A RE-EXAMINATION
OF THE
RAPTURE QUESTION
By: Joe W. Bell
A Re-examination of the Rapture Question (revised)
PROVE ALL THINGS, HOLD FAST THAT WHICH IS GOOD
1 Thessalonians 5:21
INTRODUCTION TO THE REVISED STUDY
Relative to the responsibility of the Lord's pastors to teach His people there are three major aspects of an ever-present danger of failure:
1. Failure to feed the flock - Ezekiel 34:1-3.
2. Failure to comfort the flock and a giving of vain comfort and a false hope, Isaiah 40:1 Zechariah 10:2, Job 21:34.
3. Failure to warn the flock of impending perplexities - Ezekiel 3:17. Just as God had made Ezekiel "a watchman unto the house of Israel" (Ezekiel 3:17) so has our Lord commanded the porters of His house (church) to watch. Mark 13:34
Perhaps very few topics should be more examined in the light of 2 Thessalonians 2:3 than the "rapture" question. "Let no man deceive you." If the teaching that the Lord will "rapture His Church before the tribulation is false, then masses of the Lord's people are being deceived.
That the above teaching is lulling many into a false hope will be the conclusion of every unprejudiced mind that approaches this candid treatment of the "rapture" question by Brother Bell. His comments are so
supported by Scripture as to leave little for the imagination fo fertile minds.
Observe that the sum and substance of our Lord's teachings relative to the tribulation were directed toward His disciples in Church capacity and was for the purpose of preparing them for that day. "Behold, I have told you before." Matthew 24:25
Those who have labored with difficult truths, and in time past have been privileged to benefit from Brother Bell's labors in the Word, will welcome this refreshing and enriching treatment of the "rapture" question.
Having ben privileged to read the manuscript, I commend the truths of this work to every serious Pastor who would prepare his people and watch for their souls - "as they that must give account." Hebrews 13:17
Respectfully:
Cary Todd
Buies Creek, N.C.
PREFACE TO THIS PAMPHLET
This pamphlet was written by a pre-millennialist who fervently prays with John, "Even so come Lord Jesus."
A plea for an honest hearing for it arises from several challenging passages. "Doth our law judge any man, before it hear him and know what he doth?" Are there justifiable grounds to reject the "post tribulation rapture" view until one has examined its claims according to the lines of this defense offered in the behalf of Christ? We are commanded to -- Prove all things; hold fast that which is good -- 1 Thessalonians 5:21.
How can we do this except we take the position and attitude of the Bereans which was -- Received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so -- Acts 17:11
We must not cling to that which we fondly hold if it be not truth, nor must we hesitate to receive truth though it seems to be new and different to us. We are not called upon to defend a position, but to declare truth.
Had your writer been raised, theologically speaking "on this side of the fence" of the position taken in this pamphlet he perhaps could not write with the firm conviction that he now does. The first twenty years of my ministry was saturated with dispensationalism and the "pre-tribulation rapture" view. My Library literally "groaned" under the weight of the writings on eschatology by men like J.N. Darby, W.E. Blackstone, C H. McIntosh, Ridout, Larkins, Walter Scott, Kelly, Ren Pache, etc. These men's writings I wholeheartedly absorbed.
More than twenty-six years ago I became disenchanted with dispensationalism and my position on the rapture question. It was years after coming to my present position before I knew of any writings on the post tribulation rapture view. With only my Bible, especially the A.S.V. of 1901, my concordance (Young's), Wescott-Hort and lexicons I set myself earnestly to find the Scriptural answers to the questions that troubled me.
This pamphlet is a much abbreviated presentation of those answers that I found. They are safe ones I believe. I commend it to you for an honest hearing at the bar of "Thus saith the Lord," and for His glory.
Maranatha,
Joe W. Bel
A RE-EXAMINATION OF
THE
RAPTURE QUESTION
There is one central theme in the bible. It is expressed in a verse of the model prayer, "Thy will be done on earth even as it is in heaven." There is only One person to whom is assigned his responsibility, i.e., The responsibility of seeing that it is done. The Holy Scriptures reveal that this One is the Eternal Son of God. This necessitates two advents to the earth. One has already, as we know, taken place and the second awaits the appointed time. In the work of the Lord's first advent, sin was judged for his people and pardon and safety were secured through His vicarious sufferings and death and sealed for us in His triumphant resurrection on the third day after His death.
The restoration of all things to the will of God is designed to be accomplished through His second personal bodily advent to the earth. Scripture reveals no other way for this accomplishment - "Repent ye therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out, that so there may come seasons of refreshing from the presence of the Lord; and that He may send the Christ who hah been appointed for you, even Jesus: Whom the heavens must receive until the time of the restoration of all things, whereof God spake by the mouth of His holy prophets, which hath been form old" - Acts 3:19-21 (ASV-1901)
The Old Testament saints had only a one directional look, that was forward. The New Testament presents a three-fold look for its believers. We look back to the redemption of Christ by that death and resurrection already mentioned. We look upward by the same faith that we looked backward to Golgotha to where He now sits at God''s right hand as our interceding Great High Priest. Our Hope looks forward for - the grace that is to be brought to us at the revelation of Jesus Christ - 1 Peter 1:13
This will be the time when He brings again His First-born back to the inhabitable earth. Hebrews 1:6, ASV. Thus, the heavy burden of the New Testament message is that of the Redeemer's return. It is also the longing, hope and cry of all those who "love Him whom we have not seen," And in whom we rejoice greatly "with joy unspeakable and full of glory - 1 Peter 1:8 - thus we pray, "Even so come Lord Jesus!"
As we approach the study of Eschatology, the doctrine of last things, we need to remember many guidelines.
If any man thinketh that he knoweth anything, He knoweth nothing as he ought to know - 1Corinthians 8:2.
There is only one hope of any one seeing any scriptural issue from heaven's vantage point. We must come in genuine humility to be taught at heaven's footstool. Did He not say - The meek will He guide in judgment, the meek will He teach His way - Psalm 25:9,14 "The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him, and He will show them His covenant."
The most subtle thing of which we are little aware is our deep-seated pride! The pride that was in Naaman the Syrian Leper's heart did not fully surface until it was "punctured" by Elisha. He came to the man of God with his own formula for his healing Had he not had friends who were of a more humble nature than he, he would have returned in the same condition he came. Many times I fear we work out our own systems of beliefs and when they are disproved by the Bible our pride will not let us accept truth, we wander on in the vanity of hearts in error.
There are some warnings that must be heeded by all of us who attempt to expound on the doctrine of last things.
1. Beware of "date setting."
2. Do not use description of events as the time of the events.
3. Do not spiritualize the literal when it is by no law of interpretation justifiable. Spiritual applications are always in order, but to spiritualize is a most dangerous circumventing of the truth and when followed to its ultimate it is disastrous to truth.
4. Never become so enthralled with the details of events that we lose the centrality of Christ.
There are some doctrines of the Word about which we dare not be less than dogmatic. There are some in
which we dare not be dogmatic. The standard by which we judge these is: what will be the irreparable
harm if we are not dogmatic? We must as stewards of the truth always seek to have an answer that
satisfies the Scriptures. When we don't the three wisest words are " I don't know, " but there is an honest
demand to seek God for an answer if need be.
Regardless of what position one may hold on the various tenets of the doctrine of the Second Coming, all true evangelical believers are looking for Him to return - "the second time without sin unto salvation - Hebrews 9:28
The purpose of this pamphlet is to set forth as scripturally as possible a thorough but brief case for the Post Tribulation resurrection of the righteous dead and the subsequent translation of the living saints. I trust that God will be pleased to bless the same to all who will read it. An exposing of what is in my judgment the fallacy of the "Pretrib rapture" is unavoidable. These differences are not attacks upon the honesty and sincerity of any who hold conflicting views.
Any system of teaching that would exempt believers from that whereunto we have been appointed, namely tribulation suffering, (no matter how severe it may be) is to be called into question. That escape from suffering which is offered to the most wordly and unfaithful believer by the pre-tribulation rapture is truly most desired by them If such should be the case, then the exhortation of Christ should not have been spoken when He said: "Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worth to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son Man - Luke 21:36. Why obey if escape is, as the "pre-tribes" say, sure to all?
Perhaps the earnestness with which I write can in some degree be attributed to the fact that for more than twenty years I held without questioning the "pre-trib rapture" theory. I was first exposed to it in the Scofield Reference Bible, then from reading after respected commentators on the subject. At last I began to see how many other great doctrines they either ignored, perverted or flatly contradicted. This is especially true concerning their multiplication of errors regarding the Lord's church. I began to search for a "secret rapture," an "any minute coming," a "coming'with His saints." To my chagrin they were not to be found and I found that from another angle I was teaching a sense of false security. While some say, "peace and safety" I was saying "it can't happen to us for we won't be here.," the very opposite to 1 Thassalonians 5:4.
My position is definitely premillennial. I feet that all persons who hold diverse views on eschatology should be made aware of the following: So deeply entrenched is the association of the "pre trib rapture" with the premillennial coming of Christ that they have come to mean the same, i.e, become synonymous. This is erroneous. By the premillennial coming of Christ is meant that He will return to this earth to subdue all earthly kingdoms and rule in rigthteousness for 1,000 years. Regardless of what view one may have of the time of the resurrection of the righteous and the translation of the living, that is, pre or post tribulation, if one holds to the above fact, such is a premillennialist.
Since the word "rapture" is an unscriptural word, I shall seek to avoid its use as we are admonished to do in 1 Timothy 6:3 and 2 timothy 1:13
AN ANY MINUTE COMING?
As far as you and I are concerned, it could be, for we have nothing to do with the "when" question, but according to Divine authority, He cannot come at any moment.
It has been affirmed that the apostles held to "an any-minute"coming, and this so strongly that they expected him to return in their lifetime. However, in the light of things taught by Him, we are sure that they didn't.
First, He foretold Simon Peter's martyrdom. John 21:18,19, 2 Peter 1:13,14. Verily, verily, I say unto thee, when thou wast young, thou girdest thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldst not. This spake He, signifying by what death he should glorify God - John 21:18-19
Peter said of this prophecy - Yea, I think it meet, as long as I am in this tabernacle to stir you up by putting you in remembrance; knowing that shortly I must put off this my tabernacle, even as our lord Jesus Christ hath shewed me. - 2 Peter 1:13,14. Therefore, Peter looked for death, not the return of Christ ere he did.
THE APOSTLE PAUL AND THE
"ANY MINUTE COMING"
Paul, who taught that some would not die before Christ's return, gave no evidence that he was looking for an "any moment return of Christ." Here is the proof - "After these things were ended, Paul purposed in his spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia to go to Jerusalem, saying, After I have been there, I must also see Rome - Acts 19:21
Had he been expecting Christ at any moment, he would no doubt have said, "if the Lord tarry," which he did not say, see Hebrews 10:37. From Rome He purposed to go on into Spain, Romans 15:23,24,28,29. Again he did not say, "If the Lord tarry" but, "by the will of God," v 32. See James 4;13-15 for what we must say in regards to our anticipated tomorrows.
If at any time Paul held the "any moment coming" belief, these words from the Lord dispelled the same for him - And the night following the lord stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul, for as thou has testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome - Acts 23:11
Had Paul for any reason whatsoever failed to reach Rome the Lord's words would have been false. Paul knew that martyrdom was to be his lot also, for he said, "I am now ready to be offered up, and the time of my departure is at hand - 2 timothy 4:6.
He said previous to this, "I have a desire to depart and to be with Christ." Did this mean that Paul was not looking for Christ to return? Certainly not, but he knew that it was not for him to know the time nor the seasons which the Father had put in His own hand, nor is it for us either.
CHRIST AND AN "ANY-MINUTE COMING"
Consider with open minds this next passage and we will see that, according to God's eternal calendar, an "any minute coming" was foreign even to Christ's thinking. He said - but of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heave, but my Father only -Mark 13:32
If we take what our Lord said literally there is a set day and hour for Him to return. That this time be known unto God is all that is necessary. It is only necessary for us to know this fact: that He is coming and to be ready for that event.
It was impossible for Him to be born before His time - Galatians 4:4, not possible for Him to die before His time - Romans 5:6. It is not possible for Him to come before the appointed hour. In fact, the whole 24th chapter of Matthew is a listing of events that must transpire before He returns.
In the book of Acts (17:31), is perhaps one of the clearest passages that forbids an "any minute" coming. Reputable companies that operate public modes of transportation seek to operate as nearly as possible in conformity to its schedules which sometimes is not possible. God operates always according to His schedule, always on time, never ahead nor late. This is wherein the framework of His schedule will not allow for an "any moment" coming. We quote - He hath appointed a day (set a day) in the which He will judge the world in righteousness, by that Man (i.e. Christ Jesus) whom He hath ordained. This verse outlines the following for us.
1. God will judge the world
2. The standard by which He shall judge is righteousness (please read Isaiah 11:1-5 for great profit)
3. The judge has been appointed to the "bench," see John 5:22 & Matthew 25:31-46.
4. The day has been set. See an earthly analogy - Acts 25:22,23.
Regardless of whether this "day" be a twenty-four hour period or a designated longer period, it must have a specific moment of beginning. For Christ to hasten His coming, or delay His coming, would certainly jeopardize the "appointed day." At this point it is good to warn ourselves that because certain things must take place before He returns this gives no license for loose living. I shall discuss, after these remarks on the fallacy of the "any minute coming," some incentives to godly living.)
Three other events which must take place before the resurrection of the dead saints and the translation of the living can take place are - First: The preaching of the Gospel to every nation and to every creature: "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations: and then shall the end come -Matthew 24:14. Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature - Mark 16:15 & Matthew 28:19, 20 - Go ye therefore, and disciple all nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy spirit: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo I am with you alway, even to the end of the age." (More about this verse later.)
Second: The falling away and,
Third: The manifestation of the man of sin. Let no man deceive you my any means - for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition - 2 Thessalonians 2:3 Just as there is appointed a day for the revelation of Christ, there is the same for Antichrist. Therefore there can be no "any moment" coming.
Before we discuss whether the coming of Christ will be secretive or not, let us consider an assertion that to believe in any view other than the "any moment" coming may lead Christians to live carelessly. This is no more true than is the same accusation that is leveled against the doctrine of the eternal preservation of the saints. There is no doctrine anywhere in the Bible that is (as it is called) a dangerous doctrine. The only danger is to those who so handle them as to make them appear dangerous.
It has been affirmed that the return of Christ is the great incentive to godly living and service. How true this is! But the incentive of an "any minute coming" seems to convey the idea that one is held back from the deeds which ought not to be committed because Christ might catch us doing what we ought not to do or being where we ought no to be. These stimulants for restraint or service are unworthy of true Christian conduct.
Here is the true, real and God-honoring energy. "If ye love me ye will keep my commandments." Sometimes there is an obedience born of sheer fear; this is better by far than disobedience. 1 Corinthians 13 gives the only answer to God-pleasing service and obedient conduct. Our instructor unto godly living and self-denial is "THE GRACE OF GOD" - Titus 2:11-12.
Beloved, now are we the Sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be - but we know that when He shall appear we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is.. And every man that hath thishope in Him purifieth himself, even as He is pure - 1 John 3:2,3. The total cycle is Romans 8:29,30.
Beloved, that which shapes, guides and molds our behavior is not what view we have of "the rapture," but in what light do we view Him?
TRIBULATION OR WRATH
There is to be a period of great tribulation upon the earth sometime in the future. There has always been tribulation and from this God"s people have not been nor ever will be totally exempt. This future tribulation will be unequaled by anything that has ever been or ever will be. (Daniel 12:1)
And there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was, since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book. For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning to the world to this time, no nor ever shall be. - Matthew 24:21
The common lot of God's people is defined by our Lord -- "These things have I spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the worldye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. John 16:33
Not for our removal from this world did the lord pray, but that we might be - "kept from the evil. - John17:15.(We are blessed when we experience Matthew 5:10-12)
Paul wrote - 1 Thessalonians 3:3,4 - That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto. For verily, when we were with you we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know.
We can hardly conceive of such days and times as the earlier churches went though. They received the Word of God in much affliction. The lives of millions of Christians were lived in suspense and uncertainty. In our land we know nothing of this. That is why any idea of suffering is repulsive to us when it was an accepted fact and way of life for those people. God bless their memory and example to us.
If one has a clear conception of the Kingdom of God in its present invisible form and its future millennial glory, no passage of Scripture will be more convincing that the way into the Kingdom of God (for all who enter when it is set up) is through great tribulation - And when they had preached the Gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again unto Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch, confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we through much tribulation enter into the Kingdom of God - Act 14:21-22
It is doubtful that one could have convinced our Baptist people who suffered so sorely at the hands of the Roman Catholic church for over a millennium and a quarter that the pope was not the antichrist instead of an antichrist. They could not help but believe that the Great Tribulation was upon them. Certainly we do not relish passing through such fires of persecution as they passed (nor did they), but let us candidly ask ourselves these questions: Are we better than they that we should not suffer? Are we more worthy and godly so as to merit being spared than they? No my dear fellow saint, we are not! And perish any subtle conceit that we are!
Let us clarify one thing. TRIBULATION IS NOT THE WRATH OF GOD. If it is, then Israel was for 400 years under the wrath of God. Both saved and unsaved may share alike some degree of tribulation, but when tribulation turns to wrath, then God's people are exempt.
In 1 Thessalonians 1:10 and Romans 5:9 God promises to save His people from the wrath that is to come.It is therefore assumed by some that according to Revelation 3:10, the way the Lord will save His people from wrath will to "rapture" them. Some say He may catch them up (see my pamphlet on the "Manchild of Revelation 12"). It is doubtful if the saints at Philadelphia (Asia Minor) understood that they were to be removed. If so they were disappointed, for the Lord goes on to speak of their "overcoming" not "going up." Whatever that hour was and whenever it came, I am confident that as He promised He kept them from it, but He didn't rapture them.
There is only part of the 3 ½½ years of this unparallel suffering that is specifically referred to as the time of His wrath, Revelation 11:15. This is manifested in the "seven vials of wrath" - Revelation 15:1, 16:1-21. Some of this chapter parallels the plagues in Exodus.
The world has never believed that those who are saved by the Redeemer's blood are in reality any different from others. To them religion is merely a psychological therapeutic for the mind, emotions and nerves and therefore one religion (and among these they classify the faith of God's people) is as good as another. Doubtless also thought the Egyptians of the God of Israel, their Jehovah was to Egypt just another god. Perhaps the Egyptians felt their gods superior to Israel's God. If they could treat the Israelites as they did for 400 years and their God remain silent, what kind of a God did they have? For nearly two millenniums the earth has been the torture chamber for the churches of our lord. O the trials and testing of an apparently silent heaven! Has God forgotten to be gracious? The world doesn't believe that OUR GOD really IS, and is a rewarder of those who suffer for him
The apparent delay of the Lord in rescuing His people Israel was waiting for sin and iniquity to fulfill its measure by some. The intensity of Israel's sufferings became unbearable, but the time came for the sufferings to be diverted to Egypt, and for Egypt to know that Israel's Jehovah is THE GOD.
Note these verses: What if God, willing to shew His wrath, and to make His power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction: and that He might make known the riches of His glory on the vessels of mercy, which He had afore prepared unto glory. Even us whom He hath called, not the Jews only, but also of the gentiles - Romans 9:22-24
Egypt was a vessel of wrath, and this world is a vessel of wrath, thus we have the vessels of wrath. Israel was a vessel of mercy and His church is a vessel of mercy, thus we have the vessels of mercy. The vessels of wrath are fitted to destruction while simultaneously the vessels of mercy are to receive mercy.
God said: The Egyptians shall know that I am Jehovah - Exodus 7:5 - and again He said -- Against all the gods of Egypt will I execute judgment. - Exodus 12:12.
Likewise against the god of this world, Satan, and all his horde of false doctrine-mongers and persecutors of His churches will He execute judgment.
How is he going to do this? - And I will sever in that day the land of Goshen in which my people dwell, that no swarms shall be there to the INTENT THAT THOU MAYEST KNOW THAT I AM THE LORD IN THE MIDST of the earth and I will put a division between my people and thy people, tomorrow shall this sign be. Exodus 8:22, 23
Beloved note these words "in that day." Are they not very suggestive of other places where they are used?
In Goshen there were no swarms of flies; among Israel's cattle there was not one dead. Egypt's cattle died and their land was corrupted with flies of all kinds. In Egypt the hail fell, boils broke out on the Egyptians, darkness prevailed and the death of the first-born followed. Not one single plague fell upon the land of Goshen. Egypt has seen God put a difference publicly on His own people and vindicate them. God was glorified in Israel and upon Egypt. The distinction had been made between the "vessel of honor" and the "vessel of wrath."
So shall it b when He comes - The Foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal:" The Lord knoweth them that are His - 2 Timothy 2:19.
This is what will happen according to - 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10 - Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you; and to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, in flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of His power; When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.
Had God removed Israel from Egypt BEFORE his judgment upon the land, had He not separated Israel from among the Egyptians within the land as He did and visited His wrath upon Egypt while displaying His mercy towards His own, neither Egypt, the world, nor His own would have known concerning God what they learned. So unless God separates His churches while He pours out his vials of wrath upon His and our enemies, God's glory will not be known through His church as it could.
When God brought the flood in upon the world of the ungodly, He did not take Noah out of the flood but
designed the means of sheltering him and those with him from the flood. In these two groups are seen two
world, (the vessels of wrath and the vessels of mercy) the world of the ungodly and the world of the
godly. The Lord visibly vindicated His preacher of righteousness before the world of the unrighteous. The
Lord shall avenge His elect who cry unto Him day and night and the world shall see the difference as it
has never been seen before. We need to be prepared for tribulation, but have never to fear the wrath of
God.
WILL THERE BE A SECRET
RAPTURE OF THE CHURCH?
The reply of the vast majority of professing Christians answer in the affirmative. Can this answer be scripturally vindicated? The outstanding passage that they use to prove this is 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17. This passage is perhaps so familiar to our reader that we shall not use space to quote it, however, please open your Bible to it.
If you will examine this passage you will detect NO time element in it, only the answer to a question relative to the dead and living as related to the second coming of our Lord. To read into this passage a pre-tribulation rapture is to read into it something that is not there.
No commentators who write from the pre-tribulation angle connect Chapter 5:1-9 with Chapter 4 passage though the apostle does. Furthermore, they compound error by making the "Day of Christ" and the "day of the Lord" two different events despite the same events characterizing both.
Several years ago in a Bible conference, one of the speakers demonstrated beyond refutation from the Gospels that the "kingdom of the heavens" and the "kingdom of God" were the same. A speaker of the "dispensationalist" camp a few minutes later emphatically and categorically affirmed that they were NOT one and the same. If not, then our brother must produce TWO Abrahams, TWO Isaacs and Two Jacobs, for these three sat down in the kingdom of God, and the kingdom of heaven. So in like manner must those who separate the "day of Christ" from the "day of the Lord" and make the "rapture" one thing and the "revelation" another, produce duplicate events at different times.
An interesting question might here be asked along this line. Are there two secrets comings? Our Lord said, "Remember therefore how thou has received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I WILL COME ON THEE AS A THIEF, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee - Revelation 3:3.(See carefully 1 Thessalonians 5:2 and 2 Peter 3:10)
On over in the book of the Revelation He says - Behold I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame - Revelation 16:15
If there has already been a secret rapture of the saints via His coming as a thief, then what meaneth this passage, unless there are two comings as a thief?
There is much help to substantiate the post tribulation removal of the saints in our study of the word.
'SUNTELEIA"
This word is used in connection with two other words. One of them is the definite article "the" and the other is the word from which our word "age" comes. When the three are used as a clause, the meaning is "the full end of the age." This word "Sunteleia" is used six times in the New Testament. The King James Version translates these three words "end of the world." The marginal reading in many Bibles and in the footnote of the ASV of 1901 they are translated "consummation of the age."
Before we examine the use of the word "sunteleia" to show that by its use the Lord's churches and other believers will be here on earth when He arrives back, let us see that the above word does denote a complete end of one order or economy and immediately upon its cessation, another order or economy of God's dealingsbegins. To see this we read the last part of - Hebrews 9:26 - But now once in the end of the world hath He appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself.
In this verse the phrase "end of the world" is our three words - "full end of the age." These three words, "consummation of the age" as used in this verse tell us that the full end of the Old Testament order of the Levitical Priesthood and the symbolical sacrifices have come to a full stop and a new order of things has been brought in. This was vividly made manifest in the series of supernatural events that took place when Christ died. Among these events an outstanding one was the rending of the veil of the temple from top to bottom. Before this event the Holy spirit gave as a sign that the way into "the Holiest of all was not yet made manifest while as the first tabernacle was yet standing." When Christ died this veil was rent and now the priesthood has - "boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He hath consecrated for us through the veil, that is to say, His flesh, - Hebrews 10:19-20.
This then was the full end of the age of true and pure symbolical Judaism. Did it end secretive, or was it climacteric and visible?
Unless one is deliberately bent on closing the mind to the truth that believers will go through the great
tribulation and be here when the lord arrives back to the earth, these passages where "sunteleia" is used
should be convincing.
Would you please read carefully - Matthew 13:24-30. This is the parable of the tares (darnel) sown among the wheat. In verses 36-43, our Lord details the meaning of the parable. In verse 30, his servants are commanded to let both wheat and tares grow together until the harvest.
We are not left to draw our own conclusions as to who the wheat and the tares are nor who are the two sowers. Let us quote verses 39, 40 and 49. (Those words that are all caps and in parenthesis are our three words.) Matthew 13:39,40,49 - The enemy that sowed them is the devil the harvest is the end of world (THE FULL CONSUMMATION of the age), and the reapers are the angels. (40) - As therefore tares are gathered and burned in the fire, so shall it be at the end of the world (full consummation of this age).
Then our Lord gives the seventh parable - "the good and bad fish," the good fish were put into vessels but they cast the bad away. Now vers 49 - So shall it be at the end of the world, (full consummation of the age): the angels shall come forth and sever the wicked from among the just." It cannot be overlooked that these operations all take place at the full consummation of this age which consummation will be at the end of "the Great Tribulation."
This disciples in asking some questions relative to His statement about the destruction of the temple use His own word - "Sunteleias tou aiones", that is the "full consummation of the age." The disciples also introduce a word for the first time that He will use, and so will all those who speak or write about His second advent. It is the word "Parousia" which actually means presence. (We will study this word in detail. We quote verse3 -- and as He sat upon the Mount of Olives, the disciples came unto Him privately, saying, tell us, when shall these things be? And what shall be the sign of the (parousia) coming and of the end of the world? (Sunteleia tou ainonos - full consummation of the age).
In many places on our Bible the word "kai" is translated "even." It seems far better to render the last part of this question thus. "What shall be the sign of thy parousia even the full consummation of the age?" We see from this question that the disciples equated our lord"s arrival back upon the earth with the "full consummation of the age."
Our lord's answer to their questions reveal that He also considers the "sunteleia" of the age and His return back to the earth one and the same. In answering their request for a "sign," He told them - For as the lightning cometh out of the east and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming (parousia) of the son of man be. Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken: and then shall appear the sign of the son of man in heaven, and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory - Matthew 24:27,29,30.
In these verses the word "coming" is used twice. In the Greek they are not the same word nor do they mean the same thing. In vers 27, the word "coming" means Christ's presence back on the earth. The other word used in verse 30 denotes the "act of coming." Now according to the texts in tn Matthew 13 and 24, these two events occur at the full end of this age, that is at the end of the great tribulation.
The last place in our study where the word"Sunteleia" is used is relative to His church. The last part of verse20, - and lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world, - that is until the "full consummation of the age." If, as the dispensationalists teach, all saints are "raptured" seven years prior to the end of the age, our Lord's promise is meaningless. He did say - "I will come again and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye may be also." The promise of Matthew 28:20 puts Christ' presence to be with his churches on earth. (See Revelation 1:13) the promise of John 14:3 indicates the presence of the Lord's churches with Him in glory.
Those who ask the question in Matthew 24:3 where the word "sunteleia" was used were the same ones to whom His abiding presence was promised until the "full consummation of the age." It holds true that these same ones were the ones gathered in the upper room on the day of Pentecost and were baptized by our Lord in the Holy Spirit. They were HIS CHURCH! See my pamphlet "Did the Church Begin on Pentecost?"
One will search the Bible in vain to find a time and place where the "great commission, " as we call it, was ever transferred by Christ to the 144,000 sealed from the twelve tribes of Israel. The same kind of a church that our Lord began will be here in business somewhere when He returns!
GLEANINGS FROM MATTHEW 24
Neither time nor space will permit, nor is this the place for an exposition of Matthew 24, but there are some facts that must be pointed out that are so needful in establishing further the Scripturality for the "post tribulation" time of the change of the righteous living and the resurrection of those who are Christ's at His coming.
I shall seek to guide our thoughts by following one of my favorite approaches to Bible study, asking myself questions and seeking the answers if they are to be found.
1) Will the second coming be in two phases, first for His own, then back with His own at the end of seven years? If so would not this be three comings?
2) When He begins His descent to the Mount of Olives, will it not be continuous until He reaches the earth? (Hebrews 1:6, marginal reading)
I believe there is an experience in Paul's journey to Rome that will illustrate John 14:1-3, Acts 1:11 and 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17. We quote from - Acts 28:14-16 - Where we found brethren, and were desired to tarry with them for seven days: SO WE WENT TOWARDS ROME. And from thence (i.e. Rome), when the brethren heard of us, they came to meet us as far as Apii forum, and the three taverns: whom Paul saw, he thanked God, and took courage. And when we came to Rome.
There was one continuous journey of the apostle to Rome. Some of the brethren met him en-route and returned back to Rome with him. Thus shall we bechanged in a moment in the twinkling of an eye at the last trump and meet the lord in the air and return back to the earth with Him. His return may be likened to Paul's journey to Rome. He is en-route to His capital, and we meet Him in the journey and return back with Him.
Thessalonians 4:17 refers to "in the clouds." Two other places where"clouds" are connected with His return to the earth are - Matthew 24:29-31 and Revelation 14:14-16.
"Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shakend: And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: And then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the son of man coming in the CLOUDS of heaven with power and great glory. AND HE SHALL SEND HIS ANGELS WITH A GREAT SOUND OF A TRUMPET, AND THEY SHALL GATHER HIS ELECT FROM THE FOUR WINDS, FROM ONE END OF HEAVEN TO THE OTHER."
The verse that is printed in all "caps" is identical to the teaching of Matthew 1:30. Let's see Revelation 14:14-16 - And I looked and, behold, a white cloud, and upon the cloud sat one like the son of man having on His head a golden crown, and in His hand a sharp sickle, and another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to Him that sat on the cloud thrust in his sickle on the earth, and the earth was reaped. Now in Mark 4:26-29, especially verse 29, we have a passage intimately related to Revelations 14:14-16. The angels are the lord's "sickle," even as we find the Lord using men for "his battle axe and weapons of war," Jeremiah 51:20.
One thing that is common to the accounts of the lord's return as relative to His people is the sound of a trumpet. There arefour mentions of a trumpet associated with the lord"s return. Matthew 24;31 has been previously quoted, the next reference is - 1 Corinthians 15:51,52 - Behold, I show you a MYSTERY: We shall not all sleep (i.e. die), but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last rump; for the trumpet shall sound and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
The next reference is - Thessalonians 4:16 - For the Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trump fo God, and the dead in Christ shall rise first.
Then Revelations 10:7 - But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall begin to sound, the mystery of God shall be finished, as He hath declared to His servants, the Prophets.
If you will take time (and you should) right here to read Chapter 11:15-18, you will see that this carries us to the time when Christ is back on the earth, because it speaks of rewarding the saints (Mathew 16:27 -- Revelation 22:12) and judging those who have destroyed the earth.
This mystery relates itself to one particular group as we shall see, beginning Romans 16:25 and concluding in Revelations 11:15-18 which I trust you have read. - Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the wold began. But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith: To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ forever. Amen.
The mystery is continued in -- Ephesians 3:2-11 - If ye have heard of the dispensation of God which is given me to you-ward: How that by revelation he made know unto me the mystery: (as I wrote afore in few words) Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) Which in other ages was not made know unto he sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; That the Gentiles should be fellow-heirs, and of the same body and partakers his promise in Christ by the gospel: Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of the power. Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is his grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
If the trumpet of Revelations 11 and the trumpet of 1 Corinthians 15:52 are not the same trumpet, then the burned of proof to the contrary rests upon those who deny it.
The passage in Matthew 24:29-31 certainly excludes any two-phase coming, and excludes any idea of a secret rapture. When Jehovah went to take His bride Israel from Egypt, did He do it secretly? Why should Christ steal His bride, His pride and joy, as if He were not entitled to Her whom He hath purchased with His own blood? I'm sure that the change of the living saints will be instantaneous, but the rapidity of the "catching up" is not specified. I believe Christ will honor His faithful ones by allowing the eyes of those who see Him descending to also see us ascending.
Please bear with me here a repetition. It is my genuine conviction that our study of the word "sunteleia" revealed that those who are spoken to in Matthew 13, 24, and 28 are the same. There are those who would use this group, especially in Matthew 24, to represent the Jewish remnant of Revalation 7:1-8. They say that these will preach the Gospel during the tribulation when the church is removed.
If they are to preach the Gospel when do they learn it? Nay, those in these three chapters are His church. The word YE is used in an institutional sense - When ye therefore shall see the abomination that maketh desolate (ASV 1901) spoken by Daniel the prophet standing in the holy place (whoso readeth let him understand) - Matthew 24:15
Then shall the great tribulation such as was not since the beginning of the world, to this time, no, nor ever shall be and except those days should be shortened there should no flesh be saved: but the elect's sake those days shall be shortened - Matthew 24;21,22.
Unless Israel is specifically referred to, as in Romans 11:28, the word "elect" in the New Testament means those who are saved, and in a special way those who are in church capacity. If the lord's "Church" is raptured prior to this time, they cannot "see," "flee" nor "pray" as commanded of them in Matthew 24.
REVELATION 7:9-17
Please familiarize yourself with this passage. Attention is called first to where these (the multitude that no man could number) are standing; second, how they are clothed; third to what they have in their hands; and fourth to what they cry, Verses 9,10.
When the apostle is told who they are, he is informed from whence they came and what they have done with their robes, verse 14. This explains why they are before the throne and the privilege of serving Him.
These verses do not so much as intimate that they are a people who are saved during the great tribulation, but a people who have passed victoriously through it.
Suffer a homely illustration of "coming up out of." In the days of the depression of the past '30's, one worked at almost any job for an honest dollar. In the section of the state where your writer lived, almost every house had an open dug well for water. These necessitated being drawn dry at intervals and cleaned out. Some of these I cleaned out. First, I had to go down into the well. When finished, I was drawn up out of it. The points of illustrations are: Before I could "come up out of" I had to "go down into."
When I came up out of, my garments were wet, whereas before they were dry. The change was in the status of my garments. Thus, those who came up out of the Great Tribulation were the same ones who went into it. It was not their sins from which they were cleansed, but the cleansing of their garments or robes.
"Robes' or "garments" symbolize one's behavior, manner of life, service, etc. These cleansings are something that is done by the believer this side of justification as may be seen from such passages as -Jude 23 - And others sve with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garments spotted by the flesh.
Revelation 3:4- thou has a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy.
Revelation 16:15- Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments lest he walk naked and the see his shame
Revelation 19:7,8 - Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to Him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come and His wife hath made herself ready. And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness (i.e., righteous acts) of the saints. ASV 1901.
From the last passage which I shall quote, it is clear that cleansing our "robes" is relative to something done by us, yet these very acts or deeds must, like everything else that is acceptable to God, be subjected to the "whitening of the blood of Christ."
And white robes were given unto every one of them, and it was said unto them that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellow servants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were should be fulfilled - Revelation 6:11.
What is the value of the Great Tribulation to the lord's churches? We read in -Daniel 12:10 - Many shall be purified and made white, and tried.
Never have churches, and I mean churches that seek to be Scriptural, been so full of subtle spiritual pride, worldliness, moral corruption, divisions and decay as all too many of them are today.
It has sometimes pleased the Lord that a few churches have been exercised of Him to purify themselves "in obeying the truth," but alas, how few there are compared to the many that aren't. The lord may favor to grant revival to some churches over widely scattered areas, but not too many lives are therefrom purified and made white. The fires of persecution, trials and afflictions alone seem to effect true purifying results. Those whom the Lord would make peculiarly His own, He will pass through the fires of testing. - 1 Peter 1:6,7 - Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season IF NEED BE, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations (testing): That the trial of your faith - being much more precious than of gold that perisheth though it be tried with fire - might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.
The Lord is concerned that the churches which He presents to Himself shall be "glorious churches" without spot or wrinkle - Ephesians 5:27. "Spots" yield to washing and "wrinkles" are removed by heat. As He chose Israel in the furnace of affliction, so has He chosen us Isaiah 48:10. Unless He passes us through the furnace and purifies us even as silver, we shall then be as refuse silver - Jeremiah 6:30.
There are many precious promises to those who may consider themselves to be in the furnace of affliction. An outstanding one is - Isaiah 43:2 - when thou passest though the waters I will be with thee: and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned, neither shall the flame kindle thee."
A great many teachers seem to believe that this vast multitude of Revelations 7 will have been saved under the preaching of the 144,000 who are sealed of the twelve tribes of Israel. Though the 144,000 are sealed, they are sealed only to be delivered from destruction. We have no record here as to when his 144,000 are saved only that they are sealed; certainly no record of their preaching!
Will there be more saved in the time of the great tribulation than has ever been saved in an equal period of time, and that during the holocaust made by the antichrist? Who, we wonder, if all saints are removed prior to the great tribulation are those against whom the beast will make war and overcome them, Revelation 13:10? We note that heaven gives thanks for some overcomers who are victorious - "by the blood of the lamb, and by the word of their testimony and they loved not their lives unto death" Revelations 12:11. Who are these?
Again, there are those who were - "beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the Word of God, and which had not worshiped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their forehead, or in their hands - Revelation 20:4
Who are these if all believers were "raptured" at the beginning of the great tribulation?
What we need to see in these in Chapter 7 is the victory that was theirs, and realize that while what is viewed is seen as having already transpired, its fulfillment awaits Christ's saints at a given or appointed time. That which they shall possess to give them the victory is the enabling grace of God. Sustaining grace is promised, but is reserved until needed.
It is blessed to note that which shall be done for and unto them is: first, their privilege, which is to be before His throne and serve Him day and night. God shall dwell among them and favor them and comfort them. See verses 16, 17.
THREE MOST IMPORTANT WORDS
Before we can with any degree of satisfaction bring our study to a close, it is imperative that we show the inter-relationship of three words that are used relative to His return. This relationship offers conclusive proof that what is called "the rapture' and the "the revelation" occur at the same time and are the same.
These three words are "coming," "appearing (or manifestation)" and "revelation."
The first word "coming" is an improper translation of the word Parousia. In the Greek text the word Parousia is found about twenty-four times. Twenty-two times it is translated in the King James version "coming." In the American Standard Version of 1901, it is also translated "coming," but in every place it is footnoted "PRESENCE."
Our next word is "to appear or appearing" or "manifestation." It is the word EPIPHANEIA or PHANEROO. Basically this word means "to make manifest by one's presence" or "to be manifested."
Our third word is the word "to reveal" or "revelation." it is used as a noun and a verb. The noun form is
APOKALUPSIS - the verb, APOKALUPTO. The noun form is translated "appearing" once in 1 Peter
1:7; "manifestation" once, in Romans 8:19; "Revelation" twelve times. Its verb form is translated twenty-six times, "reveal" and other ways as will be indicated.
These three words being interrelated will show that at His "parousia" He will do five things.
1) Resurrect the righteous dead and translate those that are His at His coming.
2. Destroy the "man of sin, the son of perdition" and those who belong to him.
3) Avenge His elect who cry unto Him day and night.
4) Reward the faithful and
5) Make manifest His kingdom that now exists in mystery form.
Let us now study to some extent some uses and meanings of each word.
"PAROUSIA"
This word means to be "bodily present," "to be alongside of" or "to arrive back to a designated place after having made a journey." This last meaning is to be seen in the case of Titus' return from Corinth to which city Paul had sent him. In some of the passages that I shall quote contain the word "parousia," this word will be parenthesized afer the word "coming."
2 Corinthians 7:6,7, 13-16: - Nevertheless God, who comforteth those who are cast down comforted us by the coming (i.e. PAROUSIA, "arrival) of Titus." This verse does not indicate Titus's journey, but his arrival back to the Apostle Paul.
There are two places where the word "Parousia" is correctly translated. We shall quote them - 2 Corinthians 10:10 - For his (Paul's) letters, they say are weighty and powerful but his BODILY PRESENCE (SOMA PAROUSIA) is weak.
Now - Philippians 2:12 - Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence (Parousia) only, but now much more in my absence (a-parousia)."
These are the only two places where the word is properly translated as indicated above.
Remember the disciples' use of the word "parousia,' i.e 'presence back on the earth," is in Matthew 24:3. Our Lord, as we indicated in our reflections are Matthew 24, used their word "parousia" in answering their question. In verse 27, I shall capitalize the proper translation of the word "parousia."
Matthew 24:27 - "For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west, so shall also the PRESENCE of the Son of Man be."
There is a verb which denotes the act of coming. It looks like this "ERCHOMAI." Let's see its use. "And then shall appear the sign of the Son of Man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the son of Man COMING (erchomai) in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory - Matthew 24:30.
The next places where the word "Parousia" is used are verses - Matthew 37-39 - But as the days of Noah so shall also the PRESENCE (Parousie) of the Son of Man be; for as in the days that were before the flood they were eating, and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage until the day that Noah entered into the ark, and knew not until the flood came and took them all away; so shall also the presence (Parousia) of the Son of Man be.
We do well to observe the harmonization of two verses, one from 1 Corinthians 15 and the other form 1 Thessalonians 2 - 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; afterwards they that are Christ's at His PRESENCE (Parousia)."
1 Corinthians 15:22,23 - "to the end that He may establish your heart un-blameable in holiness before God, even our Father at the PRESENCE (parousia) of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints (holy ones).
1 Thessalonians 3:13 - The apostle prays further, - "And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly, and I pray God that your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless until the PRESENCE (Parousia) of our Lord Jesus Christ - 5:23.
All of these verses refer to His arrival back to earth.
The last conclusive evidences that the righteous are changed and the antichrist is destroyed at the same event are - 1 Thessalonians 4:15,16 with 2 Thessalonians 2:1. For conservation of space, please re-read verses 15 and 16. The word for "coming" in verse 14 is the word for "presence" (i.e. Parousia). The verse in 2Thessalonians 2reads thus - Now we beseech you, brethren, in the behalf of the coming (PRESENCE) of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together unto Him."
You will notice that the word for "Presence" (Parousia) comes first, and then - "our gathering together unto Him" follows. This is at the time indicated in Matthew 24:31. The word in the King James version is "appearing," but it is the word "apokalupsis," which means at His revelation.
We come now to a study of the second of our words. It is the word from which our English word "Epiphany" comes and is translated "appearing." The word looks like this "EPIPHANEIA." We pointed out that it means "to be manifested" or "to manifest one's self."
Hebrews9:24 (ASV 1901 - For Christ entered not into a holy place made with hands, like in pattern
to the true, but into heaven itself now to appear (emphanizo- to manifest Himself) before the face of
God for us."
The word translated "presence" in the King James version is the word which means "face." Christ is now personally in the presence (before the face) of God for us - Hebrews 9:26 - but now once in the end of the age hath He been manifested (appeared) to put away sins by the sacrifice of Himself.
Although the word "appear" in vers 28 is not of the "epiphaneia" group, it tells of the second coming of our Lord and therefore claims our attention. "And unto them that look for Him shall He appear (be seen) the second time without sine unto salvation." The words "shall he appear" is the third person singular, future passive of the word "be seen." This verse is identical in meaning with Matthew 24:27. In this verse the word "shineth," which is of the "epiphany" family, could well be translated "is seen."
In Colossians 3:1-4 is found some wonderful information about the redeemed of the lord. Verse 4 anticipates the return of Christ and our relationship to Him (ASV 1901) "when Christ, who is our life shall be manifested, then shall ye also with Him be manifested in Glory." This can only be when he appears visibly before all. From 1 John there are two passages that tie in with the glorification of the saints at his "parousia" i.e., presence - "beloved now are we the children of God, and it is not yet made manifest what we shall be. We know that when He shall (appear) be manifested we shall be like him, for we shall see Him as He is - 1 John 3:2.
Now back to 1 John 2:28 - you will observe that in this verse there are both words "epiphaneia" and "parousia.' Note our relationship to them. "And now, little children, abide in Him; that, when He shall be manifested, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before Him at His (parousia) presence." Thus His presence back on earth and His appearing are the same event.
When shall He reward the faithful of the land? - "And when the chief shepherd shall be manifested, Ye shall receive the crown of glory that fadeth not away - 1 Peter 5:4
We will now consider - 2 Thessalonians 2:8 - and then shall that Wicked (one be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus shall consume (slay) with the spirit (breath) of His mouth and shall destroy (bring to naught) with the brightness (manifestation) of His presence (parousia)." If we believe Colossians 3:4, (which was quoted earlier) to be at His parousia, then 2 Thessalonians 2:8 equates the coming of Christ for His saints and with His saints to be simultaneous.
Only once, and this in 2 Thessalonians 2:8, is the word "epiphaneia" translated "brightness." It should have been translated "manifestation." Thus the destruction of the Antichrist, the resurrection of the dead in Christ, the translation of the living who are His at His parousia, and the rewarding of the saints are all simultaneous (Revelation 11:18)
APOKALUPSIS - APOKALUPTO
Remember, we noted that the first word is the noun and the second the verb form of the same word. We have indicated that these words are translated in several different ways. In 1 Peter 1:7 , it is translated "appearing." This is the only place in the New Testament where it is so translated. In Romans 8:19, it is translated "manifestation"; twelve times "revelation," and the verb form 26 times "reveal." These last two ways, "revelation" and "reveal," are the correct ways. Remember, it was pointed out that the revelation of Christ, (that is at His unveiling before the whole world) He would do these five things -
1) resurrect the righteous dead and translate those that are His at His coming.
2) destroy the "man of sin," the son of perdition,.
3) avenge His elect who cry unto Him day and night
4) reward the faithful, and
5) make manifest His kingdom that now exists in mystery form.
See Revelations 1:1 - "the unveiling of Jesus Christ." "The book of Revelation (the apokalupsis) is first an unveiling of Him who was, is, and is to come. Next it is His unveiling or revealing of persons and things that are to come to pass.
We have already shown that the word "parousia" which means "presence" is used in connection with the days of Noah, Matthew 24;37:39. Now in Luke's account the word "apokalupto"which means to be revealed or unveiled, is used of the same event (Luke 17:26-30). The Holy One who has been veiled from human view will at this time come forth, thus His "parousia" and "apokalupsis," are the same according to the synonymy of these two passages.
We find the perfect unity and harmony of all of these three words relate to one and the same event which is the visible return of Christ to the earth. To further strengthen this unity, we quote 1 Corinthians 1:7,8. (after the word "coming" I shall use the correct word) "So that ye come behind in no gift, waiting for the coming (apokalupsis,, revelation) of our lord Jesus Christ; Who shall also confirm you unto the end, blameless in the day of our lord Jesus Christ."
We are not waiting for the "parousia" of Christ alone, BUT ALSO for the "epiphaneia" and the "apokalupsis," namely: His presence, His manifestation and His revelation-all the same event. If the "rapture" has taken place seven years prior to the revelation," then I am puzzled as to why in 1 Corinthians 1:7 the writer uses the word "revelation"?
Our next vers, Romans 8:18, is also synonymous with Colossians 3:4 - For I reckon that the suffering of this present time are not worth to be compared with the glory that shall be revealed in us.
The two verses that wrap all these up as one event are 1 Peter 1;7,13 - That the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold that perisheth though it is proved by fire, may be found unto praise, and glory and honor at the Revelation (the word in the K.J.V. is "appearing," but it is the word "apokalupsis") of Jesus Christ:" - now verse 13 - Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober and set your hope perfectly on the grace that is to be brought to you at the REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST."
In behalf of honesty, despite the withering of pride, how is it possible to separate in time the appearing, the presence and the revelation of our Lord, thus making them two separate events?
SOME CONCLUDING OBSERVATIONS
Sometimes one may hear it said, "We're not looking for signs, but for the Savior." The last part is true, but we must also be looking at signs because they are given to us of the lord. Look up in any good concordance the word "sign" or signs" and you will see their calculated influence on the lord" people. See Luke 21:25-28. Note particularly two verses - And there shall be SIGNS in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars, and upon the earth, distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring; "when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads for your redemption draweth nigh - Luke 21:25,28
Let us consider three specific "sign-indications" of the return of our Lord. "And the Gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and THEN shall the end come -Matthew 24:d14.
How far this has been done is known to God alone. The task of the lord"s churches is to keep on until "the night cometh when no man can work."
The next is "the falling away" and third is the "revelation of the man of sin": "Let no man deceive you by any means for that day shall not come except there come the falling away first; and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition." - 2 Thessalonians 2:3.The word for "falling away" is "apostasia." The English of this word is "apostasy." To apostatize means to abandon one's profession or church; to forsake the principles or faith which one has professed or the party to which one has been attached. One cannot apostatize from justification or eternal life, but in the things that "accompany" these one can certainly fall away (see the last chapter in my book, God's Priesthood on Earth)
It is interesting to observe how certain translators handle this word "apostasia," so I'll quote a few of them. W.J. Conybeare, "falling away"; Weymouth, "apostasy"; Williams, "revolt"; Moffatt, "rebellion"; The Twentieth Century N.T., "apostasy"; J.B. Phillips, "rejection of God"; New English Bible, "the final rebellion"; K.N. Taylor, "time of great rebellion." Unquestionably, we are in this time.. Did not our Lord say, "and because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold"?
There awaits now the revelation of the man of sin. "And that man of sin shall be revealed, the son of perdition." In connection with this event, let's examine a passage that has been mistakenly used by many to teach the removal of the Holy Spirit from the earth with the "pre-trib" rapture of the church.
"And ye know what withholdeth that he (the man of sin) might be revealed in his time. For the mystery of lawlessness doth already work: only he who now letteth (i.e., holds back) will let (hold back) until he be taken out of the way" - 2 Thessalonians 2:6,7.Do these verses actually teach the removal of the Holy spirit, or could they have another meaning or translation?
Although your writer has not the fluent working knowledge of the New Testament Greek that he wishes he had, he has access to all the lexicons and grammar that are necessary. After much diligent search, I am convinced that the translation "taken out of the way" is not the proper translation. I share with you for your consideration the fruits of this labor. - "Now do ye know what holds back to this end that he, the man of sin, may be unveiled in his own season. For the mystery of lawlessness doth already energize, only there is One that hold back until he (the Antichrist) be come out of the Midst."
This rendering teaches that just as there was an appointed time for Christ to appear, so is there an appointed time for the man of sin to be unveiled. As only the power of God could so shape all events for the time of Christ's birth so that it would not be delayed, so must this same power restrain the over-ripening of lawlessness so that the situation will be as it should be for him to be brought forth out of the midst - the midst of where. See Revelation 13:1, 11.
The Great Tribulation will be to many saints what Nebuchadnessar's furnace was to the three Hebrew children in Daniel 3. These faithful godly ones were not saved from the furnace, but were save through and from the fire. Note what the fire did to their bonds. Read this chapter in G.H. Lang's Commentary on Daniel.
From a concerned heart as a pastor, may I ask you a few questions, fellow pastors and church members? What one church do you know of that is truly striving to be of such a spiritual tone, purged from the world and worldliness, seeking to exhibit His spirit of love, free from strife, devoted in love to Christ for purity of doctrine and without a mixed multitude of members, That Christ could own it as it is, as His bride? This is, however, the only kind of a church that will be part of His Bride. For: "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for it, that He might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the Word. That He might present it to Himself a glorious church not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish" - Ephisians 5;26, 27.
You will note that the preparation is not done in this case by the "blood" but by the Holy Spirit and the Word. Two things have to be removed - "spot" and "wrinkle." As already said, the first is removed by washing, the second by application of heat. How is God to work this? Daniel 12:10 - Many shall be purified and made white and tried, but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand, but the wise shall understand." (See also 1 Corinthians 1:30.)
Now, if the view and teaching that the resurrection of those that are Christ's at His coming and the translation of the living be at the "sunteleia tou ainos," that is, the full end of the age should prove wrong, we will be glad and no one will be injured thereby, but will be made better. Alas, however, (if we're not wrong even as so many passages have demonstrated that we are not), what shall be the answer of pastors who by teaching that believers who are alive at theat time will not pass through the Great Tribulation, who have by this teaching so deceived their fololwers so that some passages are ignored by them as being virtually meaningless to themselves, to-wit: "And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged (loaded up) with surfeiting and drunkeness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch ye therefore and pray always, that ye may be accounted worth to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man" - Luke 21:34-36
Such teachers deprive their followers of a full appreciation of Psalm 91, for when have saints ever seen a "thousand fall at their side, and ten thousand at thy right hand, but it shall not come nigh them"; and "only with their eyes shalt they see behold the reward of the wicked"? This was perhaps to some small degree seen by Israel in Egypt, but it is to be seen by many who may even be alive now! When? At THE PAROUSIA!
It seems that there are some who are troubled as to how God is to get all the things done if the view of this pamphlet is true. This, beloved, is not our problem, but God's, and with Him there are no problems.
May the God of all grace guide our hearts into the patient waiting for His dear Son from heaven, even our
Lord and Savior to whom be glory forever. Amen.
Book published by:
Pastor Joe W. Bell
402 Maverick Dr
Dothan, Alabama
36301
Typed for this site by:
David A. Shortt
Windsor Ontario,
Canada
Copyright 1979
Joe W. Bell