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Rapture Readiness: What We Know and How We Should Live


While Scripture teaches that no one knows the exact day or hour of the Rapture, living in Rapture readiness is essential for every believer, marked by faithful obedience and anticipation. Rather than fixating on dates, we are encouraged to focus on righteous living and steadfast hope in Christ’s promised return. 



But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. Matthew 24:36 KJV


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Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. 1 Peter 4:12-13


The Bible Teacher App explains these verses:


  1. Don't be surprised by the "fiery trial" or persecution you face as a believer (v.12)

    • The text says not to think it "strange" or unexpected when you face trials and suffering for your faith. This is not some "strange thing" that is happening to you.


  2. Rejoice in sharing in Christ's sufferings (v.13)

    • Instead of being troubled by the trials, the text says to "rejoice" because you are "partakers of Christ's sufferings."

    • As you suffer for your faith, you are sharing in the same type of persecution and hardship that Christ endured.


  3. Look forward to Christ's glory being revealed (v.13)

    • The text says that when Christ's glory is finally revealed, you will "be glad also with exceeding joy."

    • The suffering you endure now will pale in comparison to the joy you will experience when Christ returns in His full glory.


The key point is that the suffering and persecution faced by believers is not unexpected or strange. In fact, it is a sign that you are sharing in the same sufferings as Christ. Rather than being troubled by it, you can rejoice knowing that it connects you to Christ's own experience, and that it will ultimately lead to the revelation of His glory and your eternal joy.


The biblical texts emphasize that the trials are not random or meaningless, but are part of the believer's participation in Christ's own sufferings. This perspective should bring comfort and hope, not despair, to those facing persecution for their faith.



The Impact of specific prophecies about the return of Christ on the Body of Christ. 



The Impact of specific prophecies about the return of Christ on the Body of Christ. 


Informed Living and Accountability

Knowing what Scripture says about the return of Christ encourages believers to live with intention and accountability. As mentioned in a previous article, one purpose of studying Bible prophecy is to engage in knowledgeable discussions about our faith. This knowledge allows believers to align their choices with biblical teachings, fostering a lifestyle that reflects Christ’s teachings. Living in Rapture Readiness means there is an urgency for living righteously in anticipation of Christ’s return, this also encourages Christians to prioritize spiritual matters over earthly distractions.



10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. 11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, 12 Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? 2 Peter 3:10-12

Hope and Assurance Amidst Trials

Understanding the prophetic timeline offers comfort during life’s tribulations. The speaker notes, “God wants us to know the truth,” implying that when we grasp God’s plan, we can find peace amidst chaos. By recognizing that tribulations serve a purpose in God’s greater narrative, believers can approach difficulties with a hope rooted not in circumstances but in God’s sovereignty.


And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 KJV

This hope can influence daily choices, leading to faith-driven decisions that prioritize prayer, reliance on God, and encouragement to others.


Preparing for God’s Judgments

Beyond mere knowledge, awareness of God’s upcoming judgments informs believers to take warnings seriously. As highlighted, there are signs and events that signal the impending tribulations and ultimately Christ’s return. This understanding fosters a sense of urgency in living out faith—encouraging acts of service, evangelism, and deepening one’s relationship with God. For instance, if one believes that they are living at a pivotal point in history, they may be more motivated to share the Gospel or be anchored in the Faith.


Cultivating a Fear of the Lord

The passage emphasizes the necessity of developing a healthy fear of the Lord. By studying prophecies, believers can cultivate a reverent awe towards God, recognizing His authority and the weight of His promises .

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:7

This fear leads to wisdom in decision-making, ensuring that choices align with God’s desires rather than personal whims or societal pressures.



 

A Call to Action

In pursuit of understanding prophecy, consider these activities:



Conclusion: The need for growth in the Body of Christ


Finally, understanding prophecies can spur growth in the Body of Christ and fellowship. The speaker mentions the importance of discussing these topics together, which can foster shared learning and deeper understanding. The Church that embraces this knowledge can work more effectively towards shared goals of spiritual growth and evangelism, strengthening the body of Christ and increasing the unity of the faith.



24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: 25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. Hebrews 10:24-25

Embrace the journey as we delve deeper into God’s Word and the prophetic truths He has laid before us.



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Questions you may ask


How can understanding specific prophecies about the return of Christ impact our daily lives and decision-making as believers?

The key insights that individuals can gain from studying Bible prophecy and integrate into their daily decision-making and life choices are:

1. Recognizing the signs of Christ's imminent return: The Bible emphasizes that the Lord is about to execute events that will escalate us right into Bible Prophecy, and that the Lord is soon to return. This should motivate believers to be watchful, prepared, and focused on living righteously in anticipation of Christ's coming (Matthew 24:42-44 KJV, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-6 KJV).


2. Avoiding deception and false teachings: The Bible warns against the deception and erroneous prophetic teachings that have crept into the church. Individuals must discern, test the spirits, and rely on Scripture alone to interpret prophecy, rather than the opinions of scholars or ministers (2 Peter 1:20-21 KJV, 1 John 4:1 KJV).


3. Cultivating a right relationship with God: The Bible emphasizes the importance of examining one's own heart, motives, and thought life, and submitting to the will of God. This inward focus and spiritual discipline should guide individuals' daily decisions and lifestyle choices (Ephesians 4:17-24 KJV).


4. Walking in the power of the Holy Spirit: The Bible highlights the need for believers to walk in the Spirit, manifesting the fruit of the Spirit and relying on God's wisdom, rather than their own fleshly mindsets. This should shape how individuals navigate their circumstances and relationships (Galatians 5:16-25 KJV).


5. Preparing for persecution and tribulation: The Bible warns that the church will face a coming assault and tribulation. Individuals should be spiritually prepared, strengthened in their faith, and ready to endure suffering for the sake of the gospel (2 Timothy 3:12 KJV, Revelation 7:14 KJV)




Scripture serves as a guide, especially when our passions clash with the principles of humility and love that Jesus exemplified. John 13:34-35 reminds us to love one another, just as Jesus loved us. This type of love transcends personal pride and passion, encouraging us to keep our focus on others rather than our feelings or desires.


In practical situations, when we feel passionate disagreements—be it in conversations or leadership roles—we can reflect on passages that emphasize humility, such as Philippians 2:3-4, which instructs us to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit but to consider others better than ourselves.

Moreover, facing situations where our emotions threaten to overpower our spirit requires self-examination according to scriptures, such as 2 Corinthians 13:5, which encourages believers to examine themselves to ensure they are in the faith. This reflective practice allows us to identify any misplaced passion that may lead to conflict and divisiveness.


Additionally, Galatians 5:22-23 speaks about the fruits of the Spirit, including love, joy, peace, patience, and self-control. These attributes act as a buffering system, guiding our responses and helping us to manage strong feelings more effectively. When passions arise, aligning our actions with these fruits can navigate conflicts professionally and lovingly.

In essence, Scripture not only highlights Jesus’ model of love and humility but also offers practical approaches to managing our passions in a way that honors these principles, ensuring our actions remain grounded in faith and service to others. This guidance is paramount, especially for leaders who must positively influence those around them.



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