The coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him
Before looking at this subject, I must point out that there is more than one position taken even by those who believe in a post-tribulation return of Christ. I believe and uphold the premillennial, post trib - pre-wrath position. That is, that Jesus will return after the tribulation (Post Trib) and before His wrath is poured out. There is, however, a two-step process, this view I had overlooked in previous studies and will amend below.
Quick summary
Step 1 is for His church before the wrath and after the tribulation.
Step 2 is with His church at the 7th trump. This is His last and final return before the 1000 year reign begins.
Step 1 is for His church before the wrath and after the tribulation.
Step 2 is with His church at the 7th trump. This is His last and final return before the 1000 year reign begins.
Why the blog?
Two main reasons. First I believe the study of the end times is hugely important especially as we see the day of the Lord' return approaching.
Secondly, I am also very concerned and have been for some time with the teaching that suggests Jesus will return before the tribulation known as the pre trib view.
There are many Christians, myself included who will not hesitate to point out the lies of the prosperity gospel and the NAR (New Apostolic Reformation movement).
Then there are those who rightfully uphold the fact that the church has not replaced Israel, yet when it comes to the false teaching about the rapture the pat answer goes something like this. "We should agree to disagree." or that it’s not important enough to worry about or that it’s only a secondary doctrine so don’t fall out over it.
It is one of those subjects that although we might believe the above statements, it’s another matter when it comes down to it
In fact, I would say it’s one of the hottest potatoes out there and does course division, even when we know it shouldn’t.
Based on the experiences I have had over the years I agree that Christians can get hostile about this subject and does indeed divide, I am sorry to say.
In fact, I would say it’s one of the hottest potatoes out there and does course division, even when we know it shouldn’t.
Based on the experiences I have had over the years I agree that Christians can get hostile about this subject and does indeed divide, I am sorry to say.
We must, however, be open and willing to listen and read what the scriptures say rather than what we are told they say by others or have a pre textual view that we have to impose on scripture to make it fit with our view.
Wrong Eschatology
Eschatology means the study of the end things. I should say at this point that if one already has a preconceived view of what we are as the church and what we must do regarding how God’s Kingdom is to be established before Jesus can return then one will already have a wrong view of the study of the end. That is to say, if one's beliefs, teachings, and concepts are founded on what is called dominion theology or kingdom now, then one will more than likely believe in either a post-millennial or an A-millennial return of Christ. Both Post and A -Mill in some way teach that we are already in the millennium. There are differences between Post-Mill and A-Mill, but to simplify the difference Post Mill is more to do with the churches physical activity before Jesus returns after the millennium, this is in response to a wrong over-realized eschatology. A-Mill is more of a spiritual concept of the church already being in the millennium time with the Lord ruling over the church from heaven. So more or less Post mill and A-mill are two sides of the same coin. But post mill is more dangerous because it is dominionist in its core concepts.
2Thess2
Paul states in 2Thess2:13-15 “But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth, to which He called you by our gospel, for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle.”
Left behind
The left behind series has become a shrine to the pre trib campaign, its a fairy tale that has deceived many and it needs to be exposed. Sadly there are many bible teachers who are happy to teach the pre trib rapture in an almost rote fashion as though they have not even thought about what they are saying. There's no use naming names, you all know who's who when it comes to teaching these things. There are also those who know better and know this teaching is wrong who don't want to ruin their opportunities of becoming a big name, so they just agree to disagree and shrug their shoulders as if it doesn’t matter much.
Is it a salvation issue?
I don't believe it's a salvation issue but it should nevertheless to be taken very very seriously.
But having said that, clearly there is to be an apostasy prior to the son of perdition - anti-Christ being revealed. There may be all sorts of reasons why believers apostatize See definition but could it also be possible for those who have been taught that they will escape the tribulation that when the tribulation begins and the rapture doesn't occure or that believers think they may have missed it (for whatever reason) that many will dispare and may even give up and deny Christ.
Isn't it for that very reason why Paul writes to the believers in Thessolonica and says " Now, brethren, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, we ask you,not to be soon shaken in mind or troubled, either by spirit or by word or by letter, as if from us, as though the day of Christ had come. Let no one deceive you by any means; for [that Day will not come] unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition,who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.Do you not remember that when I was still with you I told you these things?" 2Thess 2:1-5
I don't believe it's a salvation issue but it should nevertheless to be taken very very seriously.
But having said that, clearly there is to be an apostasy prior to the son of perdition - anti-Christ being revealed. There may be all sorts of reasons why believers apostatize See definition but could it also be possible for those who have been taught that they will escape the tribulation that when the tribulation begins and the rapture doesn't occure or that believers think they may have missed it (for whatever reason) that many will dispare and may even give up and deny Christ.
Isn't it for that very reason why Paul writes to the believers in Thessolonica and says " Now, brethren, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, we ask you,not to be soon shaken in mind or troubled, either by spirit or by word or by letter, as if from us, as though the day of Christ had come. Let no one deceive you by any means; for [that Day will not come] unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition,who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.Do you not remember that when I was still with you I told you these things?" 2Thess 2:1-5
Some will argue that it' not a subject we should even spend much time looking at, even though Jesus Himself gave specific information in the gospels about the signs to watch out for regarding events leading up to the day of His return. And Paul was also given clear instruction regarding Christ's coming and our gathering together to Him.
False Prophecy and scriptural interpretation
Prophecy type 1
In Deut 18:20-22 we read ‘But the prophet who presumes to speak a word in My name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or who speaks in the name of other gods, that prophet shall die.’ “And if you say in your heart, ‘How shall we know the word which the LORD has not spoken?’– “when a prophet speaks in the name of the LORD, if the thing does not happen or come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD has not spoken; the prophet has spoken it presumptuously; you shall not be afraid of him.Prophecy type 2
And Deut 13:1-5 says “If there arises among you a prophet or a dreamer of dreams, and he gives you a sign or a wonder,“and the sign or the wonder comes to pass, of which he spoke to you, saying, ‘Let us go after other gods’–which you have not known–‘and let us serve them,’“you shall not listen to the words of that prophet or that dreamer of dreams, for the LORD your God is testing you to know whether you love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul.“You shall walk after the LORD your God and fear Him, and keep His commandments and obey His voice; you shall serve Him and hold fast to Him.“But that prophet or that dreamer of dreams shall be put to death, because he has spoken in order to turn [you] away from the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt and redeemed you from the house of bondage, to entice you from the way in which the LORD your God commanded you to walk. So you shall put away the evil from your midst."2Pet 1:16-19 says
16 For we did not follow cunningly devised fables when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of His majesty. 17 For He received from God the Father honor and glory when such a voice came to Him from the Excellent Glory: “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” 18 And we heard this voice which came from heaven when we were with Him on the holy mountain.
19 And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts; 20 knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, 21 for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.
We are not to interpret scripture from our own ideas but as God intended them to be understood.
If one teaches about a particular subject in scripture and there is error in the teaching then the person teaching will be accountable to the Lord one day and be judged accordingly. (James 3:1)
In 2Pet 2:1 Peter compares the false prophet with the teacher. (the subject is different but the principle is the same) When one teaches that the coming of the Lord will happen at such a time that God did not say, then that person has "spoken it presumptuously" have they not?
Paul writes in 1Thess 5:20" Do not despise prophecies. 21 Test all things; hold fast what is good".
Whatever the prophecy, test it. Don't go along with it if it's not true, if the prophecy is right and true hold fast to it, but it must conform to what is written already, not some new revelation. Or if it comes true but the one giving it encourages going after other god's for example the god who is going the prosper you and make you rich like the faith prosperity teachers do then the Lord is testing you to see if you love him, so don't go after the god of prosperity. teachers of this would include Joseph Prince, Benny Hinn, Joyce Mayer, Joel Osteen to name a few.
So on with the subject of The coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him.
Paul taught only what Jesus taught him.
I should point out here that although my position is still Post trib - pre wrath that I will concede that there are two more comings, although I had argued in the past that there was only one more return based on Hebrews 9:27-28. It’s true that Jesus does come one more to save His people -the elect- saints - the church, this happens at the resurrection and rapture of both the dead those faithful Christians who are still alive at His coming and appearing, when He gathers the said brethren into the clouds and thus saving them. Then after the wrath has been poured out upon the earth, and those who have taken the mark of the beast etc then Jesus comes with His army from heaven to the final battle called Armageddon and then to reign on the earth for 1000 years. ( a brief summery leading to the millenium)
Paul’s teaching on the coming of Christ
Paul was given instruction by the Lord through the Holy Spirit in all things with regard to the gospel, the church gatherings, spiritual gifts, Christian conduct and the coming of Christ etc. He would have only taught what Jesus did. (Gal 1:11- 12 ,1Cor 11:2 )
Paul was able to say "brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle". ( 2Thess2:13-15) He said this when speaking about the time when the lawless one would be revealed who will act according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved.casing many to be deceived etc.
So if someone says "the rapture is going to happen before the tribulation" then remember to do what Paul taught and hold fast to the fact, that Jesus won't come until after the apostasy and the man of lawlessness is made know (revealed).
With most prophecy one could or can determine if it was/is true or not by whether it comes to pass, with the coming of the Lord it is a little bit more difficult and we will have to wait until the day of Christ, to see the truth born out. But what do the scriptures say?
The scriptures
The scriptures teach us specific truth about the coming of Christ, both His first and second coming/s.
As Christians we have to use God's word to determine and define truth.
When discussing the matter of Christ' first coming most Christians will be able to turn the pages of scripture that show the prophecies of Jesus' first coming as "Emmanuel" meaning "God with us" and the baby Jesus. Furthermore we can determine that Jesus is the word who became flesh, the lamb slain to take away the sin of the world and that He rose again from the dead according to scripture. Along with these facts we should believe in Jesus alone for our salvation, having saved us from the wrath of God and the lake of fire. Yes, these things are written and we have no problem opening our bibles and saying "there they are look there.
But then, the question is asked, what about when Christ comes again and what about the resurrection and rapture? Why is it so difficult to turn the pages and find the answer?
The answer given to me when speaking about this subject is. "well we know the scriptures teaching about His first coming is true because it's already happened" "Yes" I say, but we have to use scripture to determine that truth don’t we?
So when Jesus said in Matt 24:29-31speaking about His coming again. We read
“Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken.
“Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.
Why do we have a problem with that?
Again we read the same in Luke 21:24-27 and Mark 13:24-27.
Jesus points out “Look at the fig tree, and all the trees. “When they are already budding, you see and know for yourselves that summer is now near.
“So you also, when you see these things happening, know that the kingdom of God is near.
Why does Jesus say this if we are not to know the day or the hour? Well He wants us to be watching out so we are ready. Again why tell the disciples in Matt 24:15-1615 “Therefore when you see the ‘abomination of desolation,’ spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place” (whoever reads, let him understand), 16 “then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains.
Why didn't Jesus say don't worry about a thing I am going to get you out of here when the trouble comes?
Because Jesus wants His people to be not only watching for Him but to be faithful even when faced with tribulation and persecutions. Some argue that the events Jesus was referring to Matt 24 happened in 70 AD, yes some did, but not all. It was a partial fulfillment Prophecy concerning the end have multiple fulfillment's.
With these things in mind lets begin to examine the evidence.
Please read 2Thess 2:1-17 let's observe what the context is and ask some questions and answer them.
1 "Now, brethren, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, we ask you, 2 not to be soon shaken in mind or troubled, either by spirit or by word or by letter, as if from us, as though the day of Christ had come. 3 Let no one deceive you by any means; for that day shall not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition, 4 who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshipped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God. 5 Do you not remember that when I was still with you I told you these things? 6 And now you know what is restraining, that he may be revealed in his own time. 7 For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only he who now restrains will do so until he is taken out of the way. 8 And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth and destroy with the brightness of His coming. 9 The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, 10 and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11 And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, 12 that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness. 13 But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth, 14 to which He called you by our gospel, for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15 Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle. 16 Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace, 17 comfort your hearts and establish you in every good word and work".
Please note the words "that day shall not come" in verse 3 are not in the original text. However it does no harm to the reading of the verse as the context is already dealing with the day of Christ's coming as we have already read in the previous verse "as though the day of Christ had come". So we can determine that in these verses it speaks of one event, the day of Christ. Other examples where the term"that day" is used in connection with the coming of Christ are found in Matt 7:22, Matt 24:36, Matt 26:29, 2Thess1:10.
More on this later.
What is the context?
The coming of the Lord and our gathering together to Him.
How many events are there? There is one event in that day.
Interesting what Paul says in verse 3 "Let no one deceive you by any means" This is exactly what Jesus said to the disciples in Matt 24:4 when they wanted to know when certain events would take place, prior to the destruction of Jerusalem and the coming of the Kingdom & the Lord.
Interesting what Paul says in verse 3 "Let no one deceive you by any means" This is exactly what Jesus said to the disciples in Matt 24:4 when they wanted to know when certain events would take place, prior to the destruction of Jerusalem and the coming of the Kingdom & the Lord.
Again Paul' teaching is consistent with the teachings of Jesus.
What is Paul warning the church in Thessolonica about ? "Not to be deceived"
Why? Because "That day" will not come until two events happen.
1 unless the falling away comes first,
2 and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition, who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped. In verses 4-7 Paul talks about the lawless one "who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.
Paul reminds them in verse 5 "Do you not remember that when I was still with you I told you these things? This is not some new teaching, Paul had already told them about what was going to happen and he reminds them of that fact. So we need to be reminded also, not ignore them, not lie and say the rapture is going to happen before the trouble comes, that's a deception.
The Restrainer
Verse 6. Paul has just reminded them that he told them about these things before when he was with them and they "know what is restraining", the question is do we know what is restraining? What is being or who is being restrained
I have to admit I am not very clever when it comes to English grammar and even worse when it comes to Greek. This is a bit of a puzzle.
The thing is if we never understand who or what is meant by the restrainer here does it alter when Jesus is coming? No. Sometimes we can get so caught up in detail we forget the simple point, however lets consider a few things here in this section.
There are a few differing views about the restrainer.
1. A previous kingdom or power that restrains
2. The Holy Spirit.
3. The falling away.
1. A previous kingdom or power that restrains
Reading through Daniel 2. We read of the statue as seen in King Nebuchadnezzar dream. It's prophetic, teaching us about the rise of world powers that would come. The head of Gold being Babylon, the shoulders and arms of silver being Medo-Persia, it's belly and thighs of bronze being Greece, the legs of Iron are Rome, the feet of iron and clay with ten toes being the mixed up power and religious system from which the last days anti Christ will come. Then the rock would come and smash the feet causing the whole statue (all the combined kingdoms-Babylon) to fall.
The two most important things to realise are these. Firstly we are in the very last of last days and the stage is set for the anti Christ to come. A falling away is happening and has been happening for some time. Persecution on a mass scale will happen as we read in Dan 7:21-27, Rev 6:9-11, 13:7. Deception is already prevalent in the church with the acceptance of same sex marriage, the purpose driven agenda, the health, wealth & prosperity gospel, ecumenical-inter-faith, contemplative prayer, the worship of worship, the church entertainment movement and the emerging church et al.
We can read about the beasts who arise from the sea and the earth Rev 13. So the order we can expect to see in this, unfolds in these last days, the anti-christ comes out of the iron & clay, 10 toed kingdom a world power. (the beast) The power is taken out of the way, making way for the beast.
It's worth pointing out that the beast is given power over the saints, then Christ comes.
In Daniels day Babylon was the kingdom, Nebuchadnezzar was a type of anti christ and Cyrus a type of Christ (the good shepherd) would come and provide a way for Israel to go back to Jerusalem. (Is 44:23-28; 45) This is the pattern of prophecy we will see in the end days.
Basically which ever world power or so called democratic government is in place it will always be instead of Christ governing, which of cause will not be complete until the day He comes to establish His kingdom on earth. Throughout history we see one corrupt system getting taken over by another.
So taking what David Mass is saying, this may be the restraining power that is taken out of the way revealing the lawless one.
I thought this was quit convincing but what did Jesus say when he was accused of doing miracles of doing them according to Beelzebul? Matt 12:24-27
2. The Holy Spirit
I believe the church is still here during the tribulation so the Holy spirit can't be removed from them. But is it possible the Holy Spirit stops restraining the power of the son of perdition? Jacob Prasch teaches that things will revert back to the OT times when the Holy Spirit would be in the individual believer but not in the world. But where is this in scripture. We don't read of a reverting back to time.
I would like to consider this as the right choice and I know pre tribers would support this idea but where is the evidence? Jacob Prasch also says that is is like a reversal of Pentecost, that Jesus leaves and the Holy Spirit comes then the Holy Spirit leaves and Jesus comes. This idea sound feasible but just by reversing the day Pentecost does not make it biblical.
3. The falling away
I have added this since my wife and I where studying these verses about the restrainer and we agreed that it could be that as the falling away (apostasia G646) is happening that we discover the reason for it happening and who it is at work behind the scenes.
So as believers fall away it would also becomes clear that Satan is at work, working with all signs and lying wonders through the son of perdition who exalts himself, is worshiped, and so sits as God in the temple of God. The true church is the restraining element until the falling away, when he the son of perdition is revealed. Let's look at the verses again in the interlinear 2Thess 2:4-8.
The original text
It has to be said that words are added to the original text to make it read in a more readable way but this may have also mislead us. Verses 5- 6 are key to understanding 7&8 because the same word for withholdeth (WH) in Greek κατεχον in verse 6 is the same word for letteth in verse 7.
– And now ye know (5758) what withholdeth (5723) that he might be revealed (5683) in his time. - (2 Thessalonians 2:6)
WH – και νυν το κατεχον (5723) οιδατε (5758) εις το αποκαλυφθηναι (5683) αυτον εν τω {Variant #1: αυτου } {Variant #2: εαυτου } καιρω - (2 Thessalonians 2:6)
WH – και νυν το κατεχον (5723) οιδατε (5758) εις το αποκαλυφθηναι (5683) αυτον εν τω {Variant #1: αυτου } {Variant #2: εαυτου } καιρω - (2 Thessalonians 2:6)
– For the mystery of iniquity doth already work (5731): only he who now letteth (5723) will let, until he be taken (5638) out of the way. - (2 Thessalonians 2:7)
WH – το γαρ μυστηριον ηδη ενεργειται (5731) της ανομιας μονον ο κατεχων (5723) αρτι εως εκ μεσου γενηται (5638) - (2 Thessalonians 2:7)
WH – το γαρ μυστηριον ηδη ενεργειται (5731) της ανομιας μονον ο κατεχων (5723) αρτι εως εκ μεσου γενηται (5638) - (2 Thessalonians 2:7)
The Bible in Basic English says this
2:6 And now it is clear to you what is keeping back his revelation till the time comes for him to be seen.
4. The law and the upholders of the law ( the government)
The reason I have added "The Law and the upholders of the law" at this
time is because of the tyranny that many of the governments around the
world are subjecting their people to. It's all supposedly about protecting
people from a pandemic.
Hitler quoted Romans 13 to affirm his authority as being from God.
It is necessary to examine both Romans 13 and 1 Pet 2:13-16.
We
see that the authority God gives the government is supposed to be a
terror against evil, but when government becomes a law unto itself it
becomes lawless.
Just because a government makes a law doesn't
mean it right. The only true way of determining if a law made by a
government is right is if it lines up with God's law. For example, laws
on marriage between a man and a woman.
People in Countries governed by governments that recognize God's laws will certainly benefit. This doesn't mean that somehow that nation becomes Christianized. No, it just means society will live in a way that reflects the righteousness of God.
In the context of the end of days, Jesus said to His disciples "And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold" Matt 24:12
Interesting that the two greatest commandments are to love the Lord God and to love your neighbour, Matt 22:37-40. On these commandments hang all the law and the prophets.
Consider just for a moment the commandments given by God to Israel.
Exodus 20:15 “You shall not steal. 16 “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour.
17 “You shall not covet your neighbour’s house; you shall not covet your neighbour’s wife, nor his male servant, nor his female servant, nor his ox, nor his donkey, nor anything that is your neighbour’s.”
How you love your neighbour is by not do these things. This is fulfilling the law of Christ as a Christian. This is done by the Spirit of Christ working in and through the believer.
Now imagine the time when governments across the world (under the sway of the wicked one) take away God's laws entirely. This is what we are seeing now across the globe in 2021. The last days are happening now, and for this reason the love of many is growing cold because the law of God is no longer restraining.
Reading again, verse (2 Thessalonians 2:6)
– And now ye know (5758) what withholder (5723) that he might be revealed (5683) in his time. -
Paul says to these brethren "that which restraineth you, know" That which, not He that.
The word "He" is not there in the original text of verses 5-8. Looking at the interlinear text here on screen in a straight line doesn’t work, so here are 3 links to the interlinear references.
If you replace the first He with a That, the second He with an (it, referring to the law). The passage reads as follows.
7 For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only that which
now restrains (Government of law-law of God) will do so until it (the
law) is taken out of the way. 8 And then the lawless one will be
revealed, whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth and
destroy with the brightness of His coming.
The spirit of lawlessness has a source who gets revealed when that which restrains is removed out of the way.
Could this be correct? I believe it may very well be.
Continuing then with 2Thess2:7
7 For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only he who now restrains will do so until he is taken out of the way.
The restrainer is like a blindfold when it's taken away we will know who the man of lawlessness is. verse 8 And then the lawless one will be revealed whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth and destroy with the brightness of His coming"
Notice how and when the man of Lawlessness is "consumed & destroyed" verse 8 " To read the interlinear version of verse 7-8 Link
Verse 8 also relates to what Paul later says in 2Thess1:1- 10 and in particular verses 5 to 8
Paul is assuring the church in Thessalonica that their persecutions and tribulation, is part of their being united with Christ and goes onto reassure them that for that reason "they will be counted worthy of the kingdom of God for which they also suffer".
Now look at verse 6 -10
6 since it is a righteous thing with God to repay with tribulation those who trouble you, 7 and to give you who are troubled rest with us when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with His mighty angels, 8 in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know God, and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 These shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power, 10 when He comes, in that Day, to be glorified in His saints and to be admired among all those who believe, because our testimony among you was believed.
What do we see?
When the Lord comes on that Day, with His mighty angels He will give rest to those who have been suffering. Interesting that at the end of Daniel 12:13 we read “But you, go [your way] till the end; for you shall rest, and will arise to your inheritance at the end of the days.”
How does Christ come?
In flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know God, and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Is this not a description of the brightness of His coming and the breath of His mouth that He destroys the lawless one with?
The word Rapture
The word rapture is not in the original text however the word "rapture" comes from the Latin word rapturo, which is a translation of the Greek verb "caught up" that's found in 1 Thessalonians 4:17. G726 ἁρπάζω harpazo (har-pad'-zo) v. So it’s reasonable for one to accept the word rapture to mean the same as caught up or the catching up.
Also in connection with catching up (rapture) we find the words parousia meaning, His coming in connection with apokalupsis, or revelation, (1 Cor 1:7, 2Tim 4:1-8, Heb 9:28, Titus 2:13-15) Harpadzo meaning “caught up” (1 Thess 4:17)
Episunagoge meaning our gathering around- together ( Matt 24:29-31, 2Thess2:1, Heb 10:25)
And the word epiphaneia meaning appearing (1Tim 6:14; 2Tim 1:10; 2Tim 4:1-8
Episunagoge meaning our gathering around- together ( Matt 24:29-31, 2Thess2:1, Heb 10:25)
And the word epiphaneia meaning appearing (1Tim 6:14; 2Tim 1:10; 2Tim 4:1-8
Titus 2:13) Also used in connection with brightness, as in 2Thess 2:8.
The dead in Christ
Ask yourself this question? Are the dead in Christ resurrected at His coming or the catching up (the rapture)?
The problem here is already clear, that there is no resurrection until His coming, and there is no catching up until the resurrection in other words Jesus cant do what He came to do until He comes to do it. There has to be the resurrection and the rapture at the same point but in that order.
Each one in his own order
According to 1 Cor 15:20-23 there is an order. Christ the firstfruits, then those who are Christ's at His coming.
We should not separate His coming to resurrect believers from His coming to gather believers. Resurrection has to be before gathering and both happen at His coming.
This is exactly the same description that is used in 2 Thess2:1.
This is exactly the same description that is used in 2 Thess2:1.
Furthermore when reading John 6:32-58 we see four times Jesus says the dead believers will be raised "at the last day" This is in the context of Christ being the resurrection.
Martha when speaking of her brothers resurrection also knew the dead in Christ would be raised at the last day. (John 11:24) There can not be a catching up (rapture) before the resurrection. Jesus said it 4 times, resurrection is at the last day. Which is at the last trump when corruptable puts on incorruptible 1Cor 15:50-52. Therefore a secret coming of Christ 7 years before the last day is not Christ's coming.
Observation
Already we see that just reading these verses and taking the plain meaning of the text it is already clear that the teaching of pre or even the mid tribulation catching up (rapture) is wrong. There can not be a catching up and gathering to Him until the resurrection. The resurrection is at the last day, not 7 or 3.5 years before the last day. It is a post tribulation return that we look for.
In this next section although learning about the dead in Christ we will also be looking at the trumpet and the thief in the night. Keep in mind there are no chapter and verse breaks in the original text.
Reading 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, 5:1-11
4:13-18 “But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus. 15 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.
16 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. 17 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. 18 Therefore comfort one another with these words.”
5:1-11 “But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you. 2 For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. 3 For when they say, “Peace and safety!” then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape. 4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. 7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk are drunk at night. 8 But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation. 9 For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him. 11 Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing. ”
Observation
verse 13 to 15 If we are dead in Christ we are referred to as being asleep. Paul wants to make those he's writing to, to have a mind full of hope toward Christ for those who will be raised (resurrected).
14 for if we believe etc even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 4:14-15
“For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.”
Now when does this happen?
Some say that this makes the case that before the tribulation, the true church will be removed from the earth.
But when we read the next verse we see that there is not about separating the dead believers and those who are alive but rather the order in which they are gathered to meet the Lord in the air (clouds) at His coming.
Verse 15 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.
Matt 24:29-31 tells us that this happens after the tribulation and 1Cor 15:20-23 confirms the order of events.
And 1 Thessalonians 4:16 continues “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. 17 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. 18 Therefore comfort one another with these words.”
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 (Harpadzo)- (raptured) together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.
Continuing with verse 18 of 1Thess 4 Paul says "they should comfort one another with these words. Now Paul has just told them the facts about the resurrection of those who are dead in Christ and that they should now be comforted by these facts.
A closer look at the trumpets
We have already seen Paul teaching about the dead being raised first and it happens in conjunction with the blowing of a trumpet, a trumpet of God. Paul gives us more detail when writing to the Corinthian church.
1Cor.15:50-52 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; nor does corruption inherit in-corruption. 51 Behold, I tell 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 trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
So now we can say for sure that the "trumpet of God" in 1 Thessalonians 4:16 is also "the last trump"
Now I used to hold to the idea that the last trump is also the 7th trumpet of Rev 10:7, 11:15. that says
“But in the days of the sounding of the seventh angel, when He is about to sound, the mystery of God would be finished, as He declared to His servants the prophets.” (Rev 10:7)
“Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, “The kingdoms of this world have become [the kingdoms] of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!” (Rev 11:15).
But this 7 th trumpet although the last is directly connected to the time when Christ returns with His army of saints to the earth and to establish the millennial kingdom of God and to do battle at the valley of decision. (Armageddon) It is not to rapture and save His people as I mentioned in Heb 9:27-28.
But this 7 th trumpet although the last is directly connected to the time when Christ returns with His army of saints to the earth and to establish the millennial kingdom of God and to do battle at the valley of decision. (Armageddon) It is not to rapture and save His people as I mentioned in Heb 9:27-28.
This will also be the time that is referred to in Zech 14 when the feet of Jesus will stand on the Mount of olives.
What is the last trump?
We must keep in mind that there are unfulfilled feasts,that include, the feast of trumpets, day of atonement, Tabernacles. (Lev 23:23-44) The is also the Jubilee. (see below)
Now it is true to say that these feasts are clearly connected to the return of Christ. There is much teaching one can find on the subject. In fact at the feast of trumpets there are literal blowings of trumpets (Lev 23:24) "a day of blowing" (Num 29:1).
The last trump then will indeed coinside at the end of feast of trumpets when the Lord will descend to resurrect, rapture - gather His people.
There are also more trumpet blasts during the days of awe leading up to and including the day of atonement.
Then there is the day of atonement itself and specifically in the year of Jubilee. Lev 25:8-10
The trumpet confusion
So it’s important to distinguish between the trumpets of the feasts and that spoken of in Rev 11:15 and those spoken of 1 Cor 15:51-56, Matt 24:29-31 and 1Thess4:15-18?
The year of Jubilee and the 70 years of captivity
Worth mentioning here. The Jubilee has to do with land being given back to owners and a time of rest. It's worth knowing that Israel never kept the jubilee years as they should and it was one of the reasons they went into Babylonian captivity. The 70 year captivity was also a rest (sabbath) time for the land for the time that it had not been given rest. See Lev 25:1-4, 8-10, Lev 26:1-13,14-46, Deut 15, Jer 25, 2 Chron 36:15-23.
Saints in the tribulation.
Let us consider for a minute that every Christian at one time will have the idea that it's in their time when the Lord will return. This was true in Paul's day. But he wrote to the church in Thessaloniki during a time of great trouble to reassure the church that even though they where suffering tribulation that the Lord would not come until after the son of perdition had been revealed and the falling away had happened. See 1Thess 2:17-19; 3:1-5. 1Thess 4 thu 5 Paul also tells them about the day of Christs coming. This continues into 2Thess chapter 1.
Jesus warned those disciples who followed Him from the temple of tribulation that would come. (Matt 24:9,21,29) Also in John16:33 Jesus said “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”
Also see Romans 5:3, 8:35.
We must remember that the word of God teaches that Anti Christ comes before Christ. So often Christians get hung up on the fact that we are not appointed to wrath and therefore can't go through the tribulation. But reading Rev 6:12-20 says the Day of the Lords wrath comes when Jesus does. He consumes the man of lawlessness (son of perdition) with the breath of His mouth and the brightness of His coming 2Thess2:8
So Jesus returns for His saints to gather them to meet Him in the air, removing them from His wrath.
It is the Great tribulation by the working of satan that is going on and the Church is in it and goes through it. And if suffering leads to death (and it will ) then we don't have to fear. Which is why Paul writes to the Thesselonians about the dead in Christ. (1Thess 3; 4)
The evidence of saints going through the Tribulation in the last days is clear.
Furthermore look at Rev 2:9-10, 7:14, 13:1-10
What about Matt 24:22 “And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened.
Those holding to the pre-mid and pre wrath view will argue that the Lord cuts the tribulation period short in order to come and save His saints but is this true?
Reading through Matt 24 Jesus speaks upto vs 8 about what things will happen leading upto tribulation. He calls that time " the beginning of sorrows" vs 6 says "all these things will come to pass but the end is not yet" Vs 9 Jesus goes on " Then they will deliver you up to tribulation". Vs 14 then the end will come. It's worth mentioning here that prophecy spoken of by Daniel are certainly a part of what Jesus is speaking of here and would in my understanding include what took place in 70 AD with the destruction of Jerusalem. However prophecy regarding the end times have multiple fulfillment until the conclusion of the prophecy is fulfilled when Jesus returns. This why we read in verse 15 about the abomination of desolation spoken of by Daniel, standing in the Holy place.
See Dan 9:27; 11:31; 12:11. The anti christ is at work prior to the Lords return as he was in Daniel's day prior to the day that Cyrus (A type of Christ) came to give the command for the rebuilding of the Jerusalem and the temple. The prophet Isaiah in Is 44:28 we read "Who says of Cyrus, ‘He is My shepherd, And he shall perform all My pleasure, Saying to Jerusalem, “You shall be built,” And to the temple, “Your foundation shall be laid.” ’
Continuing then with Matt 24:16-21 Jesus says to those who are there when this abomination is in place what they must do. Notice He doesn't say to his disciples I am coming at this point so wait here, like He did when sent His spirit at the feast of Pentecost. No. Jesus says "Flee to the mountains"
Then we come to 24:22 “And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened.
But look at verses 23 to 28 Jesus is saying that when they have fled (if it's not a sabbath) and (all this tribulation is going on) that they must not heed the false words of those who say that Jesus the messiah has returned. "look here and look there etc. No Jesus in effect says it will be obvious when He comes, it will be as lightening come from east to west. This is when the time is cut short, the time period won't be any longer than allotted by God. The time for the fulfillment of the feasts has come.
Reading Dan 7 it's impossible not to see the parallel with Matt 24 and 2Thess2.
Our blessed hope
Hebrews 10:19-25 tells us in verse 23 let us hold fast the confession of our HOPE without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.
Titus 2:11-15 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works. Speak these things, exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no one despise you.
Many times I see those proper-gating a pre-trib rapture focus their hope on the rapture. See video below as an example VIDEO LINK
Reading 1Pet 1:3,13,21, 1 Pet 3:15
We see the overwhelming evidence of the above verses teaches Jesus is our hope.
"A thief in the night"
Now let's go on into the next part of the letter. 1Thess 5:10-11 times and seasons. Verses 1 to 3 seems to imply a secret coming of Christ described as " a thief in the night" But Paul goes on to say "But you, brethren, are not in darkness so that this Day should overtake you as a thief".
The Lords coming for those who are in the light will not be a surprise. The comparison between those in darkness and light is set out by Paul in verse 6 -11 the conclusion is that the sober ones put on their armor and therefore are not appointed to wrath. Paul then again gives a word of comfort saying "whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him. Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing."
Jesus will return in like manner as He went to heaven.
In Acts 1:9-11 we read 9 Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. 10 And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, 11 who also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.”
The secret rapture
So based on this verse can we teach a secret rapture?
Speaking of a secret rapture please read Matt 24:27-31 now read Ps 97 now read 2Thess 2:8 and Rev 1:7
To believe a secret rapture is not only untrue but ridiculous. He is coming, in the same way, He left in a cloud and it will be visible to all.
Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him, even they who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. Even so, Amen.(Rev 1:7)
