps, five are described in verses 2–3 as ‘foolish’ because they neglected to bring oil. In scripture, oil serves a dual purpose: it provides light for the journey and signifies the sacred act of anointing for a divine task. This oil stands as a powerful symbol of the Holy Spirit. We find evidence of this connection in:

Isaiah 61:1  The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound;

Acts 10:38  How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.

The oil held by the wise virgins signifies the Holy Spirit, whom they received upon being born again. This is the same spiritual anointing and seal given to every believer as a guarantee of their salvation in Jesus Christ. Because they possessed this ‘oil’ of the Spirit, they were prepared for the Rapture in a way the foolish virgins were not.

Ephesians 1:13  In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,

Ephesians 4:30  And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

In contrast, the foolish virgins lacked oil entirely. While some argue that having a lamp implies they must have possessed oil at some point, verse 4 clarifies the distinction: only the wise specifically took oil with their lamps. This group of ten represents those who outwardly claim to be part of the Bride. When the cry rang out that the Bridegroom was coming, all ten arose and trimmed their lamps, yet five remained empty. We see this reflected in our modern churches: many individuals ‘play’ church, performing religious works and carrying the ‘lamp’ of profession without ever possessing the true oil of the Holy Spirit. Only the wise, those truly sealed by the Spirit, carry the internal proof required for the day of redemption.

Let’s dig deeper into why the five foolish virgins were clearly not among the redeemed. While they were away at the market attempting to buy oil, the Groom arrived. Think about it: a groom doesn’t just ‘sort of’ know his bride; he recognizes her the moment she appears at the end of the aisle. Our Bridegroom, Jesus Christ, is no different. In verse 10, the true Bride enters the marriage feast and the door is firmly shut. When the foolish virgins finally return and beg for entrance, the Groom’s response is bone-chilling. It should serve as a powerful wake-up call, especially for those who haven’t considered the Pre-Tribulation perspective.

Matthew 25:12  But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.

The Scripture is clear: ‘The Lord knoweth them that are His’ (2 Timothy 2:19). This recognition is the center and foundation of our security. It isn’t based on outward religious performance or the ‘lamp’ of a public profession, but on the seal of the Holy Spirit, who is God. Because He is the one who began the work of salvation in us, He is intimately acquainted with every soul that has been bought by His blood.

John 10:2-5  But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.  (3)  To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.  (4)  And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.  (5)  And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.

John 10:27  My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:

Jesus knows His own with a depth that goes beyond human understanding!! He calls us EACH of us by name. Therefore, when He shuts the door and tells the foolish virgins He does not KNOW them, His reaction is absolute: they did not know His grace. This moment in the parable strips away the facade of the five who carried lamps but no oil, revealing that they were never truly His. Their being left out wasn’t a mistake of timing, but a matter of identity.

A cornerstone of the Pre-Tribulation viewpoint is the doctrine of imminency. This means that Christ’s return for His Bride is not dependent on any prior signs or prophetic milestones; it truly can happen at any moment. While Scripture allows us to discern the ‘seasons’ and the general atmosphere of the end times, the specific day and hour remain unknown; a secret if you will. This ‘any-moment’ expectation is what keeps the believer in a state of constant, joyful readiness.

Mark 13:32-33 But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father. (33) Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.

1Thessalonians 4:17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

Luke 21:28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.

Luke 12:40  Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.

The Rapture itself is a time of anticipation for all believers. The Church longs for the day, and even more so as we see the end times unfolding. Many believers today are saying they have that “feeling” that Jesus could return for His Bride any day now!

Romans 8:19-23 For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. (20)  For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, (21) Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. (22) For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. (23) And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.

While the Rapture could happen at any moment, the Second Coming is scheduled for the end of the Tribulation. Scripture provides a clear roadmap for this event, specifically in Matthew 24 and the middle chapters of Revelation. Because we know this return takes place at the end of a seven-year period marked by specific prophetic signs, it lacks the ‘any-moment’ element of surprise. In fact, according to the Jewish calendar, Christ’s Second Coming will occur exactly 2,520 days from the signing of the covenant in Daniel 9:27. We may not know the exact hour, but those who get saved after the Rapture will know the exact day. We know exactly when the clock runs out: at the final close of the Great Tribulation.

We will cover the next viewpoint in the next post. Are you ready for the Rapture? You must be born again in order to participate, no matter what viewpoint you hold. Friend, if you are not born again, it is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved if you are not already. Don’t you want to be a part of the Church when she is raptured into the clouds to meet Jesus? (1 Thessalonians 4:17) Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Light in the Last Days – Day 20

On By KateIn Devotionals, Light in the Last DaysLeave a comment
Photography by Bonnie Cipriani

Matthew 25:2-13  And five of them were wise, and five were foolish.  (3)  They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them:  (4)  But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.  (5)  While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.  (6)  And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.  (7)  Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps.  ( 8 )  And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out.  (9)  But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.  (10)  And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.  (11)  Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.  (12)  But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.  (13)  Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.

I have always found the history of weddings fascinating, but nothing compares to the beauty of a traditional Jewish Galilean wedding as seen in Scripture and historical records. When you study the parallels between these ancient customs and the relationship between Jesus and His Church, the spiritual insights are truly profound. If you are born again, diving into this study will surely bring you as much joy and reason to rejoice as it has for me!

Through the story of the wedding feast, Jesus gives us a beautiful yet sobering lesson on readiness. As you read these words again, try to picture the scene in your heart. It’s a call to examine our own lamps and ensure we are prepared for that glorious moment when He finally arrives.

I truly believe this story points directly to the Rapture! When we see oil mentioned in the Bible, it almost always refers to the Holy Spirit. It’s a beautiful reminder that just as oil was used to set people apart for God’s work, we are anointed by the Spirit upon salvation. He dwells within us eternally, a constant presence that will never depart. Can I get an amen?

1 John 2:27  But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.

Looking at this parable, we see ten virgins, yet only five are ready for the Bridegroom. Why the difference? It all comes down to the oil. The five wise virgins possessed the Holy Spirit (the oil), while the five foolish ones did not. These foolish virgins represent people who may identify as Christians outwardly but have never been truly born again. They carry the ‘lamp’ of religion but lack the ‘oil’ of the Spirit’s indwelling presence. Their lack of salvation is confirmed by the Lord’s own words in verse 12:

Matthew 25:12  But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.

John 10:27  My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:

Jesus is clear: He has no relationship with the foolish virgins. He only recognizes those who are born again and sealed with the Holy Spirit. To be ‘known’ by Him is the defining mark of a true follower!

Now, let’s consider the five wise virgins, who represent the Church. They possess both their lamps—symbolizing their role as the light of the world—and their oil, which represents the Holy Spirit. When the Bridegroom arrives for His Church, the contrast becomes clear: the five foolish virgins, lacking the indwelling of the Holy Spirit that comes through true salvation, were caught unprepared. By the time they attempted to find oil and return, they found the door firmly shut, and Jesus issued that staggering response: He did not know them. It is a sobering reminder of the necessity of a genuine spiritual foundation.

Revelation 3:10  Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.

Revelation 4:1  After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.

Can you picture the scene in churches across the world immediately following the Rapture? Imagine the shock of those left behind as they realize their pews are empty and they have missed this glorious event because they weren’t truly born again. They will face the horrific judgments of the Tribulation and the soul-defining choice of whether to take the Mark of the Beast. Even those who find salvation during this time must still endure these global catastrophes, facing martyrdom or a desperate life of survival underground. With so much at stake, why would anyone delay their decision for Christ?

Coming from a Catholic background, I hadn’t heard of the Rapture before finding Christ. But once I was saved, the excitement of being included in that blessed event changed everything for me. It is a heavy thought to realize how many people are choosing the world’s way over the free salvation and personal relationship the Lord offers us today.

If you aren’t sure of your salvation, let this be a turning point for you. It’s no accident that you’ve found this message today. God is reaching out to you in this very moment, providing an opportunity for you to be born again and secure your place with Him eternally. Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Do Not Be Afraid – Day 4

On By KateIn Devotionals, Do Not Be AfraidLeave a comment

Matthew 14:26-33 And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.  (27)  But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.  (28)  And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.  (29)  And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.  (30)  But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.  (31)  And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?  (32)  And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased.  (33)  Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.

Anyone who has spent time reading the Bible can give you the account of Peter walking on the water in order to meet Jesus. When Peter took his eyes off Jesus and looked around at his surroundings, he began to sink, which teaches us of the profound impact distractions can have on our faith. There is a terrific message in that alone, reminding us of the importance of maintaining our focus on the Lord amidst life’s storms. However, today’s encouragement to not be afraid lies deeper in the moment when the disciples thought Jesus was a “spirit.” The lesson here for me today is how to carefully discern and recognize when a teaching is truly of the Lord or influenced by another “spirit”! Born again believers do not have to be afraid to be misled or confused, as we have the assurance of the Holy Spirit who resides within each believer. He speaks to us gently, warning us when something “isn’t right,” encouraging us to seek truth and clarity. God gave us His Word, a timeless guide, so that we can recognize false teaching, and the Holy Spirit confirms it within us, and provides us with a deep sense of peace and assurance in our hearts. This blessed guidance allows us to navigate our spiritual journey with confidence, knowing that we will not be misled in our quest for truth and understanding. The Lord knows who are His and will not feed us the garbage of this world when we can have the pure and living water of His Word.

John 10:8 All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them.

John 10:27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:

Furthermore, there is no need to fear being misled because we have the Spirit of the Living God dwelling within us, a Holy presence that offers us strength and clarity in our moments of doubt. He guides and comforts us when we are going through the tumultuous waves of life, lighting our path and providing comfort and peace during our most challenging times. As we navigate the storms that life inevitably brings, we can rest assured that His wisdom will lead us toward hope and peace, enabling us to overcome our circumstances and find purpose in our struggles. It is here that we can trust that the Spirit who lives within us is with us every step of the way.

John 14:17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.

Do you know Christ as your Saviour? If you happened upon this post today and you are not certain whether or not you would go to Heaven when you die, please follow this link and the Bible verses will guide you to salvation!

Is Your Testimony An Irritation?

On By KateIn Devotionals, Hymns for TodayLeave a comment

Have you ever thought about where your footprints have been? When you picture yourself walking on the beach and you look back, you see where you’ve been, the memories of each step revealing stories of joy, sorrow, and everything in between. As well, have you ever thought about what you were thinking with each of those footsteps? Were you contemplating the beauty of nature surrounding you, or perhaps how to share Christ with that co-worker? Were you focused on your grocery list, planning meals for the week? I know I wouldn’t be able to tell you every thought that crossed my mind during those moments. One thing I DO know about walking on rough terrain is the pain and aggravation of the tiniest pebble getting into my shoe! It’s remarkable how something so small can disrupt your journey. Just as an oyster develops a pearl from a grain of sand irritating it, so can the tiniest pebble create a painful blister.

But let’s look at this pebble with different eyes for a moment. The Lord impressed upon my heart, asking me if my testimony to others produces a pearl or a blister? Is my testimony loud and clear to someone who is seeking the Lord, possibly creating a pearl? Or am I standing in God’s way, being the annoying pebble and hindering someone from coming to salvation! We have all heard that our actions speak louder than words at times. I would hate to be the cause of someone not coming to salvation. I can remember the first few times I went to church as a believer, I was easily distracted by others’ movements or them whispering to their spouse. I lost my concentration and all I could do was focus on the distraction. Has this happened to you as well? Now slip that shoe onto the other foot and imagine if you are the one distracting someone who is seeking!

1 Peter 2:21-22  For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:  (22)  Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:

Jesus, however, was flawless! Although His footsteps walked rugged ground, nowhere is it recorded that He complained. The outcome of each of his walks was to preach the Gospel of His Kingdom. He created no distractions but each word was thoughtfully planned and spoken to reach the center of the heart! What a beautiful lesson for us. Following in Christ’s footsteps is not an easy task but one that we can learn as we grow in Him. His Holy Spirit guides and leads us in the direction we need to go. The Spirit also gives us the words so that we don’t muddy the waters with our own opinions. We sure do see a LOT of that today, don’t we? Today’s hymn is sweet! It’s a gentle reminder that no matter where we walk with the Lord, on mountains or valleys, we are there for a purpose.

Footprints of Jesus – By M.B.C. Slade (1871)

1 Sweetly, Lord, have we heard Thee calling,
“Come, follow Me!”
And we see where Thy footprints falling,
lead us to Thee.

Refrain:
Footprints of Jesus that make the pathway glow;
we will follow the steps of Jesus where’er they go.

2 Though they lead o’er the cold dark mountains,
seeking His sheep,
or along by Siloam’s fountains,
helping the weak. [Refrain]

3 If they lead through the temple holy,
preaching the Word,
or in homes of the poor and lowly,
serving the Lord. [Refrain]

4 Then at last, when on high He sees us,
our journey done,
we will rest where the steps of Jesus
end at His throne. [Refrain]

What is your purpose, Reader? Will you walk down that road chosen by God for you, and be like the irritating pebble, complaining about your lot? Or will you stick close to the Saviour and have a testimony that will cause the observer to become a pearl as a result?

Colossians 2:6-7  As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:  (7)  Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.

John 10:27  My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:

If you have come upon this blog by accident, I pray you have found solace and peace here. If you want to walk with Christ and learn His ways, follow this link and be saved. Being born again means you will have a new life; your sins will be forgiven … all of them … no matter how vile or how bad they are! Trust in Christ!

The Bridegroom, the Church, and the Rapture

On By KateIn Any Day Now, DevotionalsLeave a comment

Mat 25:2-13  And five of them were wise, and five were foolish.  (3)  They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them:  (4)  But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.  (5)  While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.  (6)  And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.  (7)  Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps.  ( 8 )  And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out.  (9)  But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.  (10)  And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.  (11)  Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.  (12)  But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.  (13)  Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.

How many of you love weddings? I surely do! I especially enjoy reading the history of weddings. I especially love Jewish weddings from the Scriptures and Jewish historical documents. To get a full blessing, you should study the Jewish wedding as compared to Jesus and His church.  If you’re born again, you will be rejoicing as much as I am!

Jesus gave us the parable of the wedding story in the above Scriptures in order to for us to make sure that we are ready for His unknown arriving. Re-read the Scriptures and picture this event in your mind.

I truly believe this is a story about the Rapture of the Church! The act of anointing with oil in the Scriptures usually refers to the Holy Spirit. They would anoint someone to send them out to the mission field. The Christian is anointed with the Holy Spirit upon salvation and He dwells within us never more to leave us, amen?

1 Jn 2:27  But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.

Let’s pick apart and dissect this portion of Scripture. In this parable of the ten virgins, we see that half are ready while the other half are not. The significant detail of why they are not ready is because half of them had oil (the Holy Spirit) for their lamps and the other half didn’t. The Scriptures refer to them as five foolish virgins and five wise ones. The five that were foolish took their lamps to meet the bridegroom but they didn’t have any oil. They had to leave the five wise virgins to go get some oil. These are symbolic of people who call themselves “Christians” but they are Christians in name only: they are the not saved. They have not been born again and do not have the Holy Spirit dwelling within them (symbolized by the oil). How do I know that they are not born again? Verse 12 in this parable gives us a clear answer:

Mat 25:12  But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.

Joh 10:27  My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:

Jesus, Himself, says that He does not know these five foolish virgins so they cannot be born-again believers! Jesus knows those who follow Him and have the Holy Spirit, who resides within every born-again believer!

Rom 8:9  But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

1Co 3:16  Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?

1Co 6:19  What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?

Now let’s discuss the five wise virgins (the Church) who have their lamps (they are the light of the world) and their oil (the Holy Spirit). At the moment the Bridegroom comes for His Church, the foolish five virgins who didn’t have oil in their lamps (the Holy Spirit is the result of salvation) were not ready for His coming and when they returned from getting oil, the door was shut to them and Jesus said He knew them not. Wow! The same thing occurs in a Jewish Galilean wedding. When the groom comes to get his bride, he takes her to his father’s house and the door is shut.

Rev 3:10  Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.

Rev 4:1  After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.

Can you imagine what it will be like after the Rapture when people go to church, and the people who are normally in attendance are no longer there? One of those could even be the pastor! Can you imagine when a person comes to the realization that he was not truly born again and totally missed the Rapture? That opportunity no longer exists and the future looks grim for them. That person will have to go through the awful judgments of the Tribulation! Even worse, whatever the Mark of the Beast turns out to be, anyone who takes it is doomed to spend eternity in the Lake of Fire. (see Revelation 13:17, 14:9, 14:11, 16:2, 19:20, 20:4)

Those entering the Tribulation period will have to make a choice of whether or not he will take the Mark of the Beast! If that person gets saved, he will have to go through the Tribulation even though he is saved! He will suffer the judgments and may even have to be martyred for Christ or go underground struggling to survive. (see Revelation 6:9) Why would one delay accepting Christ? The god of this world has blinded them and deceived them into thinking there is no god. The distractions placed before them keep them from hearing that still small voice of the Holy Spirit calling them to salvation.

I was raised catholic so I never heard of the Rapture before I was saved; but you can be sure that I was very excited to get saved so I would be included in that blessed event! It is very scary to think that many would rather choose to live in sin like the rest of the world rather than getting to know the Lord personally and accept His free salvation!

To the one who is not saved, this could be your story. Friend, it is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved. Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

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Any Day Now – Day 50

On By KateIn Any Day Now, DevotionalsLeave a comment

Let’s review the different views of the Rapture. All but one of them involve Bible prophecy’s timing. Why is timing so important? If you were expecting your parents to come visit from 3,000 miles, you would be looking forward to it. You would be preparing the guest room, making plans to take them places, as well as planning meals.

Different views:

  1. Pre-Tribulation (imminent – no prophecy needs to be fulfilled – it can happen at any time)
  2. Mid-Tribulation (half-way through the Tribulation at the 1,260 day mark)
  3. Pre-Wrath (at the sixth seal judgment)
  4. Post-Tribulation (after the Tribulation at the 2,520 day mark)

Today we are going to cover the viewpoint that says the Rapture will occur in the middle of the seven-year Tribulation period.

Mid Tribulation

The Mid-Tribulation Rapture viewpoint believes that the rapture will occur at the last trumpet of the 7 trumpet judgments of Revelation 11. This belief says that the Church will live through the first three and a half years of the Tribulation.

Why do you think they believe that? They interpret Paul’s description in 1 Corinthians 15:52 “the last trump” to be the last trumpet of the judgment.

1Co 15:52  In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.

However, the trumpets of Revelation are judgment trumpets. There is nothing good about any of the seven trumpets. There is no blessed hope in them as they all involve judgment. Let’s take a look at them in Revelation chapters 8, 9 and 11:

  1. Trumpet #1 – Revelation 8:2 says that these trumpets were given to angels. Verse 6 tells us that it is the angels who will sound these trumpets. However we see here: 1Th 4:16-18  For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:  (17)  Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.  (18)  Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
  1. The Lord Himself is the one who shouts and the Lord has the trump OF GOD. The Word says that “the trump of God,” which is a call of grace, calling the Church home. It is not a trump of judgment. This is the only time we see the phrase, “trump of God,” used in the Scriptures, both Old Testament and New Testament. It is not one of judgment. The first trumpet judgment brings hail and fire mingled with blood and one third of the trees and grass are destroyed.
  2. The second trumpet in verse 8 destroys one third of sea life and ships on the seas.
  3. The third trumpet in verse 10 destroys one third of the rivers and fountains of water and poisons them.
  4. The fourth trumpet in verse 12 darkens one third of the sun, moon and stars.
  5. The fifth trumpet in 9:1 releases the first woe which opens the bottomless pit and the horrible effects of the demonic locusts.
  6. The sixth trumpet in verse 13 makes releases the second woe which releases the four angels bound in the Euphrates who kill one third of all mankind. It is here where the Two Prophets preach and do miracles.
  7. The seventh trumpet is found in 11:15 which reveals Christ’s reign to come.

Lastly, the seven trumpet judgments do not contain the last trumpet in Revelation. The last trumpet was spoken of by Jesus and is actually found in Matthew 24:31 where Jesus sends his angels out to gather his elect “from one end of HEAVEN to the other” at his Second Coming.

Mat 24:31  And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.

This verse refers to Christ’s Second Coming to earth with His Bride. This trumpet is used to sound a call to the Bride to gather together with Him for the final battle.

So we can see that there is no comfort in this viewpoint as pointed out in Paul’s writings about the Rapture:

1Thess 4:18  Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

1Thess 5:11  Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

The comfort for the Bride, the Church, is knowing that we will be spared the Trumpet Judgments. Judgment is for those who have not received Christ as their Saviour. Judgment is for those who disobeyed God’s Word:

Ephesians 2:2  Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:

Ephesians 5:6  Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.

Colossians 3:6  For which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience:

Rom 8:1  There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

Now let’s look at the timing of the Mid-Tribulation Rapture viewpoint.

Mat 24:36  But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.

Mat 24:50  The lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of,

Mat 25:13  Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.

Mar 13:32  But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.

Luk 12:46  The lord of that servant will come in a day when he looketh not for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in sunder, and will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers.

Notice that NO ONE knows the day or the hour of Christ’s return for His Bride. When the Father tells His Son to go get His Bride, it will be like the Parable of the Ten Virgins. Five had oil (the Holy Spirit) and five did not. The five who were sealed unto the day of redemption went into the marriage and the door was shut. (Matthew 25:10) This privilege was for the Church as shown us in Revelation 3:7:

Rev 3:7  And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth;

The door to Heaven is the Shepherd’s door for His sheep; the sheep who knew His voice. The sheep that He knew by name. (John 10:3, 27) Once we are raptured, that door is shut by Christ alone, the Bridegroom. No man can open that door after it is shut. This privilege is given to the Church (the Philadelphia Church). They will witness from Heaven all the judgments which will come upon the earth.

Rev 4:1  After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.

We will cover the next viewpoint in the next post. Are you ready for the Rapture? You must be born again in order to participate, no matter what viewpoint you hold. Friend, if you are not born again, it is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved if you are not already. Don’t you want to be a part of the Church when she is raptured into the clouds to meet Jesus? (1 Thessalonians 4:17) Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Any Day Now – Day 20

On By KateIn Any Day Now, DevotionalsLeave a comment
Photography by Bonnie Cipriani

Mat 25:2-13  And five of them were wise, and five were foolish.  (3)  They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them:  (4)  But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.  (5)  While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.  (6)  And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.  (7)  Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps.  ( 8 )  And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out.  (9)  But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.  (10)  And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.  (11)  Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.  (12)  But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.  (13)  Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.

Good morning, Reader! How many of you love weddings? I surely do! I especially enjoy reading the history of weddings; and I especially love Jewish weddings from the Scriptures and Jewish historical documents. To get a full blessing, you should study the Jewish wedding as compared to Jesus and His church.  If you’re born again, you will be rejoicing as much as I am!

Jesus gave us the parable of the wedding story in the above Scriptures in order to for us to make sure that we are ready for His unknown arriving. Re-read the Scriptures and picture this event in your mind.

I truly believe this is a story about the Rapture of the Church! The act of anointing with oil in the Scriptures usually refers to the Holy Spirit. They would anoint someone to send them out to the mission field. The Christian is anointed with the Holy Spirit upon salvation and He dwells within us never more to leave us, amen?

1 Jn 2:27  But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.

In this parable of the ten virgins, we see that half are ready while the other half is not. The significant detail of why they are not ready is because half of them have oil (the Holy Spirit) for their lamps and the other half do not. The Scriptures refer to them as five foolish virgins and five wise ones. The five that were foolish took their lamps to meet the bridegroom but they didn’t have any oil so they had to leave the five wise virgins to go get oil. These are symbolic of people who call themselves “Christians” but they are Christians in name only: they are the unsaved. They have not been born again and do not have the Holy Spirit dwelling within them (symbolized by the oil). How do I know that they are not born again? Verse 12 in this parable gives us the answer:

Mat 25:12  But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.

Joh 10:27  My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:

Jesus, Himself, says that He does not know these five foolish virgins! Jesus knows those who follow Him and have the Holy Spirit, which are born-again believers!

Now let’s discuss the five wise virgins (the Church) who have their lamps (they are the light of the world) and their oil (the Holy Spirit). At the moment the Bridegroom comes for His Church, the foolish five virgins who didn’t have oil in their lamps (the Holy Spirit dwelling within them as a result of salvation) were not ready for His coming and when they returned from getting oil, the door was shut to them and Jesus said He knew them not. Wow!

Rev 3:10  Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.

Rev 4:1  After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.

Can you imagine what it will be like after the Rapture when people go to church and the people who are normally in attendance are no longer there? Can you imagine when a person comes to the realization that he was not truly born again and totally missed the Rapture? That person will have to go through the awful judgments of the Tribulation! That person will have to make a choice of whether or not he will take the mark of the Beast! If that person gets saved, he will have to go through the Tribulation even though he is saved! He will suffer the judgments and may even have to be martyred for Christ or go underground struggling to survive. Why would one delay accepting Christ?

I was raised catholic so I never heard of the Rapture before I was saved; but you can be sure that I was very excited to get saved so I would be included in that blessed event! It is very scary to think that many would rather choose to live in sin like the rest of the world rather than getting to know the Lord personally and accept His free salvation!

To the one who is not saved, this could be your story. Friend, it is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved. Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!