The Rapture is Coming!
Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord (1 Thessalonians 4:17 KJV)
Imagine a typical day: perhaps you are at work, and the world is bustling as usual. Then, suddenly, Christians begin ascending into the sky to meet Jesus. Will they vanish and meet Him, or will they ascend visibly as Jesus did? Regardless, the rapture will create chaos and a sharp division in the world—immense joy and peace for some or profound sorrow and gloom for others, depending on their relationship with Jesus.
The term “rapture” comes from the Latin translation of the phrase“caught up” in 1 Thessalonians 4:17. This phrase is translated from the Greek word harpazo and the Latin rapti. While Christians have various views about the rapture’s reality, specifics, and timing, this devotional will focus on its definition and the urgency of its approach rather than discuss any theological controversies.
At Jesus’ return, believers will be gathered to meet Him in the air. Those alive will be “caught up” or “snatched” by Christ’s loving arms. Their bodies will transform dramatically, becoming glorified like Christ’s. Those who have died will rise with glorified bodies.
This reunion will be unlike any that heaven and earth have witnessed! In Matthew 24, Jesus described how one might be taken while another is left behind. Imagine a church meeting where some members are raptured, leaving others bewildered and questioning why they were left.
Why is it important to always keep the coming of the Lord in mind? First, it ensures you are always prepared for His return. Moreover, John teaches that anyone with this hope purifies himself (1 John 3:3). Imagine that one day soon, we could be with Jesus, and we might have to account for how we lived our lives, including how we managed our time, money, ministries, etc.
Beloved, be ready for the rapture. Whether it occurs during lifestyle or not, as a believer, you will either be caught up if you are alive or come out of the grave if you are asleep(dead) then. Whatever the case, be prepared to meet with your Lord.
Meditate
What is the origin of the word “rapture,” as discussed above?
Apply
Are you prepared for the rapture? This might be a joyful anticipation for some, a wake-up call to others, and, for a few, an invitation to accept Jesus and His salvation for the first time. Don’t delay—have that crucial conversation with the Lord today.
Pray
Pray that the Spirit will always keep you ready for the rapture.
Recommended reading
- Even so, come, Lord Jesus
- Eternal Destinies: Exploring the Resurrections of Life and Damnation
- The Antichrist and the Coming New World Order
- Behold I Come Quickly
- Where is the God of Judgment?
- View All Deshen Daily Devotionals
Free Mini E-book: From Spiritual Dryness to Flourishing
A look at the second.coming of christ his coming will be visible and audible and every eye shall him. Revelation chapter 1verse7.
There is nothing like repature in the bible. What did jesus when he said two men will be in the field one taken and one left. And what it also means that Christ will come like a thief in the night. Here we should understand the bible has many ways describing the close of probation. Thus we should understand christ second coming will catch those who are unprepared for it like a thief in the night and not that literally Christ will come secretly or unknown. Jesus also illustrated the close of probation through the parable of the wedding garment. Where those invited came with garments but the uninvited guest went with his own garment then the king asked him; sir were is your wedding garment. The garment represents christ righteousness.
I would love to read this daily.
OK Velma. I have added your email to the devotional email list and you should get an email daily. Blessings