So true Laurie! Part of the enemies plan is to divide and he has sure done a good job of it. It is sad to think that there are some who are so deceived that they can't see that we are on the same side and love Jesus just the same!
What’s sooo cool someday soon we’ll be sitting at the wedding feast table and all of us there believe Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior— some will have believed in all these other different views. We’ll be so focused on Jesus and the delicious food & fellowship (Steve will be cracking jokes;) and in the end none of that will matter!! I 100% believe in pre-trib rapture and will celebrate with all my new brothers & sisters— the brides!! It’s mind blowing what’s coming…. Love y’all 💛
I’m also a pre-trib believer but I can see how some folks came to believe that it is either a mid or post trib rapture; at least they believe in it. The thing that has me stumped are those Christians who don’t believe in any version of the rapture. I’ve spoken to evangelists who don’t believe in the rapture at all. One even told me that his entire thesis was to disprove the idea of a rapture. After a brief conversation, I had him second guessing himself. I told him that I would pray for God to show us both which of us is wrong. Since that day, I have seen mounds of evidence in favor of a pre-trib rapture. I’ve never spoken to him again, but I hope God has made a breakthrough with him.
I think the rapture is getting really really close. I feel as if everyone feels like "something big" is about to happen, but no one knows exactly what that "something big" thing will be. I think it is going to be the rapture!!
Amazing article, Mark! God is so intentional: the choice of words alone proves the pre-Tribulation reality :-)
Another key point is the phrase “those who dwell upon the earth”. This is used 11 times in Revelation (3:10, 6:10, 8:13, 11:10 2x, 13:8, 12, 14 2x, 14:6, 17:8) by God to describe the lost. The Church is not lost, and God is clearly saying in Revelation 3:10 that He will be testing the lost.
Lastly, 1 Thessalonians 4:18 gives us “Therefore comfort one another with these words” (referring to the promise of the Rapture described in verses 4:13-17). How is the Rapture comforting if it doesn’t happen or doesn’t save us from the Wrath of God, which is meant to bring about Repentance, which we already did?!
It wouldn’t make sense to not be raptured before the tribulation, can you imagine all of us Christians calling out the Anti-Christ’s every move! Not to mention the Alpha / military type Christians that would take immediate aim to assassinate him. It’s totally in our nature to “help” God and His people. Yeah no, we certainly will not be here, we will be raptured before the tribulation just like God’s Word says we will. God bless you my T P family. 🦋
Thank you, Pastor Mark!! Wonderful article, Pastor. I'm a pre-tribulation believer. Why else would Christ have died for us if he was going to allow those that are saved to suffer the same consequences as those that are not saved? What would be the point? If Jesus was going to let us suffer, Him being all knowing, why would he have suffered the cross? He suffered the cross to save us from the tribulation. Otherwise, it just doesn't jive. Amen !! Praise Jesus!!
I'm a pre-tribber, always have been and always will be. Thank you, Dr. Mark, for putting this for detailing the difference between 'from' and 'through.' What really nails it are all those who will be martyred during the great trib. There's no way they can refute or have an explanation for that.
I think there’s a basic lack of understanding in the Body of Christ, of just how precious His sons and daughters are to our Father. We are the bride awaiting her Bridegroom! Royalty! According to 1Peter 2:9-10!
I’ve never heard of a groom who would torture his bride before the wedding! All the Trib from beginning to end is God’s wrath on an unbelieving world.
Alas, many pastors are unsure or just flat won’t teach on our soon-to-be Rapture - afraid of offending someone?
I love Before the Wrath movie! It helps we westerners understand the honor paid to the bride in Galilee!
No, we don’t know the day nor the hour but if we’re not at the end of the earth lease, I’m chicken little! And I haven’t laid an egg in years 😎🇱🇷🇸🇻🙏🏻
Very eye opening! I’ve been to Galilee several times! Now, it hurts to go to Nazareth cause the Moslems have taken it over☹️ Christian’s & Jews all live in Upper Nazareth - so sad - happened all over our beloved Israel.
Thank you for recommending Before the Wrath! I purchased the movie from Christian Cinima and just finished watching it - wow! That movie helped me understand the "how and why" of the rapture so much better.
Yes, Bruce, I agree!! We’ve used it for church & Bible Study as well! I think our western mindset gets in the way of understanding the awesome details of why Dad had Jesus grow up & minister so much in Galilee!
I love how that movie highlights the great value of the bride!! That’s a direct reflection of us!!
Having spent a lot of time in Galilee, it holds a precious aura all its own!🇸🇻❤️
Yes, and now all the more as we literally can see, as we look around, just how far from the Lord we have fallen… our total rejection of Him. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown, it says in that Philadelphia passage. We are not going through His wrath because of His promises in His Word to us who believe. But His wrath is simmering. Holding on to my crown and praying for those that have let their’s slip off, because they did not want what they had; their fellowship with the one true God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Jesus bring them back, only a confession away, before the wrath begins. 🌻
Always been a pre-tribber because I've always believed a loving father will protect his kids. Persecution from evangelism will be a cake walk compared to 3 fold wrath coming on the earth from God, Satan, and Godless mankind.
Great article! This is one of those I have to save to help me more when I am engaged in these conversations. I have a lot but there were some great points Pastor Mark made that I've never even considered.
One thing I have noticed is that many of those who have anything other than a pretribulationalist view, dig-in and fight fiercely to prove us wrong (unfortunately, some pretribs are this way too). I've grown to have some compassion for these folks during these conversations.
Just imagine what it would be like to have a post-tribber point out scriptures that seem to support a post-tribulation rapture to us. If this happened to me and after studying it deeply I found it irrefutable that scripture didn't support a pre-tribulation rapture, my faith would be seriously shaken. I might be angry at my teachers and pastors like Pastor's Jimmy, Mark and Greg, and I might even turn my heart from God because everything I have put my faith in was just shattered. In reality, I don't think I would personally because I know grace and that we make mistakes, but unfortunately, most people do NOT give this grace to pastors and teachers.
If you want to shatter a person's faith, point your finger at them and tell them why they are wrong and you are right. These are delicate conversations and we have to have the Holy Spirit leading us as to what to say and when, and when it's best to gently back out of the conversation.
I love how Pastor Jimmy stated it in one of his previous shows where he said (paraphrased) "Being right or wrong about the timing of the rapture isn't as important as having a relationship with Jesus because regardless of when the rapture occurs, we are assured that we will spend eternity with Jesus." The timing of the rapture and these discussions are some of my favorite to have because I absolutely love seeing that moment the Holy Spirit reveals it to them and I get to see the smiles on their faces as the comfort of Bible prophecy hits them, but that will never happen if I am fighting to be right about it.
I remember Jimmy Evans saying that, “it’s not about me being right, or you being right, it’s about being right with God”. So true. I really do not challenge others when they have a different view, I just keep learning, reading, listening and doing what I need to do to stay right with Jesus. 💙🙏🏼
I have never understood why people would be so certain that Jesus would make us go through 7 years of what one Pastor describes as the most horrendous ever in the history of this Earth. I don't even know why they would even want to entertain such a thought. I sure wouldn't.
We knew back in the "70's" that we were headed this way. Here we are some 50 yrs. later and still occupying till He comes. When we compare these last couple of years to the '50s, those were like a summer at camp. I am of the generation that witnessed Isreal become a nation. It's getting close folks, cause I will be one of the, "but if by strength 80 yrs." soon. So I am looking up. I plan to be like Jimmy. I am going to be able to tell folks didnt die, I went in the Rapture. WHAT A DAY THAT WILL BE, See you all there!
Haha I remember PJimmy saying that Patsy! I love that! I know that none of us knows the day, but I am really believing strongly that you are going to get your wish! :)
I have served the Lord for 65 years now, and I an ready for the retirement benifits There are so many that are fearful now. I truly believe that we have nothing to fear. When the Lord said he would be there he always has been for me. I have arrived at a time that I am so blessed that the joy overflows in my ❤..We must Pray and read the Word though. My Dad told me that if we don't keep the lines of communication open, how can we really come to know the one we claim to love. His word and prayer are the thing that sustains the body of Christ. Thank you for the encouragement that I will get my wish. Although I see it as a request made long ago. I'll see you in the Rapture one way or the other. Love and Blessings, Steve.
I see the word of God similar to & kind of like a Beautiful
diamond w/countless facets shining behind a backdrop of black velvet. Primarily, the blood-bought saints of God are the diamonds behind the backdrop of darkness. Pre-trib, mid-trib, post-trib, the Tribulation, is one component (the “tipping point”), the climax of Father’s magnificent Redemption story of His Divine Romance. I do believe that a biblical understanding of suffering is a vital key for believers to “endure to the end.” Consider Job 28:28: “...Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; & turning away from (hatred of evil) is understanding”. Then read psalm 45, a classic psalm. Suffering in this life is triggered by a host of reasons. Much of it is self-inflicted, much b/c we live in a fallen world under a curse, undeniably b/c of the kingdom of darkness within the unseen realm, but most importantly the saints suffer for the glory of God. Jesus noted of His great concern regarding whether He’ll find faith in the earth when HE returns. Therefore, as a diamond in the rough within the Master’s hands, I pray that HE chisel away worldviews in me that aren’t aligned w/His word. The time of the anti-Baptists is known as the Radical Reformation (almost 500 yrs ago). Many contemporary church fathers in that day discredited & were annoyed by the anti-Baptist’s beliefs (rejection of infant baptism), even Martin Luther rejected them. Terrible tribulation ensued. They were hunted down & murdered for their biblical beliefs. Nevertheless, the boundless grace of God keeps us anchored in hope. It is true that no believer will escape trials, tribulations, suffering, the “bread of affliction” & the “waters of adversity”; but one thing is for certain, like poor Lazarus in Luke 16, we have an eternal future awaiting us beyond our greatest imagination. In light of all this, for me, my greatest concern is that until HE returns or I breath my last breath, (for me & my loved ones), that I not give way to unbelief which comes w/hardened heart. God save me from being governed by my emotions which easily betrays the the indwelling Spirit. Keep looking up & keep praying in the Holy Spirit. Sing sing sing, & worship worship worship to shut the mouth of the devil. Me thinks Jesus considers it child’s play--the ability to cause the adversary to cease (psalm 8:2 & Matt 21:16). One of my favorite quotes by Cervantes, “He who sings frightens away his ills”, or something like that! Pastor Hitchcock, thanks for this good word!
It is known in the medical field that the worst thing to do with pain, is to fight it. When we relax our bodies it lessen the pain. The same is true in the fight against the unseen realm. We have a Savior that purchased the right to our soul and redeemed it. The Armour of God helps us in our fight against the devil because it is all spiritual in nature, not physical. When we are in the fight it is a God given protection IF WE WEAR IT.. When we put ourselves under His protection, we must let go and let God fight the battle. He says to,"Fear Not." Fear strangles us. It is spiritual pain. When we surrender and let God take over that pain will be banished. Remember, He overcame this world we seem to fear.
Hello everyone! I've been studying the Book Of Revelations for the past 6 months or so. I spend hours upon hours of research Day & Night. I've came to this conclusion that God is speeding up time. It's a very odd feeling, & I wasn't sure what it was @ 1st, but now I realize what is actually happening. It's a feeling that I can't really describe in detail, but It's a feeling of JOY, & @ the same time SADNESS, because of the fact that SO MANY people are still lost. God may perhaps slow down the clock, keep speeding it up, or even STOP it? This I don't know because I'm not God. EVERYTHING is possible with God, & God has PERFECT timing. So that being said, I'll just wait for him to come. Seems to me like it MIGHT be a LOT sooner than we think? God is literally standing @ the door.. IMHO... Does anyone else feel this way? Or is it just me??
Scott P this was so encouraging to read your comment!! I love going back and reading “new first” so I can read new ones. Keep reading the Word and sharing the good news… I think all of us on the TP feel the same way too! Blessings 💛
I feel exactly the same way. It's like the crazy in the world is on warp "woke" speed and God is (maybe) using it as a very loud wake-up call to the lost people of the world.
This is a long post and a bit off topic, so if you aren't up for a long read, here is fair warning :) Very interesting that this was the topic of today's quick hits though. Last night, I got a wild hair in the middle of the night, as I was working late. I set aside my work for a few hours and dived into a study of the churches of Revelation Chapters 2 & 3. I thought I would share this with you and look for your perspectives and thoughts when looking at this section of scripture. I apologize if the font and transfer is funky - it looks orderly and punctuated when I type it sometimes and much different when it is posted.
I did a written, detailed study of the churches of Revelation chapters 2 & 3. I wrote down the points and addresses to each of the churches. I also wrote down my analysis, opinions, thoughts and common themes I found embedded throughout the messages to each of the churches. I will first go through the specifics of the address to each church and my observations and thoughts on each. After the 7 messages to the 7 churches, I will notate some additional notes.
1) Church of Ephesus: ***Has the most positive things said about it for a church that is commanded to repent. 5 out of the 7 churches are ultimately commanded to repent. 2 out of the churches do not receive a command to repent and also have nothing bad said about them***.
Positives: Hard work, perseverance, detest evil men.
Hate practices of Nicolaitans ***Seemed to promote sin as acceptable lifestyle and not
harmful***.
Tested and discovered false apostles.
Not grown weary.
Negatives: Only one - but a big one - Forsaken their first love.
Summary: Commanded to repent. If no repentance, He will come and remove their lampstand from its place. ***Seems to be a significant danger and demotion for the church***.
2) Church of Smyrna: ***Has nothing bad said about it. One of the 2 churches that is not commanded to repent. This appears to be the persecuted church***.
Positives: He knows their afflictions and poverty. But they are actually rich.
Summary: Don't fear the coming persecution. Prison and persecution for 10 days. Be faithful to the point of death and they will receive the Crown of Life.
3) Church of Pergamum: ***Another of the 5 churches that is commanded to repent***.
Positives: These live where satan has his throne (this is in modern day Turkey) but the church
remains faithful.
They did not renounce their faith and are true to His Name.
Negatives: Embrace the teachings of Balaam (caused them to sin by eating food sacrificed to idols
& sexual immorality).
Embrace the teachings of the Nicolaitans (Only other place noted is Ephesus) -
***Seemed to promote sin as acceptable lifestyle and not harmful***
Summary: Commanded to repent. If no repentance, He will come and fight against them with the Sword of His Mouth. *** Seems to be direct fight and danger for this church***.
4) Church of Thyatira. ***This appears to be a split church, comprised of good and bad factions, with differing directions based on their respective positions. The bad part of this church is commanded to repent, the good part is commanded to hold on until He comes***.
Positives: This appears to be for the entire church. Deeds of love, faith, perseverance, service,
increased works.
Negatives: This appears to only be for the bad portion of this church. They tolerate Jezebel and her
ways. She misleads His servants. He has given them
time to repent but they have not. He will cause those who commit adultery with her to
have a bed of intense suffering. He will also strike her children dead. ***Interestingly,
these are two of the consequences people going through the tribulation will suffer***.
Summary: The good portion of this church are noted as not holding to her teachings. They also
have not learned satan's so called deep secrets. This portion
is only commanded to Hold onto what they have until He comes. The bad portion is
commanded to repent. He also notes that by all of this,
the churches will know He searches hearts and minds and pays each according to their
deeds.
5) Church of Sardis. ***Nothing good is said about this church. It is another of the 5 churches that is commanded to repent.***
NO POSITIVES
Negatives: Dead - Wake up! Everybody says they are alive but they are dead. Strengthen what is
about to die!
Deeds are not complete.
Summary: Commanded to repent. If they do not repent, He will come as a thief in the night and they won't know when. ***This appears to be a direct reference of being left out of the rapture***.
There also does appears to be a small remnant of people in Sardis "who have not soiled
their clothes - who will walk with Him". ***They don't define the church but are a small
minority in this church.
6) Church of Philadelphia. ***Nothing bad is said about this church. It is one of the two churches who are not commanded to repent.***
Positives: They persevere though they have little strength.
Kept His Word.
Not denied His Name.
Summary: Because they have endured patiently, He will keep them from going through the tribulation. He is coming soon. Commanded to hold on to what they have so nobody will take their crown. ***This does imply a warning that you can lose your crown if you somehow don't hold on to what you have***.
7) Church of Laodicea. ***This is known as the lukewarm church, neither hot or cold. Nothing good said about this church. One of the 5 commanded to repent.***
NO POSITIVES:
Negatives: They think they are good but are very bad off in every way. Very miserable and
wretched from His perspective.
Summary: He advises them to buy refined gold, white clothes to cover their nakedness and eye salve to heal their eyes. They are commanded to Repent.
***He further notes redemptive possibility here as those He loves, he rebukes. He stands at the door and knocks. And eats with them that open the door.***
Justin. I loved reading your decryptions of the Seven Churches. My Pastor
Is preaching the Book of Revelation now , and I believe it is an eye 👁 opener for our Church members who are believers, as well as nonbelievers who attend to truly understand what the Holy Spirit is saying to the Churches as our Pastor teaches practical life styles to repent; wake up and be aware of good and evil. I pray other pastors will teach the truth and not compromise and not be afraid of what others believe or think. God help them as that blood will be on them as teachers and leaders. God will not be mocked; for whatever a man( or woman) soweth, he (or she) will reap! Great job 👏, Justin. Revelation is all about Jesus and He is giving us warnings to wake up! I’ve been a Pre-Trib believer for a long time! So blessed and thankful that we His Bride will not go thru the Tribulation; as John 14:2-3 says: In His House are many rooms He has prepared for us; and if He goes to prepare a place for us; He will come back snd take us with Him, so we will be with Him. Praise the Lord! Your explanation of these Churches is so through. You are so knowledgeable and AMAZING 😻! Love you Brother! Be blessed today and always. His Return is soon. We keep our eyes on Him and continue to read His Word and hide it in our hearts to share with others. 🙏🤩✝️👋
Thanks so much and thanks so much for taking the time to read and respond. Yes, the church leaders sure carry an extra level of responsibility. I sure am amazed how much I learn on scripture I’ve studied so many times. It sure is amazing and I love the patterns I see and discover. I love you too and pray God bless and keep you and sure appreciate your uplifting encouragement and sharing with me. God bless you today 😎😎
Love this article and sure is on a lot of our minds in the times unfolding around us. The more you read and analyze the clues and details, the harder it is to see any other way I feel. Being saved is far more important and how we live our lives and treat people and our relationship with God are critical as well. Sometimes, disagreements over these things show more of a barometer of where people are at in their walk as a whole. How they view scripture, their values, their world view.
Thank you Mark. I am pretrib, my whole life. It saddens me that this topic is used to divide believers. Satan is hard at work to steal our Joy.
So true Laurie! Part of the enemies plan is to divide and he has sure done a good job of it. It is sad to think that there are some who are so deceived that they can't see that we are on the same side and love Jesus just the same!
What’s sooo cool someday soon we’ll be sitting at the wedding feast table and all of us there believe Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior— some will have believed in all these other different views. We’ll be so focused on Jesus and the delicious food & fellowship (Steve will be cracking jokes;) and in the end none of that will matter!! I 100% believe in pre-trib rapture and will celebrate with all my new brothers & sisters— the brides!! It’s mind blowing what’s coming…. Love y’all 💛
Keri you are one I can’t wait to meet!!!
You just made my day!!! Love you sister & can’t wait to meet you too…. In the twinkle!!!! 💛
Hey, my jokes will still matter in the end! 😡...🤣 This is a beautiful picture, and we certainly love you too Kari. :)
Oh you bet he is.. Satan's time is getting short. GOD has the most wonderful plan, and one day we will rejoice in heaven.
Amen!!
Amen !!
I’m also a pre-trib believer but I can see how some folks came to believe that it is either a mid or post trib rapture; at least they believe in it. The thing that has me stumped are those Christians who don’t believe in any version of the rapture. I’ve spoken to evangelists who don’t believe in the rapture at all. One even told me that his entire thesis was to disprove the idea of a rapture. After a brief conversation, I had him second guessing himself. I told him that I would pray for God to show us both which of us is wrong. Since that day, I have seen mounds of evidence in favor of a pre-trib rapture. I’ve never spoken to him again, but I hope God has made a breakthrough with him.
Amen!!
Excellent. The rapture feels near to me this morning... haven't felt that in a really long time. :)
I think the rapture is getting really really close. I feel as if everyone feels like "something big" is about to happen, but no one knows exactly what that "something big" thing will be. I think it is going to be the rapture!!
Amazing article, Mark! God is so intentional: the choice of words alone proves the pre-Tribulation reality :-)
Another key point is the phrase “those who dwell upon the earth”. This is used 11 times in Revelation (3:10, 6:10, 8:13, 11:10 2x, 13:8, 12, 14 2x, 14:6, 17:8) by God to describe the lost. The Church is not lost, and God is clearly saying in Revelation 3:10 that He will be testing the lost.
Lastly, 1 Thessalonians 4:18 gives us “Therefore comfort one another with these words” (referring to the promise of the Rapture described in verses 4:13-17). How is the Rapture comforting if it doesn’t happen or doesn’t save us from the Wrath of God, which is meant to bring about Repentance, which we already did?!
Always appreciate your posts and always learn something from the scholarly perspectives you draw from the Bible. Thank you Jeremy.
The two witnesses would not be needed if the church was still around during the tribulation.
It wouldn’t make sense to not be raptured before the tribulation, can you imagine all of us Christians calling out the Anti-Christ’s every move! Not to mention the Alpha / military type Christians that would take immediate aim to assassinate him. It’s totally in our nature to “help” God and His people. Yeah no, we certainly will not be here, we will be raptured before the tribulation just like God’s Word says we will. God bless you my T P family. 🦋
Woof-Woof! YEAH!
This is the best example— we’d know every move and send our very own Steve Branson on the hunt as our TP ambassador! Jennifer love this!!
👀🤣
Thank you, Pastor Mark!! Wonderful article, Pastor. I'm a pre-tribulation believer. Why else would Christ have died for us if he was going to allow those that are saved to suffer the same consequences as those that are not saved? What would be the point? If Jesus was going to let us suffer, Him being all knowing, why would he have suffered the cross? He suffered the cross to save us from the tribulation. Otherwise, it just doesn't jive. Amen !! Praise Jesus!!
Maranatha
💜✝️✡✝️💜
Thanks, Verna. Yes, another excellent point!
Hi Jessca. It's the only way it makes sense to me. You have a blessed of God day. Stay cool.
I'm a pre-tribber, always have been and always will be. Thank you, Dr. Mark, for putting this for detailing the difference between 'from' and 'through.' What really nails it are all those who will be martyred during the great trib. There's no way they can refute or have an explanation for that.
I think there’s a basic lack of understanding in the Body of Christ, of just how precious His sons and daughters are to our Father. We are the bride awaiting her Bridegroom! Royalty! According to 1Peter 2:9-10!
I’ve never heard of a groom who would torture his bride before the wedding! All the Trib from beginning to end is God’s wrath on an unbelieving world.
Alas, many pastors are unsure or just flat won’t teach on our soon-to-be Rapture - afraid of offending someone?
I love Before the Wrath movie! It helps we westerners understand the honor paid to the bride in Galilee!
No, we don’t know the day nor the hour but if we’re not at the end of the earth lease, I’m chicken little! And I haven’t laid an egg in years 😎🇱🇷🇸🇻🙏🏻
HaHa! I love that last line Bettye!
I have watched Before the Wrath twice and plan to watch it again, it’s eye opening.
Yes! Me too!
Very eye opening! I’ve been to Galilee several times! Now, it hurts to go to Nazareth cause the Moslems have taken it over☹️ Christian’s & Jews all live in Upper Nazareth - so sad - happened all over our beloved Israel.
Yes that’s so sad, hopefully not much longer. 🙏🏼
Thank you for recommending Before the Wrath! I purchased the movie from Christian Cinima and just finished watching it - wow! That movie helped me understand the "how and why" of the rapture so much better.
Yes, Bruce, I agree!! We’ve used it for church & Bible Study as well! I think our western mindset gets in the way of understanding the awesome details of why Dad had Jesus grow up & minister so much in Galilee!
I love how that movie highlights the great value of the bride!! That’s a direct reflection of us!!
Having spent a lot of time in Galilee, it holds a precious aura all its own!🇸🇻❤️
Just ordered it!! Can’t wait.
You will love it!
Yes, and now all the more as we literally can see, as we look around, just how far from the Lord we have fallen… our total rejection of Him. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown, it says in that Philadelphia passage. We are not going through His wrath because of His promises in His Word to us who believe. But His wrath is simmering. Holding on to my crown and praying for those that have let their’s slip off, because they did not want what they had; their fellowship with the one true God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Jesus bring them back, only a confession away, before the wrath begins. 🌻
So thankful for you Dr. Hitchcock, and thankful it’s public. I can share with all of my friends who aren’t subscribers! 🙏🏼
Always been a pre-tribber because I've always believed a loving father will protect his kids. Persecution from evangelism will be a cake walk compared to 3 fold wrath coming on the earth from God, Satan, and Godless mankind.
Amen!!! 💛
Great article! This is one of those I have to save to help me more when I am engaged in these conversations. I have a lot but there were some great points Pastor Mark made that I've never even considered.
One thing I have noticed is that many of those who have anything other than a pretribulationalist view, dig-in and fight fiercely to prove us wrong (unfortunately, some pretribs are this way too). I've grown to have some compassion for these folks during these conversations.
Just imagine what it would be like to have a post-tribber point out scriptures that seem to support a post-tribulation rapture to us. If this happened to me and after studying it deeply I found it irrefutable that scripture didn't support a pre-tribulation rapture, my faith would be seriously shaken. I might be angry at my teachers and pastors like Pastor's Jimmy, Mark and Greg, and I might even turn my heart from God because everything I have put my faith in was just shattered. In reality, I don't think I would personally because I know grace and that we make mistakes, but unfortunately, most people do NOT give this grace to pastors and teachers.
If you want to shatter a person's faith, point your finger at them and tell them why they are wrong and you are right. These are delicate conversations and we have to have the Holy Spirit leading us as to what to say and when, and when it's best to gently back out of the conversation.
I love how Pastor Jimmy stated it in one of his previous shows where he said (paraphrased) "Being right or wrong about the timing of the rapture isn't as important as having a relationship with Jesus because regardless of when the rapture occurs, we are assured that we will spend eternity with Jesus." The timing of the rapture and these discussions are some of my favorite to have because I absolutely love seeing that moment the Holy Spirit reveals it to them and I get to see the smiles on their faces as the comfort of Bible prophecy hits them, but that will never happen if I am fighting to be right about it.
I remember Jimmy Evans saying that, “it’s not about me being right, or you being right, it’s about being right with God”. So true. I really do not challenge others when they have a different view, I just keep learning, reading, listening and doing what I need to do to stay right with Jesus. 💙🙏🏼
Excellent perspectives sir. Thanks for helping illuminate the potential vulnerability of brothers and sisters in these discussions.
I have never understood why people would be so certain that Jesus would make us go through 7 years of what one Pastor describes as the most horrendous ever in the history of this Earth. I don't even know why they would even want to entertain such a thought. I sure wouldn't.
We knew back in the "70's" that we were headed this way. Here we are some 50 yrs. later and still occupying till He comes. When we compare these last couple of years to the '50s, those were like a summer at camp. I am of the generation that witnessed Isreal become a nation. It's getting close folks, cause I will be one of the, "but if by strength 80 yrs." soon. So I am looking up. I plan to be like Jimmy. I am going to be able to tell folks didnt die, I went in the Rapture. WHAT A DAY THAT WILL BE, See you all there!
Haha I remember PJimmy saying that Patsy! I love that! I know that none of us knows the day, but I am really believing strongly that you are going to get your wish! :)
I have served the Lord for 65 years now, and I an ready for the retirement benifits There are so many that are fearful now. I truly believe that we have nothing to fear. When the Lord said he would be there he always has been for me. I have arrived at a time that I am so blessed that the joy overflows in my ❤..We must Pray and read the Word though. My Dad told me that if we don't keep the lines of communication open, how can we really come to know the one we claim to love. His word and prayer are the thing that sustains the body of Christ. Thank you for the encouragement that I will get my wish. Although I see it as a request made long ago. I'll see you in the Rapture one way or the other. Love and Blessings, Steve.
Excellent Steve!!! You’re on a roll … 💛
I see the word of God similar to & kind of like a Beautiful
diamond w/countless facets shining behind a backdrop of black velvet. Primarily, the blood-bought saints of God are the diamonds behind the backdrop of darkness. Pre-trib, mid-trib, post-trib, the Tribulation, is one component (the “tipping point”), the climax of Father’s magnificent Redemption story of His Divine Romance. I do believe that a biblical understanding of suffering is a vital key for believers to “endure to the end.” Consider Job 28:28: “...Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; & turning away from (hatred of evil) is understanding”. Then read psalm 45, a classic psalm. Suffering in this life is triggered by a host of reasons. Much of it is self-inflicted, much b/c we live in a fallen world under a curse, undeniably b/c of the kingdom of darkness within the unseen realm, but most importantly the saints suffer for the glory of God. Jesus noted of His great concern regarding whether He’ll find faith in the earth when HE returns. Therefore, as a diamond in the rough within the Master’s hands, I pray that HE chisel away worldviews in me that aren’t aligned w/His word. The time of the anti-Baptists is known as the Radical Reformation (almost 500 yrs ago). Many contemporary church fathers in that day discredited & were annoyed by the anti-Baptist’s beliefs (rejection of infant baptism), even Martin Luther rejected them. Terrible tribulation ensued. They were hunted down & murdered for their biblical beliefs. Nevertheless, the boundless grace of God keeps us anchored in hope. It is true that no believer will escape trials, tribulations, suffering, the “bread of affliction” & the “waters of adversity”; but one thing is for certain, like poor Lazarus in Luke 16, we have an eternal future awaiting us beyond our greatest imagination. In light of all this, for me, my greatest concern is that until HE returns or I breath my last breath, (for me & my loved ones), that I not give way to unbelief which comes w/hardened heart. God save me from being governed by my emotions which easily betrays the the indwelling Spirit. Keep looking up & keep praying in the Holy Spirit. Sing sing sing, & worship worship worship to shut the mouth of the devil. Me thinks Jesus considers it child’s play--the ability to cause the adversary to cease (psalm 8:2 & Matt 21:16). One of my favorite quotes by Cervantes, “He who sings frightens away his ills”, or something like that! Pastor Hitchcock, thanks for this good word!
Wow!
You're bringing childlike faith into the picture. Which I always cling to when my overthinking mind tries to figure everything out.
Beautiful word picture Lorrie 💛
It is known in the medical field that the worst thing to do with pain, is to fight it. When we relax our bodies it lessen the pain. The same is true in the fight against the unseen realm. We have a Savior that purchased the right to our soul and redeemed it. The Armour of God helps us in our fight against the devil because it is all spiritual in nature, not physical. When we are in the fight it is a God given protection IF WE WEAR IT.. When we put ourselves under His protection, we must let go and let God fight the battle. He says to,"Fear Not." Fear strangles us. It is spiritual pain. When we surrender and let God take over that pain will be banished. Remember, He overcame this world we seem to fear.
Hello everyone! I've been studying the Book Of Revelations for the past 6 months or so. I spend hours upon hours of research Day & Night. I've came to this conclusion that God is speeding up time. It's a very odd feeling, & I wasn't sure what it was @ 1st, but now I realize what is actually happening. It's a feeling that I can't really describe in detail, but It's a feeling of JOY, & @ the same time SADNESS, because of the fact that SO MANY people are still lost. God may perhaps slow down the clock, keep speeding it up, or even STOP it? This I don't know because I'm not God. EVERYTHING is possible with God, & God has PERFECT timing. So that being said, I'll just wait for him to come. Seems to me like it MIGHT be a LOT sooner than we think? God is literally standing @ the door.. IMHO... Does anyone else feel this way? Or is it just me??
Scott P this was so encouraging to read your comment!! I love going back and reading “new first” so I can read new ones. Keep reading the Word and sharing the good news… I think all of us on the TP feel the same way too! Blessings 💛
I feel exactly the same way. It's like the crazy in the world is on warp "woke" speed and God is (maybe) using it as a very loud wake-up call to the lost people of the world.
I agree and it does feel surreal at times. GBU
STUDY OF THE CHURCHES PART 1:
This is a long post and a bit off topic, so if you aren't up for a long read, here is fair warning :) Very interesting that this was the topic of today's quick hits though. Last night, I got a wild hair in the middle of the night, as I was working late. I set aside my work for a few hours and dived into a study of the churches of Revelation Chapters 2 & 3. I thought I would share this with you and look for your perspectives and thoughts when looking at this section of scripture. I apologize if the font and transfer is funky - it looks orderly and punctuated when I type it sometimes and much different when it is posted.
I did a written, detailed study of the churches of Revelation chapters 2 & 3. I wrote down the points and addresses to each of the churches. I also wrote down my analysis, opinions, thoughts and common themes I found embedded throughout the messages to each of the churches. I will first go through the specifics of the address to each church and my observations and thoughts on each. After the 7 messages to the 7 churches, I will notate some additional notes.
1) Church of Ephesus: ***Has the most positive things said about it for a church that is commanded to repent. 5 out of the 7 churches are ultimately commanded to repent. 2 out of the churches do not receive a command to repent and also have nothing bad said about them***.
Positives: Hard work, perseverance, detest evil men.
Hate practices of Nicolaitans ***Seemed to promote sin as acceptable lifestyle and not
harmful***.
Tested and discovered false apostles.
Not grown weary.
Negatives: Only one - but a big one - Forsaken their first love.
Summary: Commanded to repent. If no repentance, He will come and remove their lampstand from its place. ***Seems to be a significant danger and demotion for the church***.
2) Church of Smyrna: ***Has nothing bad said about it. One of the 2 churches that is not commanded to repent. This appears to be the persecuted church***.
Positives: He knows their afflictions and poverty. But they are actually rich.
Summary: Don't fear the coming persecution. Prison and persecution for 10 days. Be faithful to the point of death and they will receive the Crown of Life.
3) Church of Pergamum: ***Another of the 5 churches that is commanded to repent***.
Positives: These live where satan has his throne (this is in modern day Turkey) but the church
remains faithful.
They did not renounce their faith and are true to His Name.
Negatives: Embrace the teachings of Balaam (caused them to sin by eating food sacrificed to idols
& sexual immorality).
Embrace the teachings of the Nicolaitans (Only other place noted is Ephesus) -
***Seemed to promote sin as acceptable lifestyle and not harmful***
Summary: Commanded to repent. If no repentance, He will come and fight against them with the Sword of His Mouth. *** Seems to be direct fight and danger for this church***.
4) Church of Thyatira. ***This appears to be a split church, comprised of good and bad factions, with differing directions based on their respective positions. The bad part of this church is commanded to repent, the good part is commanded to hold on until He comes***.
Positives: This appears to be for the entire church. Deeds of love, faith, perseverance, service,
increased works.
Negatives: This appears to only be for the bad portion of this church. They tolerate Jezebel and her
ways. She misleads His servants. He has given them
time to repent but they have not. He will cause those who commit adultery with her to
have a bed of intense suffering. He will also strike her children dead. ***Interestingly,
these are two of the consequences people going through the tribulation will suffer***.
Summary: The good portion of this church are noted as not holding to her teachings. They also
have not learned satan's so called deep secrets. This portion
is only commanded to Hold onto what they have until He comes. The bad portion is
commanded to repent. He also notes that by all of this,
the churches will know He searches hearts and minds and pays each according to their
deeds.
5) Church of Sardis. ***Nothing good is said about this church. It is another of the 5 churches that is commanded to repent.***
NO POSITIVES
Negatives: Dead - Wake up! Everybody says they are alive but they are dead. Strengthen what is
about to die!
Deeds are not complete.
Summary: Commanded to repent. If they do not repent, He will come as a thief in the night and they won't know when. ***This appears to be a direct reference of being left out of the rapture***.
There also does appears to be a small remnant of people in Sardis "who have not soiled
their clothes - who will walk with Him". ***They don't define the church but are a small
minority in this church.
6) Church of Philadelphia. ***Nothing bad is said about this church. It is one of the two churches who are not commanded to repent.***
Positives: They persevere though they have little strength.
Kept His Word.
Not denied His Name.
Summary: Because they have endured patiently, He will keep them from going through the tribulation. He is coming soon. Commanded to hold on to what they have so nobody will take their crown. ***This does imply a warning that you can lose your crown if you somehow don't hold on to what you have***.
7) Church of Laodicea. ***This is known as the lukewarm church, neither hot or cold. Nothing good said about this church. One of the 5 commanded to repent.***
NO POSITIVES:
Negatives: They think they are good but are very bad off in every way. Very miserable and
wretched from His perspective.
Summary: He advises them to buy refined gold, white clothes to cover their nakedness and eye salve to heal their eyes. They are commanded to Repent.
***He further notes redemptive possibility here as those He loves, he rebukes. He stands at the door and knocks. And eats with them that open the door.***
Justin. I loved reading your decryptions of the Seven Churches. My Pastor
Is preaching the Book of Revelation now , and I believe it is an eye 👁 opener for our Church members who are believers, as well as nonbelievers who attend to truly understand what the Holy Spirit is saying to the Churches as our Pastor teaches practical life styles to repent; wake up and be aware of good and evil. I pray other pastors will teach the truth and not compromise and not be afraid of what others believe or think. God help them as that blood will be on them as teachers and leaders. God will not be mocked; for whatever a man( or woman) soweth, he (or she) will reap! Great job 👏, Justin. Revelation is all about Jesus and He is giving us warnings to wake up! I’ve been a Pre-Trib believer for a long time! So blessed and thankful that we His Bride will not go thru the Tribulation; as John 14:2-3 says: In His House are many rooms He has prepared for us; and if He goes to prepare a place for us; He will come back snd take us with Him, so we will be with Him. Praise the Lord! Your explanation of these Churches is so through. You are so knowledgeable and AMAZING 😻! Love you Brother! Be blessed today and always. His Return is soon. We keep our eyes on Him and continue to read His Word and hide it in our hearts to share with others. 🙏🤩✝️👋
Thanks so much and thanks so much for taking the time to read and respond. Yes, the church leaders sure carry an extra level of responsibility. I sure am amazed how much I learn on scripture I’ve studied so many times. It sure is amazing and I love the patterns I see and discover. I love you too and pray God bless and keep you and sure appreciate your uplifting encouragement and sharing with me. God bless you today 😎😎
Love this article and sure is on a lot of our minds in the times unfolding around us. The more you read and analyze the clues and details, the harder it is to see any other way I feel. Being saved is far more important and how we live our lives and treat people and our relationship with God are critical as well. Sometimes, disagreements over these things show more of a barometer of where people are at in their walk as a whole. How they view scripture, their values, their world view.
HA! Look at this! We get a Quick Hit today too. This is awesome! Can't wait to jump in. :)
Thanks Dr. Teacher Pastor Mark! 😁