Even though there is scant scriptural support for a “pre-tribulation” rapture (a snatching away of the saints at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week), there is a large segment of Christians who adhere to this doctrine. They believe they will be whisked away to heaven where they will be safe from the antichrist and God’s judgments-basking in glory while the earth is subject to great tribulation. Of course, this means they will have no necessity for the divinely provided places of safety I discussed in my recent blogs. Unfortunately, they are misguided as scripture clearly details the timing of the rapture (resurrection of the righteous) in relation to other end-time events. I’ve listed these scriptures here: Rapture Timing – Jim’s Eschatological Info
But, aside from this timing argument, let me ask the question; why would you not want to be here during this critical time just before Jesus’s second coming? We know from the book of Daniel that during this time God’s people will carry out great exploits and instruct many in the way of salvation. “But the people who know their God shall be strong and carry out great exploits. And those who understand shall instruct many.” (Daniel 11:32-33). Don’t you want to be a part of that? I certainly do. Every one of us has friends, acquaintances, loved ones, and possibly family members who are biblically illiterate or have limited knowledge of these end time events that will impact their very existence for eternity. We who have this knowledge or at least the ability to access this knowledge will have an unprecedented opportunity to share the gospel and help them overcome the many trials this time will present. It will be an opportunity like never before to show them the scriptures that precisely depict what is happening around them. Having a desire to skip this opportunity demonstrates a lack of responsibility and love for your fellow man. Certainly, this will be a challenging time for all, but for us Christians who know the scriptures, the chance to be mightily used of God far outweighs any momentary suffering we might encounter.
God can’t use me to help further His kingdom if I’m not here where the action is. Don’t worry, saints. God knows how to protect His Son’s bride. Just avail yourself to Him at all times and He’ll be with you through whatever might befall you. Yes, I know there will be martyrs, and, if martyrdom happens to be my fate, so be it. What a privilege that would be! After all, He died for me.
That’s why I want to be here during the tribulation.
Maranatha, Jim