Topical Encyclopedia The term "Rapture" refers to the eschatological event in Christian theology where believers in Jesus Christ are gathered together to meet the Lord in the air. This concept is primarily derived from passages in the New Testament, particularly 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 and 1 Corinthians 15:51-52. The word "rapture" itself is not found in the Bible but is derived from the Latin word "rapturo," which translates the Greek word "harpazo," meaning "to seize" or "to snatch away."Biblical Basis 1. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 : "For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a loud command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will be the first to rise. After that, we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will always be with the Lord." This passage is often cited as the clearest description of the Rapture. It describes a future event where Jesus Christ will return, and both deceased and living believers will be caught up to meet Him. The emphasis is on the sudden and transformative nature of this event. 2. 1 Corinthians 15:51-52 : "Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed—in an instant, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed." Here, the Apostle Paul speaks of a "mystery," indicating a previously unrevealed truth. The transformation of believers, both dead and alive, is described as instantaneous, occurring at the sound of the last trumpet. Theological Interpretations The Rapture is a subject of significant theological debate, particularly concerning its timing in relation to the Tribulation—a period of severe trial and judgment described in the Book of Revelation. The primary views are: · Pre-Tribulation Rapture: This view holds that the Rapture will occur before the Tribulation, sparing believers from the coming wrath. It is supported by passages such as Revelation 3:10, which promises deliverance from the "hour of trial." · Mid-Tribulation Rapture: Proponents of this view believe the Rapture will occur midway through the Tribulation, aligning with the sounding of the seventh trumpet in Revelation 11:15. · Post-Tribulation Rapture: This perspective asserts that the Rapture will occur at the end of the Tribulation, coinciding with the Second Coming of Christ. It is often linked with Matthew 24:29-31, where Jesus describes His return after the Tribulation. Historical Development The concept of the Rapture, particularly the Pre-Tribulation view, gained prominence in the 19th century through the teachings of John Nelson Darby and the Plymouth Brethren. It was further popularized by the Scofield Reference Bible and later by contemporary works such as the "Left Behind" series. Practical Implications For many believers, the Rapture is a source of hope and encouragement, emphasizing the imminent return of Christ and the promise of eternal life. It serves as a call to live in readiness and holiness, as expressed in Titus 2:13 : "as we await the blessed hope and glorious appearance of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ." Criticism and Controversy While the Rapture is a cherished doctrine for many, it is not without its critics. Some argue that the concept is a relatively modern development and not explicitly taught in early church writings. Others contend that the focus on the Rapture can lead to neglect of social and moral responsibilities in the present world. Conclusion The Rapture remains a vital and debated aspect of Christian eschatology, with its interpretation influencing various theological and practical aspects of the faith. Believers are encouraged to study the Scriptures diligently, seeking understanding and wisdom regarding this profound event. Topical Bible Verses Revelation 1:7Behold, he comes with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen. Topicalbible.org 1 Thessalonians 4:16 1 Thessalonians 4:17 1 Corinthians 15:52 Matthew 25:1-13 Matthew 24:30 Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A seizing by violence; a hurrying along; rapidity with violence.2. (n.) The state or condition of being rapt, or carried away from one's self by agreeable excitement; violence of a pleasing passion; extreme joy or pleasure; ecstasy. 3. (n.) A spasm; a fit; a syncope; delirium. 4. (v. t.) To transport with excitement; to enrapture. Greek 1611. ekstasis -- a displacement (of the mind), ie bewilderment ... ... 1611 (from 1839 , "completely remove") -- properly, take of regular position (standing) and bring a state of (rapture) -- like a person "carried out" in trance ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1611.htm - 7k Library Reasonable Rapture Because the Rapture of a Part of the Church Only, Would Leave the ... Of Rapture (Six Articles) Because the Rapture is the Consummation of Our Salvation and ... Whether Paul, when in Rapture, Saw the Essence of God? Whether Paul, when in Rapture, was Withdrawn from his Senses? Whether Rapture Pertains to the Cognitive Rather than to the ... Because the Partial-Rapture Theory Introduces a Situation that is ... Whither Thus, in Holy Rapture? Because to Make Our Rapture Dependent Upon Anything in us is to ... Thesaurus Rapture (6 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Rapture (6 Occurrences). Luke 1:67 And Zechariah his father was filled with the Holy Spirit, and spoke in a rapture of praise. (WEY). ... /r/rapture.htm - 8k Rapturous (1 Occurrence) Ecstasy (3 Occurrences) Infatuated (2 Occurrences) Transport (18 Occurrences) Rapine (5 Occurrences) Exhilarated (2 Occurrences) Selfsurrender Self-surrender King (25505 Occurrences) Resources What is the concept of a secret rapture? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the strengths and weaknesses of the pre-wrath view of the rapture? | GotQuestions.org What is the difference between the Rapture and the Second Coming? | GotQuestions.org Rapture: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Rapture (6 Occurrences)Luke 1:67 Psalms 28:7 Psalms 45:15 Psalms 51:8 Proverbs 5:19 Song of Songs 2:3 Subtopics Related Terms |
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