Tribulation

Doesn’t the Bible say we can’t know about Heaven?

Doesn’t the Bible say we can’t know about Heaven?

Many people believe the Bible teaches that we can’t know anything about Heaven. However, a closer examination of Scripture reveals a more nuanced perspective. Let’s explore what the Bible says about our ability to understand Heaven:

Your Success To Self Improvement

1. Misinterpreted Verses

Some Bible verses are often misused to suggest we can’t know about Heaven:

1. 1 Corinthians 2:9-10 is frequently quoted out of context:

**”But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.”**

2. Deuteronomy 29:29 is sometimes partially cited:

**”The secret things belong unto the Lord our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law.”**

3. 2 Corinthians 12:2-4, where Paul mentions hearing “unspeakable words” in paradise, is contrasted with John’s detailed visions in Revelation:

**”I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven. And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.”**

The Heavenly City

2. God Wants Us to Understand Heaven

Randy Alcorn, a leading scholar on Heaven, argues that God has revealed information about Heaven in His Word because He wants us to understand and anticipate what awaits us. The Bible provides numerous insights into Heaven, indicating God’s desire for His people to know about their eternal home.

3. Our Current Knowledge is Partial

While we can know some things about Heaven, our understanding remains incomplete:

**”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)

This verse suggests that our current understanding of spiritual matters, including Heaven, is partial but will be fully realized when we are in God’s presence.

Your Success To Self Improvement

4. Heaven’s Full Nature Surpasses Human Comprehension

The true glory of Heaven goes beyond our current ability to fully grasp:

**”But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.”** (1 Corinthians 2:9)

5. Continuous Learning in Heaven

Scripture indicates that our knowledge will continue to grow even in Heaven. We will progressively discover more of God’s glory with increasing joy.

6. Jesus’ Unique Knowledge

**”And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven.”** (John 3:13)

This emphasizes Jesus’ unique and complete knowledge of Heaven.

Celestial Throne and Seraphic Guardians

7. Biblical Descriptions of Heaven

While our understanding is limited, the Bible does provide several vivid descriptions of Heaven:

– The New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:10-27)

– The Tree of Life (Revelation 22:1-2)

– God’s Throne (Revelation 4:2-11)

– Worship in Heaven (Revelation 5:11-14)

These passages offer glimpses into the beauty, majesty, and worship that characterize Heaven.

Your Success To Self Improvement

8. The Purpose of Heavenly Knowledge

Understanding Heaven serves several important purposes for believers:

1. **Encouragement in trials:** Knowing about our eternal home can provide comfort during difficult times on earth.

2. **Motivation for holiness:** A clearer picture of Heaven can inspire us to live more godly lives.

3. **Evangelistic zeal:** Understanding the reality of Heaven can fuel our desire to share the gospel with others.

4. **Proper perspective:** Knowledge of Heaven helps us maintain an eternal perspective amidst temporal concerns.

9. Common Misconceptions About Heaven

As we study Heaven, it’s important to address some common misconceptions:

1. **Heaven is not an ethereal, disembodied state:** The Bible describes a new heaven and new earth with physical properties.

2. **Heaven is not boring:** The Bible portrays Heaven as a place of joyful activity, creativity, and worship.

3. **We don’t become angels:** Humans and angels are distinct creations with different roles in God’s plan.

4. **Heaven is not just “up there”:** The final state of Heaven involves a renewed earth where God dwells with His people.

10. Practical Applications

How can we apply this knowledge of Heaven to our daily lives?

1. **Study Scripture:** Regularly read and meditate on biblical passages about Heaven.

2. **Cultivate anticipation:** Foster a longing for Heaven through prayer and worship.

3. **Live with eternity in mind:** Make decisions based on eternal values rather than temporary pleasures.

4. **Share the hope:** Use your understanding of Heaven to encourage others and share the gospel.

Consider This:

While the Bible doesn’t provide an exhaustive description of Heaven, it does offer significant insights. God encourages us to seek understanding about our eternal home, even as we acknowledge that some aspects remain beyond our current comprehension. As Randy Alcorn puts it, “God tells us about heaven in his word, not so we can shrug our shoulders and remain ignorant, but because he wants us to understand and anticipate what awaits us”.

By studying what Scripture reveals about Heaven, we can cultivate a deeper longing for eternity and a greater appreciation for God’s promises to His people. This knowledge should not only comfort us but also transform how we live in the present, inspiring us to store up treasures in Heaven and share the hope of eternal life with others.

As we continue to explore the biblical teachings on Heaven, may we approach the subject with humility, wonder, and a growing excitement for the day when we will see our Lord face to face in the place He has prepared for us.

Your Success To Self Improvement

 

Answers On Heaven

Citations:

[1] https://contenthacker.com/how-to-write-a-feature-article/

[2] https://sciencepod.net/how-to-write-a-good-article/

[3] https://mindesigns.com.au/blog/how-to-write-a-feature-article/

[4] https://contentatscale.ai/blog/what-makes-a-good-article/

[5] https://www.masterclass.com/articles/tips-for-writing-a-captivating-feature-article

[6] https://www.9marks.org/article/book-review-heaven-by-randy-alcorn/

[7] https://www.bible.com/bible/1/1CO.2.9.KJV

[8] https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/heaven-randy-alcorn/1100319191

Tags:

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

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.

The Rapture vs. The Second Coming

Distinguishing the Rapture from the Second Coming

Your Success To Self Improvement

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.”

Your Success To Self Improvement

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.”

Mount of Olives

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.

Your Success To Self Improvement

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.

Answers On Heaven

“Understanding the Rapture: Dr. David Jeremiah’s Insights and Common Misconceptions”

“Understanding the Rapture: Dr. David Jeremiah’s Insights and Common Misconceptions”

In the realm of Christian eschatology, few topics spark as much intrigue and debate as the Rapture. This prophesied event, where believers are caught up to meet Christ in the air, has captivated the minds of Christians for generations. Today, we’ll explore four essential truths about the Rapture, as highlighted by renowned Bible teacher Dr. David Jeremiah, and then delve into some common misconceptions surrounding this fascinating subject.

4 Essential Truths About the Rapture

1. Signs of the Times

Dr. Jeremiah emphasizes that while we cannot predict the exact timing of the Rapture, certain signs suggest its approach. One significant indicator is the increasing prevalence of deception, as Jesus warned:

“Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.” (Matthew 24:4-5, KJV)

This deception manifests in various forms, from false messiahs to misleading ideologies. As Christians, we must remain vigilant and discerning, anchoring ourselves firmly in God’s Word.

2. The Futility of Date-Setting

While it’s natural to wonder about the Rapture’s timing, Scripture is clear that its exact date is known only to God. Jesus Himself stated:

“But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.” (Matthew 24:36, KJV)

Dr. Jeremiah strongly cautions against attempts to predict the specific date of the Rapture. Instead, we should focus on living each day in anticipation of Christ’s return, fostering spiritual readiness and motivating us to serve God faithfully in the present.

Your Success To Self Improvement

3. The Inclusivity of the Rapture

A common concern among Christians is whether they will be part of the Rapture if their physical bodies have been destroyed or cremated. Dr. Jeremiah offers reassurance, emphasizing God’s unlimited power to resurrect and transform our bodies. The apostle Paul addressed this:

“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)

4. The Judgment Seat of Christ

After the Rapture, believers will stand before the Judgment Seat of Christ. This judgment is not about determining salvation but evaluating our earthly works and service to God. Paul describes this event:

“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.” (2 Corinthians 5:10, KJV)

“Ascending Hope

Your Success To Self Improvement

Common Misconceptions About the Rapture

As we delve deeper into this topic, it’s crucial to address some widespread misconceptions that have emerged over time:

1. The Rapture is a Secret Event

Contrary to popular belief, the Rapture is not described as a silent, secret occurrence. The very passage that speaks of believers being “caught up” portrays it as a loud, public event with “a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God” (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, KJV).

2. The Rapture Teaching is Ancient and Universally Accepted

Interestingly, the concept of a pre-tribulation Rapture as commonly taught today did not exist before the 1800s. It was introduced by John Darby and gained popularity through the Scofield Reference Bible. This relatively recent origin doesn’t negate its potential validity but does highlight the importance of careful biblical study.

3. The Word “Rapture” Appears in the Bible

The term “rapture” is not found in English translations of the Bible. It comes from the Latin word “rapio,” used to translate the Greek word “harpazo” meaning “caught up” in 1 Thessalonians 4:17. While the concept is biblical, the term itself is not.

Awaiting the Unseen Dawn

4. The Rapture and the Second Coming are Separate Events

Some teach that the Rapture and Second Coming are distinct events separated by years. However, many scholars argue that the Bible doesn’t make this clear distinction. This debate underscores the complexity of end-times prophecy and the need for humble, careful study.

5. Christians Should Fear Being Left Behind

This misconception has caused unnecessary anxiety among believers. Those who have accepted Christ as Savior are secure in God’s promise of salvation. As Paul reassures us:

“For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:38-39, KJV)

6. The Tribulation is Only About God’s Judgment

While judgment is indeed part of the Tribulation period, it’s also a time of salvation. God uses this period to bring many to faith in Christ, demonstrating His mercy even in times of great distress.

Your Success To Self Improvement

7. All Christians Believe in a Pre-tribulation Rapture

There are actually various views on the timing of the Rapture among Christians, including pre-tribulation, post-tribulation, and mid-tribulation perspectives. This diversity of thought reminds us to hold our views with humility and grace towards those who may interpret differently.

Consider This: Living in Light of the Rapture

As we contemplate these truths and address misconceptions about the Rapture, we should be inspired to live with greater faithfulness and anticipation. The apostle Peter exhorts us:

“But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?” (2 Peter 3:10-12, KJV)

The study of the Rapture and other prophetic events should not lead to fear or anxiety, but to a renewed sense of purpose and hope. As we navigate the challenges of this world, let us keep our eyes fixed on Christ and the glorious future He has promised to those who love Him. Let us commit ourselves anew to living for Christ, sharing His love with others, and eagerly anticipating His return.

In the words of Paul, “Wherefore comfort one another with these words.” (1 Thessalonians 4:18, KJV) May the hope of the Rapture inspire us to live each day with purpose, love, and unwavering faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.

 

Your Success To Self Improvement

 

Answers On Heaven

What is the Rapture? Dr. Tony Evans Teachings

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)

Rapture, Ascension, Spiritual Awakening, Divine Light, Heavenly Ascent, End Times, Biblical Prophecy, Christian Art, Celestial Event, Glowing Horizon, Mystical Vision, Sacred Moment, Eschatology, Faith Journey, Spiritual Revelation, Heavenly Realm, Divine Intervention, Prophetic Imagery, Spiritual Upliftment, Eternal Life, Heavenly Gathering, Divine Presence, Spiritual Transformation, Glorious Ascension, Heavenly Vision

## 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.

Your Success To Self Improvement

## 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.

Rapture, Ascension, Spiritual Awakening, Divine Light, Heavenly Ascent, End Times, Biblical Prophecy, Christian Art, Celestial Event, Glowing Horizon, Mystical Vision, Sacred Moment, Eschatology, Faith Journey, Spiritual Revelation, Heavenly Realm, Divine Intervention, Prophetic Imagery, Spiritual Upliftment, Eternal Life, Heavenly Gathering, Divine Presence, Spiritual Transformation, Glorious Ascension, Heavenly Vision

## 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

Your Success To Self Improvement

## 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.

Answers On Heaven

More Free Reports…