Now here is an interesting topic for discussion. The only problem is
that it will be difficult to discuss if the Bible is our only textbook.
You see, the idea of a "rapture" is not found in the Bible. In fact,
the word "rapture" isn't even in the Bible at all.
One place that is commonly referred to in reference to the idea of a
rapture, specifically a secret rapture, is found in Matthew 24:36-44.
Here we find the famous quote, "Then two shall be in the field, the one
shall be taken, and the other left. Two women shall be grinding at
the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left."
This is an indication of how two people doing the same thing can be in
two different categories of salvation. One saved, the other lost.
Because, you see, the entire 24th chapter of Matthew is dealing with the
second coming of Jesus. In verse 3 the disciples come to Jesus and
ask, "Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of
thy coming, and of the end of the world?"
We get a very clear indication what it will be like when Christ returns
here:
2 Peter 3:10-12 "
But
the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the
heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt
with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be
burned up. Therefore, since all
these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you
to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking
for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the
heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt
with fervent heat?"
Based on Peter's description of the event, "great noise", "fervent
heat", and "burned up" I don't see the principle of
anything being done in
secret. What gets most people is the 'thief in the night' concept.
But this isn't describing you coming home to find your house robbed,
"surprise". It is describing how the event takes people by
surprise because they weren't ready. If you know someone is going
to steal your car, it won't happen because you'll be there to prevent
it. If you are aware of what God's Word says about His return, you
will be ready when He comes.
Revelation 22:12, "And behold I come
quickly; and my reward is with me,..."
His reward is with Him when He comes. Nothing done in secret.
No waiting period, nothing secret about it.
This is a new concept of the Bible for many people. Ask yourself
the question, "Why do I believe what I believe?" If you answer is
not because of your personal study of what the Bible says, you may have
been deceived by Hollywood or even your own family or friends.
If you would like a more complete study, just let us know by contacting us
through our
submit a question page.
Please remember that the responses to the question are from a Biblical perspective and not a human opinion. Anything that is stated here should be confirmed for accuracy.