Let me start of by saying no matter which view you choose, the fact is we can agree on it happening. If you adhere to the pre-tribulation perspective and it doesn't unfold as expected, it could provoke a state of panic, leading to doubts about the eventuality of His arrival. That's why I say keep both in mind.
The Rapture is perhaps the most important piece of prophecy for us to understand since it could very well impact us personally. In summary, the Rapture is an event where all who have put their trust in Christ, living and deceased, will suddenly be caught up from earth, be joined with Christ in the air, and taken to heaven. Paul describes the Rapture in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18:
The above video is on the Pre-tribulation view. The third video below is for the Post- tribulation view, please watch both. More on the Tribulation here
Three Views on the Rapture
Pre-Tribulation, Pre-Wrath, and Post-Tribulation
Pre-tribulation: This is the most commonly held belief today that became popular post-19th century. Those who hold this view believe that the Bible does not foresee that the Church will be a part of the tribulation because the Church is no longer mentioned after Revelation 3. Therefore, believers will be raptured prior to the tribulation, which is the season of the pouring out of God’s wrath. This view holds the position that God will save us from His wrath by not allowing us to go through the tribulation.
Mid-tribulation: This is the least commonly held position which teaches that the Church will go through the first 3.5 years of the tribulation, followed by the rapture. The Church will, therefore, not endure the last 3.5 years, or the Great Tribulation.
Post-tribulation: This is the longest held position in the church history. This position holds the belief that the Church will undergo the entire 7 years of the tribulation, followed by the rapture, and Christ’s second coming.
The Post Rapture View
These words might convince you of a Post Rapture. The Bible says we must go through many tribulations, to enter the kingdom of God. Does God always save us from tribulation, or does he save us through tribulation? Did God save Noah from the flood or through the flood? Did God save Job from his trials or through his trials? It is through tribulation. Did God save Egypt from the plagues, or did He protect them through the plagues? My thoughts are if it is post-trib then God will protect us through this time period. The video above might help you understand it better. I know the Bible says Gods people are not appointed to his wrath. The pre-trib rapture makes more sense, as in—why would Jesus have to rapture anyone after all the tribulation events have happened?
I am not hear to convince you of a pre-trib view, which ever view you believe is fine with me. I hope it ends up being the pre-trib view. Regardless of one's stance, the consensus remains: the rapture will occur.
Comments