Rapture

1. Rapture

2. What is the meaning of the word 'rapture' ? The word 'rapture' is not in the bible but neither is the word ‘Trinity' which is a term used by many to refer to the Godhead (Father, Son, Holy Spirit). Likewise, the word ‘Rapture' has come into prominent use to describe an experience based on 1 Thess 4:16 that Christian believers living at a certain time all over this earth will be 'caught up' or 'caught away' to meet the Lord Jesus Christ in the air. 1 THESS 4:16-18For 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: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.18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

3. The reason for the rapture is very simple. God has appointed 2 times of judgments in the future. One is called 'thegreat Christian tribulation (3 1 /2 years – timeframe 4 -chart)' and the other the 'Day of the Lord (7 years) – timeframe 5 - chart'. The great Christian tribulation is a judgment on the church (1Pet 4:17) while the 'Day of the Lord' is a judgment on Gentile nations for all their ungodly sins and works (2 Pet 3:10). 1Pe 4:17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? 2 Pet 3:10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in 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.

4. When the rapture takes place,true Christians that have accepted Christ's death as an atonement for their sins are raptured up to meet Christ in the air to rule and reign with Him. The unsaved Church left behind after the rapture will go through the 3 1/2 year Christian tribulation period(timeframe 4study). The rapture then is God's great door or exit from the coming flood of judgment. This would compare to the door left open in the ark in the days of Noah for anyone to enter in to escape the coming flood. Jesus told the Philadelphia church (Rev 3:8,10) that he would put before them a door, that is, a way to escape the trials that are coming upon the whole earth.

5. Rev 3:8 I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. Rev 3:10 Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. But the Laodicea Church was left behind (seetimeframe 3). Rev 3:16So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.

6. Book of Revelations has much to say about events connected with the rapture. However, to fully understand and appreciate Revelations, you must realize that between the rapture and Christ’s visible appearing Revelations divides the events into two sections. Revelations chapter 1 – 3 covers the Church age (see chart above). Then Revelations splits into two sections. Rev 4-11 John records the activity during the rapture, 3 1/2 yr great Christian tribulation (timeframe 4),

7. Day of the Lord (timeframe 5) from heaven's point of view. From Rev 12-19 in the same order (rapture, timeframe 4, timeframe 5) records same events from earth's point of view. This way John gives us the full picture because there is great activity in heaven and on earth during this time. In Rev 20-22 Christ and the raptured saints are back on the earth to rule for a 1000 years (Kingdom) and then the perfected Kingdom forever.

8. The study of the rapture from earth’s point of view and events leading up to it were covered in timeframe 3 study of Rev 12. Dragon with 7 crowned heads and 10 horns (Antichrist and his empire) stood in front of the sunclothed woman to try and prevent the birth of the manchild (rapture of true Church). But the manchild (Church) was immediately raptured up to God’s throne and the woman (professing unsaved church left behind. Click on image for review of Rev 12

9. Now, let us look at the events connected with the rapture from heaven’s point of view. We start out study with Rev 4. Rev 1-3 dealt with Church Age before the rapture. Rev 4:1-3 After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will  show thee things which must be hereafter. 2 And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne. 3 And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald.

10. John is a picture of what happens to the believer at the rapture. Notice he hears the voice as of a trumpet and immediately is caught up to God's throne. Compare this with 1 Thess 4:16. Notice also John sees an open door. This is the same open door (the rapture) which Jesus said to the Philadelphia church (Rev 3:8) that He would open to escape the trial that is coming upon the while world, (3 ½ year Christian tribulation and terrible 7 yr Day of the Lord.

11. Rev 4:2,3 And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne. 3 And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald. Revelations 4:3 shows us the rainbow around God’s throne at the time of the rapture and before any of the 7 seals are opened. God is telling us He has not forgotten His Covenant with Noah that he will not destroy all flesh by a flood. Genesis 9:14-16 And it shall come to pass, when I bring a cloud over the earth, that the bow shall be seen in the cloud: 15 And I will remember my covenant, which is between me and you and every living creature of all flesh; and the waters shall no more become a flood to destroy all flesh. 16 And the bow shall be in the cloud; and I will look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is upon the earth.

12.  Rev 4:4-11 And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold. 5 And out of the throne proceeded lightning's and thunderings and voices: and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God. 6 And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind. 7 And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle. 8 And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come. 9 And when those beasts give glory and honor and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever, 10 The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying,

13.  11 Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created. Who are the 24 elders and 4 beasts 24 Elders and 4 Beasts [KJV] (correctly called 'Living Ones) as the original greek is ’zoon’ "living creatures"; not ‘therion’ as used for carnal beast.  Rev 5:8 And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints. 9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; 10 And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth. It is clear from Rev 5:9 the 24 elders and four living ones are blood bought Christians. Why is this redemption song a new song. Because they are singing it for the first time in heaven around the throne of God and of the Lamb (Jesus).

14. After the rapture Christians are gathered into different groups to rule and serve with Christ. One group is the 24 elders clothed in white raiment which is the righteousness of the saints (Rev 3:5). Rev 3:5He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. Thecrowns are those promised to them in 2 Tim 4:8, 1 Cor 9:25). 1 Corinthians 9:25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. 2 Timothy 4:8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

15. The number 24 is a combination of 12 + 12.  At the rapture both Old Testament saints and New Testament saints will be there around the throne. The 12 tribes of Israel symbolized the divine government of the O.T. while the 12 Apostle the new. 24 Elders symbolizes then the church now in heaven after the rapture. The 24 elders are sitting and we read in Eph 2:6 that Christ as raised up the church to sit with Him in heavenly places, Eph 2:6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: What do the 4 Living Ones do The 4 Living ones differ from the 24 elders in that they  lead in worship and praise. The number 4 means they also do activity that connects with the earth (inRev 6 - Christ, 4 Living Ones, and the 4 Horsemen working together greatly affecting what goes on in the earth). The 4 living ones show the 4 natures of Christ that are taught in the 4 gospels. The Lion - Kingly nature; The Ox - the servant nature; Man - earthly nature; Eagle - heavenly nature.  At the rapture we shall be changed and the Bible says when we see Christ we shall be like Him (1 John 3:2, Phil 3:21).

16. 1 John 3:2 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. Philippians 3:21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself. The 4 Living Ones have 6 wings full of eyes front and behind. 6 is the number of man and wings denotes how quick they can travel.  As resurrected Christians we can travel in the air, in space or be somewhere at the speed of thought. Jesus demonstrated these truths after His resurrection and then ascended slowly and visibly back up to heaven.The eyes all over the wings are the 7 spirits of God which is the working of the Holy Spirit broken down into His 7 offices that are listed in Isa 11:1,2 that were upon Christ. Isa 11:1,21 And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots:

17.  2 And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord; In Rev 5:6 Jesus is described as having 7 eyes which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth, Revelation 5:6And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth. The number 7 in the Bible denotes completeness. When John saw Jesus having the fullness of the Holy Spirithe could only put it in the language of the Holy Spirit. Though there is only one Holy Spirit He breaks down into 7 offices.When Jesus ascended to heaven after His death and resurrection He sent the Holy Spirit which gave birth to the Church on Pentecost (Acts 2). All these 7 offices of the one Holy Spirit now operate in the saved believers in the Church. This is what is meant by Jesus sending the 7 Spirits of God into the whole earth. Notice Jesus is described as having 7 horns. Horn denotes power or strength and is used that way

18. in many scriptures. Again the number 7 is completeness. John again could not put into words what He was seeing but in the language of the Holy Spirit meaning Jesus had complete or all power. This confirms Jesus own words after His resurrection in Matt 28:18. Matt 28:18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Between the rapture (Rev 4,12to Christ’s visible returnRev 20), the following chart shows the 6 seals opened during the 3 ½ Christian tribulation period followed by the opening of the 7th seal trumpet/vial judgments during terrible Day of the Lord.

19. Father sits on throne Christ Christreturnsto earthwithsavedimmortalSaints John hears sound like a trumpet, voice of an Archangel, and is immediately caught up to God’s throne. John represents the believers who go up in the rapture. Millenium

20. Other scriptures connected with the rapture The dead being separated at the rapture The unsaved dead that rejected Christ are cast into hell fire having everlasting shame and contempt. The saved in Christ resurrected to shine as the stars forever and ever. The rest of the dead will be judged at the great white throne at the end of the Millennium (Daniel 12:1-3, Matt 13:24-30, Matt 13:47-50).

21. Daniel 12:1-3And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was sincethere was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.2 And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.3 And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever. Matt 13:24-30 Tares and the WheatNotice: Tares gathered first into bundles to be burned. 24  Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field: 25 But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way.26 But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also.

22. 27 So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares? 28 He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up? 29 But he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them. 30 Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn. Matt 13:47-50 Net of good and bad fishbad cast into furnace of fire to be burned. 47 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind:48 Which, when it was full, they drew to shore, and sat down, and gathered the good into vessels, but cast the bad away.49 So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just, 50 And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth

23. Teachings of what happens among the living at the time the rapture takes place. It will be a time of separation. Saved are taken – unsaved left behind. Matt 24:40-42 one left, one taken 40 Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left.41 Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left.42 Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. Matt 25:1-13Wise virgins separated from the foolish 1 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom.2 And five of them were wise, and five were foolish.3 They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them:

24. 4 But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.5 While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.6 And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.7 Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps.8 And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out.9 But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.10 And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut. 11 Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.12 But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.13 Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.

25. Interpretation: Parable of 10 Virgins 10 virgins  Ten is a round number when used prophetically or symbolically in scripture and means any number including the number ten itself. Virgins are those that outwardly profess to be pure - that is saved. Jesus is referring to the church before the rapture. Matt 25:1which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom.   The bible teaches that the church one day will be the bride of Christ. This does not happen till first Christ returns for thechurch and as we studied in previous verses  this does not happen till the rapture. However, in the early days of the church age after Christ's resurrection, there were those that expected Christ to return very soon. They did not have access to all the N.T. scriptures that we do currently, but their lamp refers to their heart or their spirit. Back in the early church they did not have electricity like we do. To have light you had

26. to light a lamp with oil or burn a candle. Oil is not mentioned in this verse but their lamp is referring to their spirit. Proverbs 20:27 talks of the spirit of man is like a candle. Prov 20:2727 The spirit of man is the candle of the Lord, searching all the inward parts of the belly. Psalms 18:28 David says that God could light his candle, that is - God could light David's spirit with His Spirit. They all anticipated the Lord returning. Psa 18:2828 For thou wilt light my candle: the Lord my God will enlighten my darkness.

27. Matt 25:2-4And five of them were wise, and five were foolish.3 They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them:4 But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. The number 10 being divided into two five's means division. Simply saying, that the church was divided into two camps: wise and foolish. The foolish took no oil with them but the wise had oil in their vessel. Oil is known throughout scripture as being symbolic of God's Holy Spirit. The prophets were anointed with oil (1 Samuel 16;13) and we are to pray for the sick anointing them with oil (James 5:14). 1 Sam 16:13 Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren: and the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward. So Samuel rose up, and went to Ramah. James 5:14 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:

28. Matt 25:5While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. The ten virgins at the beginning of this parable  symbolized the church in it's early history after Christ died, was buried and resurrected. Their was an expectancy that Christ the bridegroom would come soon. Within the church their were those that were truly saved and had the Holy Spirit (oil in their vessel) and then their was the  foolish that considered themselves saved but were not (no oil in their vessel). However, Christ did not come in their lifetime and they fell asleep (died). Asleep here (vs 5) is used in the sense that though they died they will awake again in the future (Daniel 12:2). Dan 12:22 And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.

29. Matt 25:6 And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. Now we pass down in history to the darkest hour of the church age (midnight hour - vs 6). This would be when Antichrist is ruling on the earth. However, their will be a great revival due to prophecy being fulfilled before the rapture (timeframe 1, timeframe 2and timeframe 3 (chart)) causing a great expectancy once again toward the end of the church age for the bridegroom (Christ) to come. So, today throughout theland there is an great expectancy for Christ’s soon return.

30. Matt 25:7 Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. Here in vs 7 once again all the virgins (10 virgins) church at this time) arose and trimmed their lamps. This means they were getting ready for Christ's return. They were trimming their lamps meaning they were doing what they believe to do to be right when the bridegroom (Christ) comes. Matt 25:8,9 And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out.9 But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. Once again we have this division at the return of the bridegroom (Christ). Their are within the church just like the beginning of the church age the wise that are truly saved and the foolish which are not. The foolish are acting like their saved but their heart condition before God was that they had no oil in their vessels. Oil once again symbolizing the Holy Spirit which stays in your heart once you receive Christ as your personal savior and are born again unto eternal life. The

31. foolish ask the wise for oil but the wise could not give them oil only Christ can give them the Holy Spirit. The wise said we cannot give you oil for your lamp you got to get that for yourself. Only Christ can save an individual . Notice the foolish went elsewhere. They went to other churches that preached only what they wanted to hear (seetimeframe 3 - church before the rapture). Matt 25:10-13 And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.11 Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.12 But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.13 Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh. And while the foolish were doing their own thing except getting the real Holy Spirit (by being truly saved by repentance and accepting what Christ did on the cross for their sins) the bridegroom (Jesus) returns and the wise went

32. in to the marriage and the door was shut (the rapture took place). This reminds me of the days of Noah when Noah and his family and all the animals that had enough sense to go into the ark and then God shut the door. Noah preached 120 years and time was up, the door was shut and those outside could not get in to avoid the coming flood. We read in vs 11 the foolish virgins now crying out for the Lord to open the door for them and the Lord said 'I know you not'. They never knew the Lord in their heart. They never asked Jesus to be their savior and dwell within their heart. The parable ends with a warning confirming that this is what will happen when Christ returns and though we may not know the day or hour we are to be wise and have oil (Holy Spirit) in our lamp (our spirit, heart) - the evidence of being saved. These foolish went into Christian Tribulation period (timeframe 4 - chart).

33. When will the rapture take place It is clear from the chart above the rapture takes place during the reign of Antichrist at the end of timeframe 3 (Days of Noah) and timeframe 4 (Great 3 ½ year Christian Tribulation period). Let us look at some very strong scriptural cases for this viewpoint. Old Testament proofs: Daniel 7:9-11, Daniel 8:9,10, Daniel 9:26,27, Daniel 12:1-4, Habakkuk 2:6 New Testament proofs Rev 3:14-22, Rev 4,5,6, Rev 12 Let us study Jesus answer to sequence of events of the end of the age and of His coming again found in Luke 21:5-36.

34. Luke 21:5-36 And as some spake of the temple, how it was adorned with goodly stones and gifts, he said, 6 As for these things which ye behold, the days will come, in the which there shall not be left one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down. 7 And they asked him, saying, Master, but when shall these things be? and what sign will there be when these things shall come to pass? The questions asked and that Jesus is going to answer is more clearly defined in Matthews account (Matt 24:1-3). Matthew 24:1-3 And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple: and his disciples came to him for to shew him the buildings of the temple. 2 And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down. 3 And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?

35. 3 questions the disciples of Jesus asked: 1: When will the present temple (Herod’s) be destroyed and not one stone left unturned. 2: When is the sign of the end of the world (Greek is AION meaning ‘age’) 3: What is the sign of your coming back to earth Jesus answered the first question at the temple where they just left to have this discussion on the Mount Olivet. Matthew 23:34 Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and some of them ye shall kill and crucify; and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city: 35 That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar. 36 Verily I say unto you, All these things shall come upon this generation. 37 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and

36. stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! 38 Behold, your house is left unto you desolate. 39 For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord. It is well documented in history that the people that destroyed both the city of Jerusalem and the temple (Herod's) were the Roman armies led by Titus around 70 A.D. within a generation (about 40 years) of what Jesus prophesized. Titus, pronounced TY tuhs (A.D. 41-81), a Roman emperor, was noted for his generosity and his regard for the people's welfare. He was born in Rome, the oldest son of Emperor Vespasian. Titus served as a military tribune (military leader) in Germany and Britain. He later helped his father put down a revolt by Jews in Palestine that began in A.D. 66. Titus captured Jerusalem in 70 A.D. after a long siege. He played a prominent role during his father's reign and succeeded him in 79. The destruction of Pompeii and Herculaneum, when Mount Vesuvius erupted, occurred

37. in the first year of Titus' reign.  Contributor: F. G. B. Millar, D.Litt., Camden Prof. of Ancient History, Oxford Univ. World Enclopedia 1998   It is said the temple was put of fire and that gold melted right down into the foundations of stone. The soldiers left not a stone unturned to get at the gold fulfilled Jesus words that not a stone of the Temple will be left unturned (Matt 24:2,Luke 21:6).

38. The two questions remaining that Jesus answered his disciples as Jesus sat on the Mount of Olivet overlooking the Temple buildings and speaking to His disciples were: Matt 24:3And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world? 1: What is the sign of your coming back to earth 2: When is the sign of the end of the world (Greek is AION meaning ‘age’)

39. 1: What is the sign of your coming back to earth 2: When is the sign of the end of the world (Greek is AION meaning ‘age’) Jesus answers the second question first and the first question last. This is because the end of the age Jesus had in mind was the Church Age that started at Pentecost in Acts 2 and ends at the end of the great 3 ½ yr Christian Tribulation Period. However, the rapture as we have seen and will also see in our Mount Olivet discussion, happens just before the great Christian Tribulation period (chart). When Jesus tells us the Church Age has ended then He immediately begins to answer first question; signs that would lead up to His visible return.

40. Luke 21 on the Mount Olivet discourse by Jesus gives us the most insight to when the rapture takes place as well as the great 3 ½ year Christian Tribulation Period . We read in Luke 21:8:9 Luke 21:8,9 And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them. 9 But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by.

41. Luke 21:8,9 And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them. 9 But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by. Massive deception, many saying ‘I am Christ’ followed by wars, commotions, that will terrify many. However, it may look like the end of the Church Age but it is not. Other events, Jesus said must also be fulfilled which are covered following Luke 21:9. But before we look at those events let us look at these initial signs. These initial signs will accompany the rise of Antichrist and all tie in with Daniel 7 and Daniel 8. Jesus said these two signs will precede the rapture. It was the rapture Jesus had in mind when He said 'the time draweth near' (Luke 21:8) and not to follow these false Christ’s on the earth . Many Christians at this time will be looking for the rapture. Jesus knew that and that is why He said ‘the time draweth near’. To further confirm Jesus had the rapture in mind when He said ‘the time drawth near’ and to not follow these many false

42. Luke 21:8,9 And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them. 9 But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by. Christ’s we read at the end of Jesus discourse of these signs and many others that follow these words in Luke 21:28 Lu 21:28And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. Jesus after listing many things to be fulfilled refers back to the initial signs of Luke 21:8,9 and tells the believers to look up for your redemption draweth nigh. You can tie those words of Luke 21:28 and put it this way ‘the time of your redemption drawth nigh’. Jesus is talking to believers - Christians who already redeemed. The redemption Jesus is talking about is not your soul which happens when you are saved (redeemed), but what happens to body at the rapture. At the rapture our

43. Luke 21:8,9 And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them. 9 But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by. Lu 21:28And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. changed from a mortal and corruptible body to an immortal and incorruptible body (1 Cor 15:51-53). 1 Corinthians 15:51-53 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 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. 53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.

44. Romans 8:22,23 tells us all of creation groans and travails in pain together till we receive the redemption of our body. Ro 8:22,23For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.  23 And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.  The reason the whole of creation is groaning and travailing in pain together waiting for the rapture (redemption of our bodies) is because Satan and his angels have causedhavoc in the past in the universe. The raptured saints are now the new rulers with Christ as Kings and priests. Satan and his angels will be dethroned and cast into hell and the bottomless pit.

45. Luke 21:8,9 And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them. 9 But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by. Lu 21:28And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. Summing up Luke 21:8,9 and what Jesus said in Luke 21:28 we will be here to witness the signs that accompany the rise of Antichrist but the Church Age has not ended (the end is not by and by –vs 9) but that the ‘time draweth near’ – the rapture is near. Now, following Luke 21:8,9 Jesus is going to list another lengthy list of signs and the parable of fig tree and Jesus ends with these startling words in Luke 21:36: Luke 21:36Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.

46. Lu 21:28And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. Luke 21:8,9 And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them. 9 But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by. Luke 21:36Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man. According to Luke 21:8 Jesus has the saved believers on earth for the first signs (Luke 21:8,9) but the whole next list of signs the saved will escape according to Luke 21:36. It is clear those worthy (read saved) go up in the rapture which clearly goes along with ‘the time that was drawing near’ and ‘lifting our heads for the redemption of our body was near’

47. What are the signs and events the raptured believers will escape following Luke 21:8,9? Luke 21:10-36 Then said he unto them, Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: 11 And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven. 12 But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name's sake. 13 And it shall turn to you for a testimony. 14 Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer: 15 For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist. 16 And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death. 17 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake. 18 But there shall not an hair of your head perish.

48. 19 In your patience possess ye your souls. 20 And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh. 21 Then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains; and let them which are in the midst of it depart out; and let not them that are in the countries enter thereinto. 22 For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. 23 But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck, in those days! for there shall be great distress in the land, and wrath upon this people. 24 And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled. 25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; 26 Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. 27 And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud

49. with power and great glory. 28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. 29 And he spake to them a parable; Behold the fig tree, and all the trees; 30 When they now shoot forth, ye see and know of your own selves that summer is now nigh at hand. 31 So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand. 32 Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled. 33 Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away. 34 And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. 35 For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.

50. Let us compare Matthews account and apply what we learned from Luke’s account of the Olivet discourse. Luke 21:8,9 And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them. 9 But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by. Matthew 24:4-6 And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. 5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. 6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. Based on our study of Luke’s account we can put the rapture after vs 6 because Matt 24:4-6 match Luke 21:8,9. The rest of Matt 24 that follows Matt 24:6 would cover the same events Luke 21:10-36 said the saved believers will escape. Luke 21:36Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.