rollinTHUNDER

This may seem kind of strange to some, but when I got saved in the summer of 1989, the Lord told me I was going to write, even though I wasn’t even a writer then. I’ll spare you the long story of how it all began, but for those who want to know, you can read all about it in the Introduction of my book, “Who Will Be Ready When the Trumpet Sounds?” Just click on the book image at amazon and you can read the Introduction and a few pages of the first chapter for free. Yes, it may seem strange, nevertheless, many years later I would go on to publish a Christian book, which really isn’t that uncommon. But what is really odd, even to me, is that my book also contains a brand new rapture theory that just seems to have developed accidentally. I mean, it was never my intention to create a new rapture theory. It just seemed to happen somehow, when I was breaking down the scriptures and writing my commentary in my manuscript, which took me seven years. . It seems that I’m arriving very late to the rapture debate, but this is my calling nonetheless. Many have grown weary of the rapture issue of late, as it’s become very controversial these days. Some even try avoid this subject altogether by proclaiming a belief in a so-called pan-theory, saying that it will all pan out in the end – end of subject. No doubt, it will all certainly pan out, but that, in my view, is just a cop-out. This is not a subject that Christians should be trying to avoid, not when Christ repeatedly warned us to keep watch and be ready, saying His coming will occur when we least expect it. He also gave us signs and seasons so that we might know when His coming is near. But what a shame it is that many churches these days avoid this subject like the plague, and most of them are fast asleep. . I can’t prove that God told me I was going to write, so I won’t even try. There’s no need to prove that. As they often say, “The proof is in the pudding.” Soon you’ll see that the Readiness Rapture theory is very different indeed. The only reason I call it a theory, though, is because it hasn’t happened yet. You’re about to discover, in this blog post, without reading my book, what sets my theory apart from all others. I highly doubt that God would call me to just echo what other scholars are saying, so my message should be very different, groundbreaking, and even revolutionary, not to be confused with popular. I don’t want to say too much about the other more established theories, but I will explain one grave error they have all made regarding Matthew 24. . Now let’s take a brief look at the two most popular rapture theories. Pre-tribulation rapture scholars created the popular Left Behind series. They believe Matthew 24 only relates to the physical second coming of Christ, not the rapture. They believe Matt. 24 speaks to Israel or the Jews only, not the Church. On the other hand, Post-tribulation scholars believe Matt. 24 relates to both the rapture and the second coming, and that both events will happen on the same day. I disagree with both positions above, but I’d give post-tribbers some credit for recognizing the rapture and that it occurs after the tribulation; but they are incorrect about the second coming in Matt. 24. In my view, there’s no second coming in Matt. 24, only the rapture. I’ll say it again. The appearing of the sign of the Son of man is the rapture only, not His physical second coming to the earth. This is not only what I believe, but I can also prove it. . The grave mistake that scholars have made regarding Matthew 24 is that they have all reached their conclusions after reading only half of the text. They all believe Matt. 24 is the second coming, but it’s only the sign of His coming, not His actual second coming to the earth. If only they had read Christs’ entire answer, they might have discovered this truth hundreds of years ago. You see, His disciples didn’t just ask Him about the sign of His coming only, but also about end of the age as well (Matt. 24:3). But Christ’s answer did not end at the end of chapter 24, where most scholars end their study. His answer ended at the end of chapter 25 instead, where He actually told us about His second coming/end of the age. The trouble is that Christ included a very complex series of parables in between, which has been a stumbling-block to scholars for nearly two millennia. To fully understand His answer we must correctly interpret not just one, but all of these parables, and only then can we finally see His grand design. . Matthew 24:3 (KJV) – “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 thy coming, and of the end of the world?” . One of the things I’ve discovered is that Christ actually told us about both events, the rapture and the second coming. Verse (31) is a key verse in both chapters, and we should never lose sight of this groundbreaking revelation. . Matthew 24:31 = Rapture Matthew 25:31 = Second coming/end of the age . Hopefully, this discovery will end the rapture/second coming debate regarding Matthew 24. But still, the parables in between these two verses have been a stumbling block that has baffled scholars for nearly 2000 years. In fact, most Christians disregard Christ’s teaching altogether, believing instead that Paul was the one who actually introduced us to the mysterious rapture, but that is not exactly true. The truth is that Paul was the first to reveal this mystery to Gentile believers. But Christ had already taught this mystery to His disciples, even though they were slow to understand it all, because He told them about it before they had received the Holy Spirit. He told them that He was going away to His Father’s house to prepare a place for them, and that He would come again and receive them to Himself…And Matthew 24 and 25 filled in the rest of the blanks. . John 14:2-3 (KJV) – “In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. (3) And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” . Now I’m not trying to minimize Paul’s part in this mystery, not in the least. He added some very important clues as well, when he was discussing the resurrection. And when all of the clues are added together collectively, it is then that we can finally see the big picture. Paul gave us random clues about this mystery, but it was none other than Christ, Himself, that laid it all out for everyone to see, even though we have failed to see it all these years. This mystery has remained unsolved all these years because of all the parables He used in His layout. In some of His other parables, He would sometimes give His disciples the interpretation, but not in these parables about the sign of His coming and the end of the age. No, He left this series of parables for us to figure out, even though no one would for nearly 2000 years. No doubt, it was impossible to solve this mystery by reading chapter 24 alone, so I’m glad I was led to keep going. . Now that we’ve established that Christ told us about both the rapture and the second coming, with several parables in between, what is the significance of these parables? In my book I gave a complete breakdown and interpretation of these puzzling parables, but that took up three (3) entire chapters, so I won’t be able to do that in this short post. I will, however, tell you what these parables represent and what they mean, but let me warn you, this is revolutionary as it changes everything. Discovering the second coming and the end of the age in Matthew 25 was huge, but then He gave me the insight to finally understand these parables, and it totally blew my mind! . So His second coming is actually in Matthew 25, where Christ will actually return to judge the nations. However, before He can judge the nations, He must first judge the house of God (1 Pet. 4:17-18), and this is what we see in the parables in between His appearing and His second coming (judgment seat of Christ). In fact, the rapture and second coming are both judgments. The apostle Paul briefly told us about the judgment seat of Christ (2 Cor. 5:10), but he failed to give us any clues about it whatsoever. Nor did he tell us when or where the judgment seat of Christ would be held. . 1 Peter 4:17-18 (KJV) – “For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? (18) And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?” . Two Judgments: 2 Timothy 4:1 (KJV) “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;” Continued....

Oops - see what I started?

Learn the difference between astrology and astronomy. The Revelation 12 wonder or sign in heaven is biblical. Nuff said.

I'd have to agree, missmuffet, as we're only beginning to scratch the surface here. 1 Corinthians 2:9 - "But as it is written, “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor has it entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” Cheers

I agree that God will save a one-third remnant in Israel, those who flee to the mountains after the abomination of desolation. These survivors from the nation of Israel will also be among His sheep. But Israel is not His only sheep, as there will be survivors from all nations. In fact, Matt. :25:31-46 tells us that the sheep will be kept from the judgment of the nations (plural), not just Israel. Those who receive Him and fall away belong to Him as well, and He will not lose one. However, before He returns (second coming), judgment begins with the household of God (1 Pet. 4:17-18), which is covered in the preceding parables (Matt. 24:29-51, 25:1-30), beginning with the gathering of His elect (Matt. 24:30-31). It's true that we all go through trials and tribulation, but this is not what is meant by (great tribulation). The great tribulation (time of trouble) will begin after the abomination of desolation (Matt. 24:15). Compare Daniel 12:1 and Matt. 24:21-22. The two parts are the great and least (saints) in kingdom (Matt. 5:19), not above and below the altar. The souls under the altar are those martyrs (lukewarm) that were not ready when He came (rapture). Martyrs that are killed before the rapture will be resurrected with the dead in Christ. One church, yes, but not just one reward, and each in their own order. 1 Corinthians 3:8-15 – “Now he who plants and he who waters are one; but each will receive his own reward according to his own labor. Three Rewards Revelation 3:15-16 - "I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were cold or hot. 16 So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spit you out of My mouth." Hot = Ready - Rapture - wedding supper = great in the kingdom Lukewarm = Not ready - Martyr (hour of trial) = least in the kingdom Cold = Falls away - Sheep (survivors) - mortal = subjects in the millennium Cheers

We don’t often hear much about this, but as I was connecting some dots, as I often do, this just happened to fall right into my lap. This post will introduce some new details relating to the rapture as well as provide more scriptural evidence in support of the different rewards (cold, hot & lukewarm) believers will receive when Christ returns. It also serves as confirmation for my new rapture theory that isn’t very well known at this early stage, but it promises to be a strong contender before long. For those who have never heard of my new “Readiness Rapture Theory” or read my book, I have placed a link below at the conclusion of this post. . For those who are familiar with my new theory, you’re aware that the biggest difference between my theory and all others is my discovery of the three (3) rewards that cold, hot & lukewarm believers will receive when the Lord returns, as He said He will be bringing our rewards with Him when He comes, and that these rewards will be based upon our works (Rev. 22:12, 2 Cor. 5:10, Matt. 16:27). It’s important to understand that believer’s who receive these rewards, whether cold, hot or lukewarm, they must have previously received salvation in Christ, and also that not all believer’s rewards will be the same. I say this because many often get confused between our salvation, which is not based on works, and our rewards which are based on our works or deeds, just as the scriptures I cited above say. Salvation (God’s grace) is a free gift (not earned) that begins the moment we receive Christ as Lord and savior. But on the other hand, our rewards won’t be known or come until the Lord returns, and only then will He render our rewards, based on the things we’ve done while in the body of Christ. As true believers, our sins have already been forgiven, so they will not be judged when He returns. Instead, only our works are judged and He will render our individual rewards when He comes, just as He promised. . 2 Peter 4:17-18 – “For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God, and if it begins first with us, what shall the end be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 And “If the righteous one is scarcely saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?” . Now please allow me to refresh your memory about the three rewards (cold, hot & lukewarm) in my new theory. If you remember, the cold will fall away (depart the faith) long before the Lord appears to judge the house of God (Matt. 24:9-10, 2 Thes. 2:1-4). They will actually disqualify themselves, therefore, they won’t be included in this judgment. Instead, their judgment will be delayed until the Lord returns to judge the nations (second coming), when He separates the sheep from the goats. And since the cold will already be out of the picture, this will leave only the hot and lukewarm to be judged/rewarded when Christ appears. . The judgment of the house of God begins with the sign of the Son of man and the gathering together of His elect (Matt. 24:29-31). This is when He will come like a thief and break-up the house, cutting it in sunder (in two)…Two will be in the field, one shall be taken and the other left…Those who are ready, faithful servants (hot) will be taken (rapture), while He spits the lukewarm out of His mouth, as they will be left. These are also the ten virgins, five were wise and five were foolish. I won’t distract you by going too deep into what happens to them here again, but instead I now want to focus on the two different classes in the kingdom of heaven (the greatest and the least), as I’ll share biblical evidence for both classes. I’ll address the greatest first in the passage below. . Mark 10:35-45 – “Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to him. “Teacher,” they said, “we want you to do for us whatever we ask.” 36 “What do you want me to do for you?” he asked. 37 They replied, “Let one of us sit at your right and the other at your left in your glory.” 38 “You don’t know what you are asking,” Jesus said. “Can you drink the cup I drink or be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with?” 39 “We can,” they answered. Jesus said to them, “You will drink the cup I drink and be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with, 40 but to sit at my right or left is not for me to grant. These places belong to those for whom they have been prepared.” 41 When the ten heard about this, they became indignant with James and John. 42 Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 43 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” . So there it is, as Christ said the great in His kingdom will be servants, and whoever wants to be first will be slave of all. So it should be obvious that His faithful servants will be among those who are ready as He gathers together His elect, and they will be rewarded immediately when He comes. Again, two will be in the field, one shall be taken and the other left…This is also precisely when He spits the lukewarm out of His mouth. Lukewarm servants are not always faithful, as they are double-minded and need to be purified, which will occur during the hour of trial (Rev. 3:10-11, 15-18). Unfortunately for them, this is when they will also be overcome by the beast (Rev. 13:7-8) as they will become martyrs when they refuse the mark of the beast. Then they will be rewarded as soon as they are martyred, as their deeds follow them (Rev. 14:13). So His faithful servants (hot) are taken (rapture), while both the cold and lukewarm remain on the earth with the unbelievers’. Now let’s turn our focus to what happens to them (cold & lukewarm) after the rapture, as both groups will be left behind. . Luke 12:45-48 – “But and if that servant say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to beat the menservants and maidens, and to eat and drink, and to be drunken; 46 The lord of that servant will come in a day when he looketh not for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in sunder, and will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers. 47 And that servant, which knew his lord’s will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. 48 But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.” . This is a parable, so His servants will not literally be beaten, but they will be punished. I didn’t include verses 42-44 in the passage above, because it refers to those who will be ready when He comes. But as we can see in the verse 46 above, those servants that are not ready will be left with the unbelievers. In verses 47 and 48, the rewards for the cold and lukewarm are actually two punishments, and one is more severe than the other. Those who fall away (cold) will receive many stripes (vs. 47). They will forfeit their positions in the kingdom, as they will not be counted or judged among those in the house of God (1 Pet. 4:17-18), but will instead be judged among the nations afterward, which is a very harsh penalty. On the other hand, the lukewarm will receive a few stripes for not being ready (vs. 48), but they will be purified during the hour of trial and re-enter the kingdom as martyrs (Rev. 3:15-18, 6:9-11, 13:7-8, 14:13, 20:4). . At that point (after the rapture), it would be much better to surrender your head, rather than trying to survive to the end, as the cold (sheep) will end up doing. The sheep won’t have enough faith to go through with it, but the lukewarm will. And as a result, the sheep (cold) will witness God’s wrath, but He will protect them through it. In fact, after the martyrs have been killed, they will also want to die, but death will flee from them (Rev. 9:6). They are weak, but God is strong! However, they will become subjects in the millennial kingdom, after they have been separated from the goats (unbelievers) during the judgment of the nations. Don’t be fooled by those popular “Left Behind” books and movies. It will be much better to be subjects during the hour of trial (martyrs), than to be subjects during the millennial kingdom. At least the martyrs will return to reign with Christ, which is a much better reward. . Matthew 25:31-46 – “When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: 32 And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: 33 And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. 34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: 36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. 37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? 38 When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? 39 Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? 40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. 41 Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: 42 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: 43 I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not. 44 Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? 45 Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. 46 And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.” . The sheep (cold) will be mortals that will be ruled over by Christ and the saints that return with Him (second coming). These returning saints will include both the hot that will be taken (rapture), and the lukewarm that will be left (martyrs). If we paid close attention, we can see the least of His brethren are briefly mentioned in the parable above, which, again, is the judgment of the nations (sheep & goats). Many assume the least of His brethren is referring to the poor, but it has nothing to do with our wealth or finances. . According to this parable, the sheep will be allowed entrance into His millennial kingdom because they had in some way ministered unto or with the least of His brethren (martyrs) who were not ready when He came (as both were left). If He actually meant “poor” instead, then that would be referring to the sheep, because they are also the poor in spirit and/or have little faith, which is why they will be subjects during the millennial kingdom. But the fact that He calls them the least of His “brethren” signifies they are saints. Now let’s take a look at a passage that mentions both the great and the least in the kingdom of heaven. . Matthew 5:19 – “Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” . John 14:21 – “Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them” (His appearing). – [emphasis added] . Ah yes, now we’re beginning to see what it really means to be ready when He comes. Not only is He coming for His faithful servants, but they must also do and abide by His commands as well. No wonder we are told to be doers of the Word, and not just hearers or believers only. It certainly appears to me that being ready will require both faith and obedience, just as it was required of the old covenant saints as well. God never changes, but since the new covenant was built upon better promises, giving us more liberty, we new covenant saints need to make sure that we don’t take this freedom for granted. Unfortunately, many are using God’s grace as a license to sin. I didn’t mention it in the passage above, when I discussed the two punishments (Luke 12:46-48), but verse 48 says For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required. What could that mean? And why does no one ever seem to talk about this? . Could it be that because we new covenant believers were given more, that more will be required or expected of us? Just think about all that we’ve been given. We’ve been set free from the bondage of sin and death. We’ve been given more liberty and a new covenant built upon better promises. We’ve been given spiritual gifts, and best of all – we’ve been given the Holy Spirit to dwell inside us and guide us into all truth. We are also told that we must produce fruit. We hold God’s Word in our hands, so we will all be without excuse. The old covenant saints had none of these luxuries, and only God’s ancient prophets had the Holy Spirit in them. . I believe those who think they’ve been given a license to sin are heading for a very rude awakening someday. Many of the old covenant saints who weren’t given nearly as much will have outperformed them by a country mile, and I suspect the cold and lukewarm will likely be very disappointed and even ashamed when the Lord comes to reward His servants, which will also include the old covenant saints as well. However, much less will be required of the old covenant saints. This should be very sobering. Any popularity that I may have gained up to now, it probably just flew out the window, but that’s no loss. I wasn’t called to be popular. Now let’s take a look at what Jesus said to a Gentile about the wedding supper, which only those who are ready will be attending. . Matthew 8:5-13 – “When Jesus had entered Capernaum, a centurion came to him, asking for help. 6 “Lord,” he said, “my servant lies at home paralyzed, suffering terribly.” 7 Jesus said to him, “Shall I come and heal him?” 8 The centurion replied, “Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed. 9 For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and that one, ‘Come,’ and he comes. I say to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” 10 When Jesus heard this, he was amazed and said to those following him, “Truly I tell you, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith. 11 I say to you that many will come from the east and the west, and will take their places at the feast with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. 12 But the subjects of the kingdom will be thrown outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” 13 Then Jesus said to the centurion, “Go! Let it be done just as you believed it would.” And his servant was healed at that moment.” . Yes, many of the old covenant saints will be at the wedding supper of the Lamb. They sacrificed a lamb every year on the Day of Atonement so that Israel’s sins would be forgiven for that year. Each household would have to sacrifice a lamb on the Passover feast, and put its blood on their door-posts as a memorial for what God did in their exodus from Egypt. In keeping these feasts, they were looking forward to the future promises that would ultimately be fulfilled by Christ, the Lamb of God; but we Gentiles believers’ are now looking back at the cross, where Christ died once, for all, which includes the old covenant saints who are also in Christ. He fulfilled the promises the old covenant saints were looking forward to by faith, when He fulfilled the spring feasts, which are the Lord’s appointed times. And when He returns He will likewise fulfill the fall feasts as well. Israel wasn’t ready when He came the first time and very few were able to recognize and receive Him, but He has warned us to be ready next time, and we will be without excuse. Very sobering, indeed! . Now I want to share something Paul said, as he gave an intriguing clue regarding our rewards, which all of the other theories fail to mention. They teach that the Lord will simply rapture the entire Church, as if everyone is going to be ready when He comes suddenly and unexpectedly. They assume the saints who are overcome by the beast afterward are those who get saved after the rapture. But they have completely overlooked this golden nugget. This is a very powerful clue that should not go unnoticed. Paul said he once knew a man who was caught up to the third heaven, where he saw inexpressible things, things that are unlawful for a man to tell. . 2 Corinthians 12:1-4 – “Doubtless it is not profitable for me to boast. So I will move on to visions and revelations of the Lord. 2 I knew a man in Christ over fourteen years ago—whether in the body or out of the body I cannot tell, God knows—such a one was caught up to the third heaven. 3 And I knew that such a man—whether in the body or out of the body I cannot tell, God knows— 4 was caught up into paradise and heard inexpressible words not permitted for a man to say.” . I strongly believe that what I’m about to share is a very strong clue about one of the things he saw in heaven, which he was not permitted to tell, so he gave us this clue about it instead. If you remember, earlier I said that only the hot or His faithful servants will be ready when He suddenly appears, and the cold and lukewarm will both be left. I also said that the lukewarm would be purified afterward during the hour of trial, and that they would re-enter the kingdom of heaven once they finally surrendered all. Better late than never. This means that two of the three groups (hot & lukewarm) will be the saints that return with Him at His second coming, even though only one group will be ready when He comes. . 1 Corinthians 3:8-15 – “Now he who plants and he who waters are one; but each will receive his own reward according to his own labor. 9 For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building. 10 According to the grace of God which was given to me, like a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building on it. But each man must be careful how he builds on it. 11 For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 Now if any man builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, 13 each man’s work will become evident; for the day will show it because it is to be revealed with fire, and the fire itself will test the quality of each man’s work. 14 If any man’s work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward. 15 If any man’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.” . Notice very carefully the rewards Paul illustrated above, gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay and straw. Now if we categorize them into each ones likeness, we see that these actually form three separate groups. I will classify them in a list form below, while also putting them in the proper order, according to the value of each category, beginning with the most valuable first. . THREE REWARDS (1) Precious stones (shine) – great (2) Gold and silver (shine) – least (3) Wood, hay and straw (burn) – poor in spirit . Notice the three distinct classes of rewards: (1) Gems; (2) precious metals; and (3) wood, hay & straw. This is very fascinating, especially when we compare them to what the scriptures say about our rewards. Notice also, that two of these shine (great & least), which I believe represents the saints that will be returning with glorified bodies to reign with Christ on the earth during the millennium (1000 years). . Hot = Christ said He would come like a thief, and would break up the house, cutting it in sunder (in two). It’s also very interesting when you consider that a gem or precious stone displays a brilliant shine immediately as soon as it is cut. The precious stones seem to represent those who will be ready for the rapture. . Lukewarm = Precious metals don’t normally shine right away, because they must first be purified or refined in the fire, to burn off the dross or impurities. Christ spit the lukewarm out and counseled them to buy from Him gold refined in the fire (Rev. 3:15-18). The precious metals seem to represent the hour of trial (martyrs). . Cold = Wood, hay and straw cannot endure the fire. They will suffer loss of reward as these are things that will burn up. The wood, hay and straw are things we find in a barn, which is outside of the house (outer darkness). The sheep will be separated from the goats and enter the millennium. Sheep are kept outside, while the goats will burn. The parable of the wheat and tares is very similar as the angels will first gather the tares and burn them. Then they will gather the wheat and put it in the barn. The wood, hay and straw seem to represent the (sheep) in the judgment of the nations. . 2 Timothy 2:19-21 – “But the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal, “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Let everyone who calls on the name of Christ depart from iniquity.” 20 In a large house there are not only gold and silver vessels, but also those of wood and clay; some are for honor, and some for dishonor. 21 One who cleanses himself from these things will be a vessel for honor, sanctified, fit for the Master’s use, and prepared for every good work.” . This new theory of mine will probably never become popular. After many discussions, I realize that most people are set pretty firmly into whatever theory they believe to be true, whether it is or not. And I understand how hard it is to abandon one theory for another. Most believers will probably reject my theory simply because it doesn’t fit what they’ve come to believe about these things, even though this theory goes much deeper, even filling several holes left in the other theories. So most will probably continue to cling to their misconceptions and assumptions and keep arguing about issues that are no longer an issue in my theory. . The “Once saved-always saved” debate is no longer an issue once we understand the three rewards Christ has for those who received Him. We no longer have to assume the saints that are overcome by the beast are believers who get saved after the rapture. There’s no longer any wonder what, “unto whom much is given, much will be required” means. We no longer have to wonder or guess who those people are who will want to die, but death will flee from them (Rev. 9:6). We won’t have to assume the least of His brethren are the poor anymore, and we will also no longer have to assume that Daniel’s increase of knowledge is modern technology. But who would want to give up all these debates, misconceptions, assumptions and myths? Most people probably won’t be able to see it, but I believe this new theory is revolutionary, as it goes deeper and fills in the gaps of other theories. But I hope they’re ready when He comes. May the good Lord bless you richly as you study His Word in search of His truth, the whole truth and nothing but. ——————————– . Readiness Rapture Theory No one realized it in nearly 2000 years. Most scholars have believed that Matt. 24 was mostly about the second coming. They don’t make a case for it being the rapture only and not His physical second coming. But what if I told you that I have discovered that Christ told us about both, the rapture and the second coming, and that He laid them out in chronological order? Wouldn’t that be a game-changer? Click on the link below to read the nutshell version of my new “Readiness Rapture Theory” outlined in...(drum roll)...Matthew 24 of all places… https://ruready.blog/2017/06/07/matthew-24-revisited-new-revelations-revealed/ Cheers

The word "Church" should never be joined with Catholicism. Cult would be much more accurate, since the Roman's hijacked the true Church that was born in Jerusalem, and they have another way (not the way) of doing things. By the way, you might be thankful to them for their pagan holidays, but I'm certainly not.

You understand my mode of fabricating things is similar to the way pretribulationist's do it? That's a good one. Maybe they rubbed off on me, since I used to be one? Wow! I didn't think this would ruffle many feathers, but it looks like I got yours at every turn! We just may disagree at every turn. Not to worry, my friend, I think that's a good thing, very good! Rock on!

Matthew 24:37-44 – “But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. 38 For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, 39 And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. 40 Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left. 41 Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left. 42 Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. 43 But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up. 44 Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.” . The passage above, as well as all of the following parables were designed to help us understand the judgment seat of Christ or the judgment of the house of God (1 Pet. 4:17-18), which begins with the gathering of His elect. This post is getting very long now, so I will not provide a full breakdown of these parables as I did in my book. Instead I will just point out a few things of importance and some stumbling blocks that sidetrack the foolish. Unfortunately, the foolish are not the only ones that trip over the stumbling blocks in these parables, as believers often stumble over them as well, including many of our most respected scholar’s. . When I visit Christian forums online, it is very common to find believers arguing about the one will be taken and the other left, as to which one they believe is destroyed by the flood. They have totally missed the clue and tripped over the stumbling block. Since they believe Matthew 24 is about the Second coming, they focus on God’s wrath, instead of the sign of the Son of man/gathering of His elect. There is no wrath in Matthew 24. The one is taken and the other is left pertains to the gathering of the elect in all of the following parables. The parable of Noah is the only parable that has a hint of wrath (flood), but it’s actually just a stumbling block. There’s is no wrath found in Matthew 24. . God’s wrath comes at the end of chapter 25, when Christ returns to judge the nations (second coming), when the goats are destroyed (end of the age). According to scripture, Christ cannot judge the nations or the world until he first judges the house of God (1 Pet. 4:17-18). They have completely overlooked that Noah and his family was saved (rescued), which is a type of rapture. They also missed the clue Christ gave about “eating and drinking, marrying and given in marriage.” This represents the wedding supper (rapture). When we go back and read about Noah and the flood in Genesis, there is no mention of eating, drinking, marrying and given in marriage. This is a clue He added into this parable so the wise could make the connection and understand. . It starts getting very interesting when He added another clue that is not found in the account of Noah. “Then two will be in the field, one shall be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding at the mill, one shall be taken and the other left.” This interesting and mysterious clue relates directly to the gathering together of His elect, and Christ gave us all of the parables that follow, to help us understand what He meant by it. They were also commanded to watch and be ready. So this cannot be about the second coming, as we will be coming with Him then. No, this clue is about the gathering of His elect. Another clue he added, the thief that was coming to break up the house (Church) and/or cutting it asunder (in two), as one will be taken, the other left. All of these parables relate to the judgment of the house of God (His servants), until we come to the judgment of the nations (sheep and goats) at the end of chapter 25 (second coming). . If you remember, earlier I told you about three (3) rewards for believers (cold, hot and lukewarm), and that two of them involved punishment. The cold do not endure to the end. They will fall away when persecution comes, before the abomination of desolation, so they do not play any part in the parables. Sadly, they will lose their positions in the kingdom, no longer saints that will return with Christ, but instead they will be ruled over by the saints that return with Christ, as we will see later. They have actually disqualified themselves before Christ appears to reward His servants, which is why it’s so important to endure to the end. God will still protect them, provided they don’t take the mark of the beast. We will see them again in the end, as the sheep that will be separated from the goats, when Christ returns to judge the nations, which will determine which mortals will be aloud entrance into the millennial kingdom. . All of the parables preceding the judgment of the nation’s (sheep & goats) only focus on the judgment of the hot and lukewarm, when the Lord descends in the clouds to gather together His elect; with the exception of the parable of the fig tree (final generation). Remember, two will be in the field, one is taken and the other left. This is the rapture for those who are ready (hot), and it is also when the (lukewarm) will be spit out of His mouth (the one who was left). It was very revealing when He said, “the one shall be taken and the other left.” This shows that He will render His judgment/reward for both at the same time. But remember, the cold have already fallen away prior to His appearing, so they are not given their portion until the judgment of the nations (sheep & goats) at the second coming. . Revelation 3:10-11 – “Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth. 11 I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown.” . Revelation 3:15-16 – “I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! 16 So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.” . Matthew 24:45-51 – “Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season? 46 Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. 47 Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods. 48 But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; 49 And shall begin to smite his fellowservants, and to eat and drink with the drunken; 50 The lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of, 51 And shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” . The parable above provides another view of the hot and lukewarm from yet another perspective. The faithful/wise servant (hot) will rule of over His household, and be given meat in due season (wedding supper). Now verse (46) is often overlooked, but it is a very powerful nugget, as it tells what He will be looking for in His faithful servants. He’s looking for doers, not just believers or hearers only. . Luke 12:42-44 – “And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of meat in due season? 43 Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. 44 Of a truth I say unto you, that he will make him ruler over all that he hath.” . This is where the rubber meets the road. We see the faithful servant being rewarded in the passage above. But now let’s continue reading that passage below, and take a look at what happens to the servants that are not ready or unworthy when He comes for them. Notice in the passage below that it says they will be left with the unbelievers, and also notice that there are two punishments, one more severe than the other. . Luke 12:45-48 – “But and if that servant say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to beat the menservants and maidens, and to eat and drink, and to be drunken; 46 The lord of that servant will come in a day when he looketh not for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in sunder, and will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers. 47 And that servant, which knew his lord’s will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. 48 But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.” . The elect will be Christ’s chosen when He returns, as they are His faithful and wise servants. Like the cold, the lukewarm will not be ready either, so they will have to enter the hour of trial (Rev. 3:10), where they will be purified. Unfortunately, they will pay a very high price, as they will become the martyrs who are overcome by the beast (Rev. 13:7-8). However, the good news is that their deeds follow them, so they will be rewarded a little later (Rev. 14:13), and they will also return with Christ and reign with Him (Rev. 20:4). But it’s very important to note, that not all martyrs will be rewarded later, only the ones who are left after Christ appears. The martyrs that were killed before Christ appears will be resurrected with the dead in Christ (1 Thes. 4:16-17). . Most of you have always heard that the entire Church will be raptured. I wish that were true, but I can find no scripture to support that assumption. My view doesn’t tickle any ears, I’m sure. It’s very sobering, so it’s almost guaranteed not to be popular, which is fine with me, because the Lord didn’t call me to be popular. But the Lord is telling us, Himself, that only half of His living saints will be ready when He appears. One will be taken and the other left. And He gave us the parable of Ten Virgins as confirmation, whereas five were wise, and five were foolish. This is also why the bride isn’t ready until late (Rev. 19). I also want to point out, that the judgment seat of Christ does not occur in the clouds during the rapture as many believe. He is already on His throne, and nothing we say or do is hidden from Him (Heb. 4:13). Scripture says that He will bring our reward when He comes, based on our works. Again, two will be in a field, one will be taken and the other left… . Revelation 22:12 – “And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” . 2 Corinthians 5:10 – “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.” . Matthew 16:27 – “For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.” . For those who may be concerned that this might be a salvation by works message, you can rest assured that it is not. This is rewards by works. Salvation comes when we first receive Christ as our Lord and Savior. But our reward doesn’t come until He returns, as He will be bringing our reward with Him when He comes. I often hear Christian’s declare they are ready, but I would not just take that for granted, because Christ, alone, is the judge. . Luke 21:34-36 – “Take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be oppressed with surfeiting and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and lest that day come on you at unawares, 35 For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch therefore, and pray continually, that ye may be counted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and that ye may stand before the son of man.” . I’m finished breaking down chapter 24. I’m not going to go into chapter 25 as I did in my book, but I encourage my readers to continue. The parable of Ten Virgins and the parable of Talents continue with the same theme, showing the judgment between the hot and lukewarm from different perspectives. Then at the end of the parable of Talents you will finally read about the second coming. The parable of Talents is my favorite. It’s also the most telling. Here are some interesting highlights about the parable of Talents; and be careful not to trip over the stumbling blocks. Notice Matt. 25:14 likens the kingdom of heaven to a man going away or travelling to a far country (Christ’s ascension); verse (19) but when that man returned He is depicted as their Lord and rewards His servants (rapture); and finally, verse (34) when He returned again, He is depicted as the King returning to judge the nations (second coming). . The mysterious rapture has been very confusing and controversial for many believers for many centuries. There are several theories about it. Most believer’s think they will escape via the rapture; some believe they will be martyred, and still others think they will be protected until the second coming. But the $64,000.00 question is—which of these theories is correct? Answer: All of the above, depending on the believer’s reward when Christ Returns. . Three Rewards for Believers: Hot = Heavenly minded – faithful servant – rapture – wedding supper – saint – great in the kingdom of heaven. Lukewarm = Double minded – evil or lazy servant – hour of trial – martyr – saint – least of Christ’s brethren. Cold = Worldly minded – falls away/departs the faith – sheep – mortal – ministered to least of Christ’s brethren – will be ruled over by Christ and His returning saints. . Matthew 13:33 – “Another parable He spoke to them: “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal till it was all leavened.”

Matthew 24:29-30 – “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: 30 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.” . Most scholars believe that the passage above is about the second coming; even though, some of them believe it is both, the rapture and the second coming. As I said earlier, I wholeheartedly disagree with both positions. It matters not that it occurs immediately after the great tribulation, because the rapture and second coming both will occur after the tribulation, though, not on the same day as some scholars believe, and the rapture will not occur seven years before the second coming, as others believe. The end of the great tribulation is not the end of the age, as several events need to happen from that point, including the fulfillment of the fall feasts, the rapture, the hour of trial, Israel will be saved, the second coming and God’s wrath. Daniel 12:11-12 says there will be an additional 45 days remaining after the great tribulation ends: . Daniel 12:11-12 – “And from the time that the daily sacrifice shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, there shall be a thousand two hundred and ninety days. 12 Blessed is he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred and five and thirty days.” . I believe that when the Lord returns, He will fulfill the fall feasts (Trumpets, Atonement & Tabernacles), just as He fulfilled the spring feasts (Passover, Unleavened Bread, First Fruits & Pentecost) during His first coming. Unlike the first three spring feasts happening in just a few days (death, burial and resurrection); it will take three full weeks to complete the three fall feasts, which easily fit within the additional 45 days. These feasts must be fulfilled, and Christ is the only one who can fulfill them. These are the Lord’s appointed times (Leviticus 23) and they are all about Christ. In His first coming, He came as the Lamb of God, fulfilling the spring feasts. His second coming will be as the Lion of Judah (fall feasts). . Some scholars believe Matt. 24:29 above relates to the second coming because of the cosmic disturbance (sun, moon & stars). They mistakenly believe it is the same cosmic disturbance that we find in Revelation 6:12-14 (6th seal). At first glance they may appear to be the same, but they are not. After closer observation, the phase of the moon is what sets them apart. The moon in Matt. 24:29 does not give its light, signifying that it is a new moon, which is the way it appears just before the first tiny sliver of the new moon becomes visible. This phase fits the feast of Trumpets exactly, and it is the only feast that no one knows the day or the hour it will begin. The Feast of Trumpets can only begin after the first tiny sliver of the new moon has been observed and witnessed. It’s a two day feast, because sometimes the moon will not appear until the next day. However, the moon we see in Revelation 6 is much different. It’s a blood moon, a full lunar eclipse. The full moon phase does not appear until two full weeks after the new moon phase. The third and final fall feast, Tabernacles, is a seven day feast that is always accompanied by a full moon on the first day of the feast. These are clearly not the same, no comparison, not to mention the sixth seal also has a great earthquake, whereas Matthew 24 does not. . Feast of Trumpets = (new moon) Rapture – last will be first Day of Atonement = Israel will be saved – first will be last Feast of Tabernacles = (blood moon) Second coming & God’s wrath . Note: The Hour of Trial (Rev. 3:10, 6:9-11, 13:7-8) occurs between the rapture & second coming, as those days will be shortened for the sake of the elect. This is when the martyrs will be overcome by the beast, and God’s wrath won’t come until the last one has been killed (Rev. 6:9-11). . Finally, the sign of His coming! Every eye will see Him coming in the clouds, as this sign will light the sky, like lightning flashing from east to west. There will be no secret rapture as some believe. The appearing of the sign of the Son of man is precisely what His disciple’s asked Him for, the sign of His coming. Some believe this is the second coming instead of the rapture, when they read that all of the tribes of the earth will mourn when they see Him coming in the clouds. However, notice that He said all the tribes of the earth will mourn, not everyone, like we see in the 6th seal (Rev. 6:15). There’s a very good reason the tribes will mourn. When the rapture occurs, it will signal the end of the times of the Gentiles, who will trample the Holy city for 42 months (Rev. 11:2, great trib.). The tribes of the earth refer to the tribes of Israel, and ten of the 12 tribes are still scattered in the nations of the world. But when they see this sign, they will look up and know their redemption is near (Luke 21:25-28). And then, Israel will finally mourn for the one they have pierced (Zech. 12:10). They will repent and I believe He will forgive and save Israel on the Day of Atonement, the second fall feast. . Romans 11:25-27 – “For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. 26 And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: 27 For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.” . Matthew 24:31 – “And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other. . Verse (31) above is the rapture, not Christ’s physical second coming to the earth. It corresponds with what Paul said about it (compare passage below). Remember, (Matt. 24:29) above tells us this event occurs immediately after the tribulation of those days. First, notice that in both passages (above and below), Christ or the Son of man is descending from heaven or coming in the clouds of heaven. Notice that both mention a gathering together or meeting in the clouds. And notice, also, that both gatherings are preceded by the blast of a trumpet. And finally, notice that neither one mentions a physical returning to the earth at that time, nor is there any mention of God’s wrath in either of them. And there are also differences in them as well. Christ did not mention the resurrection of the dead, because He was answering His disciple’s question about the sign of His coming, which is for those who will be alive to see it. The dead won’t need to see a sign. Paul, on the other hand, included the resurrection, because when we read the entire text (1 Thes. 4:13-18), he was trying to comfort those who had already lost love ones, and telling them they would see them again and be caught up together with them (the dead) in the clouds… . 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 (KJV) – “For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 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.” . Some believers don’t believe in the rapture, simply because the word “rapture” is not found in God’s Word; but neither is the word “trinity” found in God’s Word, yet we don’t deny God in three persons (Father, Son and Holy Spirit). Yes it’s true that neither Christ nor Paul called this event the rapture. There simply wasn’t a simple term then to describe this previously unknown future event. So they said a phase that described it instead. Today, this future event is very well known, and we simply call it the rapture, short and simple. I’m sure that all of this is still not enough evidence to prove it’s the rapture for some of you, but that’s no problem. That’s why He gave us the parables that follow. And once you understand them, it should become as clear as a sunny day. . Matthew 24:32-36 – “Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh: 33 So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors. 34 Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled. 35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. 36 But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.” . As I stated earlier, all of the following parables relate to the appearing of the sign of the Son of man and/or the gathering together of His elect. The parable of the fig tree above is very easy to understand and most scholars agree that it relates to the generation that will see His coming. Many believe the fig tree itself represents the nation of Israel, and that the generation that sees Israel become a nation again will be the generation that would not pass away before all of these things are fulfilled. His disciples did not see all of these things fulfilled, as some claim, especially the abomination of desolation and the sign of the Son of man, as these events are still unfulfilled today. The terminal generation will most definitely see all these things. The passage above concludes with “no man knows the day or hour,” which is an ancient Jewish idiom that relates to Yom Teruah (Feast of Trumpets). It is the only feast that begins after the first tiny sliver of the new moon appears which also fits in very nicely with Matt. 24:29 above. Continued...

Matthew 24:9-14 – “Then they will hand you over to be persecuted and will kill you. And you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. 10 Then many will fall away, and betray one another, and hate one another. 11 And many false prophets will rise and will deceive many. 12 Because iniquity will abound, the love of many will grow cold. 13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved. 14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached throughout the world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” . Many scholars relate the persecution in the passage above to His disciples in the first century, but as I stated earlier, it’s all about the sign of His coming, which they never saw, so it still points to the future. The final end-time persecution against Christians will be much worse, as it will become worldwide. Notice He said we will be hated by all nations. We can already see the elite trying to forge a global government, which will include a global religion headed up by the Pope and be adopted by the United Nations. We can already see that many of the denominations that broke away from Roman Catholicism during the Reformation are now beginning to go back, pledging their allegiance to the Pope once again. This is not good news for the true believers who put their faith in God and His Word. They are already labeling us as intolerant and politically incorrect. Those who believe that Christ is the way, the truth and the life will become an obstacle for global religion, and they will be hated. The day will come when Christians are hunted down and killed on a global scale. . Hold on to your hat for this next revelation. The most astonishing thing I’ve discovered in these parables are the three rewards that believers will receive as a result of the judgment seat of Christ. However, two of these rewards involve punishment, and one of them is more severe than the other. I like to think of these rewards as (cold, hot and lukewarm), as we can already see the cold begin to separate in the passage above. Notice that many will fall away and the love of many will grow cold. We often hear people saying they don’t want to be found lukewarm when Christ returns, but the state of being cold is far worse than being lukewarm. Paul also warned us that this falling away would occur, before the abomination of desolation, and before our gathering together unto the Lord occurs (see 2 Thes. 2: below). . 2 Thessalonians 2:1-4 – “Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, 2 That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. 3 Let no man deceive you by 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; 4 Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.” . Matthew 24:15-22 – “When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:) 16 Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains: 17 Let him which is on the housetop not come down to take anything out of his house: 18 Neither let him which is in the field return back to take his clothes. 19 And woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days! 20 But pray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the sabbath day: 21 For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be. 22 And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect’s sake those days shall be shortened.” . Daniel 12:1 – “And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: 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.” . The abomination of desolation is when the 7 year covenant with many (Daniel’s 70th week) will be broken in the middle, or after only 3 ½ years, and it will usher in the great tribulation lasting 1260 days, 42 months and/or 3 ½ years. This final 3 ½ years is when Satan is cast to the earth, full of wrath, knowing he has but a short time left (Rev. 12:12-17). The beast will be given authority to continue for 42 months (Rev. 13:5-8). When the Jewish remnant (Daniel’s descendants) sees the abomination of desolation they will escape by fleeing to the mountains. The great tribulation is also what Daniel called the “time of trouble” (stop here and compare the underlined text in the 2 passages above). . The great tribulation will become the most perilous time in the history of man, never to be equaled again. When all is said and done, half of the world’s population will have been killed (Rev. 6:8, 9:15). But those days will be shortened for the sake of the elect; otherwise no flesh would be saved. In other words, all Christian’s would be killed if those days were not shortened; but we know that Christ will save (rescue/rapture) those who are ready when He appears to gather His elect. However, Christ also said that only those who endure to the end will be saved (verse 13). So many Christian’s will be hated and killed (Matt. 24:9), which is really nothing new, but, this too, will grow much worse as we approach the time of the end. . Matthew 24:23-28 – “Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not. 24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. 25 Behold, I have told you before. 26 Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, he is in the desert; go not forth: behold, he is in the secret chambers; believe it not. 27 For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. 28 For wheresoever the carcase is, there will the eagles be gathered together.” . The passage above flies right in the face of those who subscribe to the pre-tribulation rapture theory. Just as Paul said, our gathering together unto the Lord will not come until after the falling away, and after the abomination of desolation (2 Thes. 2:1-4). Now we see that Christ also warned about the impostor, the son of perdition coming before Him as well. Then He related the coming of the Son of man to be like lightening splitting the eastern sky. In other words, there’s no need in looking for Him on the earth. Look up, in the clouds. And verse 28 above hints about where to look exactly. Just as the eagles circle above the carcass, we should look above Jerusalem, where His dead body was once laid in the tomb below. This is where His elect will be gathering together (rapture), from the north, east, south and west (four winds). Continued...

Note: Matthew 24 text will be in (red), all other scriptures in (purple). . After nearly 2000 years, Christ’s Olivet Discourse still remains a hotly debated subject among biblical scholars, not only because of the controversial rapture and/or second coming issue, but also because many scholars surprisingly contend that it has already been fulfilled. My interpretation differs widely from most Eschatology scholar’s, mainly because the vast majority of them have reached their conclusions without studying the entire text. To be clear, most scholars do not include Matthew 25, probably because they are either intimidated by Christ’s parables, cannot reconcile them with their beliefs about Matthew 24 or maybe they don’t believe the parables are related. It seems obvious to me, though, that if a theory must ignore or is incompatible with these parables, then it is likely an incorrect interpretation. Christ provided these parables so that the wise could better understand this profound mystery, but at the same time, they would also be a stumbling block for the wicked or foolish. . Matthew 13:10-11 – “And the disciples came and said to Him, “Why do You speak to them in parables?” 11 He answered and said to them, “Because it has been given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given.” . It is because of these parables that I have gained a better understanding, which has allowed me to go much deeper into this subject. After years of study, it’s my humble opinion that if a theory or interpretation of Matthew 24 is going to carry any weight, it must be compatible with all of the parables that follow into chapter 25 as well, which is the rest of Christ’s answer to His disciple’s question. I don’t view this as a competition with other scholars, but I do believe my interpretation is the only one, that I’m aware of, that fits this criterion. To my surprise, going deeper in these parables has also led me to the discovery of a brand new rapture theory. Though, I must say, that it was never my intention to design or create a new rapture theory. It just seemed to happen while I was breaking down Christ’s answer to His disciple’s question about the sign of His coming (Matthew 24:3). In fact, I didn’t even realize I had a new theory until after I had finished proof reading the first copy of my book, which includes a complete breakdown of Matthew 24 and 25, and also includes my interpretation of these parables. . Matthew 13:34-35 – “Jesus spoke all these things to the crowd in parables; he did not say anything to them without using a parable. 35 So was fulfilled what was spoken through the prophet: “I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter things hidden since the creation of the world.” . Most scholars agree that the events written in Mathew 24 will be fulfilled sometime in the near future, but, again, an overwhelming majority of them have not included chapter 25 in their study. The most popular rapture theory teaches that Matthew 24 only relates to the physical second coming of Christ to the earth (pre-tribulation rapture). The second most popular theory (post-tribulation rapture) teaches that Mathew 24 relates to both, the rapture and the second coming. And this is where my theory begins to separate from all others, because in my view; Matthew 24 reveals only the rapture, not Christ’s physical second coming to the earth. It’s not the text itself that is controversial; but rather, the way that many have interpreted it. And by simply studying the entire text, one thing I’ve discovered is that verse (31) is key in both chapters. Matthew 24:31 is the rapture, while Matthew 25:31 is the second coming. So without any further ado, let’s dive in and breakdown Matthew 24 and I’ll share some other things I’ve discovered as well. . Matthew 24:1-2 (MEV) – “Jesus departed from the temple and was leaving when His disciples came to show Him the temple buildings. 2 Jesus answered them, “Do you not see all these things? Truly I say to you, not one stone shall be left here upon another that shall not be thrown down.” . The passage above is the only portion of Matthew 24 that has already been fulfilled, when the Roman armies sacked Jerusalem about 40 years later, in AD 70. Notice that Jesus was just leaving the Temple in the passage above. Then there was probably a long pause, before His disciples’ asked Him the most interesting question. Notice in the next passage, that they were now sitting on the Mount of Olives. I suppose that they must have been pondering or imagining the future destruction of the Temple, as they walked their way up the Mount of Olives, which led to their next question, in private or while they were away from the crowd that was leaving the Temple. . Matthew 24:3 – “As He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of Your coming and of the end of the age?” . No doubt, this is a very interesting question, indeed. Though it can’t be proven, I get the sense, that as they asked this question; His disciple’s probably presumed that the destruction of the temple and the sign of his coming and the end of the age would all occur in close proximity to each other or near the same time, and that they would still be alive to see it all. Nevertheless, we now know that was not the case, as the fulfillments of these events were many centuries apart. Christ made no further mention of the temple in His answer. The temple was destroyed in the first century, yet here we are today, still waiting for the sign of His coming and the end of the age to be fulfilled. . Matthew 24:4-8 – “Jesus answered them, “Take heed that no one deceives you. 5 For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many. 6 You will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled. For all these things must happen, but the end is not yet. 7 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines, epidemics, and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are the beginning of sorrows.” . As I stated earlier, some scholars actually believe all of these things have already been fulfilled in the first century. And there are other scholars that believe the first-half of Daniel’s 70th week (Dan. 9:27 – final 7 years) has already been fulfilled as well; which would leave only the abomination of desolation and the great tribulation, the final 3.5 years before Christ returns remaining. I disagree with both positions above. I contend that everything in Christ’s answer will be fulfilled in the future, the entire seven years. That’s 3.5 years (birth pains), plus 3.5 years (great tribulation). His answer relates only to the sign of His coming and the end of the age. His disciples probably expected to be alive to see the sign of His coming when they asked Him this question, but since He still has not returned since ascending into the clouds, none of these things apply to their generation. All of these signs apply to the final generation that will witness His coming. . Not only have we had impostors claiming to be Christ, but we have also seen many cults come in His name as well, and they have deceived multitudes of believers. Today we can really relate to the wars and rumors of wars as they are broadcasted daily on television, but they will only increase. Famines and diseases were few in the first century but they will become more widespread the closer we get to the time of the end. Earthquakes were also rare 2000 years ago, but they’ve been steadily increasing. We can expect them to start popping all over the world like popcorn when His coming nears. Christ said these things are the beginning of sorrows (birth pains), which is actually another sign. All of these things will be increasing in frequency and intensity, just like the labor pains of a pregnant woman. These signs must be important, because Paul and John left us clues about them as well (like a woman in travail with child), which relate to the nearness of His coming and a future time of pseudo-peace. . 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3 – “But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. 2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. 3 For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.” . Revelation 12:1-2 – “And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars: 2 And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered.” Continued...

Wow, the dog is still chasing its tail? Let me know when it has worn itself out. By the way, I've never seen where anyone ever won the "restrainer" debate, hint, hint............

No problem, wingnut. I was just venting a little. I won't delete it. Cheers

Hey firestormx, I think that's a very common assumption. We can easily miss it if we're just skimming through it, but a closer observation reveals a lot. I'd have to say that the blood moons in Joel 2 and the 6th seal are describing the very same moon on the same night. It would come two weeks after the new moon seen in Matt. 24. We know Matt. 24 is a new moon, and not just being blocked by cloudy skies because of the stars. The sky will be clear enough to see the stars falling (meteor showers). This fits the feast of Trumpets exactly, as this is what it will look like just before the sign of the Son of man appears (rapture), which is the very next verse. I discussed both moon phases in another thread. If you're interested here's the link, and then just scroll down to the 6th seal. I recommend reading from the 3rd seal, though, because that's when it starts to get very interesting. As for the 4th Trumpet, your guess would be as good as mine as far when it occurs and what causes a third of the sun, moon and stars to be darkened for a third of the day and night. But I'm sure God will most definitely have our undivided attention when that time comes. I really haven't done an in-depth study on the trumpets yet. But some day soon, hopefully, Lord willing. Cheers

That's off topic. Why not start another thread? Or maybe I should just delete this one. Polluted muddy waters..........

Muddy waters...It appears this thread got hijacked before the first page was finished. Let me know when the dog quits chasing its tail.........

My pleasure, Broken. Thank you for your encouraging words. And welcome to worthy!

Hey Ezra, How do you figure the first 5 seals have already been opened? I'm not so sure that any of them have been opened yet. But I'm confident in saying the 3rd seal, and the seals that follow have not been opened yet. Cheers

Yep, there is quite a bit to chew on. It took me a couple weeks to put it all together, which is actually pretty quick, I think, all things considered. Cheers

Thanks wingnut, This is way over most folks heads, I'm sure. In fact, the Lord gave me a strange dream about that years ago. But I won't get into that now. Just be glad you weren't the one who had to try to explain this new theory to others. My first attempt was a big mess. Lots of scriptures but no clue how to connect them - lol. Cheers

The parable of the Sower is much different than most other parables. And like many other scriptures, sometimes we can get a much deeper meaning when the Holy Spirit reveals some of the deeper hidden truths. In the parable of the sower below, the Lord shows the condition of the heart of all those who hear the gospel, by relating four different types of ground in which the seeds were planted. This shows four different types of people and how each one receives His message; but what’s really interesting about this particular parable is that when you look deeper into it, you can also see the end results. Christ gave His disciple’s the interpretation of how each type of ground receives the seeds when they are planted, but we can also go deeper by viewing the harvest that each type of ground produces. The Parable of the Sower . Mark 4:1-20 – “Again Jesus began to teach by the lake. The crowd that gathered around him was so large that he got into a boat and sat in it out on the lake, while all the people were along the shore at the water’s edge. 2 He taught them many things by parables, and in his teaching said: 3 “Listen! A farmer went out to sow his seed. 4 As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. 5 Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. 6 But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. 7 Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants, so that they did not bear grain. 8 Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up, grew and produced a crop, some multiplying thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times.” 9 Then Jesus said, “Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear.” 10 When he was alone, the Twelve and the others around him asked him about the parables. 11 He told them, “The secret of the kingdom of God has been given to you. But to those on the outside everything is said in parables 12 so that, “they may be ever seeing but never perceiving, and ever hearing but never understanding; otherwise they might turn and be forgiven!” 13 Then Jesus said to them, “Don’t you understand this parable? How then will you understand any parable? 14 The farmer sows the word. 15 Some people are like seed along the path, where the word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the word that was sown in them. 16 Others, like seed sown on rocky places, hear the word and at once receive it with joy. 17 But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. 18 Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; 19 but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. 20 Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop—some thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times what was sown.” . Christ spoke in parables so that unbelievers would not be able to understand what He was saying. His disciples couldn’t understand them either, because they had not received the Holy Spirit yet. So He told them the meaning of this parable later, when He was alone with them. Interestingly, in this particular parable, He also said, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear,” which is our clue that there is something deeper here, a hidden meaning to understand, even though the first part or the surface truth has already been interpreted by Christ, Himself. . In most of the other parables, though, the interpretations were not even given. It seems as though Christ has left some parables for us, or those that were not present in the first century. And unlike His disciple’s, today we are equipped with the Holy Spirit to help us spiritually discern them. If we really want to understand the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, we’ve got to dig deeper, under the surface. . What Christ is showing us in the parable of the sower, is all of the different types of people there are in this world, and how they receive His Word or gospel. Interestingly, everyone that has ever lived on this earth fits into one of the four categories He listed in this parable. Under the surface, His description of the subjects in this parable also provide a very telling glimpse of how they will end up in the end. Below I’ve listed all four places where He sowed His seed, and I have related them to all of the people in the world and how they will end up when the crop fully matures, when Christ returns to reap His harvest. . First, notice that all unbelievers fit into category one (along the path). But what’s most interesting is that all three of the other categories (two, three, and four) are some type of believer in Christ, as they all welcomed the gospel at first. This tells us that they received Christ’s offer of salvation, which is a free gift that no one can take away. This is eternal security, as Christ said that He will not lose one of those His Father gave Him. However, they must still be judged and rewarded for the works they’ve done since receiving Christ (2 Cor. 5:10, Matt. 16:27, Rev. 22:12). We can see all three types of believer and their rewards in this parable, and the unbeliever as well. And I must say, this is a very sobering view of the three types of believer, and how they will be judged and rewarded when the Lord returns. . Seed Sown and its Position in the End 1. Along the path: hates the truth [unbeliever] takes the mark of the beast (goat) 2. On rocky places: weak faith [falls away] must try to survive / poor in spirit (sheep) 3. Among thorns: unfruitful [lukewarm] left behind, repents & refuses to take the mark (martyr) 4. On good soil: fruitful [disciple] will stand before the Son of man (rapture/wedding supper) . Scriptural Interpretation: Seed sown along the path: “And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” – 2 Thessalonians 2:10–12 Seed sown on rocky places: “Let no man deceive you by 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 Seed sown among thorns: “Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you unexpectedly like a trap.” – Luke 21:34 Seed sown on good soil: “Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.” – Revelation 3:10–11 . One final thing I’d like to note is that I believe the translators got the last verse in this parable wrong. I believe they missed a very powerful clue. After describing all of the places the seed was sown, Christ added what appears to me as an after-thought or a short summary, when he said, “some thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times what was sown.” Yet the translators seem to think He was applying that after-thought to only the seed that was sown on the good soil. Could it be that He was referring to different rewards for the three different types of believer? This makes perfect sense to me. The good soil will produce 100 percent. The seed sown among thorns will produce 60 percent, as the thorns will choke much of the crop, making it less fruitful. The seed sown on rocky places will produce only 30 percent. And naturally, the seed sown on the path will produce nothing, as unbelievers are in for a rude awakening when the Lord returns. . Matthew 13:33 (KJV) – “Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.” . This parable actually serves as confirmation for my new “Readiness Rapture Theory.” It’s a brand new revelation, which reveals the three (3) rewards for believer’s as outlined in chapters 24 & 25 in Matthew. If you’re interested in a theory that fills in the blanks or just going deeper in God’s Word, you can read about it here:

I want to thank my pre-trib brethren for your thoughts. And as a former pre-tribber, myself (1990-2005), I know full well where this argument always leads to. Honestly, I think it's a complete waste of time that actually reminds me of a dog chasing after its own tail. Besides, I can tell that some of you didn't even bother to read my post, and that's fine too. Nonetheless, I hope you'll keep seeking the truth in God's Word just the same. Cheers

Okay, if you say so, but I can't see how any of the scriptures you cited point to a pre-trib rapture, not a single one. That theory is on the chopping block, and will be the first one proven false. Cheers