PREPARE FOR CHRIST'S RETURN (Part V)

PREPARE FOR CHRIST’S RETURN (Part V)

Much confusion surrounds the events of the second coming because the Bible actually describes two separate and distinct phases of Christ’s return, and there is a tendency to blend them together and distort the prophetic message.  Phase One is the Rapture of redeemed believers, living and dead.  Phase Two is the global and glorious appearing of Jesus Christ.  Let’s briefly highlight both.

The Rapture is for a select group of people.  That is, Christ returns solely for His church, and reveals Himself only to those who have been redeemed by believing on the crucified and risen Savior.  This event is accomplished in secrecy, meaning much of the world will not physically see Christ or His people as they are caught up in the air.  However, they will certainly witness the profound effects of the Rapture as they collectively wonder about the cause and effects of this sudden mass disappearance. (Matthew 24:37-42)  At the Rapture, Christ arrives mid-air to receive His covenant people and to transport them to “the Father’s house” in fulfillment of His promise. (John 14:1-3)  There redeemed and raptured believers will appear before “the judgment seat of Christ” (also known as the Bema) and they will participate in the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. (II Corinthians 5:8-10 and Revelation 19:1-10)

In contrast to the Rapture, The Glorious Appearance is a totally public and globally observed event, which occurs at the close of the 7-year Tribulation Period.  In this instance, “every eye shall see Him.” (Revelation 1:7)  Christ returns to earth with great glory (bringing victorious believers with Him) and sets down with awesome power on the Mount of Olives in Israel.  Then Christ totally defeats Satan, the Antichrist, the False Prophet and all of their followers in the Battle of Armageddon.  Afterwards, He judges unredeemed humanity with the assistance of the redeemed saints.  And He governs over the earth, first during the 1,000-year Millennial Reign of Christ, and thereafter “forever and ever.” (Luke 1:33 and Revelation 11:15)

My friends, being Rapture ready is a life-or-death choice. So what is your personal response to the gospel of Jesus Christ? Think soberly. Evaluate honestly. And if you haven't done so, repent and accept Christ as Lord and Savior. Then read, honor and obey His Word; and pray without ceasing.

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!