Tag: John 14:1-4

Light in the Last Days – Day 58

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

2 Corinthians 5:17  Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Luke 9:62 And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.

What was the “something” that pulled Lot’s wife back? It’s a haunting question. We see a city of judgment, but she saw her family, her neighborhood and her daily life. That pull of nostalgia and regret is a human experience we all go through. However, as believers, there comes a point where we have to hit the brakes. We must stop the cycle of looking back and realize that what lies ahead is far more vital than what we’re leaving behind.

Becoming “born again” is more than a title; it’s a heart transplant. The barrier that once kept us in the dark is removed, and the Holy Spirit makes His home in our deepest selves. He immediately starts the work of pivoting our perspective, turning our “worldly to-do list” into a spiritual calling. As you reflect on your own life, ask yourself: what is currently taking priority in your heart?

Like Lot’s wife, many of us struggle with the pull of the past. If you find yourself distracted by what you left behind, you may be hindering the Spirit’s prodding to change you. Jesus made it clear: looking back while plowing makes one unfit for the Kingdom. It’s a matter of the heart; a heart not fully turned to God will eventually turn back to the world. Imagine trying to drive a tractor while staring out the rear window—you’ll never maintain a straight line. Progress requires a forward gaze. Lot’s wife wasn’t ignorant of the coming judgment, but her “last-ditch effort” to glimpse what she still loved ended in a tragic, final cost.

Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus. Live with your gaze toward the horizon, anticipating Christ’s return and our Blessed Hope in the Rapture. Don’t allow the heavy cares of this world to break your focus or pull you away from the work He has called you to do. Keep plowing; the harvest is near.

Titus 2:13  Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

Paul was the ultimate exhorter. If anyone had a “good” old life to miss, it was him—he had power, respect, and position as a Pharisee. But Paul didn’t look back. He used his ministry to show the brethren that the only direction for a believer is forward and up. He traded his history for a heavenly hope.

Philippians 3:13-14  Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,  (14)  I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

The world is largely unaware that, for them, this life is as good as it gets. They are living their “best life” right now. But for the born-again believer, this current life is actually the worst we will ever experience. Why? Because we know that a far greater, perfect place has been prepared for us in eternity!

John 14:1-4  Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.  (2)  In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.  (3)  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.  (4)  And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.

Romans 8:18-23  For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.  (19)  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.

Friend, unless you are born again, you cannot fully understand these verses. But to the believer, these are exciting words. They encourage us to look ahead because we know what is to come. 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 1

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

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18  But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.  (14)  For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.  (15)  For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.  (16)  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.

Could this be the day that the Rapture will occur? If you’re new to this blog and have never heard of this Rapture I write of, we’ll be taking a closer look at its meaning and what it represents to the born-again Christian. It is a message of hope and excitement to all believers who are awaiting the Lord’s return in the clouds for His bride, an exciting moment filled with anticipation and joy. The idea of the Rapture offers the believer with comfort, reminding us that we are not alone in our faith, and that a glorious reunion with our Savior awaits us!! As we dive deeper into the Scriptures, read through today’s Bible verses, and meditate on the significance, we’ll take a few days to explain and prove this event can occur at any moment, and emphasizing the urgency and importance of being spiritually prepared. Today, however, we will just cover what the word means and where it is found in the Scriptures, illuminating the biblical foundation upon which this hope stands firm.

We are seeing a great divide in Christian circles about the pre-tribulational Rapture. The topic is being ridiculed by believers, who dismiss it as a fanciful notion that could never align with reality. They are calling it a “secret” Rapture or escapism, decrying those who believe it will happen before the Tribulation as simply seeking a way to avoid the hardships that may come. I always thought that those who scoffed at Christians would be unbelievers, rejecting faith and mocking its beliefs. However, it makes perfect sense that it comes from within the Church itself, where differing interpretations of Scripture have led to intense debates and even divisions among congregations. This internal conflict in the Church not only highlights the varying beliefs within Christianity but also raises questions about the unity of faith. There is even a singer who has risen in popularity because of his song dealing with Christians going through the Tribulation. He even mocks the Pre-Tribulation Rapture viewpoint. So we see this mocking coming from within the Church!

2 Peter 3:3-4  Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts,  (4)  And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.

The fact that these scoffers are referring to the “fathers,” tells us that they are religious. This reference implies a connection to traditional beliefs and teachings that have been established over centuries. Is it any wonder that people are not turning to the Church in these end times? In an era where skepticism is rampant and individual experiences often trump faith, many are searching for answers beyond the confines of “established religions.” The disconnection between modern society and traditional practices may lead us to question the methods and messages delivered by the Church. So let’s get down to business and examine the reasons behind this growing detachment from faith and the blessed hope that Paul speaks of in Titus 2:13.

It amazes me that the English Bible is picked apart when it comes to the Rapture. However, no one picks apart Hebrew words used in the Old Testament. It is only words concerning this very topic of the Rapture. Although the word “rapture” doesn’t appear in the English translation of the Bible, it’s a term that describes the removing of born-again believers from the earth. The Latin word “raptum or rapturo” is where our English word comes from. The Greek word is “harpazo.” The term “caught up” in verse 17 is elsewhere translated “pluck” (John 10:28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.) We see another reference to it when Philip was snatched away after he witnessed to the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:39  And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.) We are living in a time where the stage is being set for the antichrist to come into power. It is a time that no born-again believer will go through and a time that you do not want to experience if you are not born again. Prior to the revealing of the antichrist, the great catching away, the Rapture, will occur: it can happen at any moment: it is imminent and you do not want to be caught unaware.

The New Testament was written in Greek and, therefore, we will see what the Greek language has to say about the word “rapture.” Strong’s Concordance states this:

G726
ἁρπάζω
harpazō
Total KJV Occurrences: 18
caught, 5: Act_8:39, 2Co_12:2, 2Co_12:4, 1Th_4:17, Rev_12:5
force, 3: Mat_11:12, Joh_6:15, Act_23:10
take, 3: Mat_11:12, Joh_6:15, Act_23:10
away, 2: Mat_13:19, Act_8:39
catcheth, 2: Mat_13:19, Joh_10:12
pluck, 2: Joh_10:28-29 (2)
pulling, 1: Jud_1:23

Take a moment and look up each verse represented above. The Rapture represents being caught up, taken by force, taken away, plucked, and pulled away from this earth. While the word “rapture” itself isn’t explicitly found in the Bible, it is essential to recognize that terminology evolves; for instance, friend, the term “Bible” as we understand it today is similarly absent, as is “Trinity,” yet the principles they represent are in the Scriptures. The absence of specific words does not negate the truths they hold. In fact, the concept of the Rapture is indeed present within the Scriptures, often interpreted through various passages that suggest a sudden gathering of believers. As you explore these verses, you will uncover the theological significance that conveys the idea of being joyfully taken up to meet with the Lord, an event that many Christians eagerly anticipate and find comfort in as it speaks to their faith and hope for the future.

So the issue now becomes when will the Rapture occur? If you are a born-again Christian, you may have heard of the various beliefs surrounding this significant event in Christian eschatology. There are three popular schools of thought regarding the timing of the Rapture: the pre-tribulation, mid-tribulation, and post-tribulation views. Pre-tribulation is defined as occurring before the tribulation, with proponents believing that believers will be taken up to heaven to avoid the impending suffering on Earth. On the other hand, mid-tribulation is defined as occurring in the middle of the tribulation, suggesting that Christians will endure part of the trials before being raptured. And finally, the post-tribulation view is defined as occurring after the tribulation, which asserts that the faithful will face the trials and challenges alongside the rest of the world before being rewarded with their ascension. Each of these perspectives has its own scriptural backing and interpretations, leading to much debate and differing opinions within the Christian community.

The latter two beliefs claim that the pre-tribulation rapture was only recently “invented” by John Darby in the 1800’s, which suggests that this concept is a modern interpretation rather than one rooted in early Christian history. However, there is substantial historical proof demonstrating that this was indeed the belief of the Christians as early as the third century AD, a time when many foundational doctrines were being shaped and debated. Church fathers and early theologians discussed the end times and the notion of a rapture-like event, indicating a continuity of thought that predates Darby by centuries. Some of the Church fathers studied under one of the Apostles and had first-hand information! This understanding was reflected in various writings and teachings of that era, highlighting a much anticipated view of Christ’s return that captures the pre-tribulation perspective. This is only one example of the writings of that day:

All the saints and elect of God are gathered together before the tribulation, which is to come, and are taken to the Lord, in order that they may not see at any time the confusion which overwhelms the world because of our sins.

-Pseudo-Ephraem (c. 374-627)

We can see in this quote that the pre-tribulation rapture was not invented in the past two hundred plus years but much earlier! The Apostle Paul spoke a lot about this blessed reunion and we will cover those verses to bring it all together. No other Tribulation viewpoint can explain away these four verses:

Joh 14:1-4  Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.  (2)  In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.  (3)  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.  (4)  And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.

After Jesus’ Second Coming, the Millennial Kingdom begins, ushering in a period of never before peace and righteousness on Earth. If the Rapture happens at the end of the Tribulation, one might wonder how the Church will ascend to Heaven, where Jesus has gone to prepare a place, and THEN transition into the Millennium. The question arises: will they never go to Heaven? This concept seems contradictory, as it raises doubts about the very promises made in Scripture. Jesus says in verse 2 that He was going to prepare a place for us, signifying His intention to create a dwelling for His followers in Heaven. Then, verse 3 reassures us that He will come again and receive us unto Himself so that where He is, we will be also! This shows Jesus is committed to us and that our relationship with Him continues. It means we will be with Him in Heaven before He eventually establishes His kingdom on Earth. Just as God protected Noah in the ark before He created a new earth after the flood, so will Jesus do for the Church! Thus, understanding this sequence is crucial for grasping the fullness of His promises and the nature of our journey with Christ.

If you are a born-again Christian and have never studied this out, I hope you are blessed by it and encouraged in your heart. If you are not born again, I urge you to settle the matter right now! 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!

Mercy Versus Sacrifice

On By KateIn Devotionals, Thoughtful ThreadsLeave a comment

Hosea 6:6  For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.

Matthew 9:13  But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

Mercy versus sacrifice … just what does that mean? I was raised a Catholic, and sacrifice is a major tenet in their beliefs. What was the point of sacrifice in the Old Testament? It was to atone for sin, an act that sought to restore the relationship between man and God. These sacrifices were a way for people to express their remorse and desire for forgiveness through the offering of innocent lambs. If sacrificial lambs had been sufficient, then what was the point of God sending His own Son to be the sacrificial Lamb for the sins of the world? This act symbolized a transition from mere ritualistic sacrifices to the incarnation of divine mercy, highlighting that true forgiveness comes not just from the act of sacrifice, but from love, grace, and the ultimate sacrifice made for our redemption. It serves as a reminder that while sacrifices can demonstrate faith and repentance, it is the mercy that follows which completes salvation and offers hope for a renewed life.

John 3:16  For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Therefore, following a religion and all of its rules cannot gain entrance to Heaven! The only way to Heaven is through Jesus Christ, who stands as the ultimate Mediator between man and God. Jesus frees His followers from sin; He secures their salvation and guarantees them a place with Him in Heaven, a promise that brings hope and joy to those who believe. God’s mercy is beautifully reflected in Jesus’ very entrance into this world, His perfect and sinless life so that He could die for our sins and offer us redemption. God’s mercy is revealed in the mere fact that He knew we could not live a sinless and perfect life, acknowledging our weaknesses and sinfulness, so He provided a way—through grace extended to us through faith. That is love … that is mercy! It is a divine gift that invites us to respond with a transformed heart, leading us to share this beautiful truth with others, encouraging them to seek the path that leads to eternal life with Him.

John 14:6  Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

John 14:1-4  Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.  (2)  In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.  (3)  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.  (4)  And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.

Not all roads lead to Heaven, and one must be extremely careful in their choices. If you go by the most “popular” route, often filled with the allure of comfort and acceptance, you will never find the true way that leads to eternal life and true joy. Jesus wasn’t popular in His day; He was often criticized and is even less popular today, as society increasingly favors messages that align with worldly values over spiritual truths. One won’t get kicked out of school for wearing a t-shirt with Buddha on it, celebrated for its perceived inclusivity and tolerance. But if that t-shirt has a cross on it, the child will be sent home, and there will be a considerable uproar, reflecting the cultural clashes around Christianity. This is true for Christians and Jewish people. The slick Joel Osteen’s of the world and their “oily” lectures do not lead people to Heaven; instead, they merely serve to distract their congregations with a feel-good message, enticing them with promises of prosperity and happiness so that they think they are on the right path. These teachings often prioritize human comfort over Biblical truth. But what does Jesus say? Are we truly prepared to follow Him down the narrow path that may lead to trials and tribulations, or will we continue to seek the wide road that many travel, even when it leads away from His teachings? That’s a good question. Look what Jesus says about the two different paths:

Matthew 7:13-14  Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:  (14)  Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.

Be leery, dear Reader! The only road to salvation and Heaven is through Jesus Christ! Any sacrifices you make before salvation are worthless and will not bring you closer to God. You can give up things during Lent, showing superficial commitment, but they will mean nothing in the eyes of God. You can be the best philanthropist on earth, generously donating your time, money, and resources, but such acts, while noble, will ultimately mean nothing if they are not rooted in faith in Jesus Christ. Once you are born again, however, God wants us to embrace the profound responsibility of showing mercy to others by sacrificing ourselves for their benefit. Just what does that mean? It means that you will think of the other person before yourself, prioritizing their needs and wellbeing above your own desires. You will show the love of Christ through your actions and sacrifices to the unbelieving world, embodying compassion and selflessness that reflects His teachings. Self-giving will not only transform you but will also touch the lives of those around you, revealing the light of Christ in a world often shrouded in darkness.

If you happened upon this post today, please take a moment to follow this link. It will walk you through the Scriptures that will show you how to be born-again according to the Scriptures. This journey towards being born again is not just a change in perspective; it is a transforming act that connects you with God, as a child with his parents. Won’t you take this opportunity to broaden your understanding and strengthen your faith as you delve into the wisdom contained within these Bible verses?

Any Day Now – Day 58

On By KateIn Any Day Now, DevotionalsLeave a comment

(2Co 5:17)  Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

(Luk 9:62)  And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.

I have often wondered why Lot’s wife turned around to look back. What was there that would give her that overwhelming desire to do so? Was there something in her city that she regretted leaving behind? We think of Sodom and Gomorrah as morally depraved. However, Mrs. Lot was leaving her home, her friends, and everything familiar behind. Haven’t we all been through a similar situation? This is where a believer has to put on the brakes and come to a screeching halt in his/her life.

Once a person is truly born again, certain things happen to the heart. The heart (seat of man’s emotions) was once covered with a veil, if you will. After salvation, that veil is removed and the light of the Blessed Saviour’s Holy Spirit makes His dwelling there. The Holy Spirit then begins His work changing what once was a worldly priority to a spiritual priority. So where are your priorities?

Are you like Mrs. Lot where you miss some aspects of your old life? Are those things you miss distracting you from the Holy Spirit’s prodding to transform you? Jesus said in Luke 9:62 that if you put your had to the plough and look back, you’re not fit for the kingdom of God. In other words, if you hear the good news of the Gospel but your heart is not truly converted, you will look back! Think about how plowing was done. John Deere’s tractors plow through fields in no time. If the driver is looking behind him, the rows won’t be very straight, will they? The driver has to look ahead and not behind in order to achieve his goals. I dare say Mrs. Lot knew why the angels were pulling her family out of Sodom and Gomorrah. She knew her city was to be destroyed. Her last-ditch effort to look back to what she loved cost her dearly!

Keep your eyes on Jesus. Look forward to Christ’s return and our Blessed Hope of the Rapture! Don’t let the cares of this world distract you from your plowing!

(Tit 2:13)  Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

The Apostle Paul was such an encourager and exhorter! Of all people, he had every reason to look back to the life style he had as a Pharisee. But he didn’t and spent his ministry exhorting the brethren to look forward and look up!

Php 3:13-14  Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,  (14)  I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

This lost world doesn’t even realize that they are living their best life at this moment in time. But to the born-again believer, we are living our worst moments in time because we have a greater place prepared for us!

Joh 14:1-4  Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.  (2)  In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.  (3)  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.  (4)  And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.

Rom 8:18-23  For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.  (19)  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.

Friend, unless you are born again, you cannot fully understand these verses. But to the believer, these are exciting words. They encoourage us to look ahead because we know what is to come. 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 1

On By KateIn Any Day Now, DevotionalsLeave a comment

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18  But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.  (14)  For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.  (15)  For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.  (16)  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.

Good morning! Could this be the year that the Rapture will occur? If you’re new to this blog and have never heard of this Rapture I write of, we’ll be taking a closer look at its meaning and what it represents to the born-again Christian. It is a message of hope and excitement to all believers who are awaiting the Lord’s return in the clouds for His bride. Read through today’s Bible verses and we’ll take a few days to explain and prove this event can occur at any moment. Today, however, we will just cover what the word means and where it is found in the Scriptures.

We are seeing a great divide in Christian circles about the pre-tribulational Rapture. The topic is being ridiculed by believers. They are calling it a “secret” Rapture or escapism by those who believe it will happen before the Tribulation. I always thought that those who scoffed at Christians would be unbelievers. However, it makes perfect sense that it comes from within the Church itself.

2 Peter 3:3-4  Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts,  (4)  And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.

The fact that these scoffers are referring to the “fathers,” tells us that they are religious. Is it any wonder that people are not turning to the Church in these end times? So let’s get down to business.

Although the word “rapture” doesn’t appear in the English translation of the Bible, it’s a term that describes the removing of born-again believers from the earth. The Latin word “rapturo” is where our English word comes from. The term “caught up” in verse 17 is elsewhere translated “pluck” (John 10:28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.) We see another reference to it when Philip was snatched away after he witnessed to the Ethiopian eunuch (Act 8:39  And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.) If you followed my series on the attitude of mankind during the end times, you saw that we are in a time where the antichrist will come into power. It is a time that no born-again believer will go through and a time that you do not want to experience if you are not born again. Prior to the revealing of the antichrist, this Rapture will occur: it can happen at any moment: it is imminent and you do not want to be caught unaware.

The New Testament was written in Greek and, therefore, we will see what the Greek language has to say about the word “rapture.” Strong’s Concordance states this:

G726
ἁρπάζω
harpazō
Total KJV Occurrences: 18
caught, 5: Act_8:39, 2Co_12:2, 2Co_12:4, 1Th_4:17, Rev_12:5
force, 3: Mat_11:12, Joh_6:15, Act_23:10
take, 3: Mat_11:12, Joh_6:15, Act_23:10
away, 2: Mat_13:19, Act_8:39
catcheth, 2: Mat_13:19, Joh_10:12
pluck, 2: Joh_10:28-29 (2)
pulling, 1: Jud_1:23

It will help you if you look up each of these verses in your Bible to see the different uses. The Rapture represents being caught up, taken by force, taken away, plucked, and pulled away. The word “rapture” isn’t found in the Bible. But, friend, neither is the word “bible” found in the Bible or the word Trinity. But the concept and description of the rapture is found in the Bible and, therefore, it’s worthy of study, amen?

If you are a born-again Christian, you may have heard of the various beliefs of when the rapture will occur. To understand why it is important, you need to know when the different beliefs occur. There are three popular schools of thought of when the rapture will occur: the pre-tribulation, mid-tribulation and post-tribulation. Pre-tribulation is defined as occurring before the tribulation. Mid-tribulation is defined as occurring in the middle of the tribulation. And finally, the post-tribulation is defined as occurring after the tribulation.

The latter two beliefs claim that the pre-tribulation rapture was only recently “invented” but there is historical proof showing that this was the belief of the Christians as early as third century AD. This is only one example of the writings of that day:

All the saints and elect of God are gathered together before the tribulation, which is to come, and are taken to the Lord, in order that they may not see at any time the confusion which overwhelms the world because of our sins.

-Pseudo-Ephraem (c. 374-627)

Please read his quote and let it sink in. Proponents against the pre-tribulation Rapture claim that Darby introduced it in the 1800’s. However, we see in this quote that the pre-tribulation rapture was not invented in the past 150 years but in the third century! As we continue our series, we will dig in deeper and we will see that this was what was intended through the Scriptures! The Apostle Paul spoke a lot about this blessing reunion and we will cover those verses to bring it all together.

No other Tribulation viewpoint can explain away these four verses:

Joh 14:1-4  Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.  (2)  In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.  (3)  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.  (4)  And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.

After Jesus’ Second Coming, the Millennial Kingdom begins. If the Rapture happens at the end of the Tribulation, how will the Church go to Heaven where Jesus went to prepare a place and THEN go into the Millennium? They will never go to Heaven? That makes no sense at all. Jesus says in verse 2 that He was going to prepare a place for us. Then verse 3 says that He will come again and receive us unto himself so that where He is, we will be also!

If you are a born-again Christian and have never studied this out, I hope you are blessed by it and encouraged in your heart. If you are not born again, I urge you to settle the matter right now! 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!