Tag: Luke 21:28

Light in the Last Days – Day 63

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Matthew 24:3-8  And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?  (4)  And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.  (5)  For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.  (6)  And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.  (7)  For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.  ( 8 )  All these are the beginning of sorrows. (9)  Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name’s sake.

We are living in the “beginning of sorrows.” The Greek word behind “sorrows” is odin, and its definition is vital: it means “birth pangs.” This is why we see the world’s problems happening with greater frequency and intensity. Like a woman entering labor, the world is experiencing prophetic contractions that are getting closer together and harder to ignore. These aren’t just “bad times”; they are the specific pains that lead directly to the birth of the Kingdom of God and the return of the King.

ὠδίν
ōdin
o-deen’
Akin to G3601; a pang or throe, especially of childbirth: – pain, sorrow, travail.

If you ask any woman who has delivered a child, she’ll tell you: labor is a game-changer. At the start, the pains are small enough that you might think, “This isn’t so bad; I’ve got this!” That was certainly my experience—until reality set in. Those “feelings” were a poor guide, because the pains soon became much stronger and the breaks between them much shorter. Jesus used this specific comparison for a reason. He wanted us to understand that the signs of His coming wouldn’t just be “bad events,” but a literal progression of intensity that cannot be stopped once it begins.

History repeats itself, but the intensity of today’s events is unprecedented. What we see now is a “perfect storm” where prophetic signs are occurring concurrently across the globe. Jesus pointed toward verse 9 as a specific marker—a time of intense affliction. The level of antisemitic vitriol we see today is a haunting echo of the 1940s, as Israel faces nations that openly call for her destruction. This is the reality of the hour we live in. My dear reader, don’t let your heart be troubled. These signs are the heralds of our King. Look up, for our deliverance is closer than we ever imagined!

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.

All the signs point to one imminent event: Jesus is coming to rescue His Bride. The Rapture is the finish line for the Church age, and it is closer than ever before. Don’t you want to be included in that headcount? Don’t let this world distract you from the invitation of a lifetime. The door is open, the Master is coming, and you are invited to join Him in the clouds.

Luke 21:36  Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.

When Jesus speaks of an “escape,” He is referring to the horrific events of the coming Tribulation. This is a powerful promise that the Church will be delivered from that hour of trial. Scripturally, this period is known as “Jacob’s trouble” (Jeremiah 30:7). Since Jacob’s name was changed to Israel, we see that this seven-year period is God’s final dealing with the Jewish nation. The Rapture serves as the “period” at the end of the Church Age. Once the Bride is safe with her Groom, the spotlight of prophecy shifts back to Israel, preparing their hearts to finally recognize Jesus as their King.

My friend, regardless of your background or your perspective on these things, there is one non-negotiable truth: you must be born again to be part of God’s kingdom. It is no coincidence that you are reading these words right now; God has placed you here “for such a time as this” so that you might find salvation today. Don’t you want to be among the Church when she is caught up into the clouds to meet our Savior face-to-face? (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 60

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Remember how often our parents said, “I told you NOT to…” followed by a warning we ignored? In my 44 years of walking with the Lord, I’ve heard only a handful of sermons on the end times. It’s rarely a popular topic behind the pulpit, which is baffling considering prophecy makes up nearly a third of the Bible. Would you settle for only two-thirds of an audiobook? Certainly not! I would notice the missing pieces immediately, especially in a book I’ve studied time and again.

Today, we have no excuse for ignorance. Between physical Bibles, apps, and the internet, the Truth is at our fingertips. God will hold this generation accountable for having the key to the mansion but refusing to unlock the door. We have total access to the message of eternal life; to ignore it is a tragedy.

Preaching on prophecy followed a similar pattern until recently. Before the pandemic, few voices were teaching this subject online. However, that global shutdown forced a breakthrough, creating a digital highway for the Word. Now, a believer isn’t limited by geography; you can access powerful, biblical preaching from across the globe with a single click. What an incredible resource for the days we live in! But having the resource isn’t the same as having a revival. If people were truly flocking to these truths, our lands would look different. We must remember that prophecy wasn’t given to satisfy curiosity, but to prepare the Church and open the eyes of those who are still lost.

Revelation 1:1-3  The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John:  (2)  Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw.  (3)  Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.

We are witnesses to prophetic history … are you paying attention to the signs that have already been checked off the list? Make sure you are listening to preaching that fuels your faith to live by God’s Word. The message for the hour is simple but profound: stop looking at the chaos around you and start looking upward! Our Blessed Hope is on the horizon.

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.

As we witness Bible prophecy being fulfilled before our eyes, we can rest in the absolute certainty that the remaining promises will come to pass. Not a single prophecy from the Bible in history has failed, and the future will be no different. We hold the prophetic blueprint in our hands, detailed and complete. Jesus will follow this divine plan down to the smallest “jot and tittle.” When God speaks a word into the future, it is as certain as if it has already happened.

Matthew 5:18  For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.

Friend, 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 49

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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 47

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I’ve been thinking a lot lately about the timing of certain events and how we describe the ‘near future.’ We often throw around the word imminent… just what does that mean? As I have said before, the definitions I use come from Noah Webster’s 1828 Dictionary. He defines it as: ‘Hanging over; impending; appearing as if falling or about to fall; threatening; near.’ When we look at it through Webster’s eyes, ‘imminent’ isn’t just soon—it is hovering right above us.

It saddens me to see how often the Body of Christ is divided over the timing of the Rapture. While many scholars argue for different timelines, I believe there is something uniquely vital about the pre-tribulation position: it is the only one that treats His return as truly imminent. Other views inadvertently turn our focus toward the appearance of signs, the Antichrist, or specific tribulations. But the pre-tribulation hope keeps our eyes fixed upward, knowing that He could come for His bride at any second.

Imagine a homeowner who receives a tip that a thief will be breaking through his front door at exactly 8:00 p.m. You can be certain he wouldn’t be caught napping; he would have the lights on, the doors barred, and his eyes glued to the window. He would be ready because he had a schedule. But what did Jesus say? He warned us in Matthew 24 that His return would be the ultimate disruption of our schedules. He won’t arrive on a timeline we’ve circled in red; He comes at an hour we do not expect, precisely to see who has stayed awake out of love and duty, rather than just reacting to a clock.

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

In the ancient Galilean wedding traditions of Jesus’ day, the timing of the groom’s return was a kept secret; he could not go to retrieve his bride until his father officially declared that the wedding chamber was prepared. This cultural backdrop provides a perfect parallel to the pre-tribulation Rapture. Just as the bride lived in a state of constant, expectant readiness, we too look for a Savior whose return is not dictated by a calendar, but by the Father’s command. It is the ultimate ‘thief in the night’ scenario—a moment of joyous intrusion that catches the world entirely off guard.

Matthew 24:42-44  Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.  (43)  But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up.  (44)  Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.

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

God is a God of specificity, often marking biblical events down to the exact day. We see this in the prophetic timeline of the Tribulation, which is meticulously mapped out with clear milestones. If the Church were intended to endure that time, the Rapture would no longer be a surprise—it would be an appointment at the end of a countdown. But we are called to watch, not to calculate. It is telling that the New Testament epistles are devoid of manuals for surviving the Great Tribulation; rather, they are filled with calls to find peace in Christ’s imminent return. We are told to comfort one another with these words, a task that would be impossible if we were first destined for the wrath of the seven-year scroll.

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

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

If the Church were destined to endure the seven-year Tribulation, Paul’s instructions to ‘comfort one another’ would seem almost cruel. How can one find comfort in the promise of unprecedented seals, trumpets, and bowls of wrath? The believers in the first century were no strangers to pain; they lived under the heavy hand of Roman persecution. Yet, in the midst of their daily trials, they found joy in the belief that Christ could return at any moment. This expectancy is our ‘Blessed Hope.’ It is the only message capable of providing true edification—the promise that we are not looking for the Antichrist, but for the Savior.

Scripture is far from silent regarding the days leading up to the Great Tribulation. From the ‘perilous times’ described in 2 Timothy 3:1-9 to the rise of scoffers mentioned in 2 Peter 3:3-4, the evidence is clear and mounting. Jesus Himself detailed these labor pains in Matthew 24:3-51 so that His followers would not be left in the dark. As we witness the convergence of these signs, we understand that our window of time is narrowing. The promise is nearing its fulfillment; lift up your heads, for the King is at the door.

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.
Jas 5:8  Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.

We live in a world of uncertainty, but your eternal destination doesn’t have to be one of them. It is no coincidence that God has placed you here today to hear this warning and this promise. If you are not already a part of the Body of Christ, the door is still open to be born again. Don’t you desire to be part of that glorious moment when the Church is raptured? Imagine the joy of meeting the Lord in the air and escaping the darkness to come. The invitation is yours—accept it today. (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 25

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Matthew 24:6-7  And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.  (7)  For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.

The Rapture will happen in an instant—faster than my feet can even hit the floor in the morning. Scripture promises that our earthly bodies will be transformed into bodies like Christ’s in the “twinkling of an eye.” Some scientists suggest this takes a mere eleven one-hundredths of a second! That is an event I refuse to miss, and through Christ, I am 100% certain I won’t.

1 Corinthians 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.

This doesn’t mean we won’t face hardships before the Rapture occurs. Our headlines are saturated with the tragedies in Ukraine and Israel, with surrounding nations like Iran and Russia fueling the fire. We are surrounded by “wars and rumors of wars,” and the destruction is heartbreaking. However, we cannot allow ourselves to be consumed by the negative. Our focus must remain centered on Jesus and His return, not on the identity or timing of the Antichrist. We must keep our eyes on the horizon, for our redemption is drawing near.

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.

James 5:8  Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.

It is increasingly clear that we are living in the end times. We must remember that the Old Testament and its prophecies revolve primarily around Israel and her Messiah, King Jesus. Some suggest we are already in the Tribulation, claiming that those who believe in a Pre-Tribulation Rapture are ignoring the evil powers currently at work. I don’t deny that evil exists; rather, I believe that everything we see today is a setup—a segue—for the Antichrist’s eventual platform. These global shifts must happen to pave the way for his seven-year peace treaty with Israel. The “god of this world” is indeed working overtime.

While some teach that the first half of the Tribulation will be peaceful, the Book of Revelation paints a much grimmer picture. In Chapter 6 alone, one-fourth of the world’s population—nearly 2 billion people—will perish.

Revelation 6:8  And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth.

The population will continue to dwindle as the trumpet judgments begin. The very first trumpet brings fire that consumes a third of the earth’s trees and all green grass.

Revelation 8:7  The first angel sounded, and there followed hail and fire mingled with blood, and they were cast upon the earth: and the third part of trees was burnt up, and all green grass was burnt up.

These events are not merely symbolic; they are literal, horrific realities that have not yet occurred. The Antichrist has not been revealed, though many believe “enlightened” groups are currently pulling the strings. Interestingly, the first “enlightenment” happened in Eden when the serpent deceived Eve.

Genesis 3:1-5  Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?  (2)  And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden:  (3)  But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die.  (4)  And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die:  (5)  For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.

Satan is the ultimate source of this “enlightenment,” masquerading as an angel of light to deceive.

2 Corinthians 11:13-15  For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.  (14)  And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.  (15)  Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.

The Antichrist will not be an abstract organization, but a specific man. He will broker a treaty with Israel and eventually demand worship as God in a rebuilt Temple. While Israel may initially believe they have found peace, the judgments of the first few years will begin to open their eyes.

Matthew 24:15-22  When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)  (16)  Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains:  (17)  Let him which is on the housetop not come down to take any thing out of his house:  (18)  Neither let him which is in the field return back to take his clothes.  (19)  And woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days!  (20)  But pray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the sabbath day:  (21)  For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.  (22)  And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect’s sake those days shall be shortened.

Daniel 9:27  And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.

2 Thessalonians 2:3-4  Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;  (4)  Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.

The devil has hated the Jews since the beginning. He was at the root of every earthly leader who has sought to destroy them (i.e., Hitler, et al). We are seeing antisemitism in our universities here in America and all around the world. Hitler affected Europe only. Now it is happening all over the world. Satan’s goal is to destroy Israel. Israel existed for about 680 years in the Old Testament. It did not come into existence again until May 14, 1948. This is an historical milestone, reader! When the Church began, Israel’s judgment was placed on hold until the Church’s work is done and is removed. Then Israel comes back into the picture, known as Daniels’ 70th week, at the signing of a treaty between the Antichrist and Israel.

Daniel 9:27  And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.

Looking at Daniel’s timeline, we see the Antichrist confirming a seven-year deal with Israel to begin the Tribulation. However, halfway through, he will show his true colors by stopping the sacrifices in the Temple. People often point out that there is no Temple in Israel right now, but if God’s Word says it will be there, we can be sure it will be built! The coming wars and judgments will all center on Israel because God is calling them to look upon the One they pierced—Jesus Christ.

The Book of Revelation isn’t a book of mysteries we can’t understand; it’s a record of literal events. I want to warn you against the idea that the Church has replaced Israel. This ‘Replacement Theology’ is a deep-seated error that I was personally taught in my Catholic upbringing, but it contradicts the clear counsel of God. Israel has a unique future, and the Church has hers.

But reader, don’t be alarmed. The Bible says:

1 Thessalonians 5:1-4  But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.  (2)  For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.  (3)  For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.  (4)  But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.  

When the Antichrist confirms his covenant with Israel, the world will think it has finally achieved peace. Yet, this very ‘peace’ ushers in the Tribulation and leads to sudden destruction for the unbelieving world. Paul offers us incredible hope by telling us that we are not in the dark. If we were intended to suffer through this period of wrath, Paul’s encouragement would be misplaced. Instead, he continues with these words:

1 Thessalonians 5:5-11 Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.  (6)  Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.  (7)  For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night.  ( 8 )  But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation.  (9)  For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,  (10)  Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.  (11)  Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

Consider this: if the Church were destined to endure the horrors of the Tribulation—the plagues, famines, and widespread martyrdom—how could Paul possibly command us to ‘comfort and edify one another’? It would be impossible to find comfort in such a terrifying prospect. Our Groom, Jesus Christ, loves His Bride too much to leave her to face His own wrath. Jesus likened the end times to the days of Noah; just as Noah was safely tucked into the ark before the destruction began, the Church will be sheltered by God. We will be taken to Heaven, only to return at Christ’s side when He destroys the enemy and renews the earth for His Millennial reign. Like Noah, the Church is divinely protected!

John 3:36  He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him. 

Revelation 6:16  And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb: 

Revelation 6:17  For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?

The Lamb—our Savior and King—has not destined us for judgment. The Apostle Paul makes a clear distinction: God’s wrath is not directed toward the Church, but is reserved for the children of disobedience who have rejected His grace.

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:

Make no mistake: the wrath unleashed during the Tribulation is intended for the world that rejected Christ. Before the Antichrist’s covenant with Israel begins, the Church will be safely removed. Although there will be those who turn to Christ during the Tribulation, they will be required to face the severe judgments falling upon the earth at that time, and millions will be martyred!

As a believer, watching prophecy unfold is thrilling, but I know it can be terrifying if you aren’t ready. If your heart is troubled by the state of the world, know that God has brought you to this page so that you might find the way to salvation. You don’t have to face the coming days alone. Discover how you can have total assurance of your future here: You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

I Shall Not Be Moved

On By KateIn Devotionals, Hymns for TodayLeave a comment

Psalm 16:8  I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.

As I was reading Psalms this morning, I came upon Psalm 16:8, which I had highlighted in my Bible. Next to it, I had written, “Have I?” I can’t remember why I had written this. What was going on in my life at the time that would have prompted me to do so? Was it due to persecution on the job? Was it because I had failed the Lord like so many times before? Whatever the case may be, the bottom line is that as a child of the King, we should not be moved.

Moved from what? When my feet are firmly planted on God’s Word, nothing should stand in my way of taking a stand for Jesus Christ! Antisemitism has surfaced, revealing to believers that the devil’s time is short. He does not want the Messiah to come at the Second Coming. If Satan can destroy Israel, he has accomplished his goal! Now is the time for born-again Christians around the world to stand firm with Israel and support God’s chosen people! This unwavering support must be based not only in prayer but also in action, as we educate ourselves and others about the significance of Israel in God’s redemptive plan. The rising tide of hatred towards the Jewish people is a reminder that we are called to be the light in a world filled with darkness. Let us boldly declare our love and support for Israel, understanding that God’s promises to His people remain steadfast and true, guiding us to stand shoulder to shoulder with our Jewish brothers and sisters in faith. If God does not keep His promises to Israel, He won’t be able to keep His promise of eternal salvation through Jesus Christ. God is not a liar. His Word will be fulfilled!

The end is near! We should be looking up for our redemption draweth nigh!

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.

James 5:8  Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.

I Shall Not Be Moved – by Edward Boatner

1 Jesus keeps forever,
I shall not be moved;
He forsakes, no, never,
I shall not be moved;
Just like a tree that’s planted by the water,
I shall not be moved.

Refrain:
I shall not be, I shall not be moved,
I shall not be, I shall not be moved;
Just like a tree that’s planted by the water,
I shall not be moved.

2 On His strength depending,
I shall not be moved;
And His cause defending,
I shall not be moved;
Just like a tree that’s planted by the water,
I shall not be moved. [Refrain]

3 His, the love enfolding,
I shall not be moved;
His, the grace upholding,
I shall not be moved;
Just like a tree that’s planted by the water,
I shall not be moved. [Refrain]

4 Friend so high and holy,
I shall not be moved;
Friend so meek and lowly,
I shall not be moved;
Just like a tree that’s planted by the water,
I shall not be moved. [Refrain]

5 From the Bible story
I shall not be moved;
Living for His glory,
I shall not be moved;
Just like a tree that’s planted by the water,
I shall not be moved. [Refrain]

6 With the faithful going,
I shall not be moved;
All His goodness knowing,
I shall not be moved;
Just like a tree that’s planted by the water,
I shall not be moved. [Refrain]

7 By His truth I’m standing,
I shall not be moved;
Doing His commanding,
I shall not be moved;
Just like a tree that’s planted by the water,
I shall not be moved. [Refrain]

Our time is short – the Lord’s return for His Bride, the Church, can happen so very soon! If the current war in Israel is a segue to the Ezekiel 38 war, then we could be going Home any day now. Be busy. Don’t be moved! Stand firm on God’s Word and share it with as many people as possible before it’s eternally too late for them.

If you just “happened” upon this page by mistake, know that it was no mistake. The Lord God wants you to be saved. If you feel the nudging of the Holy Spirit for you to keep reading and have no idea on how to do be saved, follow this link and it will guide you to the Bible verses showing you how!

Any Day Now – Day 63

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Mat 24:3-8  And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?  (4)  And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.  (5)  For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.  (6)  And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.  (7)  For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.  ( 8 )  All these are the beginning of sorrows. (9)  Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name’s sake.

These are the beginning of sorrows. The Greek word for “sorrows” in verse 8 is “odin” and is defined as:

ὠδίν
ōdin
o-deen’
Akin to G3601; a pang or throe, especially of childbirth: – pain, sorrow, travail.

Any woman who has delivered a child can give you an accurate account of the event. The pain starts out slow and manageable. I remember thinking, “Wow, I can handle this”! I allowed my “feelings” to dictate what the rest of the delivery would be like. Boy was I wrong! The pains not only got stronger but they came closer together. So why do you think Jesus Himself compared it to the delivering of a baby?

Yes, we have experienced events prior to verse 8, but this has happened before in history. What makes these events different from those in history? They are occurring closer together and at the same time. Today’s events are happening concurrently. But now look at verse 9. Jesus said THEN shall they deliver you up to be afflicted. We are seeing a re-surging of antisemitic hatred that we haven’t seen since WWII. Israel is now fighting for its right to exist and they’re surrounded by nations that want them totally destroyed. We are in those times, dear Reader.

Don’t be discouraged! Look up for our redemption draweth nigh!

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

Jesus is about to make His appearance in the clouds to rapture His Bride, the church! Don’t you want to participate in that?

Luk 21:36  Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.

Escape what, Jesus? The answer is “all these things that shall come to pass“! This tells us that the church will not go through the Great Tribulation, the “time of Jacob’s troubles”! (Jeremiah 30:7) If you recall, Jacob was given a new name, which was Israel. (Genesis 32:28) The Tribulation is a time of Israel’s troubles, not the church. God will end the church age, the age of grace, with the Rapture of the church. Then focus will then be once again placed on Israel to draw them to their Messiah, Jesus Christ.

Oh friend, you must be born again in order to participate in the Rapture, 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 60

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How many times did our parents say, “I told you NOT to ….” (fill in the blank). I have been saved for 44 years and I have heard maybe one handful of sermons about the end times. It does not seem to be a popular topic for preachers. I wonder why? I mean, nearly one-third of the Bible is about prophecy! Would you want to hear only two-thirds of any audio book? Not me! I would notice missing parts if it was a book I read more than once.

We have all that we need at our fingertips: we have a physical paper Bible, we have apps, we have the Internet, we have audio Bibles. There is no excuse to tell God you didn’t know or you never heard. God will hold those living in the end times accountable for having access to eternal life and yet not accessing it. It’s like having a key to a beautiful mansion but choosing not to use it!

Such is preaching on the topic of prophecy. Before the world came to a stand still during the pandemic, there were few preachers teaching on the subject on the Internet. The only good thing that came out of the pandemic, in my opinion, is that it opened a gateway for the Church to share the Gospel online. YouTube is now filled with Church services being streamed. A believer is no longer limited to brick and mortar to find good preaching. One can be watching and listening to godly messages from thousands of miles away. What a blessing this is in these end times!!!

So now that we have this wonderful privilege, are people rushing to listen and watch? Not as much as I thought there were. If that were the case, there would have been great revival in the lands. God gave us Bible prophecy to bless His people so that they would know in advance the plans that He had for these end times. He also gave it to open the eyes of the lost so they could be saved!

Rev 1:1-3  The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John:  (2)  Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw.  (3)  Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.

Are you reading about prophecies which have already come to past? Are you hearing good preaching that encourage you to keep those things which God has written in His Word? He’s telling us to keep looking upward!

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

As we see all of Bible prophecy coming to past, we know that those that have not yet happened will because there is not one prophecy up until now that has not come true. We have the prophetic blueprint and it’s all outlined for us; every single detail! Jesus will follow His blueprint right down to the smallest jot and tittle! When God says something will happen, it’s as good as done!

Mat 5:18  For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.

Friend, 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 49

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The Different Views of the Rapture

Before one can better defend the Pre-Tribulation Rapture viewpoint, one must know the differences of each viewpoint. 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.

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)

We will cover the pre-Tribulation view first so that it will help to spot what makes it different from the others. Jesus gave us a beautiful example of His return in the Parable of the Ten Virgins. Let’s review it together:

Mat 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

The Parable above is a beautiful example of the Bride waiting for her Groom! Here we learn that there are ten virgins. They all had lamps but five of them, the foolish ones of verses 2-3, took no oil with them. Oil was not only used for lamps but was used when anointing someone for a task. This oil is representative of the Holy Spirit. We see that in:

Isa 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;

Act 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 wise virgins had oil for their lamps. They had received the Holy Spirit when they were born again. Those virgins were sealed by the Holy Spirit with an anointing – that anointing is given to all who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation.

Eph 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,

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

The unwise virgins did not have any oil. Some claim that these virgins had to have oil to begin with since they had lamps. But notice in verse 4 that the wise virgins did take oil for their lamps. We see that the ten virgins are part of a group that claim to be a part of the Bride. All ten arose when they heard the cry that the bridegroom was coming. All ten trimmed their lamps. We can see this in our churches today. Some are “playing” church and appear to be saved. They have their lamps, they do the works but they do not possess the Holy Spirit. We also see that five wise virgins had taken their oil. These are the ones in the church that do have that oil. They possess the Holy Spirit – this is their proof that seals them unto the day of redemption.

Now let’s get back to why I know the five foolish virgins were not saved. The wise virgins told them to go to the market to buy oil. While they were grone, the Groom came. A bridegroom would recognize his bride when she comes down the aisle, amen? So will our Bridegroom, the Lord Jesus Christ. The bridegroom definitely has something to say to those he does not recognize in this Parable. His Bride goes with the Groom to the marriage (verse 10) and the door was shut. What happens after? The five foolish virgins come along and beg Him to open the door (verse 11). The Groom’s response will surprise those who do not hold to the Pre-Tribulation Rapture viewpoint.

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

Jesus knows who are His.

Joh 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.

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

Jesus knows who are His. He knows each of us by name! The fact that He tells the five foolish virgins that I know you not, proves to us that they were not His to begin with.

Another sure fire fact that the Pre-Tribulation Rapture viewpoint is correct is that it is imminent. It can happen at any time without anything having to happen prior. We can know the seasons but we do not know the hour of Christ’s return for His Bride!

Mar 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.

1Th 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.

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

Luk 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:

Rom 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.

The Second Coming of Jesus to the earth occurs at the end of the Tribulation period. (Matthew 24:15-30; Revelation chapters 6–18) This return is not imminent as we know exactly when this will occur: which is at the end of seven year Tribulation period.

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 47

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Imminent … just what does that mean? As I have said before, the definitions I use come from Noah Webster’s 1828 Dictionary. He defines it as:

IM’MINENT, a. [L. imminens, from immineo, to hang over; in and minor, to threaten. See Menace.]
Literally, shooting over; hence, hanging over; impending; threatening; near; appearing as if about to fall on; used of evils; as imminent danger; imminent judgments, evils or death.

Noah Webster’s 1828 Dictionary

The timing of the Rapture is argued in Christian circles, I am sad to say. But the pre-tribulation Rapture is the only one whose timing is imminent. The other views depend on signs to occur.

If a man knew that a thief was going to come to his house at 8:00 p.m. on a given night, he would be prepared. But what did Jesus say?

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

Just as in the Galilean weddings of Jesus’ day, the groom did not know when he was going to return for his bride until his father told him he could go. How perfectly that fits to the pre-tribulation Rapture! Jesus’ return is as a thief in the night. No one will expect Him at a given time!

Mat 24:42-44  Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.  (43)  But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up.  (44)  Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.

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

The Tribulation period is filled with timing: it’s seven years long; the Antichrist defiles the temple after three and a half years, etc. Since we do not know the timing of the Rapture, it makes sense that it would occur before the Tribulation. It can’t possibly happen after the Tribulation, because then we would have a time. God is specific throughout the Bible, even to the day! Because of this, that is why He tells us to watch!

No where in the New Testament Scriptures do we find suggestions on how to prepare to live through the Tribulation. Instead, we are told to comfort one another.

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

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

Why would Paul tell the Thessalonians to comfort and edify one another if they had to go through the Tribulation? There is no comfort in knowing about the horrific things that were going to happen during those seven years! The beginning of the Church was not a time of peaceful existence but was a time of great persecution. Because they believed that the Rapture could happen at any time, they were encouraged to comfort each other as they waited for the Blessed Hope. (Titus 2:13)

One point I’d like to make is to those procrastinators out there. If you knew that Jesus would come at a certain date, you would wait until the last minute to get into “spiritual shape.” You would wait to witness to that lost relative. HOWEVER, because you do not know the time of His return, you stand ready because you are always watching!

You may have come across those who believe that the pre-Tribulation Rapture is a new theory invented in the early 1800’s. However, they stop there. The have not researched any further into earlier writings. Recently, biblical researchers have found several writings from early Church fathers who clearly held a pre-Tribulation Rapture viewpoint.

The First Epistle of Clement, 23 (written around 96 A.D. by Clement, a prominent leader of the church at Rome who knew some of the apostles personally and probably is the Clement referred to in Phil. 4:3): “Of a truth, soon and suddenly shall His will be accomplished, as the Scripture also bears witness, saying, ‘speedily will He come, and will not tarry.’”

As early as 70 – 180 AD, The Didache, chapter 16, section 1, says, “‘Be vigilant over your life; let your lamps not be extinguished, or your loins ungirded, but be prepared, for you know not the hour in which our Lord will come.”

“But what a spectacle is that fast-approaching advent of our Lord, now owned by all, now highly exalted, now a triumphant One!” (Tertullian 155 – 245 AD).

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 (374-627 AD).

John Calvin, the reformer at Geneva during the 1500s and founder of the Presbyterian Church, made the following statements in some of his commentaries on books of the Bible: “Be prepared to expect Him every day, or rather every moment.” “As He has promised that He will return to us, we ought to hold ourselves prepared, at every moment to receive Him.”

The Westminster Confession, written by the Puritans of England during the 1600s, declared that men should “shake off all carnal security and be always watchful, because they know not at what hour the Lord will come.”

“I say, somewhat more because the dead saints will be raised, and the living changed at Christ’s ‘appearing in the air’ (1 Thess 4:17); and this will be about three years and a half before the millennium, as we shall see hereafter: but will he and they abide in the air all that time? No: they will ascend to paradise, or to some one of those many ‘mansions in the father’s house’ (John 14:2), and so disappear during the foresaid period of time.” (Morgan Edwards 1742-44).
I’m not much of a fan of relying on what scholarly men write about the Bible.

The Dark Ages (from about 450 AD to the 1600’s) were named for the condition of a spiritually dark world. Mankind was not allowed to read the Bible as it could only be interpreted by a priest. The Roman Catholic church was the universal church during that time. It was during this time frame that the church believed they were living during the millennium! This is called amillennialism and does not allow for a pre-Tribulation Rapture. It was not until the early 1600’s did we see premillennialism and the pre-Tribulation Rapture view reappear.

The “When” of the Rapture is the nucleus of the pre-Tribulation viewpoint. The Bible is its best interpreter. Scripture upon scripture, verse upon verse! The imminent return of the Lord Jesus to gather His Bride to Him is clear as you read the following verses:

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

Matt 25:1-6 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.”

Mark 13:33-37 Take ye heed, watch and pray; for ye know not when the time is. For the Son of Man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch. Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the Master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning: Lest coming suddenly He find you sleeping. And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.

Rom 13:11-12 Knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light.

1 Cor 1:7 So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Phil 3:20 For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Phil 4:5 Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.

1 Thess 1:10 And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.

1 Thess 5:6 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.

1 Tim 6:14 That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Titus 2:13 Looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus.

Heb 9:28 So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.

Heb 10:24-25 Let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the Day approaching.

Heb 10:37 For yet a little while, and He that shall come will come, and will not tarry.

James 5:7-9 Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.

1 Pet 1:13 Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

1 Pet 4:7 But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.

Jude 1:21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.

Rev 3:11 Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.

Rev 22:7 Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book.

Rev 22:20 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.

The Tribulation is preceded by many signs as seen clearly in Matthew 24:3-51, 2 Timothy 3:1-9, and 2 Peter 3:3-4. That is why many believers today are sounding out the warnings of Christ’s return! His return is closer than when the Scriptures were written so look up for your redemption draweth nigh!

Luk 21:28  And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.
Jas 5:8  Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.

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!