Online Bible Study - Foundations of Faith

The Last Things

The Rapture
The rapture is another popular topic and belief held by some Christians. It should first known that the word "rapture" is not found in the Bible. It should also be clear and accepted that the rapture is a very obscure or hidden concept based upon interpretation of highly selected Bible verses. It is also not a teaching of Scripture that is necessary for salvation.

Concerning what has been labeled as the "rapture," we know that this is primarily based on the following words in 1 Thessalonians 4:17, "After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.". Another passage that us used is found in Acts 1:11b, "This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven." Again this is not a doctrinal statement clearly related to the idea of rapture.

To most theologians, the teachings about rapture are not clearly found in the words of Scripture. From the Bible we learn that many things which we worry about concerning God's end times are known only to God himself. He has not shared with man all His mysteries. Paul points this out in 1 Corinthians 2:7, "No, we speak of God's secret wisdom, a wisdom that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began." Again in 1 Corinthians 13:12, Paul explains, "Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known." Finally, Paul, writing his first letter to 1 Timothy 3:16 adds, "Beyond all question, the mystery of godliness is great: He appeared in a body, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels, was preached among the nations, was believed on in the world, was taken up in glory."

What is important for our salvation are the simple words of Paul and Silas to the Jailer at Philippi, "They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved - you and your household" (Acts 16:31). This is essential for our proper preparation for the last things and the last day.

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