Tag: Titus 2:13

Light in the Last Days – Day 58

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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 55

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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.

Romans 1:18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;

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:

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 14:10 The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb:

Revelation 14:19 And the angel thrust in his sickle into the earth, and gathered the vine of the earth, and cast it into the great winepress of the wrath of God.

Revelation 15:1 And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up the wrath of God.

Revelation 15:7 And one of the four beasts gave unto the seven angels seven golden vials full of the wrath of God, who liveth for ever and ever.

Revelation 16:1 And I heard a great voice out of the temple saying to the seven angels, Go your ways, and pour out the vials of the wrath of God upon the earth.

We live in a time where sin is not just present—it is rampant. One only needs to look at the world’s current state through the lens of God’s Law to see how far we have wandered. This raises a heavy question for every soul: what is the final cost of un-repented sin? Today’s scriptures reveal the sobering truth of what lies ahead. This is exactly why end-times preaching is so prominent today; it serves as a final, urgent plea for the world to turn back to God before the clock runs out.

Despite the constant warning of end-times preaching, has there been a true change in men’s hearts? On the contrary, it seems that sin has only abounded. We see this hardening clearly in modern ‘pride’ parades, where public indecency occurs even in the presence of children. Many have grown so spiritually cold that they now reject any higher truth, consumed entirely by the lusts of the flesh. Perhaps most tragic is the state of many mothers’ hearts; they have grown so indifferent to God’s standards that they intentionally bring their innocent children into the midst of such blatant sin.

Judgment is coming upon those in rebellion and upon the world they inhabit. Make no mistake: there is no ‘party’ in Hell, only the eternal torment of an unquenchable fire. This sobering truth should compel us to take the message of salvation to the world. We are called to start right where we are, reaching out to our loved ones, our social circles, and anyone God puts in our path. Stay alert and be prepared to give an account!

1 Peter 3:15  But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:

Perhaps you’re waiting for someone to ask about your faith, but is your life lived in a way that sparks that curiosity? We have been given the incredible promise of the Rapture—Christ coming to claim His Bride. If looking for His return isn’t a part of your everyday mindset, it’s a sign that your heart is fixed on the wrong priorities.

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

We must have a heart for the lost, or something is fundamentally wrong with our spiritual walk. You are likely the only bridge to the Gospel for those in your immediate circle. Think clearly about what their eternity will look like: forever apart from God, enduring the fire of judgment. If this truth doesn’t stir you, you are focusing on the wrong things. Don’t let fear keep you silent, only to realize too late that their blood is on your hands because you refused to speak.

Ezekiel 3:18  When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand.

Countless people around us are struggling to fill an empty space in their souls, chasing a peace the world simply cannot provide. They will never experience true rest until they find it in Christ. Since you have experienced God’s peace firsthand, what is stopping you from offering that same hope to those who are still searching?

Philippians 4:7  And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Colossians 3:15  And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

What a blessing it is to have God’s peace as we watch the world today—it is news too good to keep to yourself! But this hope is only for those who have been born again. If that isn’t you, believe that today is your divine appointment for salvation. God has placed this before you right now so that you don’t have to miss out. Don’t you want the joy of joining the Church in that glorious moment when we are raptured to meet the Lord? (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 43

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There is a powerful promise in the book of Revelation that I absolutely love! Jesus pledges to keep His followers completely out of the hour of trial: a trial that is to come upon the whole world and all that are alive at the time. Why this special protection? It’s His response to those who have steadfastly ‘kept the word of His patience’ through every circumstance.

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

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

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

1 Thessalonians 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.

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

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.

The mark of a true believer is a longing for Christ’s appearing. This ‘authentic’ new birth is found in those who have truly repented and become new creations in Him. But we aren’t just meant to wait idly; we are told to ‘occupy’ until He comes. To ‘occupy’ means to be engaged in the business of the Kingdom, winning souls, strengthening the Church, and being a vessel for the Holy Spirit. We don’t just wait for the end; we work until the end!

Now let’s go back and look at Revelation 3:10. Jesus says that He will keep us “from” the hour of “temptation.” There are two things here that I want you to look at:

  • The Greek word for “from” is “ek,” which means “out of.” This where we get our word exit. Strong’s defines it as “A primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence motion or action proceeds), from, out (of place, time or cause; literally or figuratively; direct or remote) This does not mean that God will protect the Church through the Tribulation period, as some believe. Jesus said He will keep us out of the Tribulation period.
  • Secondly, the word temptation is used in the verse. This is not referring to being tempted to sin. The word temptation here is referring to a trial. Greek word is “peirasmos” which Strong’s defines as: From G3985; a putting to proof (by experiment [of good], experience [of evil], solicitation, discipline or provocation); by implication adversity: – temptation, X try. Jesus is saying that the Tribulation period will be a time that the world will experience extreme evil. It is a trial that no would willingly want to go through if they knew what was to come.

God has always provided a way of escape for His people, just as He did for Noah and his family in the midst of a corrupt world. We can trust that He will do the same for the Church. Scripture identifies us as the Bride of Christ, and 2 Corinthians 11:2 explains that we are betrothed to Him. As our future Husband, Christ’s nature is to protect. No devoted husband would stand by and let his wife face destruction or endure violence. Ephesians 5:25-27 outlines the sacrificial and protective role of a husband, a standard that the Lord perfectly fulfills for His Church. This fits beautifully into the pre-Tribulation Rapture teaching!

In a future post, we will cover why the Church won’t go through God’s wrath. Friend, 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 23

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The image above offers a visual of what the Rapture might look like. While the Bible doesn’t specify what those left behind will witness, it does promise that our transformation from an earthly body to a heavenly one will happen instantly—in the twinkling of an eye.

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.

I can almost picture it now—that incredible moment of ascending to meet Christ! What a glorious day it will be to finally look upon His face. To prepare our hearts, I’ve gathered several Scriptures that point to the Rapture, both directly and indirectly. While I personally hold to a Pre-Tribulation view, these verses are a profound source of encouragement for anyone longing for His return. After all, it could happen this very day!

Philippians 3:20-21  For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:  (21)  Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.

Imagine the songs of praise that will ring out when we finally receive our glorified bodies! I often think of my precious spiritual mother, who has endured the heavy burden of fibromyalgia since the 1970s. In that moment, her pain will vanish forever, replaced by an eternal body free from suffering. No more aches, no more exhaustion—only the joy of a new beginning. What a glorious day that will be!

Colossians 3:4  When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.

I hope these thoughts are encouraging to you! Honestly, just thinking about Jesus appearing gets me so excited. It’s like that ‘vacation feeling’ multiplied by a million! We are headed to a destination where everything is perfect in every way. Just imagine: when He shows up, we get to appear alongside Him in all His glory!

Titus 2:13-14  Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;  (14)  Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

Try to picture that moment! The return of Christ is the grand event we wait for with eager hearts. I often think that if we were expected to pass through the Great Tribulation, our focus would shift from ‘blessed hope’ to ‘basic survival.’ In a period of such unparalleled distress, we would be preoccupied with where to hide or how to provide for our families. Thankfully, our gaze is not fixed on the coming darkness, but on a joyful expectation. As Noah Webster defines it, hope is:

A desire of some good, accompanied with at least a slight expectation of obtaining it, or a belief that it is obtainable. Hope differs from wish and desire in this, that it implies some expectation of obtaining the good desired, or the possibility of possessing it. Hope therefore always gives pleasure or joy; whereas wish and desire may produce or be accompanied with pain and anxiety.

Not only does Paul call it “hope,” but he tells us to look for the “blessed hope“ in Titus 2:13!

James 5:7-8  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.  (8)  Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.

Even if the Apostle James was looking toward the Second Coming, the Rapture is the next event on the horizon—and it’s nearer today than it was in the first century. Waiting for Christ requires patience, especially given the state of our world, but it also inspires us to live righteously. Since He could appear at any moment, our priority should be soul-winning. Remember, your current circumstances are no accident; God has placed you among people who desperately need the Savior. Let’s be faithful to the work He’s given us: spreading the Gospel and ensuring as many as possible share in this incredible hope.

1 John 3:2-3  Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.  (3)  And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

Consider the weight of knowing you must face the most distressful time the world has ever seen. How can one look forward to a season of martyrdom and the pressure of the mark of the beast with a sense of hope? While our destination is secure in Christ, the journey through such tribulation would be overwhelming. Yet, Paul doesn’t command us to look for the Antichrist or suffering; he tells us to look for this:

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

Having the Rapture to look forward to changes everything! Unfortunately, it’s a topic rarely heard in churches today. If nearly a third of the Bible is dedicated to prophecy, why would we settle for only knowing 72% of God’s Word? Avoiding these chapters often comes down to a desire to keep everyone comfortable, but it actually robs the church of the full picture.

I’m doing this series because the Rapture is my ‘blessed hope’—it’s what brought me to the Lord in the first place. I know people who get angry when they see the world’s power players moving toward control, and they’d rather not hear about the end times at all. But God didn’t give us prophecy to make us angry; He gave it to comfort us! As Paul says in 1 Thessalonians, we are to use these truths to encourage and build each other up. Looking for the Rapture keeps our lives pure and our hearts focused on bringing as many people to Heaven with us as possible. Dr. Ed Hinson, now home with the Lord, said, “God has not give us prophecy in His Word to scare us but to prepare us.”

Psalm 107:2  Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy;

The Rapture is my greatest anticipation—is it yours? If that thought brings you more fear than joy, please know that God’s desire is for you to be saved. You are here by divine appointment today. To find peace and certainty about your future, please follow this link: You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Light in the Last Days – Day 22

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Looking at today’s picture, I can’t help but think of the Rapture! The idea of Christ coming in the clouds for us is incredibly exciting. I dwell on this hope every day, yearning for that eternal reunion with our Lord. This post covers a lot of ground, but please stick with me; the insights regarding the Jewish wedding traditions were a huge blessing to me, and I believe they will be for you too.

Understanding the Rapture starts with a simple but vital truth: Jesus’ next coming involves two separate events. There is His appearance in the air for the Church, and His physical return to Israel for His chosen people. Many viewpoints get tangled because they try to merge the two. We must be careful to avoid ‘Replacement Theology,’ which wrongly claims the Church has taken Israel’s place. Let’s follow the example of the Bereans! They didn’t just take someone’s word for it; they studied the Scriptures daily to find the truth. We should do the same as we look forward to His return!

Act 17:10-11  And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Bereans: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews.  (11)  These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

Paul’s writings are where we find the most detail regarding the ‘mystery’ of the Rapture. This specific term appears 22 times in the New Testament, frequently linked to the revelation of Christ’s Gospel to the Gentiles. By examining Paul’s letters—such as Romans, Ephesians, and Colossians—we see how God began revealing these hidden truths that had been kept secret since the world began (see Romans 11:24-25, 16:25, 1 Corinthians 2:7, Ephesians 1:9, 3:3-4, 3:9, 5:32, 6:19, Colossians 1:26-27, Colossians 2:2, 1 Timothy 3:9, 3:16).

We have the incredible privilege of being just as studious as the Bereans because those very same Scriptures are in our hands today! What a profound blessing this is, especially as we navigate a world that has changed so drastically. The world we knew twenty years ago has faded, replaced by an era of increasing darkness. Yet, we are called to be witnesses of Christ’s salvation. As we do His work, we should lift each other up with the glorious hope of the Rapture. This ‘mystery’ isn’t just a doctrine; it is our comfort, reminding us that just as God provided for Noah and Lot, He will surely care for us!

1 Corinthians 15:51-54  Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,  (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.  (53)  For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.  (54)  So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.

What is the Apostle Paul teaching us here? He is explaining that at the Rapture, those who have died in Christ will receive their glorified bodies as they rise to meet Him (while their spirits are already with the Lord, their bodies are now raised). Those of us who are alive at His coming will also be transformed, receiving immortal bodies in an instant. This is vital because our current ‘flesh and blood’ is subject to decay and cannot inhabit eternity. These new, incorruptible bodies are designed to last forever! Just as Jesus promised to prepare a place for us, He will physically remove us from this earth—just as He rescued Noah and Lot—before His wrath is poured out on the world.

John 14:1-3  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.

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

In Revelation 3:10, the ‘hour of temptation’ refers to a specific ‘hour of trial’ that is destined to come upon the entire world. Scripture promises that believers will be kept from this time of testing. This reinforces the truth that there are two separate returns: the Rapture, where we meet Christ in the air, and His later return to the earth. Because the Rapture comes ‘as a thief in the night,’ the timing is a mystery. Just as a homeowner is caught off guard by a sudden robbery, the world will be unprepared for this swift and unexpected event.

1 Thessalonians 4:16-18  For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:  (17)  Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.  (18)  Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

1 Thessalonians 5:2  For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.

Post-Tribulation proponents suggest that the ‘thief in the night’ occurs at the end of the Tribulation. But this contradicts the idea of an unknown hour! Since the seven-year Tribulation has a definite, scriptural number of days, anyone living through it could predict exactly when it ends. A ‘thief’ doesn’t announce his arrival with a seven-year warning!

We must distinguish between Christ’s appearance in the air and His return to the ground. The Rapture is a private rescue for the Bride, occurring unexpectedly at an unknown hour. However, the Second Coming is a public event where Jesus returns to Israel to conclude the Tribulation. Revelation 19:14 shows the armies of Heaven following Him, clothed in clean, white linen. Since this fine linen represents the saints washed in the Blood of the Lamb, it proves the Church is already in Heaven, ready to return with Him. The Rapture is a mystery for the Church, but the Second Coming is a manifestation seen by the whole world!

Revelation 19:7-8  Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready.  ( 8 )  And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints.

Revelation 19:11-15  And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.  (12)  His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself.  (13)  And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God.  (14)  And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean.  (15)  And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.

Amen—only the blood of Jesus can make us clean! Because of this, we know that the army following Christ in Revelation 19 isn’t composed of angels. Angels are holy, but they haven’t been redeemed by the Blood of the Lamb. The Bible tells us that the ‘fine linen, white and clean’ is reserved for the saints—the Church. By looking closely at the text, we see that the Bride is the one returning with her Groom. It pays to be like the Bereans! When you study these details for yourself, you find so much encouragement in God’s specific plan for His Church.

The idea of a Rapture occurring at the end of the Tribulation creates a conflict in the scriptural timeline. How could the Church attend the Marriage Supper in Heaven if we are only meeting the Lord as He descends to earth? The answer lies in the ancient Jewish wedding customs. By walking through the phases of a wedding in biblical times, you will see a stunning comparison that clarifies the timing of our rescue.

There are seven phases from the betrothal to the actual marriage consummation!!! Doesn’t this bless you? As you know, the number seven symbolizes perfection. What a blessing! The phases are:

  1. The father of the groom made the arrangements for the marriage and paid a price for the bride. The Father sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to earth to pay for the bride with His blood. (1 Corinthians 6:20)  For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s. (1 Corinthians 7:23)  Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men.
  2. The bridegroom goes back home to prepare a place for his bride. (John 14:2)  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. (John 14:3)  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.
  3. The father of the groom determined the timing of when the bridegroom would return to get his bride. The bridegroom did not know the exact time. (Matthew 24:36)  But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. (Mark 13:32)  But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.
  4. The bride is consecrated and set apart. (1 Peter 2:9) But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:
  5. Once the father of the groom gave the go ahead, the bridegroom would go to where the bride was. The groom returns with a shout. (1 Thessalonians 4:16)  For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout. He then takes his bride to his home. (1 Thessalonians 4:15-17)  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.
  6. The bride and groom go to the wedding chamber. The bride and groom stay in their chamber for seven days. (Isaiah 26:20) Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast.” Praise the Lord! Scripture tells us that a prophetic day can equal a year. (see Numbers 14:34) The seven days the Jewish bride and groom spend in the wedding chamber appear to equate to seven years of Tribulation. (Daniel 9:27) Then he shall confirm a covenant with many for one week; But in the middle of the week He shall bring an end to sacrifice and offering. The antichrist breaks his covenant with Israel in the middle of the seven-year Tribulation.
  7. After seven days/years, the marriage feast occurs. Jesus returns to earth on a white horse with His Bride to have victory over the earth. (Revelation 19:11-14)  And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.  (12)  His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself.  (13)  And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God.  (14)  And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean.
  8. Lastly, after the Battle of Armageddon, Jesus reigns in Jerusalem for 1,000 years, known as the Feast of Tabernacles, where He “tabernacles” with man during the Millennial Kingdom!

After walking through the beautiful steps of the Jewish wedding, the timing of the Rapture becomes so much clearer. How could it occur in the middle or at the end of the Tribulation? The biblical pattern shows the Groom and the Bride entering the wedding chamber together for seven full days—a perfect picture of the Church being sheltered in Heaven during the seven-year Tribulation!

By now, the distinction is clear: the Rapture and the Tribulation are two entirely separate events. There is simply no comfort or hope for those destined to endure the darkest chapter in human history. This is why the promise of our removal is so vital.

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

As you reflect on these truths, remember that the promise of the Rapture is not just a theological debate—it is the “Blessed Hope” for every believer. In a world that feels increasingly heavy and uncertain, we can stand firm knowing that our Groom is preparing a place for us and will return to rescue His Bride before the day of judgment. This assurance is only possible through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, who paid the price for your soul with His own blood. If you are unsure of your standing with Him or feel the Holy Spirit tugging at your heart today, please don’t wait another moment to secure your eternal future.

Would you like to know more about this life-changing promise? You can find peace and certainty today by learning how to be born again and know it.

Light in the Last Days – Day 18

On By KateIn Devotionals, Light in the Last DaysLeave a comment
Photography by Bob Sabo

Jeremiah 30:7a  Alas! for that day is great, so that none is like it: it is even the time of Jacob’s trouble;

Whether this series serves as a new eye-opener or a helpful refresher, it’s vital to understand the ‘Time of Jacob’s Trouble.’ As we touched on previously, Scripture uses this specific term to describe Israel’s Great Tribulation. Because the name refers directly to the descendants of Jacob, it stands to reason that this period is centered on the Jewish people rather than the Church. Just as the Church remained a ‘mystery’ unmentioned in the Old Testament, she remains absent from this specific time of trouble. Today’s verse shows that this period immediately precedes the Second Coming, when Jesus returns as the Messiah to save His people.

We are still waiting for the conclusion of Daniel’s prophecy to unfold, as the 70th week has not yet begun. The angel’s message to Daniel was clear regarding who this period concerns, stating that seventy weeks were specifically ‘determined upon thy people’ (Daniel 9:24).

Daniel 9:24  Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.

Scripture never characterizes the Tribulation as a period of testing or judgment for the believer. Because we are redeemed by the blood of Jesus, our judgment has already taken place at the Cross. Our sins were washed away the moment we accepted His gift of eternal life. Instead, the Bible clarifies that this coming wrath is reserved specifically for the ‘children of disobedience’.

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

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

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

The specific designation ‘children of disobedience’ is found exactly three times in the King James Version. By examining its first occurrence, we gain a clear definition of who these individuals are and the spiritual nature of their rebellion:

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

Satan is the ‘prince’ mentioned here; it is his spirit that currently drives the ‘children of disobedience.’ While God has provided us with clear scriptural warnings, a pattern for holy living, and a perfect plan of salvation through Jesus Christ, the enemy is obsessed with dragging souls toward destruction. It’s no surprise, then, that he works to shift the focus of believers away from the Pre-Tribulation Rapture. By fixating on the horrors of the Tribulation rather than the hope of Christ, believers are distracted from the Lord and begin bracing for the enemy’s reign. Make no mistake: the ‘prince of the power of the air’ is preparing to step into his role as the reigning Antichrist.

Those who hold a post-Tribulation view often argue that the Church must endure this period of testing. However, to maintain this stance, they must ‘spiritualize’ the 144,000 Jewish believers mentioned in Revelation 7:2-8. If the Church were truly present, it’s unlikely John would have omitted the word ‘church’ here, especially after using it so frequently in the opening chapters. This perspective overlooks the transition of dispensations: we are currently in the Age of Grace, but once this ‘Ecclesiastical Dispensation’ ends, God will resume His specific dealings with Israel. This explains why Revelation returns to imagery from the Age of Law, such as the Temple. You cannot merge the Age of Law and the Age of Grace; they are distinct periods, and Scripture promises that the Church is not the target of the judgments found in Revelation.

1 Thessalonians 5:9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Thessalonians 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.

Romans 5:9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

Paul points us toward the ‘blessed hope’ (Titus 2:13), a phrase that breathes confidence and joy into the Christian life. This stands in stark contrast to the severe and terrifying judgments we read about in Revelation. If Paul intended for us to suffer through the Tribulation, he wouldn’t have called our outlook ‘blessed.’ He was careful to teach the truth so that we would be anchored, safe from confusing doctrines that take our eyes off Christ’s return.

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

Beyond those initial warnings, the Bible provides a mountain of evidence regarding the targets of divine wrath. God is crystal clear on exactly who will endure the Tribulation—and it isn’t His Church. Look at what the Scriptures say:

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.

Romans 1:18  For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;

Revelation 14:10  The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb:

Revelation 14:19  And the angel thrust in his sickle into the earth, and gathered the vine of the earth, and cast it into the great winepress of the wrath of God.

Revelation 15:1  And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up the wrath of God.

Revelation 15:7  And one of the four beasts gave unto the seven angels seven golden vials full of the wrath of God, who liveth for ever and ever.

Revelation 16:1  And I heard a great voice out of the temple saying to the seven angels, Go your ways, and pour out the vials of the wrath of God upon the earth.

To suggest the Church goes through the Tribulation is to suggest she must endure God’s wrath. But why would the Lord subject His Church to judgment after already redeeming her? It defies the heart of the Gospel. If an earthly husband would do anything to protect his wife from harm, how much more will the Lord Jesus protect His Bride from the coming storm? A Groom does not put His Bride through a massacre; He rescues her from it.

Because the Holy Spirit lives within each member of Christ’s Bride, the Church is intricately linked to God’s own presence. It is difficult to reconcile the idea of the Holy Spirit enduring a global outpouring of divine wrath. Why would such a catastrophic judgment fall upon the very Spirit of Christ?

1 Thessalonians 5:9  For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,

To the one who is not saved, this is a scary time. 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!

Light in the Last Days – Day 5

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

1 Thessalonians 5:1-9  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.  (5)  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,

What an exciting time to be alive! We are witnessing unprecedented events affecting the entire globe, ranging from political upheavals to environmental changes that challenge our understanding of nature. Jesus spoke of what we are to expect in the end times in Matthew 24:3-51, and He provided a prophetic outline of the trials and tribulations that humanity will face as the world approaches its end. To the average reader, these verses are frightening and may generate fear and anxiety about the future. But to the born-again Christian, they are exciting because we know that we will not be here to experience the horrific events that will occur upon the entire earth; instead, we look forward to the glorious appearing of Christ at the Rapture and the promise of eternal life, filled with hope and anticipation for what lies ahead. In this light, we find comfort and assurance, as our faith guides us through these tumultuous times.

The Rapture of the church has three very different groups of belief: Pre-Tribulation, Mid-Tribulation (or Pre-Wrath) and Post-Tribulation. They all pertain to the Rapture’s timing – when the event will actually occur. Which one is correct? One must turn to God’s Word to determine the answer. God would not want His children to be afraid of what is to come. Think of your earthly father: would he want you to be afraid as you live under his roof? No father would want this weighing on his children. An earthly father wants to protect his children. How much more a Heavenly Father: the Perfect Father?

What does each one mean? Pre-Tribulation refers to the Rapture occurring sometime before the start of the Tribulation. The Bible says that His return will be as a thief coming in the night. If you knew the hour a thief would enter your house, you would be prepared. That is why we are told to always be prepared. Noah didn’t know when the flood was going to come – he just knew it was coming and he continued doing what God had commanded Him to do. The Bible answers all of our questions so let’s get to it.

1 Thessalonians 5:2  For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.

2 Peter 3:10  But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.

The Bible tells us when the Tribulation will begin. It will begin when the Antichrist is made known, not a minute before.

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.

So we know that when the Antichrist is revealed, the Tribulation will begin. However, what about the Rapture? The Bible says:

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

Matthew 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 cock crowing, or in the morning: Lest coming suddenly He find you sleeping. And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.

These verses indicate that Christ’s return for His church is imminent – this means that it can happen at any time. No man knows the day or the hour. We are given a timeline of the Tribulation in the Book of Revelation. We know that it is a literal seven years from the time that the Antichrist is revealed. This doesn’t fulfill the “imminent” return of Christ. There is a definite timeline here of Christ’s Second Coming. God is all about timing and order. However, the above verses encourage believers to be waiting and watchful. This is the proof of His imminent return for the Rapture of the church.

Just as Noah was kept from the wrath on the entire earth, so will believers be kept from the Tribulation.

1 Thessalonians 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.

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

These verses would not make any sense if the Church was to go through part or all of the Tribulation! There is no comfort or blessed hope if Christians have to experience the wrath which is to come to the world. The wrath that is to come is for the “children of disobedience” according to Paul:

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

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

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

There is no timeline for the Rapture. It can happen at any time before the impending judgments of the Tribulation. John foresaw the wrath and called it “the wrath of the Lamb” in Revelation 6:16-17! Why would Christ bring wrath on His Church when Romans 8:1 states there is no condemnation to those who are in Christ!

Rev 6:16-17  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:  (17)  For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?

It was such a very important doctrine in the early Church and the Apostle Paul taught the most about it.

2 Thessalonians 2:1-3  Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him,  (2)  That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand.  (3)  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;

Paul had to repeat his teachings to the Thessalonians because they had been deceived by the very same skeptics that we have today, whose voices create doubt and confusion among believers. The verses above tell us that the Thessalonians thought they had missed the Rapture and that the Tribulation had already begun, leading to widespread panic and uncertainty within their community. They were listening to heretics rather than remembering what Paul had taught them, which included the promise of hope and the assurance of God’s timing. It was crucial for Paul to reaffirm their faith and remind them of the truth, encouraging them to hold steadfast to the teachings they had received and to resist the misleading doctrines that threatened to undermine their beliefs. The struggle they faced reminds us of the challenges many face today, as false teachings continue to circulate and test the foundational beliefs of believers.

Paul reminds them of the signs that will usher in the Tribulation will be: except there come a falling away first and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition! So there are definite signs and timelines for the Tribulation. We have been seeing a falling away from the faith for several decades, and it is getting worse with each passing year. This decline has manifested in various forms, including the rise of secularism, anti Semitism, and an increasing hatred for traditional Christian values. So we know we are in those “end times.” The end times have specific signs that believers have been encouraged to recognize and respond to. Yes, those signs have been seen throughout the past two thousand years, often interspersed with periods of revitalization and revival in faith. However, the convergence of these signs, along with the rapid pace at which they are now occurring simultaneously, is something to look for with great anticipation.

But there are no signs or timeline which must occur before the Rapture. If a person believes in the Mid-Tribulation Rapture, then there is a definite timeline because that is half way through the seven years, which is three and a half years. If a person believes in the Post-Tribulation Rapture, then there is a definite timeline there as well: after the seven years of Tribulation. Those of us who hold to the Pre-Tribulation Rapture have something to look forward to. It keeps us focused in doing the work of the Lord because we want to be caught up at that time! So friend, be encouraged! Be watchful and pray that you are ready for Christ’s Rapture of His Church at any moment! We are not called to experience the wrath that is about to come to this earth! Praise Him!!! 

If you are like I me prior to salvation and are interested in the end times, I pray you find the Lord (as I did) before it’s too late! 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!

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!

Soar As Eagles – Relieving Fear

On By KateIn Devotionals, Soar As EaglesLeave a comment

2 Corinthians 5:8  We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. Philippians 1:23  For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:

Does the cherished love of this earthly life and its blessings outweigh the glorious hope of eternity with the Lord? It is indeed a wonder to hear a believer in Christ speak of fearing death, when we know that dying is to be instantly and eternally present with our Lord. What treasure, relationship, or joy found here on Earth could possibly surpass the unimaginable peace and perfection that await us when we finally see Christ face to face?

But should we live to see the Rapture of the Church, we won’t experience physical death, which many consider a true blessing. What a special reward for those believers who live in the end times as we do!!! This unique event for the Church symbolizes hope and steadfast faith, reminding us of the promises bestowed upon us from God’s Word. The thought of this should excite us to the core, filling our hearts with anticipation and joy as we look forward to a glorious reunion with our Saviour and Bridegroom, as well as the loved ones who have gone before us. 💜 Each day brings us closer to that moment, and it is our Christian duty to remain vigilant, tell people about Christ’s salvation, and encourage one another in our faith.

1 Thessalonians 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.

Does this not excite you? Does this not set your fears aside, even for a moment? To soar as eagles, we must look at the wonderful blessings of God’s Word rather than our circumstances. The Apostle Paul gave us the perfect recipe on how to develop this mindset and grasp God’s promises in our lives! God’s Word always provides solutions for His child, offering guidance, strength, and comfort during fearful times. If you are a negative thinker, this is the perfect verse to turn that around; it serves as a powerful reminder that we are not alone in our struggles. All things are possible with Christ (Philippians 4:13), who gives us strength us to rise above our fears and transform our thoughts. Grab on to this truth, and allow it to shape your thought life.

Philippians 4:8  Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

This verse provides the ultimate remedy for negative thinking. If fear has become your constant companion, it reveals a lack of trust in God’s care for you—when you truly consider it, that’s the heart of the issue. Overcoming fear requires intentional practice, like strengthening a muscle through exercise. Discipline your mind to focus on the virtues listed in Philippians 4:8
and the joy of the blessed hope!

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

With the Rapture of the Church, every earthly fear and worry will vanish. Until then, don’t miss out on the good things, remembering that Nehemiah 8:10b assures us the joy of the Lord is your strength. To consistently dwell in fear is self-destructive, like voluntarily drinking poison while expecting no negative outcome.

The Blessed Hope

On By KateIn Any Day Now, Devotionals, Thoughts and MeditationsLeave a comment

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

That “blessed hope” for born-again Christians is the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ! The believer is waiting to hear a shofar blast and the Lord calling us to meet Him in the clouds.

I have no idea what the world will see, if anything. Some Bible scholars say that Revelation 1:7 proves the world will see the Rapture in progress. However, if you read that verse in context, one can see that this verse is not referring to the Rapture but referring to the Lord’s Second Coming.

Rev 1:7  Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.

Jesus is speaking to the seven Churches. The context has not changed. When speaking about His return, John says that Jesus is coming with clouds. The physical clouds cannot play a part in the Battle of Armageddon. But the Church and angels surely can.

Rev 19:14  And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean.

The Bible does not go into what the world will see, but it does tell us that the change that will happen between the old body and the new body will be in the twinkling of an eye!

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

Some believe the whole event from rising and meeting in the clouds will be in the twinkling of an eye, but 1 Cor. 15:51 says it’s the actual change between an earthly body to a heavenly body that will occur in the twinkling of an eye.

I thought that we would do a review of Scriptures and those that refer to the Rapture, directly or indirectly. As a believer of the Pre-Tribulation Rapture, I read verses with that particular event in mind. They do not indicate whether it will be Pre-Tribulation or not, but they are most certainly encouraging to the believer who is longing for Christ’s return! Who knows … it could be TODAY! 

Php 3:20-21  For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:  (21)  Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.

Oh what praise we will sing when we receive our glorified body!!!  I think of my dear friend who has suffered with fibromyalgia since the 1970’s! She will no longer be in pain but instead, she will be able to face eternity with that new body!! No more pain – no more suffering! What a day that will be!

Col 3:4  When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.

Are you encouraged yet? Just the thought of Christ’s appearing excites the spirit within me! It’s like looking forward to a wonderful vacation but MUCH better! It’s a vacation like no other! Why? Because our destination is in Heaven where perfection is beheld in everything! Here it says that when He appears, we shall appear with Him in glory!

Tit 2:13-14  Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;  (14)  Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

Can you picture this? Christ’s glorious appearing is what every believer waits for with hope in his/her heart! If we were to go through the Tribulation, it would be extremely difficult to look forward to that blessed hope of seeing Him. Since it is a time of great suffering and tribulation that has NEVER occurred on earth, hiding, witnessing, and being safe would consume of our thoughts! We would be worried about where to hide, where to get our next meal, etc. Instead, we are looking for a blessed hope! Noah Webster defines hope as:

A desire of some good, accompanied with at least a slight expectation of obtaining it, or a belief that it is obtainable. Hope differs from wish and desire in this, that it implies some expectation of obtaining the good desired, or the possibility of possessing it. Hope therefore always gives pleasure or joy; whereas wish and desire may produce or be accompanied with pain and anxiety.

Not only does Paul call it “hope,” but he tells us to look for the “blessed hope“!

Jas 5:7-8  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.  (8)  Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.

Granted, James may have been speaking of the Second Coming, but the Rapture must happen before so we know it draweth nigh also! The Rapture is closer to us now than it was at the Apostle James’ time of writing. The believers’ patience awaiting the Rapture is so needed, especially living in the world we live in now. It encourages us to live righteous lives while we wait because we don’t know when Christ will come take to take us to Heaven. The time is close – at any moment. We need to be busy winning souls to Christ, friend! God placed you in the exact place where He wants you to be. He has put people around you who are desperately lost. Be busy with His work – share the gospel and lead others to Him so they don’t miss out on this glorious hope!

1Jn 3:2-3  Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.  (3)  And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

On a side note, how much hope would I have knowing that I will have to live through the most tumultuous time since the Great Flood? How much hope would I have knowing that I will have to deny the mark of the beast and possibly be tortured/killed for it? Although I know that Heaven is my home and I will go there once I die, it would be frightening knowing this was my end. But instead, Paul said:

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

But I would have this hope if I was looking forward to Rapture! Amen? Unfortunately, most churches no longer preach about the Rapture at all, let alone the Pre-Tribulation Rapture. More than 28% of the Bible is about prophecy. Would you read only 72% of a novel? Of course not! When a Pastor doesn’t preach prophecy, he’s admitting that he does not have a stand on the subject or he’s afraid to lose members. They are not preaching the whole counsel of God. We Christians need to be encouraged to share Christ with as many people as possible and to share with them the same message of hope. The Rapture is what led me to Christ and I cannot be the only one. This is why I’m doing this series! There are people out there that get anxious, afraid or just downright angry when it comes to reading about the end times. I know someone who gets angry because of what the powers that be are doing to gain control of the world. He does not find peace knowing that God told us what would be happening in the end times. Instead, he gets angry. He prefers not to hear about the end times at all. I wonder how many are like him? I find great peace knowing what is to come because I know that the Lord intends for us to be comforted. Comforted, you may ask? Yes! Paul tells us in 1 Thessalonians 4:18 and 5:11 to “comfort yourselves”! When we are looking forward to the Rapture, we are encouraged to live righteously, and to share with others so they too can be taken up at the Rapture.

Psa 107:2  Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy;

Does the Rapture excite you, reader? It surely does me! But to the one who is not saved, it is a different story. Friend, it is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved. Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!