Tag: Rapture

Is 2 Thessalonians 2 a Rapture Text?

On By TimIn 2 Thessalonians 02, Judgment, RaptureLeave a comment

2 Thessalonians 2:1–4 (MEV): Now, brothers, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and concerning our gathering together unto Him, we ask you not to let your mind be quickly shaken or be troubled, neither in spirit nor by word, nor by letter coming as though from us, as if the day of Christ is already here. Do not let anyone deceive you in any way. For that Day will not come unless a falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of destruction, who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or is worshipped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself as God.

— Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

It is alleged that in this portion of the text, Paul is speaking of the rapture. That is exactly what we shall endeavor to examine.

Verse 1 in our reference sets the reference point to which Paul is speaking. It is the second coming. This will be evidenced in our selection and in the immediate context before our selection as will be shown.

The phrase ‘as if the day of Christ is already here’ is a reference that those reading had thought from a forged letter that the events had already passed and they were in that day of Christ. That is the day of judgment and Christ’s reign in Jerusalem. The term ‘the day of Christ’ is a specific reference to His physical return, victory over the nations, and millennial reign.

Therefore when he says ‘that Day will not come unless,’ part of that day includes the second coming. The falling away and revealing of the man of sin are events that happen before the second coming. The epistle was written specifically in response to a letter that said the rapture and events after had already occurred as referenced in the text.

And if the idea still isn’t clear, let us roll back before to see the context.

2 Thessalonians 1:6–8 (MEV): It is a righteous matter with God to repay with tribulation those who trouble you, and to give you who are troubled rest with us when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with His mighty angels, in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

— Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

When Paul begins establishing the specific things he is discussing, the words are clear. This is when Jesus is revealed with the heavenly host to take vengeance. That isn’t the rapture, but the Second Coming.

And if we still are not clear, there is more.

2 Thessalonians 1:9–10 (MEV): They shall be punished with eternal destruction, isolated from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power, when He comes, in that Day, to be glorified in His saints and to be marveled at by all those who believe, because our testimony among you was believed.

— Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

In that Day of judgment. It is not the rapture.

Much is Said About ‘This Generation’

On By TimIn Last Days, Luke 17, Olivet Discourse, ProphecyLeave a comment

When He was asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, He answered them, “The kingdom of God does not come with observation. Nor will they say, ‘Here it is!’ or ‘There it is!’ For remember, the kingdom of God is within you.”

Luke 17:20–21 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

As Jesus discussed with the Pharisees, He was answering their question of when the kingdom of God comes. The Pharisees are expecting some great heroic Vanquisher to restore Jerusalem from Roman rule. It’s as if that is the Kingdom Jesus is speaking about. Jesus said the Kingdom comes within people. Meaning your allegiance to the Kingdom is within you and is your responsibility.

The conversation then turns to address the misunderstood idea of the Kingdom of God only being the Valiant King ruling in Jerusalem.

Then He said to the disciples, “The days will come when you will desire to see one of the days of the Son of Man, but you will not see it. They will say to you, ‘Look here,’ or ‘Look there!’ Do not follow after them. For as the lightning flashes and lights up the heavens from one side to the other, so will the Son of Man be in His day. But first He must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation.

Luke 17:22–25 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Jesus called that time the days of the Son of Man. What Jesus is teaching here is end times when He conquers the world.

The phrases used by Jesus are emphatic that some would draw disciples’ attention away from Him. It’s hinted at that there are more than just one that would draw believers away, like false Messiahs. The language is similar to that used in another place.

Just as lightning flashes in the sky and lights up everything, these days would not be unmistaken for anything else. They would be, overtly visible. All would know what is happening.

This is connected to the Olivet Discourse where Jesus vividly describes the days of the Son of Man.

“So, if they say to you, ‘Look, He is in the desert,’ do not go there; or, ‘Look, He is in the private chambers,’ do not believe it. For as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. Wherever the carcass is, there the eagles will be gathered together.

Matthew 24:26–28 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Remember in our introduction texts, Jesus is specific and speaks of this generation as alive then. He speaks that He must suffer from them.

There are other texts that use that phrase like this one:

Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place.

Matthew 24:34 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Many teachers will connect this phrase to the entire data if the Son of Man in the Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24:3-31.) They will use it to disprove futurism. Futurism is the belief that Jesus will come again to rescue His church and set the world right, reigning on David’s throne. The phrase is used to debunk any idea of the rapture, too.

It’s clear in the text. Jesus applies this generation in His Parable of the Fig Tree to a yet future generation that sees the leaves come back. He has shifted His description from the days of the Son of Man to that of what leads up to those days.

That fig tree is used figuratively as Israel. Israel has come back in our generation. We witnessed it. We are those of this generation of the fig tree. It means the days of the Son of Man are very near future.

Rolling back to our text in Luke 17:25, Jesus wasn’t speaking in parables and was addressing what must occur in the short-term future. He would suffer.

He also clearly told those members of this generation listening to Him that day, they would long to see one of the days of the Son of Man. But they would not.

It follows that the days of the Son of Man were much farther into the future than could be perceived. Therefore, for this reason (among countless others,) Amillennialism is not true. Amillennialism is the belief that all of the apocalyptic (considered yet future) Bible passages were fulfilled by the siege of Jerusalem in 70 AD. Some even teach that Jesus already came back at that time.

In Jesus’ own words… Those teachings can’t be. The days of the Son of Man could not occur in the 70 AD siege. Jesus said members of this generation alive then would long to see one of those days, but would not.

Another Subtle Rapture Hint

On By TimIn Jesus, Last Days, Rapture, Revelation 03Leave a comment

Listen! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with Me.

Revelation 3:20 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

It’s hard to read this verse and not perceive the sudden urgency. Listen! Behold! Jesus is saying, “Take notice, this is important.”

Most times this is taught it is usually about how the time of salvation is now. It could be, and it can lend itself that way.

If you’ve read much here, there is a post that talks about this very verse. You can read that for some background.

What comes to my attention is not only the urgency of the time but what happens when one avails themselves of the Savior at that moment. He comes in to dine with them. That is what stands out… This invitation to dinner.

But while they went to buy some, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut.

Matthew 25:10 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This portion of Matthew is known as the parable of the Ten Virgins. It is written about yet future events. Note two elements, a meal, and a door. In reading the entire parable, the idea of the urgency of the hour is also apparent.

One also notes that the Bridegroom comes to retrieve the party not unexpectedly. They all knew He was coming for them. Some were prepared and some were not.

The oil in the lamps of these virgins is integral to what happens to them. The ones who are prepared have oil. The ones who don’t aren’t. In Scripture, oil typifies the Holy Spirit. Those who are saved have that oil and are prepared for the sudden appearance of the bridegroom. Those who do not have the Spirit are not prepared.

I would be remiss to point out that all of these virgins appear to have the same knowledge. That the Bridegroom is appearing suddenly and it is necessary to be prepared beforehand. Those not prepared have no place at the banquet as the door will be shut.

It’s just like Jesus’ words to the Laodicean church at the end of the age. He stands outside at the door and knocks. Anyone willing can enter in and dine with Him. The appeal is to the individual (any man) there.

We live in that time where each of us needs to be prepared. Really. Things will happen so fast, delaying your own reconciliation with God could prove detrimental. Who knows when the door shuts?

Do you know that the Bible says all have sinned?

None of us escapes that truth. The problem is by the time we find out God’s righteous requirement to have that fellowship with Him, we know we’ve missed the mark of perfection. That’s what sin means… To miss the mark. Think of an archer that shoots at a target and misses. A miss brings the penalty of death and you cannot greet the king.

A do-over doesn’t change the missed mark. In fact, there are no amount of do-overs that can correct the one error. That’s our predicament.

We cannot reach God.

Do you know how God fixed that?

He sent His Son to die… Taking the penalty. That Son is Jesus Christ. He died to take the penalty due for the miss you’ve had in the past… All of them.

Jesus fixed it. If you believe that and confess that you can enter the presence of the King and fellowship with Him.

It’s easy. If you need to chat about it, message me.

The Reward for the Believer

On By TimIn Last Days, Malachi 03, Prophecy, Rapture, Return of JesusLeave a comment

Then those who feared the Lord spoke to one another. The Lord listened and heard them, and a book of remembrance was written before Him for those who fear the Lord and who esteem His name.

Malachi 3:16 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

In the midst of the apocalyptic portions of the book of Malachi, we find a hidden hint of mystery. As the context speaks of the advent of the Messiah, and who can stand in that day… We know this is of what is called the end days.

There is a some-2,000-year gap in the midst of those end days. I like to think of it as a respite. It has stretched the culmination of them (times of the Gentiles) for millennia, maybe more. But I doubt that.

Our verse above transitions the focus from judgment to the disposition of the believer. Watch as to what is in store for them.

They shall be Mine, says the Lord of Hosts, on the day when I make up My jewels. And I will spare them as a man spares his son who serves him.

Malachi 3:17 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

He calls those who believed His jewels. Another translation says His treasured possession. If you believe… That’s you. That is who you are. It’s not by anything you have done. It is his He Who considers you thusly.

But wait, there’s more! Just like the unbelievable commercials always promising more to entice. God promises more for the believer (that’s us) in those end days. Those will be spared.

One may ask, “Spared from what?”

To answer that, we must read a bit ahead.

Surely the day is coming, burning like an oven; all the proud, yes, all evildoers will be stubble. The day that is coming will burn them up, says the Lord of Hosts, so that it will leave them neither root nor branch.

Malachi 4:1 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

It is being spared from what other texts call the indignation, the day of wrath, or Jacob’s Trouble. It is the judgment poured out onto the world because of Israel. Believers are spared this as sons. Which takes us to what is hidden.

Then you will again discern between the righteous and the wicked, between one who serves God and one who does not serve Him.

Malachi 3:18 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

In the particular translation I use, it’s not really clear. Here’s another.

You will return and see the difference between the righteous and the wicked, between the one who serves God and the one who does not serve him.

Malachi 3:18 — The Lexham English Bible (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2012)

What is meant by “You will return?”

The Hebrew word that underlies the English return implies physical movement. We will venture a bit ahead in the text yet again. This is to clarify understanding.

But for you who fear My name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings. You will go out and grow up like calves from the stall. And you will tread down the wicked, for they will be ashes under the soles of your feet, on the day when I do this, says the Lord of Hosts.

Malachi 4:2–3 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

“You will go out.” And “you will tread down the wicked.” “You will return.”

Isn’t this clear that believers would be physically removed from the indignation and judgment and would then be the ones returning amidst and after that judgment?

If so… Could this be a hint of rapture?

Read the text for yourselves. Don’t believe me. The context is there. As is the subtle language of escape and return.

Perhaps You Will be Hidden on the Day of the Lord’s Anger

On By TimIn Last Days, Rapture, Zephaniah 01Leave a comment

I will utterly consume all things on the face of the earth, says the Lord;

Zephaniah 1:2–3 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

I will consume man and beast; I will consume the birds of the heavens and the fish of the sea, and the stumbling blocks with the wicked. I will cut off man from the face of the land, says the Lord.

This is the introduction of God’s word to Judah delivered through the prophet Zephaniah. Throughout the book many prophecies are given, some as this that will be global and others that are localized.

What is described is usually called ‘The Great Day of the Lord.’ It is the end of the age when the things on the earth will be consumed. The apostle Peter wrote of this day (2 Peter 3:10.)

As written yesterday, Peter speaks of the general apathy that will precede such things. We also know that this is not just to be thought of as a 24-hour day. The text is truly apocalyptic in nature. It is the time when God judges all unbelievers.

The name Zephaniah means God has hidden. That intrigues, as maybe there is a surprise. I have written previously of Old Testament hints of what is called “The Rapture.” Consider what is being said here:

Seek the Lord, all you humble of the land, who carry out His judgment. Seek righteousness, seek humility. Perhaps you will be hidden on the day of the Lord’s anger.

Zephaniah 2:3 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Yet again, we encounter this mysterious idea of those who seek righteousness being hidden from the Lord’s anger. Paul, when he spoke of the rapture, called it a mystery. Though he was the one to reveal the full idea, the Old Testament gives some corroboration.

It is such an adventure to read the Bible and let the Spirit teach. Praise God for that!

The Righteous Man is Rescued

On By TimIn Daily Walk, Eternal Security, Isaiah 57, Last Days, RaptureLeave a comment

The righteous man perishes, and no man lays it to heart; and merciful men are taken away while no one understands, for the righteous man is taken away from the evil to come. He shall enter into peace; they shall rest in their beds, each one walking in his uprightness.

Isaiah 57:1–2 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

I love little surprises. There is one here.

The book of Isaiah is filled with apocalyptic descriptions of Jesus in both advents. That is to say, the events are not written as separate in the book. God’s program for Israel was for the kingdom to come after the death and resurrection of Jesus. Israelis as a nation rejected that.

Though Isaiah is not quite narrative, portions of it read that way. The first phrase about a righteous man perishing is a rebuke of pervasive evil. People do not care when a righteous man perishes. Nor would those consider changing their behavior to right.

Those that practice mercy are taken away. Of course, there is a change in the phrase. Maybe it is in assent to the idea that when someone dies it is God taking them out. Yet, this is where the surprise is.

The one that dies and the one taken away enter into rest. They walk in their own uprightness. These are the ones that have moved on to the next life where they live eternally.

There is that “evil to come.” As I read that, it was impressed upon me that this is specifically referencing what we would call The Tribulation.

And the surprise… Those “taken away” is a veiled reference to the rapture.

To impress the point further, it is done in such a way that the rapture will be easily explained away so as most will just go on with life as If deceived.

It’s Near

On By TimIn 1 Peter 04, Faithfulness, Hospitality, LoveLeave a comment

The end of all things is near. Therefore be solemn and sober so you can pray.

1 Peter 4:7 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Even when Peter was writing this, his expectation was for Jesus was imminent. we live some almost two-thousand years later. By any stretch of the imagination that mass of time cannot be counted as near or imminent.

Perhaps Peter wasn’t emphasizing the timing of things, but using the anticipation of the return of Jesus as an impetus for us believers to be right-minded. The need to have that mental clarity comes from the faith that Jesus keeps His promises. We also have to gird up each other.

It’s not people, really… But the entities that work in the spiritual realm which we do not readily perceive. These entities are real, and they work tirelessly to influence people and events. It’s a real war. That’s why we all have trials.

Peter has previously spoken in this epistle to expect that suffering and those trials. He has been teaching us to think correctly in those trials by keeping our minds sharply focused on heavenly things. That way we can do the things we need to do. Live soberly, and war spiritually.

What we need to do is pray. Even Paul speaks of this spiritual mindset. Like Peter is telling us how to be prepared for that, Paul uses a different idea in Ephesians 6. The two ideas are basically the same, though Paul used the imagery of a Roman soldier in armor. That armor was to set your mind in a certain way, and be ready.

Pray in the Spirit always with all kinds of prayer and supplication. To that end be alert with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints.

Ephesians 6:18 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Be ready. Set your mind straight! And pray always.

If one isn’t sober, it is easy to get distracted and derailed, often leaving prayer behind.

Above all things, have unfailing love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins.

1 Peter 4:8 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Before we can pray rightly for anyone, we must love them. That is at the root of what Peter is teaching us. It is the most important way to treat each other. If you love your brothers and sisters in the faith, it will lead you to be burdened with their cares. And when they stumble, as each of us is prone to do… We don’t make another feel guilty.

Pray for them… Even as you pray for enemies. The time is too short for us all.

Show hospitality to one another without complaining. As everyone has received a gift, even so serve one another with it, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

1 Peter 4:9–10 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Sometimes hospitality toward another presents itself as a daunting task. Some people just rub us the wrong way. We don’t want to be hospitable.

Check yourself. Hospitality isn’t about us. Well, not in the way that comes to mind. It’s about extending a gift to another. That is, giving them something they don’t deserve to get.

Look! Each of us doesn’t merit what Jesus did for us. It came to us as a gift from Him. It is a gift rooted in the love He has for each us. A gift that comes because time is short. None of us are promised tomorrow.

Extending hospitality even when we don’t feel like it is being a good steward of the grace God gives. But you say you don’t have the gift of hospitality. Peter is saying you do. It comes with your salvation… And even before you were saved. God was hospitable toward you by sending His own Son to die in your place. The Bible says God commends His love toward us. That’s hospitality. It follows then that it ought be a necessary thing to do that for another, if you are a Christian.

If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone serves, let him serve with the strength that God supplies, so that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

1 Peter 4:11 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

When we do any of these things to and for others, it ought to be done in the same way God did it for us.

In that way, it lifts up Jesus in the eyes of all who look on.

Firstfruits of the First Resurrection

On By TimIn 1 Corinthians 15, Justification, Last Days, Rapture, ResurrectionLeave a comment

But now is Christ risen from the dead and become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came by man, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order: Christ the first fruits; afterward, those who are Christ’s at His coming. Then comes the end when He will deliver up the kingdom to God the Father, when He puts an end to all rule and all authority and power.

1 Corinthians 15:20–24 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Jesus is Firstfruits of the resurrection of the dead. As Paul continues to explain the resurrection, we’ve understood from that context before, it is bodily. It is to a new type of body that isn’t subject to sin. (This idea is elaborated upon later in the text.) In his continuing instruction, there is something more for us to understand. Rightly, it points to Jesus. He is the Firstfruits, but of what?

The term firstfruits is significant. But first, let’s explore the significance of this term from one perspective; the feasts established in the Torah, The law is called a schoolmaster.

But before faith came, we were imprisoned under the law, kept for the faith which was later to be revealed. So the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith.

Galatians 3:23–24 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

It was to bring us to Christ. Therefore the feasts established for Israel in the law would also be a tutor. These feats are patterns to help us identify the Messiah. There were seven established, some of which have been fulfilled by Jesus on Earth.

The first is Passover. In the first Passover we learn that the blood of an unblemished lamb protected the household where it was applied to the doorposts from the death of the firstborn. In the same way, Jesus fulfilled this by shedding His own blood. That when properly applied by the believer, metaphorically on the doorposts of the heart. It protects the firstborn of that house, the believer himself from sudden death. This isn’t protection from any death, but the death that comes as a judgment from God.

The second is The Feast of Unleavened Bread. Biblically, leaven is a typification of sin. The idea conveyed is the haste to escape Egypt. They had no time to leaven their bread. It is also at this time that leaven is also removed from houses. In the same way, Jesus takes away the leaven in our lives. In a sense… We also ought to hurry to believe when we are confronted with the truth.

The third is The Feast of Firstfruits. This is a celebration of the firstfruits and is done at the beginning of the spring harvest. It was signified by waving a sheaf of the first grain harvested to the priest. He would then wave this before the Lord in an offering. In like manner, Jesus also had to be presented before God.

Jesus said to her, “Stop holding on to Me, for I have not yet ascended to My Father. But go to My brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to My Father and your Father, to My God and your God.’ ”

John 20:17 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

These are the spring feasts, the first three of seven ordained for Israel. All three have been fulfilled by Jesus just as the Old Testament patterns indicate. The fourth feast Pentecost, is also one said to be fulfilled, but I will leave for another time.

I want to talk about firstfruits. Just as the pattern is established in the feasts, this was the first of the entire harvest. What then is the significance?

Paul shows the order of the harvest. “Christ the firstfruits; afterward, those who are Christ’s at His coming. Then comes the end when He will deliver up the kingdom to God the Father.” I think that’s inclusive of the harvest. What I mean is, we have the beginning of the harvest given and the end when Christ comes, which is not the rapture. This is clearly explained to us in another place.

I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and the authority to judge was given to them. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness of Jesus and for the word of God. They had not worshipped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. They came to life and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were ended. This is the first resurrection.

Revelation 20:4–5 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Jesus has to come again to reign on Earth. At His coming, those who died justified (Acts 24:15) will be raised up to reign with Him. “Then comes the end.”

The harvest that Jesus is Firstfruits of began with His resurrection. It will end with the beginning of His Millennial reign. The harvest will continue, meaning there will be multiple resurrections in between. All of which is part of the First Resurrection of the just (Luke 14:14) to life (John 5:29.)

The Eagles Will be Gathered Together

On By TimIn Israel, Last Days, Matthew 24, Olivet Discourse7 Comments

It was something said by Pastor Greg tonight (would love to link to video, but is near impossible.) He held his Bible up and said there were things in it he didn’t understand. He said he understood much, and as he grew in wisdom, his understanding grew. Yet there were some things he didn’t get.

I was sitting on a bench in the back of church. My friends Dan on my right, Brian on my left. I showed them this verse.

Wherever the carcass is, there the eagles will be gathered together.

Matthew 24:28 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

I said I don’t understand that.

I read the immediate context before…

“So, if they say to you, ‘Look, He is in the desert,’ do not go there; or, ‘Look, He is in the private chambers,’ do not believe it. For as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. Wherever the carcass is, there the eagles will be gathered together.

Matthew 24:26–28 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Nothing immediately stood out for an explanation.

A bit of background… At the moment, I am endeavoring to search out the similarities and differences in the synoptic accounts of the Olivet Discourse. (For those less technical-minded, that would be Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21 where Jesus spoke to a small group of disciples about the end of the age.)

As it were, I peeked at the Faithlife Study Bible notes for that verse, and they were a bit lot short on the subject. The only note indicated that the word eagles is better understood as vultures. I kind of knew that.

The software I use had an annotation that pointed me here:

They asked, “Where, Lord?”
He replied, “Where the body is, there the eagles will be gathered together.”

Luke 17:37 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Checking the immediate context for better understanding…

Just as it was in the days of Noah, so will it be in the days of the Son of Man. They were eating, drinking, marrying, and were given in marriage until the day when Noah entered the ark. Then the flood came and destroyed them all.
“Likewise as it was in the days of Lot: They ate, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they built. But on the day that Lot departed from Sodom, fire and brimstone rained from heaven and destroyed them all.
“So will it be on the day when the Son of Man is revealed. On that day let him who is on the housetop, with his goods in the house, not come down to take them away. And likewise let him who is in the field not return to the things behind.
Remember Lot’s wife. Whoever seeks to save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life will preserve it. I tell you, on that night two men will be in one bed; the one will be taken and the other will be left. Two women will be grinding grain together; the one will be taken and the other will be left. Two men will be in the field; the one will be taken and the other will be left.”

Luke 17:26–36 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Now I know that what I didn’t understand is somehow connected to the second coming of the Messiah and not the rapture. This is clear by the very next statement in Scripture. They asked, “Where Lord?”

They are asking where the people taken will end up. I have to admit, it isn’t a pretty sight. Many have used this portion of Scripture to demonstrate the rapture. It’s not here. This is more as judgment. And I daresay, the judgment of a specific kind for a specific group of people. The ones taken are going to end up as food for vultures and other animals.

Arriving back in Matthew 24, it is clearly seen that that immediate context is also speaking of the second coming and not the rapture. (If one reads a bit backward in Luke 17, we also see the use of flashing lightning as a typification of the second coming. Yet… The immediate contexts in both passages speak of some not-so-good things for them.

As I thought about this throughout this evening and am now reclined in bed (it’s really late,) another particular piece of Scripture gnaws at the back of my mind, so to say.

Here, God is speaking of the defeat of Gog, and how there will be 7 months of cleansing the land of the dead bodies that resulted from that defeat. But before that, there’s this:

You shall fall upon the mountains of Israel, you and all your troops and the peoples who are with you. I will give you to the ravenous birds of every sort, and to the beasts of the field to be devoured.

Ezekiel 39:4 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

That’s the judgment against Gog. There is going to be a banquet for vultures and other animals. I hate to be graphic, but this is what the Bible clearly says.

My heritage is to Me as a speckled vulture; the vultures all around are against her. Come, assemble all the beasts of the field, bring them to devour.

Jeremiah 12:9 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

It will be after God defeats Israel’s enemies.

As for you, son of man, thus says the Lord God: Speak to every kind of fowl and to every beast of the field: Assemble and come. Gather on every side to My sacrifice that I sacrifice for you, even a great sacrifice upon the mountains of Israel, that you may eat flesh and drink blood. You shall eat the flesh of the mighty and drink the blood of the officials of the earth as though of rams, of lambs, and of goats, of bulls, all of them fatlings of Bashan. You shall eat fat until you are full and drink blood until you are drunk from My sacrifice which I have sacrificed for you. Thus you shall be filled at My table with horses and chariots, with mighty men, and with all the men of war, says the Lord God.

Ezekiel 39:17–20 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This is something different than the other judgments. This is for those who actively oppose Israel, whether government officials or not. It’s for those who wanted her spoils.

It’s at the end of the age. It’s a sacrificial meal from God to the birds and beasts. Those specifically working to defeat Israel are the kibble.

Listen! I Stand at the Door and Knock.

On By TimIn Jesus, Last Days, Prophecy, Return of Jesus, Revelation 03, Seven Letters to Seven Churches1 Comment

Listen! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with Me.

Revelation 3:20 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

I cannot help but to see how urgent and insistent this declaration is.

Our church gives doctrinal studies for those who want to go a bit deeper into basic doctrine. I love to attend because I always learn something new. I have come to understand that anyone can open the Bible and teach, and I can learn from them. I like that about the Holy Spirit. Enough on that.

We were taking an overview of the epistles Jesus wrote to the seven churches in His Revelation to John. Here is one part of what I learned.

Of the letters to the churches, there can be a loose grouping of them applied. It is done using the simple closing phrase in all epistles. “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” In each epistle, promises are given to the overcomer. Their placement becomes conspicuous. In the first three epistles, these promises are a postscript to the letter, coming after the close. The latter four, the promises to the overcomer are included in the epistle.

It is believed by some that these messages to the churches encompass the character of the entire age of the church of Jesus Christ, from its foundation to its end. The message to Thyatira represents the character of the medieval church. In a more specific way, it would be the Roman church. A further delineating factor to pay attention to comes in the middle epistle, to the church at Thyatira. Thyatira conveys the meaning of continuing sacrifice.

But I have a few things against you: You permit that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, to teach and seduce My servants to commit sexual immorality and eat food sacrificed to idols. I gave her time to repent of her sexual immorality, but she did not repent. Look! I will throw her onto a sickbed, and those who commit adultery with her into great tribulation, unless they repent of their deeds.

Revelation 2:20–22 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

I want to point out the words great tribulation. Those who don’t repent of idolatry will be judged. These words of Jesus are not to be taken lightly. Perhaps it is to draw our attention to the end of the age. We still have the vestiges of the medieval church age with us. Simply for that reason, the words great tribulation are important.

We move to the next epistle. Just as the message to Thyatira is representative of the character of the Roman medieval church, the epistle to Sardis represents the reformation age. Sardis conveys a meaning of an escaping remnant.

Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent. Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you.

Revelation 3:3 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

The admonition for this church is to watch. If it truly represents the character of the church of the reformation age, those churches exist contemporary with us. The admonition to them also reveals something yet future. Just as the previous epistle hinted toward great tribulation, this one hints to Jesus coming back as a thief. These will be surprised when He comes.

The next epistle is that to Philadelphia. In representing the character of the church, this is one of the great evangelistic soul-winning-missionary-minded churches. Philadelphia conveys the meaning of brotherly love.

Because you have kept My word of patience, I also will keep you from the hour of temptation which shall come upon the entire world, to test those who dwell on the earth.

Revelation 3:10 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

The admonition to this church includes the idea of wholly being rescued from the hour of temptation which shall come upon the whole world. This temptation is a test of those who dwell on Earth. These that are kept from this hour are most likely not on Earth. If not, such would necessarily be included in the whole world and would still be dwelling on Earth.

So far, Jesus tells those who don’t repent will have to go through great tribulation. With increased urgency we are told to watch so as we are not surprised. By keeping His word of patience we are kept from the test of those who dwell on Earth.

Look, I am coming quickly. Hold firmly what you have, so that no one may take your crown.

Revelation 3:11 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

There is an urgency that is increasing and becoming more specific. Time is closing in fast. He is coming quickly.

When we encounter the last epistle to Laodicea, this is the characterization of the church in the last days. Laodicea conveys a meaning of the people judging, or the people are in charge. (That says much about modern churches. Many do surveys to determine how to best meet people’s felt needs. That’s another discussion.)

Listen! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with Me.

Revelation 3:20 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

If this is the last age of the church, it would also follow that the urgency would increase. That is exactly what we see. Instead, He’s not coming quickly, or as a surprise. He’s right there at the door… Knocking!

There isn’t much time. But you can still open the door to Him.