Bible Question: Is there anyone else out there who feels that all the rapture chronology positions (pre-trib, mid-trib, pre-wrath, post-trib, ex-trib [O.K., I made that one up]) leave some loose ends scripturally? After studying pre-wrath I was sure I had the answer, but there are a few passages that still don't seem to fit. Sometimes I wonder if we're missing the point with all the rapture chronology emphasis (which I suppose I am perpetuating). |
Bible Answer: Listener, I have studied this subject at quite some length and will give you my opinion. I would like to receive your comments. First of all I believe that the Revelation is a God inspired book. I believe that it was written to the first century Christians to give them encouragement and assurance of their victory in Christ, as they were facing horrendous persecution.The very first paragraph of Revelation tells who the letter is written to and the purpose of the writing. Two places in this paragraph say that these things will take place soon. Although this book is mostly written in figurative language, the figurative language has not yet begun. I believe that this is literal. Also at the end of the book in chapter 22, beginning in verse 6, the vision is complete. The figurative language has ceased and the angel of the Lord has an additional message: He says that these things will take place soon. In verse 7 He says He is coming soon. In verses 10-11, John is told not to seal up these books of prophecy because they are going to happen soon. Prophets of the past were told to seal up their prophecies because these revealed things were not yet to take place. (Isa. 8:16; Daniel 8:26; 9:24; 12:4) John is told not to seal because the events are to come soon. Read Rev. 22:18-19. Here we have an admonition not to add to or take away from the words of this prophecy. Many people will agree that this book is figurative and then take the thousand years in chapter 20 and make them literal. I believe that many are in danger of the judgement announced in these two verses because they sure do add a lot to what is being said in these verses. I believe that the over-all message to the Christian in the first century and to us today from the book of Revelation is that in the face of persecution or whatever the prince of the air may use to try and defeat us, we are victors in Christ Jesus. I think we can have our own private interpretation as to what we think some of these things mean, but if we teach them to others and ridicule others because they do not see these things as we do, we will be in danger of losing our share in the tree of life in that holy city. I have more to say about the Rapture,but I will post another note. God Bless. Bobbie Faye |