The Timing Of The Rapture

I believe that the most effective way to interpret scripture is to begin by taking it at face value. It means what it says and says what it means. With this in mind we must then understand what is being said, who it is being said to and why.  We must also guard against approaching Scripture to find something hidden in the text that we have received by some “supernatural means” or through traditions that do not have their origin in clear biblical understanding. We do not seek to define Scripture, but allow Scripture to define us, for it is in this way that God reveals Himself to those who do not fully know Him, and we all see in part. There is much more to be said on this subject, but this is not the topic I am exploring today. With this said I fully believe in supernatural encounters and even traditions as far as they strengthen the biblical narrative as well as deeper revelation and understanding growing in us over time.

Now onto the matter at hand: The Lord’s Return. There has been no small debate concerning the Day of the Lord and the “catching away” of His church (body). Most of the controversy centers around timing. Will Jesus call His bride (church) to Himself before, after or during the period of time called the seven year tribulation. Let us take a quick glance at one small section of Scripture:

For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive [and] remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive [and] remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words. - 1Th 4:15-18 NKJV

In the book of 1^st Thessalonians Paul was addressing a group of believers who had been persuaded that they may have missed the Day of the Lord. His answer is very clear and plain and leaves little wiggle room for further interpretation. The “catching-up” that is the point of so much debate is placed at the same time as the return of Christ! It can also be clearly discerned that this event will not go unnoticed, there will be great “pomp and circumstance” as Jesus is appearing to be crowned king of the earth. There is very much that can be said, but I ask you to consider how this could be a secret event?

Now what is the importance of such things? It is the full manifestation of God on the earth and the deliverance of men from wicked governments and Satan’s handiwork. It is important to learn about these things because even though you may say everything will pan-out in the end, the question is whether or not it will pan-out for you. How we live is important.

Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest [your] hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, [as] in your ignorance; but as He who called you [is] holy, you also be holy in all [your] conduct, because it is written, "Be holy, for I am holy." - 1Pe 1:13-16 NKJV