Great Tribulation

The Rapture vs. The Second Coming: Unraveling End-Times Mysteries

Published August 7, 2024 | By amabaysidegiggers

The Rapture vs. The Second Coming: Unraveling End-Times Mysteries

In the realm of Christian eschatology, few topics generate as much intrigue and debate as the end-times timeline. At the heart of this fascination lie two pivotal events: the rapture and the second coming of Jesus Christ. While often confused, these events are distinct and play crucial roles in shaping our understanding of the end times. Let’s embark on a journey to unravel these mysteries and explore their profound implications.

Distinguishing the Rapture from the Second Coming

1. Timing and Unexpectedness
The rapture is believed to occur suddenly and without warning, potentially at any moment. This is supported by 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17: “For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.”

In contrast, the second coming will happen after a seven-year tribulation period, with signs preceding it, as described in Matthew 24:29-30: “Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken: And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.”

2. Visibility and Scale
While the rapture is described as an instant, secret event, the second coming will be a globally visible phenomenon. Revelation 1:7 states: “Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.”

3. Location and Movement
During the rapture, believers will meet Christ in the air. 1 Thessalonians 4:17: “Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.”

The second coming, however, involves Christ physically returning to Earth, specifically to the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem, as described in Zechariah 14:4: “And his feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem on the east, and the mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst thereof toward the east and toward the west, and there shall be a very great valley; and half of the mountain shall remove toward the north, and half of it toward the south.”

4. Purpose and Outcome
The rapture is seen as Christ coming for His saints to protect them from the tribulation. John 14:3: “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”

The second coming involves Christ returning with His saints to defeat evil and establish His millennial kingdom on Earth, as depicted in Revelation 19:11-16: “And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.”

5. Judgment and Consequences
The rapture is associated with the deliverance of believers. 1 Thessalonians 5:9: “For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ.”

The second coming includes judgment for unbelievers and the establishment of Christ’s reign, as described in Matthew 25:31-32: “When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats.”

6. Participants and Impact
The rapture involves the removal of believers from Earth. 1 Corinthians 15:52: “In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.”

The second coming affects both believers and unbelievers, reshaping the world order, as stated in Revelation 20:4: “And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.”

The End-Times Timeline: A Cosmic Drama Unfolds

The Rapture: The sudden removal of believers from Earth, marking the beginning of the end-times events. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17: “For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.”

The Tribulation: A seven-year period of unprecedented global turmoil, divided into two halves. The latter half, known as the Great Tribulation, sees the rise of the Antichrist. Daniel 9:27: “And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.”

The Second Coming: Christ returns visibly to Earth with His saints, defeating evil and ushering in a new era. Revelation 1:7: “Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.”

The Millennium: A thousand-year reign of Christ on Earth, a period of peace and prosperity. Revelation 20:4: “And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.”

The Final Judgment: After the millennium, the final judgment occurs, leading to the creation of a new heaven and new earth. Revelation 20:11-12: “And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.”

Implications and Reflections
Understanding these events isn’t merely an academic exercise. It profoundly shapes how many Christians view the world and their role in it. Some key implications include:

Urgency in evangelism: The belief in an imminent rapture often fuels a sense of urgency in sharing the gospel.
Hope in troubled times: The promise of Christ’s return provides comfort and hope during difficult periods.
Ethical living: The expectation of Christ’s return motivates many to live righteously and be prepared.
Geopolitical interpretations: World events are often viewed through the lens of end-times prophecy.

Diverse Perspectives
It’s important to note that interpretations of these events vary widely among Christian denominations. Some hold to a pre-tribulation rapture view, while others believe in a mid-tribulation or post-tribulation rapture. Some denominations reject the concept of a rapture entirely.

Consider This: Mystery and Faith
The rapture and the second coming of Christ remain subjects of fascination, study, and debate. While the details may be disputed, the core message of hope, redemption, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil resonates deeply with believers.

As we contemplate these profound concepts, we’re reminded of the mystery and wonder inherent in faith. Whether one believes in a literal interpretation of these events or views them symbolically, the call to live with purpose, love, and expectation remains.

I’ve heard put this way and it really stuck with me:

The Rapture is JESUS coming FOR HIS SAINTS, the Second Coming is JESUS coming WITH HIS SAINTS.

What is the Rapture? Dr. Tony Evans Teachings

Published July 11, 2024 | By amabaysidegiggers

What is the Rapture? Dr. Tony Evans’ Comprehensive Explanation of the Rapture

Dr. Tony Evans, a renowned theologian, pastor, and author, offers a detailed and compelling explanation of the Rapture, which he considers to be the next major event on God’s prophetic calendar. His teachings on this subject are both intriguing and informative, providing a comprehensive understanding of this eschatological concept.

## Biblical Foundation

Evans grounds his understanding of the Rapture firmly in Scripture, primarily drawing from several key passages:

**”In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”** (John 14:2-3, KJV)

**”For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.”** (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, KJV)

**”Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.”** (1 Corinthians 15:51-52, KJV)

**”And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.”** (1 Thessalonians 1:10, KJV)

## Definition and Nature of the Rapture

Dr. Evans explains that the term “rapture” comes from the Latin word “rapturo,” which means “to seize, snatch, or grab.” Although the word “rapture” itself doesn’t appear in the English Bible, the concept is derived from the Greek word “harpazo” used in 1 Thessalonians 4:17, which is translated as “caught up” in English.

## Characteristics of the Rapture

Evans outlines several key characteristics of the Rapture:

### 1. Suddenness

### 2. Two-Stage Return of Christ

### 3. Order of Events

### 4. Bodily Transformation

### 5. Removal of the Church

## Theological Context

Dr. Evans’ view of the Rapture aligns with a pre-tribulation rapture perspective, which is common among dispensationalist theologians.

## Implications and Applications

Dr. Evans emphasizes that the doctrine of the Rapture has several important implications for Christian life:

### 1. Imminence

**”Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.”** (Matthew 24:42, KJV)

### 2. Comfort

**”Wherefore comfort one another with these words.”** (1 Thessalonians 4:18, KJV)

### 3. Evangelistic Urgency

### 4. Holy Living

**”Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.”** (1 John 3:2-3, KJV)

5. Proper Perspective

## Controversies and Debates

While Dr. Evans presents a compelling case for the pre-tribulation Rapture, it’s important to note that this view is not universally accepted among Christian theologians.

## Consider This:

Dr. Tony Evans presents the Rapture as a sudden, transformative event that should profoundly impact how Christians live their daily lives. While acknowledging that its timing is unknown, he emphasizes its imminence and the need for believers to be prepared, comforted, and motivated by this prophetic promise.

Will We Live In Heaven Forever?

Published June 21, 2024 | By amabaysidegiggers

Will We Live In Heaven Forever?

The Divine Tapestry: Unraveling Heaven’s Seven Ages

Throughout the ages, humanity has gazed skyward, pondering the mysteries of heaven. But what if our eternal home is far more dynamic and intricate than we’ve imagined? Let us embark on a journey through time and eternity, exploring the seven distinct ages of heaven as revealed in Scripture.

The Primordial Realm: Before Time Began

In the unfathomable expanse before creation, there existed a realm of pure divinity. This first age of heaven was the exclusive domain of the Triune God, existing in perfect unity and love.

**”In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1, KJV)**

This verse offers a glimpse into the pre-creation state, where the Son dwelt in eternal fellowship with the Father. It was from this divine communion that the grand tapestry of creation would unfold.

The Garden of Harmony: Heaven Touches Earth

With the dawn of creation, heaven took on a new dimension. The Garden of Eden represents a unique period when the veil between heaven and earth was gossamer-thin.

**”And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day…” (Genesis 3:8, KJV)**

Imagine a world where the Creator strolled alongside His creation, where the divine and the mortal coexisted in perfect harmony. This was Eden – a slice of heaven on earth, untainted by sin or death.

The Great Divide: Heaven’s Veil Descends

The Fall of mankind ushered in an age of separation. Sin erected a barrier between God and His beloved creation, fundamentally altering the nature of heaven and earth’s relationship.

**”For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” (Romans 6:23, KJV)**

I have heard it said this way, “Be Born Twice, Die Once. Be Born Once and Die Twice”

During this age, the concept of an afterlife began to take shape. The righteous dead found rest in “Abraham’s bosom,” a temporary haven distinct from the abode of the wicked. This period was marked by longing – creation groaning for redemption, and the faithful yearning for the promised Messiah.

The Bridge of Hope: Heaven’s Door Reopens

The incarnation, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ mark a pivotal shift in heaven’s story. Christ’s sacrifice tore down the veil, opening a new way for believers to enter God’s presence.

**”Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” (John 14:6, KJV)**

This age introduces what theologians often call the “intermediate heaven” – a temporary dwelling place for believers who die in Christ. While glorious, it is not the final chapter in God’s grand design.

The Great Gathering: Heaven’s Population Explodes

As earth experiences the tumult of the Great Tribulation, heaven enters a phase of unprecedented activity. This age is characterized by the glorification of believers through the rapture and resurrection.

Heaven swells with glorified saints, eagerly anticipating Christ’s triumphant return to earth. The boundaries between heaven and earth begin to blur as God’s plan reaches its climax.

The Millennial Reign: Heaven’s Preview on Earth

The return of Christ inaugurates an extraordinary period where heaven and earth overlap in unprecedented ways. Jesus establishes His throne on earth, ruling with the glorified saints.

**”And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.” (Revelation 20:4, KJV)**

This thousand-year reign serves as a foretaste of the eternal state to come. It demonstrates the perfect rule of Christ and the restoration of creation to its intended glory.

The New Creation: Heaven and Earth United

The culmination of God’s plan unfolds in the creation of a new heaven and a new earth, free from the taint of sin and the curse.

**”And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.” (Revelation 21:1, KJV)**

This eternal state represents the ultimate fusion of heaven and earth. The barrier between the divine and the created realms dissolves, ushering in an age of unbroken fellowship and boundless exploration.

**”And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.” (Revelation 21:3, KJV)**

Consider This: Our Eternal Adventure Begins

As we ponder these seven ages of heaven, we’re confronted with a breathtaking reality: our eternal destiny is far more dynamic and exciting than we’ve often imagined. We’re not bound for an ethereal, disembodied existence, but for a vibrant, physical reality where we’ll explore, create, and worship in the very presence of our Creator.

This journey through heaven’s epochs reveals a God who is intimately involved with His creation, working out a plan that spans eternity. It challenges us to broaden our perspective and deepen our appreciation for the magnificent future that awaits those who trust in Christ.

As we await this glorious future, may we echo the words of the Apostle Paul:

**”For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.” (1 Corinthians 13:12, KJV)**

Our eternal adventure in the new heaven and new earth will be the culmination of God’s redemptive plan – a never-ending story of discovery, growth, and intimate fellowship with our Creator and Redeemer. This is the heaven that awaits us – not a static, unchanging realm, but a dynamic, ever-unfolding tapestry of divine love and creativity.

Citations:
[1] https://ppl-ai-file-upload.s3.amazonaws.com/web/direct-files/6400559/64ef6ef2-6d37-4c52-9a16-2bc48057ad7a/paste.txt
[2] https://ppl-ai-file-upload.s3.amazonaws.com/web/direct-files/6400559/3be003df-b4c0-448b-bff9-a81ffad61d0e/paste-2.txt
[3] https://ppl-ai-file-upload.s3.amazonaws.com/web/direct-files/6400559/617450fd-7831-4e8f-be2f-71009f2682e0/paste-3.txt