Bible Question: What do you mean by the phrase "immenint return"? And from what passages of scripture is the term or concept derived? |
Bible Answer: Imminent return refers to 'at any moment.' In other words, Christ could return at any time without further prophecy being fulfilled. The church traditionally teaches this concept because the apostles (mainly Paul) refer to looking and waiting for Christ's return. However, Paul clearly believed He would die and go to be with the Lord before Christ returned. And Christ Himself gave a series of events that have to happen before His return (Mat 24). Most Christians believe that there are no signs for the rapture and do NOT classify the rapture as the return that Christ talks about. They classify His return or second coming as being the event where He touches down on the Mount of Olives. I, however, believe that the rapture is but one event in the return of Christ, the second coming. His first coming entailed His birth, His childhood, His young adulthood, His ministry, His death, resurrection, and ascension. Which of these events are His first coming? No one event. They are all part of His first coming. I believe that His second coming entails the rapture, the great tribulation, the battle of Armeggedon, and the Day of the Lord. This is probably more info than you wanted to know, but prophecy is an interesting subject that is worth the time and effort to study on your own. I trust this helps. |