I was reading an article written by a very popular prophetic writer this past week and while I don’t entirely disagree with his understanding of the prophetic Scriptures (I do not accept his late rapture idea) it seems to me that he fails to capture the spirit in which these prophecies are given.
He was being critical of the pretribulational rapture position because he believed it failed to warn and strengthen God’s people against what he believes to be very troubling times ahead. To be sure the Scriptures do warn us of adversities and encourage us to be stalwart in the face of them, however at the same time the Scriptures give us a very glowing picture of the future for our encouragement. Compare with me these two portions:
2 Timothy 3:1-2 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
While this is indeed troubling news, compare this observation from the Psalmist:
Psalm 126:1-3 When the LORD turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream. Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The LORD hath done great things for them. The LORD hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad.
It is my observation that our Lord would have us face the future with a comfortable and secure faith, trusting in Him without a fear of what may lie between us and His return. And also knowing that whatever hardships we may face, they pale in comparison to the joys that lie ahead.
Romans 8:18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
