Mystery Revealed: The Silver Trumpets of Eternity

An eschatological analysis of the scriptures.

Topic: Eschatology, the study of the end times

The Rapture is an end times event in which believers in Jesus Christ, also known as the Church or the Body of Christ, will be lifted up into heaven to be with the Lord. According to the biblical timeline, the Rapture is the next major event to take place and all the necessary conditions have been met, meaning it does not depend on any other event occurring beforehand. It is expected to happen before the Great Tribulation, which is a time of great suffering on Earth, and is distinct from the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, which is expected to occur at the end of the Great Tribulation. The exact timing of the Rapture is known only to the Father and so believers are encouraged to live in anticipation of this moment when they will be reunited with the Lord forever.

(Greek/Latin: Harpazo/Raptuse is translated “caught up” or “caught away”)

The purpose of this writing is to provide biblical and theological support for the belief that the Rapture will occur before the Great Tribulation, and to explain why this belief is important and how it relates to other end time events. I aim to equip the reader with the necessary understanding and conviction to embrace this belief confidently and dogmatically. As you engage in discussions about the Rapture and the end times, it is important to be well-versed and knowledgeable on these topics. Just as the Bereans in Acts 17:11 were open-minded and diligent in studying the scriptures to verify what they were hearing, it is crucial for you to personally study the scriptures and be convinced of your beliefs. This will not only help you to defend your position, but it will also influence the way you live your life as a believer in Christ. My prayer is that you will follow the example of the Bereans and seek the truth for yourself.

Acts 17:11

“These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.”

The Key to the Book of Revelation

Revelation 1:19 “Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter.” Revelation 1:19 divides the book of revelation into 3 parts: the things which thou hast seen (Past), the things which are (Present), and the things which shall be hereafter (Future). In Greek, the word "hereafter" is "μετὰ ταῦτα" (meta tauta), which means "after these things."

Events After the Church Age

In Revelation 4:1, John is taken up by the spirit and witnesses the Rapture of the Church. Chapter 4 marks the beginning of post-Church events, during which God will judge the world for its unrighteousness.

The Destiny of the Church

The Church is symbolized by the 24 elders clothed in white robes and seated around God's throne in Revelation 4. Their white robes represent the righteousness given to believers through faith in Christ. Christ, the kinsman redeemer, will return to redeem the Earth and His Church, taking believers with Him into eternity.

The Jewish Wedding Parallel

Like a bride waiting for her bridegroom, the Church awaits the return of Christ. The Jewish wedding ceremony provides a vivid analogy for the relationship between Christ and His Church, illustrating the engagement, preparation, return, and ultimate union of the two. Christ will return to take His bride (the Church) to be with Him, fulfilling His promises.

The Rapture, the Tribulation, and the Antichrist

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 and 1 Corinthians 15:51-52 describe the Rapture of the Church, which occurs before the Great Tribulation. The Tribulation is marked by the rise of the Antichrist, who will deceive many, but believers will be taken away to be with the Lord during this time.

God’s Judgment on the Earth

Revelation 6:1 describes the opening of the seals and the beginning of God's judgment on the Earth. The Antichrist will deceive many with promises of peace and prosperity, but will ultimately demand worship and establish himself as God. God's righteous judgment will bring about plagues and devastation upon the world.

The Preservation of the Jewish Remnant

During the Great Tribulation, God will preserve a remnant of Israel, who will recognize Jesus as the Messiah. The Jewish people will be saved and delivered, fulfilling God’s covenant promises to them, and they will enter the Millennial Kingdom.

Conclusion: Preparing for the Lord's Return

The Rapture serves as the culmination of the Church's mission on Earth, and believers should live in anticipation of this event. Just as the Jewish wedding ceremony includes a time of preparation before the bridegroom's return, so the Church must be ready for Christ's return.

Living in Expectation

Believers are called to live in expectancy, studying the scriptures and being convinced of their faith. The Rapture provides hope and comfort for the Church, and it is important to be prepared for the Lord’s imminent return.

Final Thoughts

The study of eschatology offers believers the opportunity to deepen their understanding of God's plan for the future. The Rapture is a moment of hope for the Church, and the unfolding of end-time events will bring about the fulfillment of God’s promises to His people.