The Pre Tribulation Rapture
and
The Post Tribulation Second Coming of Christ
A Comprehensive Bible Study
Growing in Grace Ministry
Much perplexity exists today in regards to the following question: Is the rapture of the Body of Christ and the Second advent of Jesus Christ actually the same event? Many believe that they are indeed the same occurrence. Utilizing the Word of God as the guide, this study has been written to clear up this misconception. It has been stated that the pre-tribulation rapture denies the gospel. It is the intention of this study to show that the gospel indeed validates the Pre-tribulation Rapture as well as the 2nd Advent of Jesus Christ.. (But you have to be in the correct gospel)! See Distinguishing the Gospel Messages.
In order to make a distinction between these two events one must understand:
1. That God has more than one program/gospel in the scriptures and that each of the programs/gospels deals with a different group of people.
2. There is a difference between Israel's program/gospel and the Body of Christ's program/gospel.
3. The pre-tribulation rapture is for the Body of Christ and the post-tribulation 2nd Coming of Christ is for Israel.
4. Israel's covenants and promises are found in the Old Testament (Prophecy). The Body of Christ's covenants/ promises are found in the writings of the Apostle Paul (The Mystery).
Right Division of the Bible by Dispensations and Covenants
The knowledge that the Bible contains more than one gospel/program is through right division of the Word of God. This principle is found in 2 Timothy 2:15.
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
In order to utilize the principle of rightly dividing the Bible, one must understand the term dispensation. This word is only found in the epistles of Paul and used 4 times:
1 Corinthians 9:17; Ephesians 1:10; Ephesians 3:2 and Colossians 1:26
Definition -Dispensation is derived from the Greek word oikonomia (oy-kon-om-ee'-ah); and denotes an administration (of a household or estate); or specifically, a (religious) "economy": The KJV translates it as -dispensation, stewardship. A dispensation is a house rule, economy administration. To dispense also means to give out to measure out.
Therefore a dispensation is a particular program or set of instructions that God dispenses or administers for mankind's obedience during a period of time. Note, the issue is the instructions not time. Although this term is only found in the Pauline epistles, the concept is found throughout the entire bible.
Scripture teaches that: GOD DOES NOT CHANGE!
Mal 3:6- For I am the LORD, I change not and Heb 13:8- Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.
However God has dispensed (given out) different instructions of obedience throughout time, so administrative rules have changed. A new period or dispensation begins when God introduces a change in the principles or ordinances valid up to that time.
See example below of dispensations and covenants which govern it. He established a leader over each dispensation (federal head) and it is through the federal head that God issued the covenant. The covenant or contract governs each dispensation. The definition of a covenant is: a pledge, alliance, contract or agreement between two or more parties.
There are two types of covenants between man and God.
1.Unilateral or unconditional, meaning all obligations are the responsibility of God, no responsibility is placed upon mankind to effectuate the covenant.
2. Bilateral or conditional meaning mankind is required to do certain things in order to effectuate the covenant.
In each dispensation the covenant/agreement was directed to a particular group of people whom God selected (known as the elect ).
1.Adam was the federal head of both Innocence( from creation until Adam and Eve sinned) and Conscience (ended with the flood), the covenants which governed them was Edenic and Adamic. The elect in this dispensation was Adam and Eve.
2. Noah was the federal head of Human Government (from the flood until Abraham), governed by the Noahic covenant and the elect of that dispensation was Noah and his family.
3. Abraham was the federal head of Promise (ended with Moses), governed by the Abrahamic covenant and the elect of that dispensation were Abraham and the descendants of Jacob only (Israel).
4. Moses was the federal head of Law, (from Moses until revelation given to Paul) the covenant which governed this dispensation was the Mosaic covenant (the Old Covenant) again the elect was Israel.
5. Paul is the federal head of Grace, (from Paul's revelation until the rapture of the Body of Christ) the covenant which governs this dispensation is Mystery Truth and the elect of this dispensation is the Body of Christ (made up of both Gentiles and Jews).
6.Jesus is the federal head of the dispensation of the Kingdom (the thousand year millennium reign of Christ), the covenant which governs this dispensation is the Davidic covenant (the New Covenant) the elect of this dispensation are Israel and the Gentiles saved through Israel.
The table below lists examples of the dispensations, the covenant which governs the dispensation, scripture references and the elect of each dispensation.
Studying the Bible on a Time Line-God's dealings with mankind throughout time
The bible student that recognizes dispensations, is one who studies the bible on a time line or rightly divides the word of God.
Of the seven dispensations noted above. five have already passed, one is current and one is future. The bible also describes the dispensation of the fullness of times (Eph 1:10). We will not be addressing that dispensation in this study.
The bible is divided on a time line
Past Present Future
<------------------------------------------------->
Times Past But Now Ages to Come
Genesis-Mid Acts Romans-Philemon Hebrews -Revelation
See chart Bible on a 3-Fold Time Line
Ephesians chapter 2 gives clarity on God's dealings with mankind throughout time, especially His differentiating between the Gentiles and the nation of Israel. Times past addressed the past, But Now deals with current times and Ages to Come addresses the future.
Eph 2:11-19
11 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands;
12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:
13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.
14 For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;
15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;
16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:
17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.
18 For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.
19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God;
Eph 2:7
7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.
Note that Ephesians 2:11 shows the status of the Gentile in times past:
Condition of the Gentile in Times Past:
- Gentiles in the flesh called Uncircumcised.
- Without Christ.
- Aliens from the commonwealth of Israel.
- Strangers from the covenants of promise.
- Having no hope and without God in the world.
Characteristics of Time Past:
- 2 groups recognized Circumcision (Israel) and Uncircumcision ( Gentiles).
- Covenants, contracts, agreements and promises.
- Middle wall of partition up- Israel on the inside Gentiles on the outside.
The Blessings of Israel in Times Past.
Genesis chapter 12 records God's calling out of Abraham from the heathen nations for the purpose of forming the nation Israel. He preordained this nation to be great and the channel by which the earth would be blessed. Provisions for Gentiles in times past and the ages to come are through Israel's provisions Such as: circumcision, adopting the Judaism religion. Exodus 12:48). or recognized their subordinated position under Israel (Matthew 15:22-28).
According to Rom 9:4-5, Israel was in the favored position of God.
- To whom pertained the adoption,
- The glory.
- The covenants.
- The giving of the law.
- The service of God.
- The promises.
- Whose are the fathers, of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen.
The Blessings of Gentiles in But Now Conditions of those Gentiles who are in the body of Christ.
According to Ephesians 2:13-19.
- Made nigh by the blood of Christ.
- Middle wall of partition between Jew and Gentile is down. No distinction between the two.
- Reconciliation unto God, enmity removed.
- New body made up of both Jew and Gentile.
- Access by one Spirit unto the Father.
- Gentiles are no more strangers, but fellow citizens with the saints and of the household of God.
God has revealed a new agency, the body of Christ (the church), completely unknown in time past. A secret (the mystery which was hid in God) but is now made manifest. Made up of both Jews and Gentiles. (Galatians 3:28)
Eph 3:9-11
9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:
10 To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,
11 According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:
The last division is Ages to Come; Ending of the Grace Dispensation, Body of Christ enters into rewards with Christ, there is a return to Israel's prophetic program.
Eph 2:7
That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.
Return to Israel's Prophetic Program.
This will occur after the Rapture when the Body of Christ will be taken forever to be with the Lord, to reign with Him (Thessalonians 4:14-17), this is a pre-tribulation event (this topic to be covered later). The dispensation of grace (elect is the Body of Christ) is situated in between the dispensations whereby the elect is the nation Israel. In theological terms this is referred to as a parenthetical insert. The prophet Daniel was given the prophetic calendar of Israel, known as the 70 weeks of Daniel. These weeks are spoken of in Daniel 9 and refer to a period of 490 years, which applied only to Israel. The first 69 weeks have been fulfilled historically, beginning with the scattering of the ten tribes into Assyria and the captivity of the other 2 tribes into Babylon. and ending at the first advent of Christ. When the Jews prophetically rejected their Messiah, the 70 weeks were suspended and a new age or dispensation called the Mystery Grace Church age began. The last or 70th week of Daniel, consisting of the last seven years, has yet to be fulfilled. . The book of Revelation excluding the letters to the seven churches is a prophecy concerning events that will occur during the last seven years before the second coming of Christ. This 70th week is called the tribulation period. The last half of this week (the last 3.5 years) is the Great Tribulation spoken of in Dan. 9 and in the Olivet discourse (Matt. 24). This tribulation period is a time when God will pour out his wrath on the sinful world This last week will immediately precede the second coming of Christ (2 Peter 3:10)
Visualize it as such:
1st 69 weeks of Israel's program {Body of Christ} 70th week of Israel's program.
The dispensation of Grace was kept hidden from Daniel, at the close of this dispensation, The tribulation period will be ushered in with God's wrath being poured out. All the biblical prophecies will be fulfilled. Culminating with the Second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ to set up His earthly kingdom. The goal of prophecy is a literal, physical, earthly kingdom. (Daniel 2:44). The fulfillment of the promise to Abraham through the Davidic /Palestian covenant.(2 Sam 7:12-13). This is the message preached throughout the prophetic program, even the message preached during Christ's earthly life.
Matt 4:17
17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Israel was promised a Messiah. He came first as a suffering servant
(Isaiah 53,Psalm 22,) With no place to lay his head (Matt 8:20)
He came unto his own, and they received Him not. (John 1:11)
Jesus was the promised Messiah to reign over Israel (Samuel 7: 12-13:
Luke 1:31-33)
Jesus preached to Israel (Acts 2:14-36)
Israel as a whole rejected the gospel. (Acts 7)
When Israel receives the Messiah, the earth will be restored under the authority of Israel .(Rev 5:10)
During the tribulation period Israel will accept Jesus as the Messiah and repent .
(Zech 12:10: Rev 1:7)
When he returns the 2nd time He will come as reigning King. (Rev 14:14:Rev 19:11-16)
However God had a secret program (the Mystery). therefore he blinded the eyes of Israel.
Rom 11:7-8
7 What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded
8 (According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto this day.
There is a vast difference between the Prophetic program and the Grace Mystery program..
The Prophetic program was revealed to the prophets of old. The promise of a redeemer for Israel. (Acts 3:18)
18 But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled.
The first promise was made in Eden after Adam and Eve sinned.
Gen 3:15
15And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel
Gentile salvation was never a mystery or a secret. See Genesis chapter 12, God told Abraham : Gen 12:2-3
2 And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing:
3 And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.
Thus it was not a secret that Gentiles would be blessed through Israel.
However: in the Mystery program, God set aside the nation Israel. Gentiles are blessed through the fall of Israel. (Romans 11:7-11)
In this program the body of Christ their is total equality, in times past there was never total equality. Even those who converted to Judaism, could only worship on the outer courts.
Right division of the word identifies the 2 distinct programs in the bible. It also clarifies the different gospels and demonstrates that God has a plan and purpose for 2 groups : The Body of Christ revealed to the Apostle Paul through the revelation of the Mystery.
Eph 3:1-12
1 For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles,
2 If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to youward:
3 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,
4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)
5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;
6 That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:
7 Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.
8 Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;
9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:
10 To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,
11 According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:
As these verses state, this program was unknown in other ages to all except God. This plan was always in the eternal purpose of God That the Gentiles should be fellow heirs and of the same body. Partakers of his promise in Christ in the gospel.
We established that, in times past, God only dealt with Israel. There was a middle wall of partition up. However currently , or but now., God deals with both Jews and Gentiles in forming the Body of Christ. In the future period, ages to come, God will again turn unto Israel. The middle wall of partition will be up again and Gentiles will only be able to come to God through Israel.
Both times past and ages to come are under the Prophetic /Kingdom Program, where the is focus on Israel. Revealed through the scriptures and the prophets since the world began.
Acts 3:18
18 But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled.
20 And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you:
21 Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.
The period of but now is the Grace/Mystery program, with the focus on the Gentiles (who are in the Body of Christ). The mystery was revealed to the Apostle Paul , kept secret since the world began.
Rom 16:25-26
25 Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,
26 But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:
Lets take a moment to deal with what
the mystery isNT:3466 musterion (moos-tay'-ree-on); from a derivative of muo (to shut the mouth); a secret or "mystery" (through the idea of silence imposed by initiation into religious rites):
KJV-mystery,
revelation apokalupsis (ap-ok-al'-oop-sis); disclosure:
KJV-appearing, coming, lighten, manifestation, be revealed, revelation.
So what secret has God chosen to disclose or make known?
It is found in the epistles of Paul
Eph 3:3-6
3 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,
4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)
5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;
6 That the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:
Col 1:27
To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:
To fully explain this passage would take much time. In essence, God has bestowed upon the body of Christ, the riches( abundance) of the honor of Christ (the creator of all things), the hope of glory, abiding in you.
The ramifications of this passage is overwhelming. Many do not recognize who or what they are in the body of Christ Their status far out weighs Israel's position.
Israel's promises and rewards are all physical. Jesus is Emanuel for them.
Matt 1:23
23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
Jesus is the King of Israel. He is the King of Kings.
1 Tim 6:15
15Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;
NOTICE THE WORD SHALL THIS IS A TIME STAMP, WHICH DENOTES A FUTURE EVENT. Thus this passage will come to pass in the ages to come.
Rev 19:16
16 And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.
For a member of the body of Christ. Jesus is not our king.
We are a part of him.. Our position is unique, for we are in Him.
1 Cor 12:27
Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
Col 1:18
18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.
Eph 1:22-23
22 And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,
23 Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.
Eph 5:29-30
29 For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:
30 For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones
Let's take a brief look at the term
church a calling out,church-ekklesia (ek-klay-see'-ah); from a compound of NT:1537ek (ek) or ex (ex); a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds),
from, out (of place, time, or cause; literal or figurative; direct or remote):and a derivative of NT:2564;kaleo (kal-eh'-o); akin to the base of NT:2753; to "call" (properly, aloud, but used in a variety of applications, dir. or otherwise):The word church is also used in times past with the nation of Israel. Thus we know that this term crosses all dispensations lines. Israel was the called out ones in times past. However Israel is never referred to as the body of Christ.
So remember just because you see the term church it does not always refer to the body of Christ. Always watch the dispensation, program or time period. The term saint is also used in other dispensations and does not always refer to us.
Rom 8:15-20
15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.
16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
Notice the phrase in us, not to us
19 For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.
We will reign with him not under Him
Thus we see our unique position in Jesus . We cannot fathom these things with our natural minds, We must look through spiritual eyes to discern these things.
There are distinct differences between the Prophetic/Kingdom Program and the Grace/Mystery Program.
(See chart Distinguishing the Gospels)
Notice the contrast in the nature of the Kingdom.
In Prophecy
Luke 14:15
And when one of them that sat at meat with him heard these things, he said unto him, Blessed is he that shall eat bread in the kingdom of God
Literal physical in essence, can eat bread.
In the Mystery
Rom 14:17
For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
Spiritual in essence.
Different Baptisms
Kingdom/Prophecy- Repentance and Water Baptism :(Acts 2:38)
Grace/Mystery Spiritual (1 Corinthians 12:13)
Prophecy was interrupted by the Grace program. Israel set aside temporarily.
Rom 11:17-36
17 And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert graffed in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree;
18 Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee.
19 Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be graffed in.
20 Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear:
21 For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee.
22 Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.
23 And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be graffed in: for God is able to graff them in again.
24 For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert graffed contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall these, which be the natural branches, be graffed into their own olive tree?
25 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.
28 As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes.
29 For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance.
30 For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief:
31 Even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy.
32 For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all.
33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!
34 For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counseller?
35 Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again?
36 For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen.
Now let us focus on the term gospel.
NT:2098 euaggelion (yoo-ang-ghel'-ee-on); from the same as ; a good message, i.e. (the gospel:)
A gospel is good news or a good message. The word gospel is used over 100 times in the New Testament. Many are under the erroneous belief that the bible contains only one gospel.
Some of the gospels in the bible: (see Gospels chart)
The Synoptic Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke) and John are often referred to as the gospels. These books contain the earthly ministry of Jesus Christ. These books contain the Kingdom gospel to Israel." Repent the kingdom is at hand"
Certainly a good message. But to whom?
2 Tim 3:16
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
Therefore all scriptures teach either:
Doctrine- What is taught
Reproof-Bad behavior.
Correction-Straightening out things that you believe that are incorrect.
Instructions in righteousness -Instructions in the standards of God.
The word of God or the bible tells us
What God has done- Times past
What God is doing now- But Now and
What God is going to do- Ages to come.
When studying the gospels in the bible we must always utilize the principles of right division..
It is important to know what God has done in the past (for others) and what He will do in the future, but certainly what He is doing right now (for us) is of the greatest priority.
All of the gospels mentioned in the New Testament, are either
Kingdom gospel :
Good news for Israel and the Gentiles saved through them in Times Past or Ages to Come. The kingdom gospel that will be enacted in the ages to come are the ABRAHAMIC and the DAVIDIC/PALESTININE covenants being fulfilled. All pertain to earthly physical things.. This gospel was preached by Jesus Christ during his earthly ministry.
Matt 4:23
23 And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.
Matt 4:17
17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
This is the kingdom Jesus taught his disciples to pray for.
Matt 6:10
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
Rewards are future
Acts 3:19
Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;
or
Grace gospel.
Good news for the Body of Christ, which is made up of both Jews and Gentiles in the But Now. Rewards are present. We are apart of the body of Christ now
1 Cor 12:27
Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
We are reconciled to God now. We have peace with Him now.
Rom 5:11
And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the reconciliation.
NT:2643
katallage (kat-al-lag-ay'); exchange (figuratively, adjustment), i.e. restoration to (the divine) favor: KJV-atonement, reconciliation (-ing).
Eph 2:6-7
6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:
7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.
Rom 8:15-17
15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.
16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
The gospel of Salvation (deliverance from eternal damnation or separation from God) is through one of these gospels.
The bible refers to these gospels as the gospel of the circumcision and the gospel of the uncircumcision.
Gal 2:7-8
But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter;
(For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:)
Notice the wording " gospel of the" This denotes the genitive case or the showing of ownership. If this was the same gospel the wording would have been " gospel to the circumcision or gospel to the uncircumcision" Meaning it was the same message, just taken to 2 different groups. But the wording " of the" shows distinct ownership or the distinction between 2 different gospels taken to 2 different groups of people.
We have established before that Paul was the apostle to the Gentiles. Rom 11:13
13 For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office:
Note the definite article, which denotes distinction., as well as the word of .which shows possession or ownership. Paul was the apostle that belonged to the Gentiles.
As stated in Galatians 2:8 Peter was an apostle to the circumcision. This scripture gives us insight into the fact that Peter and Paul did not preach and teach the same message. Peter preached a message to the Jews. Which was a message of Repentance and Water Baptism.
NT:3340 KJV-repent metanoeo (met-an-o-eh'-o); to think differently or afterwards, i.e. reconsider (morally, feel compunction):
We will note that the Kingdom gospel is always related to things that can be identified in the natural. Meaning things pertaining to it are identifiable by the natural senses. Israel has to repent or think differently. They had entered into apostasy, turning from God. Therefore Peter urged them to: repent. The water was a type of ceremonial cleansing from idolatry.
Gentiles in the But Now are not given that commandant. The Gentiles were without God. They have nothing to think differently about. Notice the baptism that the body of Christ is identified with.
1 Cor 12:13
13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
This baptism is spiritual, it is the work of the Holy Spirit.
Peter had instructions along with the other apostles to:
Matt 28:16-20
16 Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.
17 And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted.
18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
Paul said:
1 Cor 1:17
17 For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.
This is just a brief example of the difference in gospels that Peter and Paul preached.
As previously discussed the bible contains many messages of good news or gospels.
The good news of salvation is obtained based on faith, :
In the kingdom gospel if you are Israel it is faith in addition to works
Kingdom gospel
James 2:14-26
14 What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?
15If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,
16 And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?
17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.
18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.
19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.
20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?
21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?
22 Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?
23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.
24 Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
25 Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way?
26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
Grace gospel
In the Grace program the gospel is faith without works
Titus 3:5
5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
Rom 3:27-28
27Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith.
28Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.
Rom 11:6
6And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.
Gal 2:16
Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.
Eph 2:8-9
8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
What is salvation or to be saved?
Salvation soteria (so-tay-ree'-ah); noun; rescue or safety (physically or morally): Saved sozo (sode'-zo); ; to save, i.e. deliver or protect "safe"
Thus salvation or to be saved is : the rescue, protection or deliverance from the wrath of God. Which is punishment, damnation, and eternal separation from God. (See Salvation)
The term Gospel of God , first noted in Romans is a general term that refers to the good news concerning his son Jesus Christ. It transcends dispensations, applying to both gospels. This gospel has reference to the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Examples:
Grace
Rom 15:16
16 That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost.
Kingdom
1 Peter 4:17
17 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?
Note one scripture is found in the Grace program one is found in the kingdom [program.
The basis of salvation in every age is the blood of Jesus Christ.
Rom 3:25 (Past)
25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;
past NT:4266 proginomai (prog-in'-om-ahee); from NT:4253 and NT:1096; to be already, i.e. have previously transpired: (NT:463
forbearance anoche (an-okh-ay'); from NT:430; self-restraint, i.e. tolerance:
The Old Testament saints were saved by the blood of Jesus Christ through the forbearance of God
Col 1:14 (Present)
14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:
Rev 1:5 (Future)
5 And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,
God's two programs /gospels have been identified. How will God wrap up each of these programs? This brings us to the doctrine of Eschatology . We can now address the pre Tribulation Rapture. and the post tribulation 2nd Advent of Jesus Christ. Many in error believe that there is only one event for the believers departure to heaven. As previously identified, there is more than one program in the bible. More than 1 gospel and more than one group of people God is dealing with.. The good news for Israel is not the good news for the Gentiles. There are two separate events culminating 2 separate programs.
Lets first examine the Body of Christ'. Those who are a part of the Mystery program.. Remember all things contained in the mystery were previously unknown. Therefore there was no mention of any portion of it in the Old Testament or the Synoptic gospels. The resurrection of those who have died in Christ. as we will juxtapose later could not possibly be the resurrection that will occur after the tribulation period consisting of Israel.
Body of Christ
1 Cor 15:51-57
51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,
52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.
54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.
55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?
56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.
The Body of Christ will obtain a spiritual body one that is celestial, or of the heavenly.
1 Cor 15:49
49 And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly.
1 Cor 15:44
44 It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body.
The bible does not use the term Rapture, this term has been used to describe the appearing of Jesus in the clouds and the catching away of the Body of Christ.
Our blessed hope.
Titus 2:13
Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious
appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ;epiphaneia (ep-if-an'-i-ah); a manifestation, KJV-appearing, brightness.
There is much confusion between the "Rapture" and the 2nd Coming of The Lord Jesus Christ.. The apostle Paul addresses both events in his writings to the church at Thessalonica.. In 2 Thess 2:1-4, Paul addresses a false letter written to the church there, claiming that the gathering together (Rapture) had already occurred and that the 2nd coming of Christ was at hand. He assured them, that day could not occur until:
1.There was a great falling away.
2. The man of sin, the son of perdition be revealed (.both names for the Antichrist)
Notice Paul's use of the
coming of our Lord Jesus Christ , and the epiphaneia refers to gathering together. The 2nd coming refers to the parousia (par-oo-see'-ah); from the present advent (often, return; specifically, of Christ to punish Jerusalem, or finally the wicked); (by implication) physically, aspect:KJV-coming, presence.
1 Now we beseech you, brethren, by t
he coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, (parousia)and by our gathering together unto him,(epiphaneia)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.
*Note that there is an error in translations in the KJV. The original Greek is the day of the Lord (not Christ). Special note.
Day of Christ refers to the rapture or the epiphaneia, as does the term day of redemption. Day of the Lord refers to the parousia or 2nd coming.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.
5 Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things?
6 And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time.
7 For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.
8 And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming:
9 Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,
10 And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.
11 And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:
12 That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.
The Antichrist will not be revealed until after the rapture has occurred, but before the 2nd coming of Christ.. Though the mystery of iniquity is already present, he is restrained. Paul gave them this information to reassure them that they had not missed the rapture or gathering together.
Paul also gives another comparison to the Rapture and the 2nd coming of Christ. see
1 Thess 4:14-18
14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.
15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.
16 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.18Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
caught up-
harpazo (har-pad'-zo); to sieze KJV-catch (away, up), pluck, pull, take (by force).1 Thessalonians 5:1-11
:1 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.What are t
he times and the seasons?Example
Acts 1:6-7
6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?
7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know
the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.Other bible references that refer to
a thief in the night are in reference to the 2nd coming of Christ.(parousia)Example:
2 Peter 3:10
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.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
Note the term
Day of the Lord mentioned in 1Thess 5:2 is in reference to the 2nd coming of Christ, Day of the Lord in the bible is referring to the parousia The terms day of Christ found in Phi 1:10, 2:16 and 2 Thess 2:2 refer to the gathering, appearing or the epiphaneia. Special note in Corinthians the epiphaneia is called the day of the Lord Jesus.Lets go on with examining this passage
1 Thess chapter 53 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.
Who is the they and them? It is Israel. notice the other passages in scripture that refer to travail as a woman with child.
Example
Mic 4:9-10
9 Now why dost thou cry out aloud? is there no king in thee? is thy counseller perished? for pangs have taken thee as a woman in travail.
10 Be in pain, and labour to bring forth, O daughter of Zion,
like a woman in travail: for now shalt thou go forth out of the city, and thou shalt dwell in the field,and thou shalt go even to Babylon; there shalt thou be delivered; there the LORD shall redeem thee from the hand of thine enemies.
Prophetic passage about the tribulation period
4 But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that day should overtake you as a thief.
5 Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.
Ye is a plural for you. Therefore Paul is talking to the body of Christ
6 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.
7 For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night.
Who is they or the others that sleep?
Again he is talking about Israel.
8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation.
9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,
10 Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.
11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.
In these passages, the Apostle Paul vacillates between talking about
us the Body of Christ and them Israel. He also goes between talking about the Rapture and the 2nd coming. of Christ. -2 eventsNotice in 2 Thessolonians, how the Apostle Paul talks about the Rapture and the 2nd coming in the same sentence.
2 Thess 2:1
Now we beseech you, brethren,
by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him,Paul does this again in
2 Tim 4:1
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;This verse tell us that Christ will judge both those that are alive and those who were dead, but resurrected at these judgments. One judgment for the body of Christ and one for Israel
1. Body of Christ - Judgment Seat of Christ which takes place at the
Rapture.,Romans 14:10-12, 2 Cor 5:10
2. Israel/Kingdom
His 2nd coming. John 5:28-29, Rev 20:4,A scripture that sheds light on the resurrection of the Old Testament saints is Job 14:12-13
The terms elect, saints, church often lead to confusion. There is an elect (chosen)in every dispensation. Saint (sacred one) also in every dispensation.
Church (called out ones) found in every dispensation as well. Therefore when these terms are used in reference to Christ's return, some mistakes are made.
Let's now examine the culmination of Israel's program , which is the
2nd coming of Christ. In order to understand this a thorough study of the books of Daniel. Matthew and Revelations are in order.The prophet Daniel was given a picture of the prophetic program for Israel. This is referred to as the 70 weeks of Daniel . This was the beginning of the times of the Gentiles. Luke 21:24 Dan 9 :24-27.
Luke 21:24
24 And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.
Dan 9:24-27
24 Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.
25 Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times.
26 And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined.
27 And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate. KJV
This program has nothing to do with the body of Christ. Israel is under Gentile rule. Israel is no longer the ruling nation of the earth as they were in times past.
* Note do not confuse the times of the Gentiles with the fullness of the Gentiles.
Fullness of the Gentiles refers to God's plan for the Gentiles in the body of Christ.
Rom 11:25
25 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. KJV
69 weeks of the prophetic calendar have passed. There was an unforeseen gap in the calendar. It is the Mystery / Grace program totally hid. The prophetic program was interrupted by this program. This occurred in the scriptures between Daniel 8 verses22 and 23.. Daniel saw the world powers down through to the Antichrist. From Nebuchadnezzar's Babylonian empire down to Rome's rule. Rome was in power during the first advent of Christ and according to prophecy will rule when the 2nd advent of Christ. occurs. Daniel chapter 2) King Nebuchadnezzar's great image revealed the Gentile kingdoms which would rule until the 2nd Coming of Christ.
However the Church or Body of Christ remains a mystery referred to as a parenthetical insert.. After the rapture of the body of Christ, the prophetic calendar will resume. The 70th week is the 7 year tribulation period in which the nation Israel will be chastened.. During this time the Antichrist will deceive many. (Matt 24:24).
Matt 24:24
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. KJV (the elect of Israel)
Israel will be severely persecuted Revelation( chapter 12) This period of time is also referred to Jacob's trouble described in detail in Jeremiah chapter 30. Israel which also includes the tribe of Judah, will be chastened for their iniquities and sins. After this period of chastisement , God will punish the nations that preyed on Israel and bless those who blessed her. (Matt 25:32-46 The nation Israel will then be restored back unto their rightful status before God. The end of the 70th week will be the 2nd coming of Jesus Christ down to the earth .. The wrath of God will be poured out on the earth during this time. Rev 15:&16: Revelation ch 19, Joel 3:16-20,
It will end with the triumphant 2nd coming of the Lord Jesus Christ also known as the day of the Lord.. Then Satan shall be bound for 1000 years, this is called the Millennium kingdom on earth. Israel receives the Abrahamc promise and the Davidic /Palestian covenant.
Israel's rewards are to rule the earth. Revelation 5:10, Zech 8:23
The body of Christ will reign in the heavens Ephesians 1:3, Romans 8:17
Both programs were a part of the plan and purpose of God from the foundation of the world.
Matt 25:34Then 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:
Eph 1:4According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
In conclusion in order to understand eschatology for Israel and the Body of Christ one must
It is impossible to adequately interpret the Word of God, unless it is rightly divided. Otherwise the bible will appear to contradict itself. But when the bible is
correctly divided into dispensations and covenants, it will identify the recipients for each age.
Review of Eschatology
Order of Events
1.Rapture of the Body of Christ resurrection of the dead in Christ and those alive taken to be forever with the Lord (epiphaneia . Judgment of the Body of Christ occurs at the Judgment Seat of Christ
2. 7 year Tribulation Period Time of Jacob's troubles) Reign of the Anti-Christ
3. 2nd Coming of Christ (parousia)
4.Satan bound for 1000 years Those dead of the elect of Israel from all the ages are resurrected and reign with Christ in the earthly -Millennial Kingdom
5.Satan loosed for a season deceives the nations of the earth Battles with God-Gog and Magog.
6. Fire comes down from heaven devours the nations. Satan cast into the lake of fire forever. Death and hell also cast into the lake of fire.
7. Resurrection of the non-elect from all the ages. White Throne Judgment.
8. Those not found in the book of life cast into the lake of fire (second death)
9. First heaven and earth passed away. A new heaven and new earth
10. New Jerusalem comes down from heaven.