Had an interesting discussion on the “rapture” after
watching another group predicting that the end date was September 23, 2015. I
have heard this from a Biblical perspective, and economic and astrological one
since a comet will pass the earth soon also. What does the Bible really say
about the rapture? Nothing really, the word “rapture” is not in any version I
have read. Matthew 24:40 is the basis of the event where followers of Jesus will
be lifted up:
Then shall
two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left.
Now this does not say WHO is taken other that one remains.
Why do we assume that the followers of Jesus will be taken up? What if WE are “left
behind” and the corrupt and evil are raptured to the fire? There are clear
references to those being cast into the “lake of fire” in Revelations, so why
not an event like the rapture?
Before you poo-poo this idea read the parable of the weeds
in Matthew 13:24 – 30 and focus on verse 30:
Let both
grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the
reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn
them: but gather the wheat into my barn.
They are both growing together like today, but the
weeds are burned FIRST and then the wheat is brought to “my barn”. So while you
see discussions of a rapture happening BEFORE the “tribulation” understand
there is really no Biblical foundation for this (and I am sure this will blow
up a discussion). I read that believers will endure the hardship and come out
the other end victorious with God. Why freak out about what will happen? Do you
really fear Satan? Remember who is OUR pilot!!