Topical Encyclopedia The term "twinkling" is most notably referenced in the New Testament, specifically in the context of eschatological events. The Apostle Paul uses this term in his first letter to the Corinthians to describe the suddenness and rapidity of the transformation that will occur at the resurrection of the dead and the rapture of the living believers at the return of Christ.Biblical Reference: 1 Corinthians 15:52 : "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." In this passage, "twinkling of an eye" is used to convey the immediacy and swiftness of the event. The Greek word translated as "twinkling" is "rhipe," which suggests a rapid movement or a flicker, akin to the blink of an eye. This metaphor emphasizes the sudden and unexpected nature of the transformation that believers will undergo, highlighting the power and sovereignty of God in orchestrating the end times. Theological Significance: The use of "twinkling" in this context underscores the hope and assurance that Christians have in the promise of resurrection and eternal life. It reflects the belief in the imminent return of Christ, a core tenet of Christian eschatology. The transformation "in the twinkling of an eye" signifies the completion of God's redemptive plan, where mortality is swallowed up by immortality, and believers are fully conformed to the image of Christ. Related Concepts: · Resurrection: The doctrine of the resurrection is central to Christian faith, affirming that just as Christ was raised from the dead, so too will all believers be raised to eternal life. The "twinkling of an eye" moment is a pivotal aspect of this belief, marking the transition from the temporal to the eternal. · Rapture: In some Christian traditions, the "twinkling of an eye" is associated with the rapture, where believers are caught up to meet the Lord in the air. This event is characterized by its suddenness and is often linked with the sounding of the "last trumpet." · Eschatology: The study of end times, or eschatology, encompasses the events described in 1 Corinthians 15:52. The "twinkling of an eye" is a key element in understanding the sequence and nature of these future events as revealed in Scripture. Practical Implications: For believers, the concept of the "twinkling of an eye" serves as a reminder to live in readiness and anticipation of Christ's return. It encourages a life of holiness and devotion, knowing that the fulfillment of God's promises could occur at any moment. This expectation fosters a sense of urgency in sharing the Gospel and living out one's faith in a world that is transient and fleeting. In summary, the "twinkling of an eye" is a powerful biblical metaphor that captures the sudden and transformative nature of the resurrection and the return of Christ. It is a source of hope and encouragement for believers, affirming the certainty of God's promises and the ultimate victory over death. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Twinkle.2. (n.) The act of one who, or of that which, twinkles; a quick movement of the eye; a wink; a twinkle. 3. (n.) A shining with intermitted light; a scintillation; a sparkling; as, the twinkling of the stars. 4. (n.) The time of a wink; a moment; an instant. Greek 4493. rhipe -- any rapid movement, spec. a twinkling (of lights or ... ... a twinkling (of lights or the eye). Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: rhipe Phonetic Spelling: (hree-pay') Short Definition: a glance, twinkle (of ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4493.htm - 6k Library The Man who Owed Many Talents. Every Corporeal Conception must be Rejected, in Order that it May ... John is Rather to be Understood of Our Perfect Likeness with the ... The General Resurrection The Death of Death To those who Say, "If the Resurrection is a Thing Excellent and ... 1 Cor. xv. 47 The Power of Christ Illustrated by the Resurrection The Apostles Referred to the Redeemer's Return in the Language of ... Faustus Quotes Passages to Show that the Apostle Paul Abandoned ... Thesaurus Twinkling (1 Occurrence)... 3. (n.) A shining with intermitted light; a scintillation; a sparkling; as, the twinkling of the stars. ... Multi-Version Concordance Twinkling (1 Occurrence). ... /t/twinkling.htm - 7k Moment (71 Occurrences) Twins (9 Occurrences) Twined (25 Occurrences) Imperishable (11 Occurrences) Incapable (5 Occurrences) Instant (19 Occurrences) Incorruptible (8 Occurrences) Trumpet (74 Occurrences) Trump (2 Occurrences) Resources What is the blessed hope? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is glorification? | GotQuestions.org What is the difference between the Rapture and the Second Coming? | GotQuestions.org Twinkling: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Twinkling (1 Occurrence)1 Corinthians 15:52 Subtopics Related Terms |