Subject: RAPTURE: PRE-TRIBULATION OR NOT? |
Bible Note: Greetings Tom! The word you are referring to is the noun 'apantesis'. It is found 4 times in the Majority text: Mt. 25:1, 25:6, Acts 28:15, and 1 Thess. 4:17. It is only found 3 times in the UBS text (a different word is used in Mt. 25:1). However, I don't believe that anything in the definition of the word mandates a return to the same location. It would make sense in most circumstances, since the word usually referred to a public greeting of an important visitor. However, the verbal form of this word is used in the New Testament in instances where the one 'meet' did not return with those who 'meet' him. For instance, the 10 lepers of Luke 17:12 did not return with Jesus, but they did 'meet' Him. Why would believers stay 'up' there? This is a long topic, but allow me to give you my short answer. I see Daniel's 70th week as being divided into two time periods of 3 1/2 years each. The first is a time of tribulation, which I believe that the church will endure. But, this tribulation is not primarily directed at the church. Rather, it's primary focus is Israel. The second 3 1/2 year period (following the rapture in my understanding) is a time of God's wrath. God will pour out His wrath on the earth during this time. Of course, we are not subject to God's wrath. So, we will be at the Wedding Supper during this time period, preparing for the time when we will return with Him to rule and reign with Him for a thousand years. This is just my short answer! :-) So, the staying 'up' there is only for a short time. Your Brother in Christ, Tim Moran |