Tag: bible prophecy

The Deity of Jesus Christ

Discussions about Jesus. This was on my mind this morning when I woke up, probably due to recent as well as years ago conversations, all through social media. In person conversations I’ve had typically don’t address the subject of Jesus. I’ve spent time and enjoyed being with people of various faiths: various denominations of Christians, Jews and Muslims. The ones whom I’ve spent time with, are people whose character and friendship I respect, our beliefs didn’t affect our relationship with one another none of us tried to convince the other of anything different regarding our personal beliefs. Was this right or wrong to be this way? Years ago, I think we were taught that faith was a personal choice and along with politics, those topics should always be avoided. Faith being a personal choice IS truth but should it be avoided? I don’t think it should be avoided, IF there is a willingness or curiosity to understand the other view, but it should be avoided IF there is a motive to force a belief on someone else with the attitude of “I’m right, you’re wrong”- that’s not a loving conversation, instead it’s a self-centered approach. We may each have strong beliefs because of many reasons such as: we grew up in the community (that was the first belief we knew) or we had a religious education (years of hearing the religious doctrine) or our family was a devout (whatever religion) person and would be upset if we went against that belief. Those are just some of the thoughts that came to mind, I’m sure there are more reasons. I understand why older generations enforced what they hold as a strong belief: because they believe they are correct and others are wrong and they have the responsibility to raise their children accordingly; that’s what happens when a belief is strong for someone. But at some point in a child’s life, that belief will get questioned, by those with different beliefs, and that is why I’m writing this article. Conversations of differing opinions are beneficial because it gives us the opportunity to exchange ideas, think for ourselves and realize our level of knowledge, understanding and faith in our own personal belief; it causes us to look deeper into our own beliefs and most importantly GROW! It allows us to know what is truly in our “hearts.” It’s an opportunity to pray to God for wisdom and understanding, get closer to God.

The Deity of Jesus. This is the primary separation of beliefs: who is Jesus? Yes, this is a doctrinal belief, but it is more important than tradition, customs or anything related to a specific religious doctrine. As written in the Bible, this belief matters most of all. (If you’re not sure about trusting the Bible, read this)

Why does this matter? Because our belief will have eternal consequences for each of us, personally.

The following are statements revealing who Jesus is, using the Bible as the reference source:

  1. Jesus was involved in the creation of the heavens and the earth. The following is an interesting find (to me) because I grew up Christian and didn’t learn Hebrew, but now with the online translation ability comparing many translated versions of the Bible, we can find clarity with the original words used in scripture: www.blueletterbible.org So when there is a verse that is confusing, it is helpful to use this website, because some concepts do get lost in translation. If I didn’t reference this, I wouldn’t know that in some scripture where it references “God”, the original Hebrew word is “Eloha,” which is singular but in other scripture, the original Hebrew word, “Elohim,” is plural! Genesis 1:1 is the plural version (click on Strong’s column for this additional information). I need to clarify here, that I don’t believe in multiple gods, there is only ONE God, but it is this relationship between God the Father, Jesus and the Holy Spirit that is challenging to explain or comprehend. The best way that I can explain this unity is to compare it with a physical, material comparison: a 3-in-1 coat: the outer waterproof shell (layer 1) zips onto an insulated layer (layer 2) and this has a removable fleece liner (layer 3); each piece can function independently or together as one. In Genesis 1:2 the Holy Spirit (God’s spirit), the Hebrew word: “Ruah,” is present. Jesus was with God before the world began also. (John 17:1-5)
  2. Jesus existed before Abraham. (John 8:58) Jesus told this to the Jews.
  3. Jesus is the Messiah (Christ), the Anointed One, the Son of God and is God too (John 1:18). In Psalm 110:1, David says “The Lord (Yehova) says to my Lord (Adonay)” and Jesus points this out to the Pharisees in Matthew 22:41-45, when they say the Messiah is the Son of David and Jesus responds with the quote from Psalm 110:1 asking why would David call his son “Lord”? This point was also made when Jesus was talking with his disciples and asked them who they thought the “Son of Man” is; Peter replied: You are the Messiah, the Son of the Living God.” Jesus told Peter the only way he understood this was from revelation by the Father. (Matthew 18: 13-20) (John 4:25-26)(John 7:25-52) (John 8) (John 10) (John 11:25-27)
  4. Jesus came to fulfill what the Prophets foretold. (Matthew 5:17-20)
  5. God is the Father of Jesus, but Jesus has the authority of judging who will enter Heaven; (Matthew 7:21-22) Jesus gives eternal life. (John 1:1-5, John 4:14, John 6:25-71) (John 14:6-7) The connection between God and Jesus is explained in (John 5:16-47) (John 12:47-49) (John 14:10) (John 14:23-31) (John 16:27-33)
  6. Denying Jesus will exclude us from living in eternity with God. (Matthew 10:32)
  7. Jesus is God’s chosen servant. Jesus fulfilled the prophecy in Isaiah 42:1-4 as explained in Matthew 12: 13-21
  8. Jesus considers those who do the will of God as his brothers and sisters. (Matthew 12: 46-50) We are part of God’s family; his children.
  9. God told people Jesus was his son. Jesus took 3 disciples with him to a high mountain where they witnessed the heavenly splendor of Jesus, saw Moses and Elijah and heard God speak saying: “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him! (Matthew 17:1-13) (John 12:27-36) (Mark 1:9-11)
  10. Jesus gave his life as a ransom for many. (Matthew 20:28)
  11. Jesus will return. Jesus replied to those who were going to crucify him when they asked him if he was the Messiah, the Son of God: “From now on you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven” (Matthew 26:64) Jesus remained silent during much of the questioning because if he spoke, he may not have been killed. If he was not killed, he wouldn’t have obeyed the Father, and the ransom wouldn’t have been paid. If the ransom was not paid, people would not be saved (have eternal life with God as an immortal beings). No person is righteous enough to be in the presence of God, we are not perfect and perfect is required to be in the presence of Holiness. That is why Jesus was the only one (the only perfect one) who could “pay the ransom” for our lives. The only appropriate response that Jesus could say at that time, was there will be a return! The return is what we await. (Revelation 22:12-20)
  12. Jesus will rule when he returns. Jesus died and resurrected 3 days later, then visited people. Jesus’ message to the original 11 disciples after his resurrection was: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:16-20)
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Symbolic Prophecy in the Bible

As I was reading and looking up verses in the Bible, I noticed what may be a symbolic representation and prophecy in Leviticus 12: I think this Chapter is about Israel’s salvation and purification through Jesus. This observation happened as I read this following verse:

4 Then the woman must wait thirty-three days to be purified from her bleeding. She must not touch anything sacred or go to the sanctuary until the days of her purification are over.

Leviticus 12:4

The woman. I didn’t notice the symbolism here before, but last night, instantly a thought come to mind as I read it. The “woman“ is symbolic for Israel just like in Revelation 12! Did you notice something else? Both books reference “the woman“ in Chapter 12 (Leviticus and Revelation)! (That just became clear as I was writing this, but there is more that I saw.) Before I write about the symbolism I observed, I will point out: this is purely my opinion and observation, the Bible leaves much open to interpretation, so I cannot say for certain this is symbolic prophecy, but wait until I show you more discoveries in this chapter, then I’d like to hear your thoughts! Who could have woven together details like this: over thousands of years, by multiple authors assembled into one consistent interwoven book: the Bible? This certainly supports the statement that scripture is from God, God breathed, inspired by the Holy Spirit through the authors contributing to this book, so much consistency and continual discovery happens when we read and studies the Bible!

Thirty-three days. The 33 days is symbolic of Jesus’ age! He started preaching when he was thirty years old and many scholars believe he was approximately 33 years old when he was crucified based on several events. Assuming this was his age, when Jesus was crucified, his crucifixion was the final purification needed to be in God’s presence, eternity; Jesus’ crucifixion was the ransom that was paid for our sin. Remember when God told Moses to keep people away from the Holy Ground or they would die at Mount Sinai when he gave the 10 Commandments? Doesn’t this make more sense now: Israel (the woman) cannot be in God’s presence (sanctuary) until purified (by Jesus)?

After seeing this symbolism, I continued reading to understand more, but the symbolism wasn’t as obvious to me as the first part, however, I did notice some interesting symbolic possibilities:

  • First of all the entire chapter is about purification after child birth: symbolically the purification process for Israel (and all) as a result of Jesus’ birth

Symbolism from the beginning of the Chapter:

12 The Lord said to Moses, 2 “Say to the Israelites: ‘A woman who becomes pregnant and gives birth to a son will be ceremonially unclean for seven days, just as she is unclean during her monthly period.

Leviticus 12: 1-2

The symbolism here:

  • Woman = Israel
  • Birth to a son = Jesus (Jesus came from the tribe of Judah, Israel)
  • Ceremonially unclean = the need to be purified
  • seven days = the final seven years (Daniel Prophecy) the time-frame for the end of time, prior to Jesus’ return, those who accept Jesus in Israel will be at the final stage of purification when Jesus returns

The next verse:

3 On the eighth day the boy is to be circumcised. 

Leviticus 12:3
  • Circumcision is symbolic of a Covenant with God (Genesis 17) to: “walk before God faithfully and be blameless”
  • Jesus was circumcised and walked faithfully and blamelessly as he fulfilled scripture given by the Prophets, completed God’s will to redeem mankind.
  • Following the final seven days (meaning years), on the 8th day (year) Israel will be seen as “faithful and blameless” in God’s eyes because all are purified through Jesus’ crucifixtion and return, given immortal life

The next verse:

5 If she gives birth to a daughter, for two weeks the woman will be unclean, as during her period. Then she must wait sixty-six days to be purified from her bleeding.

Leviticus 12:5

So the first part (about the son) is Jesus, and the second part about the “daughter” and “two weeks” is:

  • daughter = people of Israel (see why: here)
  • Two weeks or 14 days are significant when it comes to celebrating in the Bible (see references here)- these verses refer to the sacrifice, atonement, relief, Jesus was referred to as the manna from Heaven (John 6:57-59) This points to customs and traditions: the unclean period and purification through the sacrifice; Jesus is the final sacrifice. Notice the scripture says “as during her period”- it’s symbolic.
  • 66 days = so much symbolism here! The number is 6 is symbolically not perfect, 7 is symbolic for perfection in scripture. (click here for more detail about the number 7 in scripture) The number of days for the son was 33, the number of days for the daughter was 66. The number 6 has a connection to humans, the number 3 has a connection to God (see here). Another interesting fact is that Isaiah 66 refers to Judgement and Hope (click here to read it) Within Isaiah 66 it continues to talk about this birth of a son, then daughter and then about delivery! (Jesus delivering all from death through sin!) This is about Jesus’ return and about creation being made new, exactly what Revelation also tells us. (Revelation 21) Another interesting symbolic connection is there are 66 books in the Bible! (link here), The last chapter of the Bible is Revelation 22; so the complete Bible tells the story from creation and ends with Jesus’ return which is the ultimate purification from the symbolic bleeding and the beginning of a new creation.

6 “‘When the days of her purification for a son or daughter are over, she is to bring to the priest at the entrance to the tent of meeting a year-old lamb for a burnt offering and a young pigeon or a dove for a sin offering.[a] 7 He shall offer them before the Lord to make atonement for her, and then she will be ceremonially clean from her flow of blood.

“‘These are the regulations for the woman who gives birth to a boy or a girl. 8 But if she cannot afford a lamb, she is to bring two doves or two young pigeons, one for a burnt offering and the other for a sin offering. In this way the priest will make atonement for her, and she will be clean.’”

Leviticus 12: 6-8
  • This symbolism and purification process is repeated again as written in Ezekiel 46 at the 3rd Temple.

There is so much symbolism and repetition throughout the Bible, the more we read the more we will observe. This definitely keeps the Bible interesting and helps us remain connected to God through scripture.

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Is the End of Time near?

Began Questioning. In 2020 this question came to my thoughts for the first time ever. I don’t remember thinking about this before or having any reason to think about this, but 2020 events stood out to me. In 2019 I read the bible for the first time (front to back) so I was familiar with the bible and knew this question was covered in several Old Testament Books (covering the time period of approximately 1900 BC until Jesus was born) and New Testament Books (the story of Jesus and his followers covering the time period up to approximately 95 AD). The entire Bible covers events for approximately 2,000 years in total time.

Researching. I read the relevant scripture in the Bible, found Bible studies on this and listened to several people who have dedicated their “ministry” to learning and understanding the prophecies from a biblical perspective, a few having done this for 40 plus years, not from someone of today’s “dreams or visions,” but what does the Bible say about it? Yes, some people, many people in fact, add their opinions, it’s hard not to do that in order to explain one’s understanding of what they read. So I’ve seen and heard various versions of opinions about the “signs” and whether the end is near and at the beginning 2020, some Christians were skeptical while other Christians were saying there is very little doubt that we are living in the end times.

Various Viewpoints. In 2013, the Washington Times published an article, survey stating that approximately 41% of people they surveyed thought we were living in the end times: 54% Protestants, 77% Evangelicals and 27% Catholics (but the percentage of Catholics grew for the “practicing” Catholics, it went up to 45%) who believed we were living in the end times. What I found interesting is that I did not find a more recent article (from a neutral source- non-religious) than 2013 about this topic. I’m surprised! The exact opposite is true for people of faith who are close to scripture (and I am referring to many faiths, not just Christians): The Jewish are preparing for the coming Messiah, the Muslims are preparing for the Mahdi and coming Messiah and the Christians are preparing for the return of Jesus.

Going to my Source for truth: the Bible. So what does the Bible tell us about the signs? I view the Bible as truth, so unless it’s written in the Bible, it’s an opinion to me. Based on the Bible, the “end times” have been approaching, at a slow rate though, since the days following Jesus’ death and resurrection, so that means we’ve been in this process for a long period. However, the signs appear to be increasing rapidly. When I first wondered in 2020 if the end was truly approaching, I was skeptical too, but equally concerned, enough to motivate me to look into it and I’ve seen nothing but affirmation since then. I tell people if nothing happens by 2023 and things go back to “normal” maybe I’ll change my mind that this is further away than I anticipate, but unless or until there is a significant change from the real events that are happening, I can’t prove otherwise and I believe we are rapidly getting closer to Jesus’ return. Unless there are significant changes in events, I believe this could happen in my lifetime, which is something I never thought I would say. I’ll list the signs and provide the links to scripture:

  • The Second Temple was destroyed in 70 AD (about 40 years after Jesus’ death on the cross)
  • Many will claim to be the Messiah following Jesus (as well as False Prophets): a good way to know if it is the Messiah is if the return is witnessed out of the clouds, not any other way. So anyone who claims to be the Messiah, even if they perform miracles, they are fake unless they arrive out of the clouds and are witnessed by everyone. (That’s a pretty challenging feat, so it should be very easy to know if someone claims to be the Messiah, but Jesus warned that even believers may be deceived, because there will be one who arrives who will be charming and deceptive and convince many.) I’m sure if we searched, we’d find people who had mental issues that made this claim. Besides people claiming to be “the Messiah” there are also “false prophets” which is another reason people need to know what is written in the Bible, look at how many people were destroyed because they believed a person who distorted the truth from the bible in a convincing way such as in Waco Texas 1993, and Charles Manson was another one. These evil cult leaders distorted biblical truths and convinced others.
  • Wars and Rumors of Wars. (This will continue until Jesus returns, the bible tells us we will not have global peace until Jesus rules, after his return. So all of this working hard to reach global peace is futile, we understand this if we look in the bible for truth.)’
  • Famines. (This has also been continuous throughout history and documented in the Bible, so this alone doesn’t necessarily mean the end is near.)
  • Earthquakes. Again they have been occurring throughout history, but something interesting that I discovered is that they have been increasing in numbers of earthquakes over the years. I read an article that stated they were not reporting on this because too many people were getting concerned about this trend.
  • The Gospel will be preached to the whole world. With the ability of the Internet, the Gospel has the ability to circulate to most of the world. Many Christians feel this is their obligation: to share the Gospel (the story of Jesus and the ability for those who want to be “saved” to be saved). Jesus did tell his followers to go and share the “good news” which they did and it continues today through Christians. There is also a verse in Revelation 14:6 that tells us that in the very end, there will be an angel proclaimed to every nation, tribe, language and people, just before judgement. But if you read Revelation, the circumstances at this time are not ones most of us would want to experience. Becoming saved at the end is possible, but not likely due to the impact of evil that will surge. But God does give EVERYONE one last chance.
  • The AntiChrist is revealed. This was first told in the book of Daniel foretold by God’s messenger, the angel Gabriel and Jesus affirms this will happen in the book of Matthew. The Anti-Christ is revealed when he tells the world he is God from the temple (as written in the book of Daniel and by Paul in 2 Thessalonians 2:4. The third temple is not built yet, but the Jewish community has plans ready, interior furnishings ready and are waiting for the permission to build it.
  • The Great Tribulation. There will be tough times, greater than have ever been on earth before, but God cuts the time short for this so that all people do not perish (I think the bible means perish eternally, not in a physical sense) The longer this horrible time continues, the more than likely the more people will turn away from God when they are being tested. This repeatedly occurs in the bible: when people are tested they either seek God more or turn away from him. There are many stories in the bible of this. Jesus warned us, when this happens, if we are present, we need to persevere with the knowledge he gave us about this, don’t loose faith.
  • More False Prophets will deceive people during this time. Jesus foretold this.
  • The sun, moon will be darkened and the stars will fall from the sky: Immediately after these signs listed above happen, there will be noticeable “events” in the sky.
  • Jesus returns “arriving on the clouds”
  • The elect will be gathered: this is what people call “the Rapture”- here is a link to more about the Rapture.
  • These are the signs, as told by Jesus that we can look for to know if the End is near. As you can see there are several events that must occur before the end happens. The book of Revelation, as well as other prophets share several events that support this too and I may write about them in a future post, but trust me, or better yet, discover for yourself: none of this should come as a surprise; we were warned in scripture, in advance:

The Lesson of the Fig Tree
(Mark 13:28–31; Luke 21:29–33)

32Now learn this lessone from the fig tree: As soon as its branches become tender and sprout leaves, you know that summer is near. 33So also, when you see all these things, you will know that He is near,f right at the door. 34Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have happened. 35Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will never pass away.

  • Jesus also told his companions, the disciples, that the end would happen as a surprise to many (those who are not familiar with scripture), there will be some still living the carefree life (but this doesn’t mean they won’t be affected; it will be devastating for them; they will perish). Matthew 24: 36- 51
  • Jesus also warned his companions that people need to prepare, this shouldn’t be dismissed, we have a window of opportunity to get ourselves prepared (acknowledge our ways that need to be changed to live a life God “approves”, make a commitment to change, ask Jesus for help changing and let God know that you’ve made that decision, stick with that decision- don’t fall away), but if we don’t, we face destruction. That window of opportunity is which ever comes first: our physical death or when Jesus returns. Matthew 25: 1-13
  • Jesus wants his followers, the believers to share the Way with other people, not to hoard what they know or keep it a secret, it needs to be shared so others benefit from this amazing gift, treasure: eternity that Jesus told people about. Matthew 25:14-28
  • Judgement will happen following Jesus’ return. Matthew 25:31-46.

All of this above is the signs leading up to and the events that were told by Jesus. We are in the End Times, and we should remain watchful for the future signs, but most importantly we should be prepared and help others to prepare.

by Categories: Face Fear, FAITH, God, Improvement, Letting Go, Love, Make It Count, priorities, RELATIONSHIPSTags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Leave a comment

“The Rapture”: Christians Ascending to meet Jesus?

Christians have very different view points on this subject: some never heard of it, some don’t believe it, some think the “rapture” will happen before “the tribulation” occurs, some think it will happen in the middle of “the tribulation” and some think it will happen at the end of “the tribulation”- before God’s wrath occurs. In my opinion, the timing doesn’t matter, but a person’s knowledge about this event and preparation does matter. As we know, the Bible is open to interpretation and people present compelling reasons for their beliefs, but the truth will exist (despite any erroneous beliefs), so on this subject (because it is not a Heaven or Hell topic, but could be), it’s important to know about it and consider all views, look into it yourself, pray about it and most of all be prepared no matter what interpretation turns out to be correct on the timing. The “Rapture” event is in the Bible, I can confirm that!

First of all, what is “The Rapture”?

  • rapture[ˈrapCHər]NOUNthe Rapture (noun)
  • a feeling of intense pleasure or joy.” Leonora listened with rapture”synonyms:ecstasy · bliss · euphoria · elation · exaltation · joy · joyfulness · [more](raptures)expressions of intense pleasure or enthusiasm about something.”the tabloids went into raptures about her”synonyms:enthuse · rhapsodize · rave · gush · wax lyrical · [more]
  • NORTH AMERICAN(the Rapture)(according to some millenarian teaching) the transporting of believers to heaven at the Second Coming of Christ.

When I first heard it explained I heard that it was derived from the Latin word which had the meaning “snatch, carry off” which is where “rapture” came from. In scripture, the Greek word is harpazō which is defined as:

  1. to seize, carry off by force
  2. to seize on, claim for one’s self eagerly
  3. to snatch out or away

raptura ( Latin)

  • rapturus ( Latin) Future active participle of rapiō (“snatch, carry off”).

So that is how the word “Rapture” came about, and Yes, it (the event) is in the Bible.

Jesus was crucified, was dead for 3 days, then rose from the dead and visited numerous people, it was reported that he had been seen (alive again) by a group of over 500 people over a series of days. (1 Corinthians 15:6) He then ascended, was “carried up” while he was giving a blessing to his disciples. (Luke 24: 50-51), (Mark 16:19) (Acts 1:9) In a similar way believers will ascend. Enoch was also believed to have experienced this, maybe that’s why Paul refers to Jesus as the “first fruits” (plural) because Enoch also went this way; and fruit, seeds, growing, and harvesting is a commonly used symbol used throughout the bible.

Secondly, where is “The Rapture” of believers mentioned in the Bible?

BABY CHRISTIAN. Before I read and began studying the Bible, I never heard of “the Rapture”, yet I called myself a Christian. I was a little shocked at what I found in the Bible: so many things I never heard about, nor remember being taught. Not knowing much of what is the Bible, besides the “famous” Bible stories of Noah’s Ark, The “edited” 10 Commandments, Miracles, The Last Supper, the Crucifixion, and I was raised “Christian.” What I realized is that I was “a baby Christian“- at least that’s what I call it now! I didn’t understand what a true Christian/Believer meant or entailed. But I think this is very common, Paul refers to it in the Bible! I believed in Jesus and I knew I was supposed to “be good” and I hoped in the end, God would decide that I lived my life “good enough” to make it to Heaven. I now know those beliefs are not correct, according to the Bible: we can know right now if we WILL or we won’t be in eternity with God: it is a simply a heartfelt DECISION (decide to love God, prioritize Him, ask Him to guide your life, give your “control” to Him/surrender, willingly accept His commands with the intent to abide by His commands) we choose and by the grace of God, a “gift” made possible by Jesus’s death and resurrection, we are offered eternity, because God loves us that much! A huge amount of anxiety goes away when a person finally comprehends this! We can be “saved” while we are still broken, imperfect people, working towards improvement, if we simply choose God, prioritize God in our life, believe the information found in the Gospels about Jesus.

Places that mention “the Rapture” (being taken, caught up)

  • Matthew 24: It’s important to read and pay attention to every statement in this chapter in regards to the timing of the rapture. It tells us “one will be taken and the other left” when Jesus returns. I believe Jesus will take the one who prepared and leave the one who is not prepared, as the wrath will occur next. Also in Revelation 14, One like the Son of Man (Jesus) gathering his people, the “good grapes” (the earth was harvested) and then leaving the remainder for the angels with the sickle. Logically thinking when a harvest occurs, the good is gathered and the rest is left to perish, right?
  • 1 Corinthians 15: especially verses 23 and 52, this is when the resurrection occurs for those “who belong to Him” meaning those who have surrendered/given/chose to give their life to Him
  • 1 Thessalonians 4: this tells us those who have died (as Believers) will rise first, then those true believers who are still alive will be “caught up to “Jesus in the clouds when he returns (the Second Coming)- I think this happens to protect the true believers during the Wrath of God. This is very interesting because this could be something we experience!

What are the various beliefs about when it happens and why do people believe what they do? Here is an excellent resource (link) for detailed thoughts and opinions about this question: www.gotquestions.org

Are the Rapture and the return of Jesus are the Same Event? To be honest, this is my thought/opinion. I have a different view from the Got Questions link: I believe the second coming and the rapture ARE the same event after reading the bible, I don’t think the rapture is kept “secret,” because it is revealed in the Bible, for any of us who read it. It is only “a secret” for the people who don’t read the Bible, they will not know about this, that’s where the “secret” is. There are many “secrets” about the universe that only those who read scripture learn. After reading the Bible, my opinion is that Believers will go through Tribulation, but will not go through God’s Wrath, I believe the rapture is the first resurrection described in Revelation. (Revelation 20: 4-6) and because in Daniel 7:21-22: The “saints” are being persecuted by the AntiChrist (described as the “horn”) so how could the saints be persecuted if they were already raptured? In Daniel 7:25 the saints/holy people are persecuted for 3.5 years (a time, times and half a time)- just prior to Jesus’ return. Revelation 13:7-8 this says that the saints will be at war with the beast that was “given authority” through the power of Satan, the ruler of the air- the saints are those whose names are written in the book of life.

Defining Saint. It’s probably important to define the word “saint” because I understood through the religion I grew up with there was a special process that had to be done to determine if someone was a saint and there were miracles involved typically, but today, I believe differently, yes those are definitely saints but so are more people than those who were involved with miracles, there is much to study in the original scripture to arrive at this conclusion: (link here) from this, I believe that “saints” or “holy people” are all those who have surrendered their life to God; those who have God’s spirit residing in them as a result of surrendering their life to God. As Jesus once said, “only God is good” meaning we are all sinners, there is not one person who is “good” naturally, it is a choice that someone makes; therefore all people have the ability to be a “saint” or “holy”. It is a choice and when a person chooses to live their life according to God’s commands, God sends his spirit to help that person (God’s spirit resides within a person), therefore they are a “saint”. Revelation 7:13 also seems to explain this: those who have washed their robes (ie. symbolically made themselves “clean/holy” by changing their natural ways, deciding to live by God’s commands).

Defining Tribulation. As I mentioned, my opinion is Believers will go through Tribulation, but not Wrath. So what is the Tribulation? Everything that happens before Jesus returns (Matthew 24: 29-30) John 16: 33: Jesus warned everyone that in this world we will face trials, trouble, etc. known as tribulation (but it is temporary). Tribulation is the persecution, trouble, affliction caused by evil people/Satan, not punishment from God prior to Jesus’ return. The Great Tribulation is the final test of faith that God allows to happen, just like he allowed a test of faith with Job, just like he allowed with Abraham and Issac, just like he did with Noah and the flood, just like he did with Moses coming out of Egypt and the manna. Why should we think we will avoid all tests when some of the most faithful in the Bible were tested? We need to be prepared. If we are certain that we will avoid the Tribulation, then what happens if we see these things occurring? Will we doubt God’s promise? Will we think we are not in the Book of Life? Will we loose faith? No, we shouldn’t. We should keep this possibility in the back of our mind (or in the forefront ideally), we could very well be here during the Tribulation, but remember it is only a test of our faith; it is not punishment from God. We just need to endure it, persevere, don’t loose faith, because Jesus forewarned us about this.

Defining Wrath. As I mentioned, my opinion is Believers will go through Tribulation, but not Wrath. So what is the Wrath? Wrath is God’s punishment. Here is a link to wrath references. God is not going to punish His people (the people who have committed to Him; made Him a priority; agree to live by His commands, have His spirit residing in them)! God’s wrath is pretty intense. Here is a link, if you want to know about it.

In summary. The Bible is clear to me that the “Rapture” will occur. There are many differing opinions which I shared and explained my personal opinion too. Ultimately when it happens doesn’t matter as much as being prepared PRIOR to it happening. That means seek God, reconcile/make up with Him, don’t be an enemy of God, tell Him you choose to give Him the rest of your life, ask Him for the Holy Spirit to help you through the rest of your life, then you/we have nothing to worry about! The rest is in His very capable and powerful hands. We will be “fine”, and better than “fine”, once Jesus returns! After God’s wrath, it is going to be AWESOME. This is what God has planned: Revelation 21

Now is the time to prepare.

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