In the modern sense of the word, a "prophet" is one who predicts. Scripturally the prophet is one who speaks for God, and so reveals His word to man; hence its essential meaning is "a teacher" or a revealer of God's word. Jesus said; "Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves." Matthew 7:15. Who are these false prophets that Jesus is warning against and how can the student know if someone is a false prophet? This study is written to those students who ask themselves this question. A prophet or teacher that would teach men's traditions as if they were speaking God's word is a false teacher. A true teacher is never careless with God's word and will be able to document their teachings scripturally. If a teaching cannot be documented in the Word of God, then it's a false teaching and those teaching falsely will be responsible for their teachings.

   This study specifically addresses our Lord's return at the seventh trump and Satan's arrival at the sixth trump, pretending to be Jesus. This study will investigate what some are teaching concerning the return of Jesus and compare those teachings to scripture. We do not judge anyone; however, we will be truly sincere and expose those teachings to the light of day. By opening, these teachings into that disinfecting light, the reader can make up their own mind and discern for themselves; are these teachers correctly translating God's word or is this theory a fabrication of men and therefore just another tradition of men.

   This study will use The Strong's Concordance and its definitions when translating the original Hebrew and Greek manuscripts into the English language. To assist the student we have incorporated the font color system in this study, as in other studies in these web pages. The words of the author will be in this font and color. All scripture and bible quotes will be in this font and color. The Strong's Concordance will be in this color and style with the literature and the quotes of the rapture theorists will be this color.

   As we begin this study, the reader must realize that we are in a spiritual war. A war, spiritually speaking, in many ways, a war against spiritual wickedness and the evilness, which prevails all around the world at this time. Look at the lawlessness that is so prevalent amongst even our leaders today. As students of God's word, you must understand we are in this spiritual battle for the very souls of God's children. So, to whom are you going to listen to; God, through His Word or man, through his traditions?

FABRICATION   OR   FACT

   In the battle of truth, it could be said that the frontline is 1 Thessalonians 4:17. This is the principal passage the rapture theorists base their theory on. The rapture theorist John F. Walvoord speaking about this passage in his article The Rapture, states: "Paul describes the scene as the Lord coming bodily from heaven to the air above the earth, and issuing a trumpet call that will be the signal for Christians who have died to be resurrected. A moment later, Christians still living will also be raptured with those who have been resurrected to meet the Lord in the air."¹ This describes their theory, which is known as "THE RAPTURE."

   ¹ References and Quotes from Tim LaHaye Prophecy Study Bible; AMG Publishers; article: "The Rapture," by John F. Walvoord, page 1152.

   The theory supposes that Christ is coming to earth "for His own,"¹ to remove the church from the world. The one single purpose of this rapture is to remove the believer from the world so as not to experience the seven years of tribulation (Daniel's seventieth week) that they claim will envelop the world after the so-called "catching up" of the church;¹ which is said to be an "imminent event,"¹ one that can occur at any moment. In this study, as students of God's word, we will look at the facts concerning the tribulation, when the dead are resurrected and the Lord coming to the air above the earth and find the truth of the matter. The rapture theorist Walvoord, in his article also states; "The rapture is never mentioned in the Old Testament," and continues with: "and was first revealed by Christ to His disciples on the last night before His crucifixion (John 14:1-3)."¹ Is this a fact? As students, we will look into these teachings and document the truth.

   ¹ References and Quotes from Tim LaHaye Prophecy Study Bible; AMG Publishers; article: "The Rapture," by John F. Walvoord, page 1152.

   According to rapture theorist Edward Hindson, in the article, The Rapture Compared to the Return of Christ, the second coming of Christ is divided into two main phases. "The Rapture" and "The Second Coming" this latter event is different from the former. In the first phase, it's said; the Lord comes to take His own (both those who have died and those who are living¹) to be with Him and "is characterized as a 'transformation' coming, in which Christ comes for His Bride and takes her to His Father's house."² In the doctrine of the rapture of the Church, it's supposedly a movement from earth to heaven and is to occur before the tribulation. In the second phase, Edward Hindson says; "He returns with His own to win the Battle of Armageddon and establish His kingdom on earth."² The glorious appearing or return of Christ is stated to be a movement from heaven to earth and is supposed to occur after the tribulation, this event is to take place over many hours as a gigantic procession of millions of saints and angels move from heaven to earth.¹ But the rapture theorists never document from where this information is translated.

   ¹ References and Quotes from Tim LaHaye Prophecy Study Bible; AMG Publishers; article: "The Rapture," by John F. Walvoord, page 1152.
   ² References and Quotes from Tim LaHaye Prophecy Study Bible; AMG Publishers; article: "The Rapture Compared to the Return of Christ" by Edward Hindson, page 1285. 

   It is evident that you know how to read, however, have you learned how to rightly divide the word of truth as required in 2 Timothy 2:15? In this study, together we will rightly divide the word of truth. The fact is that in the entire Word of God, a rapture occurring is no-where to be found. There is neither subject nor object of a rapture occurring, the word "rapture" cannot even be found in any manuscript, Greek nor Hebrew. In this study, it will be illustrated that this theory is a concoction from the imagination of men. Just like the apple tree in the midst of a garden eastward in Eden is a concoction from the imagination of men; it's just a fable and isn't actually in the Bible. Did you realize that Eve offering an apple to Adam was not biblical? Adam and Eve sinning by eating an apple never happened; it's just a tradition of men and is not found in any manuscript of the Bible.

   As you continue to read, it will become evident that there is no rapture in any passage of the Bible, and this theory is just a tradition invented by men. You too will see how the rapture theorists would have to be intentionally profaning and willingly mutilating God's holy word in order to inject their rapture theory. It will also become evident that they are in fact changing the subject of the text and replacing it with their own subject contrary to the text.

USING   THEIR   OWN   WORDS

   That being said, there are those that are being set up for deception. If the student isn't familiar with the seven trumpets mentioned in the book of Revelation, especially the chronological order of the events that happen at the sixth and the seventh trump, then they may be led right into deception. This will be discussed in detail in this study. At this point, I want you to get your bible right now, open it up, and read Revelation 22:18, 19. I want you to understand that God will judge those who add too or those, which take away from His word. Those who choose to carelessly and willingly misuse God's word are endangering their eternal soul, they're putting it in jeopardy, because God's judgment starts at the pulpit, read Jeremiah 14:15, 23:2, and 1 Peter 4:17.

   As stated in the introduction, we don't judge, Father will do the judging as was just documented, however, we will discern if a teaching is scriptural or not by using the rapture theorists own words. Therefore, it couldn't be said that their theory has been misunderstood or that their words have been misinterpreted. As we bring this information into the light, the student must understand that by pointing out that, a teaching is untruthful or that a translation is improper isn't making a judgment but discernment. Therefore, by using their own words, it will be very helpful to the reader and students discern the truth.

   While doing research for this revision of this study, I noticed the rapture theorists' talking points have mutated a bit, probably to better defend their ideology and improve their arguments. However, I find it puzzling how the same event takes place at so many different times and in so many different ways and is still perceived as the exact same event. One may think that they're describing the same event from five different viewpoints, they're not; they're all describing the very same event five different ways. How can this stand? Nevertheless, by doing this, they're trying to encompass all the different factions into the same entirety in the hope that the theory won't fragment and fall apart by infighting among all the different views, thus losing their hold on God's children who believe in their fabrication and lies. This alone should give pause to anyone listening to the teachings of the rapture theory.

FIVE   FLIGHTS   TO   CHOOSE   FROM

   According to rapture theorist Paul Benware, there are five prominent viewpoints; in his article titled The Timing of the Rapture, he gives all five: First, there is the "pretribulational rapture view, which places the rapture before the tribulation period begins." Second, concerns the timing of the rapture, the "posttribulational rapture view. Those holding to this view believe that the rapture will occur after the tribulation comes upon the world." The third is the "midtribulational rapture view, which places the rapture at the halfway point of the tribulation; or 3½ years into that period. A fourth rapture interpretation is sometimes called the partial rapture view." Those holding to this viewpoint "claim that the rapture of the church will occur before the tribulation," but not all Christians will be taken. According to this view, Benware states; "only the righteous, faithful Christians" are removed, "carnal believers will be left on earth to experience the tribulation," he states; but nowhere could I find how this is determined. The article continues: "The fifth view of the rapture is often referred to as the pre-wrath rapture view. This more recent view holds that the church is exempt from the wrath of God but limits the time of wrath to a short period of time near the end of the tribulation period, perhaps lasting only 1½ year. Supporters of this view believe that the rapture will take place about ¾ of the way through the seven-year tribulation period."¹

   ¹ References from Tim LaHaye Prophecy Study Bible; AMG Publishers; article: "The Timing of the Rapture," by Paul Benware, page 1308.

   They all believe the rapture to be a marvelous meeting in the air. The striking thing is they all use the very same verses to support each of their different theories. Together, they teach in circles to muddy the waters to the point that each can argue their own different view until even the most diligent student becomes wearied and confused. We must come out of confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33) and understand the correct sequence of events which must take place before the return of the Lord and the truth of what takes place at His return. We must "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth" 2 Timothy 2:15.

SPIRIT   OF   SLUMBER

   Rightly dividing the word of truth is the direction we take in this study. That being said, you the reader must be informed that there are those that will NOT understand the truth; "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" Romans 11:8 (also see Isaiah 29:10). If God has put a spirit of slumber on someone, nothing man does will ever change this. However, we will expose the lies and deceptions of the false teachers, ministers, pastors, and priests. Using the Sword of the Spirit "It is written," we will bring those fables, which deceive God's children into the light. Father placing the spirit of slumber on someone is one thing, but to knowingly and with forethought teach the traditions of men which are contrary to God's word is quite another.

   "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables" 2 Timothy 4:3-4. Today, due to the traditions of men this prophecy has come to pass. Still, there are others, which just do not believe in God's word. Understanding that the spirit of slumber has been placed on some, you must also realize that there are others, which can't hear the word of God, because they're not of God (John 8:47, 10:26, 1 John 4:6), there will be more on this subject below.

GENESIS   OF   THE   RAPTURE

   This being the information age, we now know without a doubt when this fable was first uttered. Research shows; Miss Margaret Macdonald, an ill young girl from Port Glasgow, Scotland in the year 1830, was the first to speak of an any-moment return of Jesus, in a fever-induced vision. The clergy caught wind of this vision and found the any-moment return very easy to teach. However, this fable really took off in the 1970's when a graduate of the Dallas Theological Seminary by the name of Hal Lindsey (Whom the professors had thoroughly indoctrinated with their pre-trib scheme of things.), made the pretribulational rapture theory enormously popular in his novels and later in movies.

OLD   TESTAMENT   WARNING   OF   THE   RAPTURE

   The theorists say the rapture isn't mentioned in the Old Testament (quoted above), but this isn't the case. It's mentioned in the Old Testament, but not in a supportive or positive manner but as a warning to false profits and false teachers. In the book of Ezekiel in the 2^nd verse of the 13^th chapter it says; "...unto them that prophesy out of their own hearts..." and is addressed to false teachers in verse 3: "Woe unto the foolish prophets, that follow their own spirit, and have seen nothing!" (that follow their own pride). God knew what His children were going to be taught thousands of years ago. The whole 13^th chapter is about how God is against false teachers, who make-up lies about what God's word says and that those lies never came from God; nor did God send those false teachers, which speak lies (verses 6-8). It's no wonder the rapture theorists say the rapture is never mentioned in the Old Testament. The rapture theorists must hate the 13^th chapter of Ezekiel because it exposes them for what they are. It exposes them even to the extent that some Bible Publishers in the reprinting of some bibles are being compelled by the rapture industry to change certain words in particular verses of the 13^th chapter. Publishers are also being compelled to change the definitions of certain words in the reprinting of Strong's concordances. This is done in order to weaken any arguments against the theory, but also to cover-up many truths, which would expose the lies and fables of men.

   In Ezekiel 13:18, Father exposes what the false profits and teachers are doing. "...Woe to the women (no gender) that sew pillows to all armholes, and make kerchiefs upon the head of every stature to hunt souls!.." The figures of speech used in this verse say so much more in the Hebrew language then is revealed from the English translation. In the critical, explanatory and suggestive notes, which are in the companion column of The Companion Bible,¹ Professor E. W. Bullinger translates these Hebrew figures of speech of this verse this way. "...sew pillows to all armholes..." = sew together coverings upon all the joints of My hands: that is to say, hide from the People the hands of Jehovah lifted up and stretched forth in judgment. "...pillows..." = covering for purposes of concealment. "...armholes..." = My hands; referring to the judgments they were to execute. "...make kerchiefs upon the head of every stature..." = make mantles to cover the heads (and therefore the eyes) of those on whom the judgments of God's hand were about to fall, lest they should see. "...kerchiefs..." = wraps that cleave close around the head. (The object being to cover the head so that God's hand may not be seen.) "...hunt..." = harry, or ensnare.

   ¹ References from The Companion Bible; Kregel Publications, by E. W. Bullinger, page 1121.

   The subject here is the deception of God's people by false prophets, and the covering and veiling in verse 18, corresponds to the daubing and coating (whitewashing) in verse 14, "So I will break down the wall that ye have daubed with untempered mortar, and bring it down to the ground, so that the foundation thereof shall be discovered..." The wall of lies that was built in verse 10, like the bricks in a wall, one built upon another; the lies, one built upon another, as others whitewash it (daub it or cover-up) with untempered mortar (falsehoods, weak alliances) that will be exposed and fall apart. If we equate the rapture theory to a wall, one of the foundations would be the any-moment doctrine, this will be exposed for the fable it is. One consequence of the any-moment doctrine is that it makes teaching easy for false pastors and teachers because they believe they will be raptured before the tribulation, they think they don't have to teach God's children nor attend to His word because they believe they're going to be gone. God will put an end to this and "WOE BE unto the pastors..." Jeremiah 23:1 "...in the latter days you shall consider (understand) it perfectly" Jeremiah 23:20.

   Why would they corrupt God's truth, for what, materiality, notoriety, fame and wealth? "And will ye pollute me among my people for handfuls of barley and for pieces of bread, to slay the souls that should not die, and to save the souls alive that should not live, by your lying to my people that hear your lies?" Ezekiel 13:19. In this and the following verse is where it really exposes the rapture theorists for what they are. God is informing them; by lying to His people, they're actually condemning the souls that shouldn't be condemned and they're not chastising those souls that should be chastised. "Wherefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I am against your pillows, wherewith ye there hunt the souls to make them fly, and I will tear them from your arms, and will let the souls go, even the souls that ye hunt to make them fly" Ezekiel 13:20. This verse is very clear; God is against those that teach His people their souls will be saved by flying away (rapture)! In the following verses, it's explained that the wicked are fortified by this lie. Teaching rapture to the sinner, the sinner won't then repent and they become brazen in their sin because they've been taught all they must do is believe and Jesus will fly them away to heaven, which is contrary to God's word. Jesus taught, "repent or perish" Luke 13:3, 5. Scripture teaches us to preach repentance for the remission of sin in Luke 24:47, Mark 6:12, Acts 2:38 and 2 Peter 3:9.

   Now that you understand the figures of speech and know the subject and object, go back and read the whole chapter again, it will only take two minutes. You do have your bible open... right? It's detrimentally important that you understand that this fable could put your soul in jeopardy. Our Father uses the figure of speech of a wall built up in Ezekiel 13:10 because; it's an analogy of how a fable is built. The many bricks used in building a wall are as the many lies used to build up a fable. As a mason would finish a wall by coating it with mortar, a fable is whitewashed with falsehoods and satanic alliances which cover-up the deceptions. In Ezekiel 13:10, they daubed the wall with untempered mortar, but untempered mortar is easily washed away by the rain thus exposing the foundation. The analogy here is the whitewash that's covering the fable will be washed away just as easily thus exposing their lies and deceptions.

   God will uncover their lies and deceptions with "...an overflowing shower in Mine anger," Ezekiel 13:13. Just as cornerstones support a wall there are cornerstones that support the rapture fable, one cornerstone is the any-moment doctrine another cornerstone supporting this wall of deception is the identification of the antichrist. If you don't understand, whom the antichrist is and if you're deceived into believing that Jesus is coming to rapture you away, then you could indeed end up worshipping the wrong Jesus, that is to say, the antichrist. You may be thinking to yourself that's impossible, but you see that's the deception. Keep reading and this will be explained.

THE   APOCALYPSE   OF   THE   ANTICHRIST

   The ilk that is pushing the rapture theory portrays the antichrist according to the traditions of men. For instance, in the article The Antichrist, by Edward Hindson, the antichrist is portrayed as, "a world leader who will negotiate a peace treaty with Israel in the Last Days." This is all conjecture it's not biblical. Hindson, also says; "the Antichrist of the apocalyptic era is coming in the future." The article makes it sound so ominous, so threatening, so foreboding. The article continues to tout that: "from the very beginning of the Christian era, believers were convinced that a world leader would come on the scene that would be the embodiment of Satan," and that: "this spirit is the anti-Christian spirit that opposes everything that is true about Jesus Christ."¹ This is just another brick in the wall (pun intended) it's not biblical! What did you imagine in your mind when you read the quote above?

   ¹ Quotes from Tim LaHaye Prophecy Study Bible; AMG Publishers; article: "The Antichrist," by Edward Hindson, page 1291.

   I assert that they are trying to get (in your mind's eye) you to imagine an evil time of butchery and war, they have no interest in uncovering the truth, but instead, in covering up the truth. How can I say this? As this study continues, we will look up the definition of some of the words that the rapture theorists are using incorrectly. This study will uncover and replace the traditions of men with the truth and document it in God's word. Therefore, when I show you that they are trying to deceive you with a wall of lies and deceit, which they have built and whitewashed, you as a child of God are able to see the truth of His beautiful word.

   The literature of the rapture theorist, Edward Hindson continues to spew fiction: "The Antichrist will be the most incredible human leader the world has ever known. He will be the epitome of human genius and power and a master of deception, empowered by the father of lies. Promising peace, he pushes the world into war."¹ The article goes on to list ten factors that will identify the antichrist (which is a deception itself), but that's not the point. The point is, if you're expecting the antichrist to be a human flesh and blood man, you're being misled and you'll miss who the antichrist is all together. Because the antichrist isn't a man born of a woman but is, in fact, Satan himself, the fallen one, the cherub that covereth, who is coming to Earth in his own angelic body, pretending to be "The Christ" who has come to rapture everyone away to heaven. The rapture is all propaganda designed to keep the truth hidden from you and to propagate their fable.

   ¹ Quotes from Tim LaHaye Prophecy Study Bible; AMG Publishers; article: "The Antichrist," by Edward Hindson, page 1291.

   For instances, the article in which the pretribulationalist allege that a world leader would come on the scene says; "this spirit is the anti-christian spirit that opposes everything that is true about Jesus Christ."¹ This is a huge lie, a major cornerstone in the wall of lies. The antichrist doesn't oppose Christ, nor does he oppose everything Christ stands for. You see the antichrist comes pretending to be the Christ! This study will document that Satan IS the antichrist. The Greek language is specific; the word an-tee' (Strong's Greek: 473) means: instead of. Satan is the "instead-of-Christ" and he comes pretending to be Jesus. In the Greek language, "anti" can only mean: opposition to in the sense that he's an opponent of the Messiah: "anti-christ" doesn't mean "against-christ" it means "instead-of-Christ." It's only in the English language that the word anti has come to mean against or opposite of. You must understand that the traditions of men make void the Word of God (Mark 7:9, 13.). As we continue, everything will become clear from God's word.

   ¹ Quotes from Tim LaHaye Prophecy Study Bible; AMG Publishers; article: "The Antichrist," by Edward Hindson, page 1291.

THE   GRAND   ILLUSION

   In most of the churches today, God's children are not being taught that Satan comes first and that he comes pretending to be the Messiah. Christians that are not given this knowledge will end up believing Satan is the Jesus that has come to rapture them away. In Revelation 12:9, Michael casts Satan and his angels out of heaven and onto the earth, "defacto" and Satan knows he has but a short time here on earth (Revelation 12:12). Satan will look like the lamb, but he's really the dragon (Revelation 13:11). Those that believe there'll be a "secret" rapture will fall right into Satan's deception. This grand illusion causes the whole world to worship the antichrist believing he's the real Christ. That's why it's imperative that you know the truth. Satan will play the part, he'll look the part and he'll perform miracles in the sight of men (Revelation 13:13-14).

   In their literature, the rapture theorists point to certain signs that make it possible for their believers to know the season of the Lord's return. David R. Reagan lists these signs, in the article The Signs of Our Lord's Return, where he muddies the water by stating: "However, when we see the signs, we can be sure that the rapture is imminent, for it will occur before the tribulation begins." The list quotes: "Signs of Nature (Matt. 24:7): famine, earthquakes, plagues, signs in heaven."¹ This is misdirection because Matthew 24:7 doesn't mention "signs" nor "heaven" (but, Luke 21:11 does). There is no mention of any "signs in heaven" in Matthew 24:7, and if you were to look up Luke 21:11, it would read: "...fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven" (emphasis added).

   ¹ References and quotes from Tim LaHaye Prophecy Study Bible; AMG Publishers; article: "The Signs of Our Lord's Return," by David R. Reagan, page 1127.

   However, they never mention Luke 21:11, why would they misquote and muddy this up. Is their scholarly work that poor? Could it be just a mistake or could it be that they're directing your attention away from the truth of Jesus' teachings in Luke 21:11: "...fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven" (emphasis added), which is in fact Satan's tribulation at his casting out from heaven and they don't want you getting that close to obtaining this knowledge. You see there is a big difference between a "sign in heaven" and a "sign from heaven." It's just something to keep in mind as we continue in this study. I have found other statements in their literature, which could mislead students unless very close attention is paid. Nevertheless, the fact remains, the tribulation is Satan cast out of heaven and into earth looking like and pretending to be Jesus.

THE   FAMINE   WILL   COME

   Scripture teaches that before Jesus' return there will be among other things, famine (Matthew 24:7, Mark 13:8, and Luke 21:11), and there certainly is famine in diverse places around the world today. However, the famine spoken of in these verses are actually sent by our heavenly Father. "Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD" Amos 8:11. The fact is, that the famine from hearing the words of the LORD is upon the land today and you must realize this. When there are men teaching fables, stories, and theories, which are not in the manuscripts. That dear one is the famine from hearing the word of the LORD. As explained above the word "rapture" isn't in the word of God that is to say, not in any manuscript.

   You must take some responsibility for what you're listening to and you should make everyone document his or her teachings from God's word. Therefore, you know if you're receiving the truth or the traditions of men. If you have teachers, which teach God's word chapter-by-chapter, verse-by-verse and can document the truth in God's word you are truly blessed. On the other hand, if you're knowingly listening to false teachers, which teach the traditions of men who have no regard to the subject and object of God's word and you stay silent, you will be responsible for your own deception and for the deception of others around you. How these deceptions work is explained in detail as this study continues.

THE   TRIBULATION  &  THE   HOUR   OF   TEMPTATION

   The pretribulationists and the midtribulationists believe hideous events will occur here on earth after their, so-called departure in the rapture but that's just not true, as a matter of fact, it couldn't be further from the truth because; the hour of temptation IS the tribulation, that is to say, they both are the same event; so then, if you understand what the hour of temptation is all about, you'll understand what the tribulation is all about and you'll go through the tribulation and not a hair on your head will be harmed (Luke 12:7, 21:18, Matthew 10:30). Those that keep themselves in the truth of God's word, God will keep them from the hour of temptation (Revelation 3:10). To understand how this can be and to expose the lies about the tribulation and the rapture theory you must stay with me...

   First, you must understand the tribulation isn't a time of butchery and war in the flesh. The pretribulationest quote some of Matthew 24:21 "...great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time..."; after quoting part of the verse the theorists allege: "Such a time will have to be worse than anything ever known in human history; far worse than the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70 (1 million casualties), then the Black Plague (9 million killed), than World War I (20 million killed), than the devastation of World War II and Hitler's holocaust (6 million Jews and at least 4 million Christians killed)."¹ The rapture theorists literature goes on to describe terrifying events that the antichrist will bring about during the tribulation, which will try the whole world, except for them, because they will already be in heaven.

   ¹ References and quotes from Tim LaHaye Prophecy Study Bible; AMG Publishers; article: "The Tribulation," by Tim LaHaye, page 1374.

SPIRITUAL   WAR

   In spite of their claims, it's quite clear everyone will be here during the tribulation and it won't be a time of war that will end all wars. What do you think the Gospel Armor is for that's mentioned in chapter six of the book of Ephesians? It is written: "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places" Ephesians 6:12. The Gospel Armor is put on for the spiritual battle that will take place in the high places, which are the places of worship. In the tribulation, we don't fight against flesh and blood, but against spiritual wickedness (Revelation 13:11), which is Satan pretending to be Messiah and the rulers of darkness, that is to say, Satan's fallen angels that are cast out of heaven with him (Revelation 12:7-9).

   God's elect looks forward to this spiritual fight, to stand against Satan; you see, the elect was chosen before the foundation of this world (Ephesians 1:4). Having predestinated them (Ephesians 1:5. Romans 8:29), not to escape by flying away but, to stand and fight "spiritually" (Ephesians 6:12). So, when that serpent (which is Satan himself playing the role of Jesus) casts from his mouth the flood of lies like water (Revelation 12:15), those having the seal of God IN their foreheads (Revelation 7:3), will take the shield of faith, knowing the truth, will quench all the fiery darts ("wicked lies") of that wicked one (Ephesians 6:16). Understand, Satan's tribulation is a "spiritual war," so there is no reason to be afraid of him or his army of fallen angels. "...If God be for us, who can be against us?" Romans 8:31. For Jesus told us: "But there shall not a hair of your head perish." Luke 21:18 (also see Luke 12:7, Matthew 10:30).

THE   LOCUST   ARMY

   "When Satan and his army of fallen angels are here; "it was commanded them that they should not hurt the grass of the earth, neither any green thing, neither any tree; but only those men which have not the seal of God in their foreheads" Revelation 9:4. These locusts came from the smoke of the bottomless pit and; "was given power, as the scorpions of the earth have power" Revelation 9:3. Do you know what this power of a scorpion is? The scorpion not having a stomach of its own will paralyze its prey using their sting-tipped tail with precision; then with a pair of heavy pincers the scorpion will draw and hold its victim close while it bites and pumps digestive juices into its prey, which will break-down the tissues even disintegrating the backbone as it sucks out the contents of its prey, thus making the victims own skin the scorpion's stomach.

   Without the seal of God in your forehead (the truth in your mind) these fallen angels will pump you so full of lies you won't have the backbone to stand against them. "And to them it was given that they should not kill them, but that they should be tormented five months: and their torment was as the torment of a scorpion, when he striketh a man" Revelation 9:5 (also see Revelation 9:10). This whole chapter describes who this army is, but you must think spiritually to understand the symbology in the 9^th chapter; verse 11 even gives the name of their king, in two languages. Once you begin to understand these fallen angels are after the soul (in worship) and can't physically harm anyone then you can understand why there's no need to fear them.

SHORTENED   TO   FIVE   MONTHS

   "And except that the LORD had shortened those days, no flesh should be saved: but for the elect's sake, whom He hath chosen, He hath shortened the days" Mark 13:20 (also see Matthew 24:22). Satan is so very skillful at deception that Father shortened the time of Satan's tribulation from seven years to five months or else no flesh would be saved (Revelation 9:5, 10). This shows just how capable Satan will be at deceiving the whole world, that is except for those which have the seal of God in their foreheads (Revelation 9:4), that is to say, the elect. The seal of God (in the forehead) is the opposite of the mark of the beast (in the forehead), more on that below. But first, we must spend some time in the thirteenth chapter of Mark (compare chapters: Matthew 24 and Luke 21) because there is so much pertinent information Father would have us know about Satan's deception (tribulation) which happens before the Lord's tribulation (the Second Advent), at His only return.

TWO   TRIBULATIONS

   Did you know there are "two tribulations"? The first tribulation is that of the false-Messiah, that is to say, Satan when he's cast out of heaven into this earth (Revelation 12:9), into this dimension, he pretends to be the Messiah; this is the subject of chapters: Mark 13, Matthew 24, and Luke 21. Jesus has "...foretold you all things" Mark 13:23, Matthew 24:25. Even warning us there will arise false Christ's and if any man tells you, Christ, is here, believe them not, Matthew 24:23-26, Mark 13:6, 13:21-22, Luke 17:23, 21:8. This is Satan's tribulation, Jesus told us as much in Mark 13:24, "But in those days, after that tribulation..." Also, read Matthew 24:29, "Immediately after the tribulation of those days...," then and only then comes the Lord's tribulation (the Second Advent at the seventh trump). It's at this time that Almighty God destroys His enemies in fierceness and wrath (Revelation 19:11-21).

   How would you define an enemy of God? I would define Father's enemies as anyone who's destroyed or anyone who's harming His creation, His children or His Word; those are whom I would consider an enemy of God. When the true Messiah returns at the Second Advent (the seventh trump) we are all changed into our spiritual bodies (1 Corinthians 15:52) to attend the marriage supper (Revelation 19:7-9), Christ then reigns with His saints (the elect) in the Millennial Kingdom for a thousand years (Revelation 20:4, 6).

   You should know that you have nothing to fear from either tribulation, that is, unless you allow yourself to be deceived by listening to the theories of men, which will lead you into worshiping the first angelic entity that comes claiming to be Jesus (this is the Beast). Knowing and understanding the seven events and how they transpire to consummate the end of this age is how one escapes this snare which comes upon the whole earth (Luke 21:35-36); as we're learning there can be no escaping this tribulation in any secret rapture. Knowing and understanding this tribulation IS the seal of God.

   As we look closely at Mark chapter 13; I must remind you; it is written: "For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ," 2 Corinthians 10:3-5.

MARK   CHAPTER   13

   ¹ "And as he went out of the temple, one of his disciples saith unto him, Master, see what manner of stones and what buildings are here!" It must have been a wondrous site indeed...

   ² "And Jesus answering said unto him, Seest thou these great buildings? there shall not be left one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down." The time will come when none of these (man-made) buildings will be here...

   ³ "And as he sat upon the mount of Olives over against the temple, Peter and James and John and Andrew asked him privately," He's teaching the four disciples privately...

   ⁴ "Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign when all these things shall be fulfilled?" How long do we have until it's all over and how will we know it's really the end?

   ⁵ "And Jesus answering them began to say, Take heed lest any man deceive you:" You watch out, not all men will be honest with you...

   ⁶ "For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many." There will be many come pretending to be and claiming the authority of Jesus and many will believe and be deceived...

   ⁷ "And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars, be ye not troubled: for such things must needs be; but the end shall not be yet." Mankind has always struggled against itself (good versus evil), so as long as those struggles exist we must realize that it has to be this way and we're not to worry because this isn't the end (also see Matthew 24:6-7, Luke 21:9-10).

   ⁸ "For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines and troubles: these are the beginnings of sorrows." Let's do some work in the Greek to better understand Jesus in this verse. In the Greek language the word: "sorrows" is: odin (Strong's Greek: 5604) and it means: a "pang" as in childbirth. The word: "kingdom" is: basileia (Strong's Greek: 932) and means: a realm, that is to say, royalty; and the word: "nation" in the Greek is: ethnos (Strong's Greek: 1484) and is translated: a tribe or a race, especially a foreign (non-Hebrew) one (by implication: Pagan), in English we use the words: ethnic peoples.

   Pagan will rise against Pagan and realm against realm (or royalty against royalty) and there will be earthquakes all around the world and famines (which Father sends as we've discussed above) and troubles which in the Greek is: tarache (Strong's Greek: 5016) and means: sedition. Jesus is saying: all of these are the beginning of birth pains (of the coming age).

   ⁹ "But take heed to yourselves: for they shall deliver you up to councils; and in the synagogues ye shall be beaten: and ye shall be brought before rulers and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them." This is why (as stated above), it's imperative you know the truth and have an understanding of the correct sequence of events in which we gather back to Yeshua. The councils spoken of in this verse are the powers, principalities, and rulers of darkness in the world at that time and the synagogues spoke of have become places which worship spiritual wickedness (as we learned above). Jesus informing them; look out, you're going to be flogged and put on trial for my sake, to testify against them: "them" refers to those of verse six that say, I am Christ, deceiving many. These are the trials spoken of in Revelation 2:10.

   ¹⁰ "And the gospel must first be published among all nations." In this age of information, these hearings (or trials) will be broadcast worldwide, fulfilling this prophecy...

   ¹¹ "But when they shall lead you, and deliver you up, take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate: but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye: for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost." When you're delivered unto these councils to testify for the beliefs you hold, you're not to worry nor even think about what to say (Matthew 10:17-20, Revelation 2:10, 3:10, Luke 12:11, 21:12-14), because the Holy Spirit will speak through you. This is what was spoken of by the prophet Joel (see Acts chapter 2), the tongue (language) which was understood by everyone and "which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist" Luke 21:15.

   ¹² "Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son; and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death." This is during the first tribulation, the apostasy after Satan has been cast out of heaven and is here on earth pretending to be Jesus. Think of it this way, let's say; you have a family who truly loves the Lord, but has been misled into believing in the rapture. Now let's say; you have one member of this family that isn't misled and doesn't believe in the rapture. Now say; because of the love this family has for this one they think has gone astray, they turn to (what they believe is) the Messiah, to plead for the soul of their beloved family member. Not realizing who it is they've actually been pleading with, they've just inadvertently betrayed their family member to death. You see, "Death" is just one of Satan's names (see Hebrews 2:14). Students of God's word have no problem understanding that death is the name of Satan in this verse. We do however have a problem with how the pretribulational rapture theorists use this verse to indoctrinate and frighten Christians into believing the pre-trib ideology, this we find excessively heinous.

   ¹³ "And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved." Because you won't worship their Christ, instead you worship the true Christ, those who have fallen victim to the falsehood will hate you, but dear one, you stay true to the end.

   ¹⁴ "But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not, (let him that readeth understand,) then let them that be in Judaea flee to the mountains:" Dr. Moffatt's Bible translates this verse: "But when you see the appalling Horror standing where he has no right to stand..." (emphasis added) and the NKJV bible translates Daniel 9:27 properly only in the column as: "desolator." The "abomination of desolation" isn't a condition it's an entity (Isaiah 14:12-15, Ezekiel 28:2, Daniel 11:36, 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4, Revelation 13:6). When this entity enters Jerusalem then you know the end is at hand (Ezekiel 28:16-18) and you want no part of him.

   ¹⁵ "And let him that is on the housetop not go down into the house, neither enter therein, to take any thing out of his house:" There won't be time to pack up and move your belongings...

   ¹⁶ "And let him that is in the field not turn back again for to take up his garment." Both this and the preceding verse give us a length of time; from Satan entering Jerusalem until the end. The idea that there isn't enough time to pack your bags or return to your home to get a garment tells us this span of time must be very short...

   ¹⁷ "But woe to them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days!" This verse confounds many none Christians (also see Luke 21:23, Matthew 24:19). First, you must understand having children is always a blessing. Why then "woe to them?" Christians understand Jesus is coming back for His virgin bride, but if Jesus should come back and find His bride (the church) already married (already worshipping a Jesus) and nursing (cherishing, supporting) a child (propagating the deception), He knows that His bride has been unfaithful. Jesus is looking for a "virgin bride" (2 Corinthians 11:2-3), so woe... to those found worshipping the instead-of-Jesus. If you're wondering to yourself how this verse can be interpreted this way. It's Simple, rightly dividing the word, the subject and object still remain: many being deceived by Satan who is pretending to be Jesus...

   ¹⁸ "And pray ye that your flight be not in the winter." Sometimes Father uses horticulture to understand His word. According to the science of horticulture in the land of Israel; different crops mature in different seasons. Such as grains in the spring, numerous fruits and vegetables in the summer with figs, olives and pomegranates maturing in the autumn or late fall. But, understand there isn't any harvest in the winter time. The Son of God will harvest His, at the time of the true harvest as opposed to the instead-of-Christ. This simply means: don't be harvested out of season...

   ¹⁹ "For in those days shall be affliction, such as was not from the beginning of the creation which God created unto this time, neither shall be." This verse is used often by pretribulational rapture theorists to frighten many; painting an ominous picture of what the tribulation will look like (discussed above). The word "affliction" used here is: thlipsis (Strong's Greek: 2347), a better translation would be: "For in those days shall be pressure, such as was not from the beginning of the creation..." this is describing the apostasy. For you deeper students, you should do a study on the Greek word: thlipsis, you'll find it fascinating to understand the type of pressure that there will be in this tribulation, that is to say, in the apostasy.

   ²⁰ "And except that the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh should be saved: but for the elect's sake, whom he hath chosen, he hath shortened the days." As discussed above, Satan is so skillful at deception, Father shortened the time from a 3½ year period (Daniel 7:25, 12:7-13) to a five-month period for the sake of the elect (Revelation 9:5, 10, also see Matthew 24:22). Yes, this could be two 2½ month periods (personally; I believe Satan will be here defacto for five months); else no flesh would be saved, but the point that must be made clear; Jesus didn't say "NO SOULS" should be saved, Jesus said: "NO FLESH" should be saved. This fact points out that everyone in the tribulation (apostasy) is still flesh; nobody has been changed into their spiritual (incorruptible) bodies (1 Corinthians 15:52) at this time. Nobody will be changed until the seventh or last trumpet, more on this subject below...

   ²¹ "And then if any man shall say to you, Lo, here is Christ; or, lo, he is there; believe him not:" Following the subject and object this verse may give some of you more than it ever has before. So, then if anyone should say to you, Jesus is here and you're still in the flesh body, then you know he's a liar or a fake (when the true Jesus comes we're all changed into the spiritual body). Now see how reading and rightly dividing God's word will give you the truth and understanding to prove the rapture theory to be a fabrication and a deceitful lie...

   ²² "For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall shew signs and wonders, to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect." You've been told how Satan is great at deception, you've also been taught about resisting his spirit (as in the first epistle of John), but you should prepare yourself for Satan coming pretending to be Jesus. Satan is a supernatural being; he'll show many signs and wonders trying to deceive the elect. "And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men" Revelation 13:13. Are you prepared for an angelic being which can make lighting to strike from the sky upon command? You must prepare yourself, both mentally and spiritually and stand against the devil with the armor of God spoken of in Ephesians; we'll be covering that subject, stay with me...

   ²³ "But take ye heed: behold, I have foretold you all things." Jesus did tell us everything, the question is, have you listened (better said: have you read?)?

   ²⁴ "But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light," The word "after" in this verse is the Greek word: meta (Strong's Greek 3326) and means: amid and denotes: accompaniment. Better translated, this verse should read: "But in those days, amid that tribulation, the sun shall be..." Jesus is describing the events of the tribulation here in this 24^th and 25^th verse, which should be read together and is in fact the sixth seal (read: Revelation 6:12-13).

   ²⁵ "And the stars of heaven shall fall, and the powers that are in heaven shall be shaken." The power structure in heaven is shaken (Isaiah 13:13, Haggai 2:6-7); after Satan is cast out he will never have power in heaven again, stay with me...

   ²⁶ "And then shall they see the Son of man coming in the clouds with great power and glory." So then will come the day of trouble (Zephaniah 1:14-15, Isaiah 22:5, Joel 2:1, 11). The day of trouble (the Second Advent) only comes after the tribulation of the antichrist (after the apostasy). Jesus is making it quite clear; His only return will be after the appearance of Satan. Therefore, in no way can there be neither an "any moment doctrine" nor any "secret rapture."

   ²⁷ "And then shall he send his angels, and shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from the uttermost part of the earth to the uttermost part of heaven." Here the four winds represent the four quarters of the earth.

   ²⁸ "Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When her branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is near:" Jesus is making it mandatory the four He is speaking with (Peter, James, John and Andrew) learn the parable of the fig tree (Matthew 24:32, Luke 21:29-30). The parable referring to Jeremiah's vision of two baskets of figs that were set before the temple of the LORD; after King, Nebuchadnezzar took Jerusalem captive and carried Judah away into Babylon. Written in Jeremiah chapter 24; one basket had very good figs, like the figs that are first ripe: and the other basket had very naughty figs, which couldn't be eaten, they were so bad. The vision Jeremiah had would foretell the events that would transpire after the return of Judah from captivity, as written in the books of Ezra-Nehemiah. The good figs represent the priests who were Levite; the naughty figs represent the Nethinim who were not Levites, but were now in the temple at Jerusalem.

   ²⁹ "So ye in like manner, when ye shall see these things come to pass, know that it is nigh, even at the doors." Understand that both the good and the bad figs returned to the land with the tribe of Judah; Jesus speaking of the parable of the fig tree (a known parable at that time: Jeremiah 25:13); He is teaching the four, just as it happened in the days of Ezra-Nehemiah, so it will happen again in the "last days," and when you see the branch has taken hold (as a fig tree is planted as a shoot) and starts to grow; know that summer (harvest time) is near. The shoot has been set out; Israel has become a Nation, this happened in May, 1948.

   Like the days of Ezra-Nehemiah there are two baskets set in the land; one basket of figs very good, but the other basket of figs very naughty; so there are Jews in the land and there are those that call themselves Jews, but do lie and are of the synagogue of Satan (Revelation 2:9, 3:9, Romans 2:17, John 8:44, Micah 3:11). This is (in part) the key of David, of course, there is more to it, but you get the idea. The parable of the fig tree generation started in 1948, so the harvest is fast approaching. Everyone should read Jeremiah, it's fascinating; you deeper students will enjoy chapter 23 it'll inform you what Father will do to the false priests and false prophets which run rampant, even today.

   ³⁰ "Verily I say unto you, that this generation shall not pass, till all these things be done." The generation which began in 1948, when Israel became a Nation (referred to now as the Generation of the Fig-Tree) will by no means perish before all these signs have taken place.

   ³¹ "Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away." Father's words are forever.

   ³² "But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father." Father's the only one that knows because He's the one in control.

   ³³ "Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is." Pay attention and pray; you don't know when the crisis will come.

   ³⁴ "For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch." The Greek word translated: "watch" used here isn't the same Greek word translated: "watch" in verse 33. The Greek word: "watch" used here would translate better as: "to keep a watch" or appoint someone to "stay awake" or "stand watch."

   ³⁵ "Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning:" Jesus, using the four times of the day would appear to instruct us; to watch continually, vigilantly without break. (Note: number 4, In Biblical Mathematics; denotes the creation or earth; worldly things.)

   ³⁶ "Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping." The word translated: "sleeping" in this verse is the Greek word: katheudo and implies a voluntarily sleep (not a falling asleep involuntarily).

   ³⁷ "And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch." Now that you hold the knowledge which is in this chapter, "Watch!"

THE   PARALLELS   OF   THE   GOSPELS   AND   REVELATION

   Studying this chapter verse-by-verse you may have discovered the same subjects are in the book of Revelation, that is if you have ever read Revelation. There are those pretribulational rapture teachers and pastors that betray their whole congregation, instructing their students they don't have to read the book of Revelation; declaring they won't understand it and why bother, they'll be gone in the rapture by then anyway. The word: "revelation" is a translation of the Greek word: apocalypse which means: "an unveiling." How can anyone be so arrogant as to assert that someone wouldn't understand a book God titled "an unveiling"? And as we're learning, the rapture theory is just a fabrication; nobody is flying away.

   We've covered some ground dissecting this theory, but we've been unable thus far, to find any rapture in God's word; in fact, we've discovered it's the rapture literature which leads many away from the truth and into deception. There is more material from God's word we must discuss; "For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints" 1 Corinthians 14:33; and we must come out of confusion; except for those which Father gave the spirit of slumber (Romans 11:8) or the spirit of deep sleep (Isaiah 29:10) they will not. It's not my goal to force anyone into believing as I do, Father gives some the spirit of slumber or deep sleep for a reason, maybe they don't have the strength to resist Satan (a cloak of innocence, if you will). This is a very serious subject, Satan will be stupendous, but always remember as it is written: "Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you." Luke 10:19.

   The seven seals are found within the thirteenth chapter of Mark. The chart below list these verses, similar verses found in the other gospels are also listed below. The events described in Mark 13 and the events of the seven seals described in Revelation are not narrated, word‑for‑word, but there can be no doubt that they are speaking of the very same events.

   We read Satan is cast out of heaven upon the opening of the sixth seal (Revelation 6:12), comparing the sounding of the sixth trumpet (Revelation 9:13) and at the pouring out of the sixth golden vial (Revelation 16:12), we find Satan is cast out in the sixth of each (that's three sixes). Understand the seals, trumpets and golden vials are all describing the events, that happen at the end of this age (The trumpets are in chronological order but the seals and golden vials are not). These events give the student of God's word the understanding of the seven events that consummate the end of this age. The opening of a seal represents the learning of (or gaining knowledge of) what the event is; a trumpet sounding represents the action of the event and the vial represents the result of that action (which is the wrath of God that is poured out). In the 6^th seal and the 6^th trumpet and the 6^th golden vial, Satan is cast out of heaven into earth defacto, into this dimension in his angelic body (Revelation 12:9).

   "Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and six." Revelation 13:18. Understanding the number 666 is the number of the man. The beast with seven heads and ten horns and upon his horns ten crowns and upon his heads the name of blasphemy (Revelation 13:1) represents a one world political system. One of the seven heads of the beast receives a deadly wound, but this deadly wound is healed (Revelation 13:3). This symbology isn't hard to understand when Father explains it Himself; the ten horns are ten kings that Satan brings with him (Revelation 17:12); the waters which the beast came out of are the peoples, multitudes, nations, and tongues (Revelation 17:15) and so it's not a multi-headed beast, but rather it's symbolic for a one world political system (the new world order). This being, which heals the deadly wound, that is to say, harmonizes the one world political system is the second beast, the one mentioned in Revelation 13:11. The beast which had two horns like a lamb but spake as a dragon. This is the king of fierce countenance that comes in peaceably and prosperously (Daniel 8:23‑25.), this is in fact, the antichrist, who we know is Satan disguised as Jesus (2 Corinthians 11:14). Not understanding who the second beast is, that makes the whole world to worship the first beast (Revelation 13:12). This is the essence of the mark of the beast.

   "And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads" Revelation 13:16. Simply put: your mind is considered to be inside your forehead and since you hold knowledge in your mind it can be said; we hold knowledge in our foreheads. Knowledge is; becoming familiar with or understanding that which can be known or learned. One can gain knowledge by reading, listening, watching or through experiences etc. Whatever it is you choose to have knowledge of, whether it is a truth, fiction, reality, fables or honesty, whatever, that's what you have knowledge of in your mind, that is to say, in your forehead. Now, if what you have inside your forehead (your mind) is the truth and you believe in it; understand then it's this knowledge and the belief in it; that is said to be the "seal of God" in your forehead (Revelation 7:3, 9:4).

   But on the other hand if there is no knowledge of the truth and the knowledge you do have and believe, isn't the truth (whether you think it is or not), even if you've never read or learned the truth, it doesn't matter whichever; there can be no belief in the truth in the absence of truth; then it is this lack of knowledge of truth that is said to be the "mark of the beast" in the forehead; it's all about the knowledge of and belief in the truth. There are many reasons why people will take the mark, but they take the mark unwittingly because of the lack of knowledge of the truth. If you believe the lies of the rapture you will receive the mark of the beast. Many will receive it because they couldn't buy or sell without it, many because they were promised peace, many because they were promised prosperity, many because they believe the antichrist to be Jesus come to rapture them away.

   You should also realize the mark of the beast in the right hand is simply the actions of your beliefs; in the world of commerce or in doing any business (right or left handed) your authority lies in your actions; for instance, the power of your signature on legal documents or the power of your promise on a handshake. The mark of the beast in the right hand presumes the lending of your authority or power to propagate the delusion that has been perpetrated on you and the whole world. To sum up: if you don't receive the seal of God in your forehead; then you have the mark of the beast (the mark of agreement in the one world system), many will receive the mark due to the lack of knowing the truth.

   Some Christians actually believe the antichrist will force the whole world into accepting some sort of microchip or numbered tattoo on their foreheads, this isn't the case. The populace is immune to that move, can you imagine an entity arriving on earth informing the whole world: "time to get in line and receive your mark"; why, he'd be laughed off of every continent on earth. You must understand the mark of the beast isn't a physical mark in any way, shape or form; it's a delusion, that is to say, it's being deluded into believing a falsehood. Those inoculated with the truth (the seal of God) are immune to this delusion (the mark of the beast) because; they know who the antichrist (Satan) is and therefore aren't tempted by him; that's how the elect escape the hour of temptation (Revelation 3:10, 2 Peter 2:9), that is to say, the tribulation (the apostasy).

   Think about those that are deluded believing in the falsehoods; just imagine, here they thought they were attending the wedding feast, the world celebrating the rapture, peace, and prosperity is the promise of the day; just to find out they were worshipping the adversary, the enemy. The embarrassment will be so great they'll cry for the mountains and rocks to fall on them to hide them because they realize what they've done and they just can't face the true Christ (Revelation 6:15-16, Isaiah 2:10, 19, Hosea 10:8). Those that didn't read God's word, but instead chose to listen to man's fables and his theories; they're mortified because they realize they've been worshipping Satan. Not only that, some have persuaded whole congregations into believing they were going to fly away, and here they thought it was their calling to shepherd Father's little ones, but instead they find they've herded Father's little ones right into the clutches of the evil one. This realization comes at the seventh trumpet.

WHERE   ARE   THE   DEAD

   After the seventh trumpet sounds and the son of perdition has been revealed; this earth age (age of flesh) is over, done, the mystery of God is finished (Revelation 10:7, 11:15), everyone is now in their breath-of-life (spiritual) bodies; "And in those days shall men seek death, and shall not find it; and shall desire to die, and death shall flee from them" Revelation 9:6. You see, death shall flee from them because they're not in the flesh any longer; and only our heavenly Father can destroy that breath-of-life (spiritual) body (Matthew 10:28). The knowledge that everyone has two bodies is a basic doctrine of Christianity, but the understanding of when one changes from the flesh body, into the spiritual body may not be so clear to some Christians. In Paul's first epistle to Corinth, this teaching is given in the fifteenth chapter and there is much on the subject. Before we go to Paul's epistle; this point must be made.

   At the beginning of this study it was explained; if you recall, the rapture theorists believe Christ is coming back twice and in two phases; supposedly in the first, the Lord comes to take His own, both the living and the dead (They claim this is the rapture). At this time it needs to be said; any theory that would hold to the idea that the dead are still here on earth and that Jesus comes here for them doesn't have the basic knowledge of the scriptures. Could this be the proof that rapture theorists don't even try to teach the basic truth of God's word? I find their scholarship wanting, which makes me wonder about their credentials. All true students of God's word know that all those which have ever lived in a flesh body, upon the death of that body their spirit is no longer here; it's certainly not in the grave, their spirit goes back to be with the Father in heaven. It is written: "Or ever the silver cord be loosed, or the golden bowl be broken, or the pitcher be broken at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern. Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it" Ecclesiastes 12:6-7. When the flesh dies it returns to dust; where it came from, and the spirit returns to He who created it.

   "And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:" Hebrews 9:27. You only have to be flesh the one time then you're judged for that one time. Our heavenly Father isn't the God of the dead, but the God of the living (Mark 12:27, Matthew 22:32). Nobody at this time has really died; not the fallen angels not even the son of perdition has died, although he's sentenced to death; at this time he's still alive. Of all the souls Father's created not one has ever died; countless souls have been born in the flesh and died in the flesh, but no one has ever died spiritually at this point in time. You must understand, at the time of conception Father Places a living soul into each embryo, after the passing of that flesh, every soul has returned alive back to Him (Read: John 3:13). Also, it is written: "Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord" 2 Corinthians 5:6-8.

YOU   HAVE   TWO   BODIES

   That being said; I don't see how the rapture theorists can even think, let alone teach that Jesus is coming back here for the dead. The scriptures have proven where those which have expired in the flesh are; and please don't listen to those that would try and persuade you into believing any trot about resurrecting the flesh from the dirt, that's just not going to happen; because we have two bodies. "There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another" 1 Corinthians 15:40. There are spiritual bodies and earthly bodies and they differ one from the other.

   You must read this whole 15^th chapter of 1 Corinthians and understand the basic teachings of Paul; he teaches about both resurrections (that of Christ and that of your body); because if you believe Christ died and resurrected then you must also believe all those who have died have also resurrected (into the spiritual body) and are with Him in heaven and if you don't, then your faith is in vain and you're still in your sins. But, the point that must be made here is that you understand that you have two bodies; one earthly and one heavenly, when you die your spirit leaves one and steps instantly into the other; in verse 40 and 41, it compares those differences.

THE   CORRUPTIBLE   MUST   PUT   ON   THE   INCORRUPTIBLE

   The flesh body is corruptible; it grows old and becomes weak, it's easily broken and gets sick at times; the spiritual body is incorruptible. "So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power:" 1 Corinthians 15:42-43. Paul is teaching how the transformation from one body to the other body happens. Upon the death of the weak corruptible flesh body; we transform immediately into a different dimension and into the incorruptible spiritual body which will never grow old, nor get sick; in verse 49, we learn the celestial bear the same image as the terrestrial. "Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption" 1 Corinthians 15:50. The earthly, corruptible, flesh body is in this dimension; and the heavenly, incorruptible, spiritual body is in another dimension, as is the kingdom of God; and that which is terrestrial can't occupy the dimension of the celestial. The next verses are taken out of context and used to support the rapture theory but used in the correct context it will, in fact, accomplish the opposite.

   "Behold, I show you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed" 1 Corinthians 15:51. Paul speaking of that certain time at the end of this earth age, in which all those that haven't yet died (sleep) will be transformed anyway into their spiritual body. "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" 1 Corinthians 15:52. The subject here is the same as in verse 50; now the element of time is introduced, the word: "last" used here is: eschatos (Strong's Greek: 2078), it translates: "final," "last," or "the farthest one out." The fact that we know there are seven trumpets that sound we may be assured this to be the sounding of the seventh or last trumpet. We have covered the events of the seventh trumpet and understand that at the sounding of the seventh trumpet it's the end of this earth age (The Second Advent); Christ has returned. "...the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised..." Here emphasizing the point Paul was making back in verses 21, 22 and 23. "...and we shall be changed." This referring to everyone remaining alive (those who haven't transformed because of death); will at that instant be transformed into their spiritual (incorruptible) bodies.

THE   MORTAL   MUST   PUT   ON   IMMORTALITY

   "For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality" 1 Corinthians 15:53. The word: "mortal" used here is: thnetos (Strong's Greek: 2349) and means: "liable to die"; and The word: "immortality" used here is: athanasia (Strong's Greek: 110) and means: "deathlessness"; so then, after the corruptible (flesh) has put on incorruption (the spiritual), then the mortal soul (liable to die soul) must put on immortality (deathlessness). Paul puts it all together in the next verse: "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" 1 Corinthians 15:54. Of course, we know this is referring to the great white throne judgment of Revelation chapter 20.

   Can you see now that Paul has been leading up to this point throughout the whole chapter? Not as the rapture theorists would have you believe he was leading up to the rapture in verse 52. It's not impossible to grasp the teachings of this 15^th chapter, but understanding what it says is contingent on reading it. With that being said; there is no evidence to base the rapture theory upon; not in any of these teachings, none what so ever. Please continue to read the rest of the chapter, you'll read of the end of death (also Revelation 20:14), that is to say; there shall be no more death (also Revelation 21:4) and you will know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.

   The scholarship of the rapture theorists come into question again, using: 1 Corinthians 15:51-52 as proof of the rapture is beyond rational thinking. Let me make my point, here is a quote from their literature; "First Corinthians 15 reveals more about the Rapture, saying that the human bodies of both those who have died and those who are living will be transformed instantly into bodies suited for heaven (15:51-52)."¹ Obviously the pretribulationists are preying on a few chosen words in these verses to propagandize their flying away theory; because nowhere could I find an explanation for their statement. The rapture theorists don't use common sense in rightly dividing the word of God; instead choosing to fabricate fables which will lead many away from the truth and into deception.

   ¹ Quote from Tim LaHaye Prophecy Study Bible; AMG Publishers; article: "The Rapture," by John F. Walvoord, page 1152.

PROPAGANDA

   As discussed above; the seventh trumpet sounding is the signal this earth age is finished; so their theory of the rapture happening at this point in time doesn't hold up to scrutiny, the fable they've manufactured doesn't agree with what God's word actually says. How could it possibly be; a scholar of the bible while reading the words "last trump" but, in their mind seeing: "rapture." It's puzzling how any scholar that is worth his salt can read of a rapture in any passage of the Scriptures, whether it be 1 Corinthians 15:52 or any other verse; when it's so obvious that this verse doesn't refer to any rapture; whether you're using the rules of the English language or that of the Greek language, the rules for reading the subject and object will not allow the meaning to be switched. People are becoming ignorant of God's word because they're not reading God's word for themselves; they're certainly not being taught the truth; clearly they're listening to those teachers, ministers, pastors, and priests that are teaching the traditions of men and their propaganda of an "easy way out," that is to say, the rapture (2 Timothy 4:3-4).

   Back when I was a freshman in High School we were very fortunate to have a great speech teacher; Mr. Koeneke, all the students liked Mr. Koeneke and looked forward to his class, nobody ever skipped that hour of school. Everyone enjoyed the way Mr. Koeneke taught us about propaganda; he taught us what propaganda is, how it's used and most importantly how to recognize it. Whenever I read the rapture theorists literature, my mind keeps going back to the days in Mr. Koeneke's classroom; I keep thinking of how the rapture theorists literature give references to many verses but quote only a few particular words in those verses and they never explain how they arrived at any of their conclusions. That's how propaganda works, never proving their theories a rapture theorist need only insert their own subject and object into scriptures which contain particular words so together they will support the rapture view. Sadly another symptom of propaganda is, those under its spell are relying upon their teachers, ministers, pastors, and priests to teach them how to read the truth from the scriptures, but those very same teachers, ministers, pastors, and priests are relying upon the people to remain ignorant of the scriptures to propagate the delusion.

   Could it be arrogance; could it be ego; could the rapture theorists think they know better how to turn Father's children away from sin and back to Him? Here is another quote by John F. Walvoord from his article The Rapture. "The imminent nature of the Rapture not only confronts individuals with the challenge to receive Christ before it is too late; it also challenges Christians to live with eternal values in view. Since the Rapture can occur at any moment and believers' lives on earth will thus be cut short, we need to maximize our commitment to Christ, doing all we can for the Lord in upright living and service to Him and others."¹ You see how one could come to the conclusion they're changing scripture intentionally; you'd think with all of their combined education the premises that they're changing scripture would be known among a few of them. Their scholarship has been brought into question more than a few times in this study, but what if it were not a failure in scholarship; these are very educated men and women they brag on their credentials, some of them hold more than one degree some more than two; most are educators themselves. You can see the point I'm trying to make: if these very educated scholars will not read scripture according to the rules of reading at Grade-school level; it just may be that they're depending on the logic of their argument or the neatness of their retort or the smartness of their repartee or the cleverness of their answers to turn the children back to the Father.

   ¹ Quote from Tim LaHaye Prophecy Study Bible; AMG Publishers; article: "The Rapture," by John F. Walvoord, page 1152.

TWO   FATHERS

   It's important that you have your Bible opened and be following along; if not, open it now and read Matthew 7:15, through 7:23; we'll be referring to those verses below, but it'll be to your advantage to have them in the forefront of your mind as we continue. Did you know there are two fathers, had you ever heard or read of this before? Read the last two verses of the Old Testament, it is written: "Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse." Malachi 4:5-6. The word: "fathers" used in verse six is: ab (Strong's Hebrew: 1 ) and is plural both times. So you must understand there are "two fathers"; the word: "children" in verse six is: ben (Strong's Hebrew: 1121 ) and means: a son (as a builder of the family name). The verse indicating these specific offspring will turn "their hearts" to their own specific father as the fathers will turn "their hearts" to their own specific offspring.

   In the book of Revelation chapters, two and three Jesus found no fault with only two of the seven churches "Smyrna" and "Philadelphia." These two are the only churches that were teaching about those who are lying and claiming to be Jews and are not but are of the synagogue of Satan. These churches were teaching about the key of David, that is to say, tracing the lineage of King David and the seed line of Cain, which is to say, the Kenite. You see there's a controversy between our heavenly Father and the father of the Kenites. There's always been a controversy between Father and Satan, which is what these churches were teaching.

   Some Christians believe division to be improper, but you must realize it's all about division; what does God's word say? "Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division:" Luke 12:51 (also read Matthew 10:34). Dividing the sheep from the goats (Matthew 25:32); He separates the sheep to His right hand the goats to His left (Matthew 25:33). That's why one should stay on the right side, not the left. Jesus said: "Cast the net on the right side of the ship..." John 21:6. There's no profit in life from the left, but living on the right side you'll profit much in life (Ecclesiastes 10:2). We're taught the wheat is separated from the chaff, the wheat to His garner, but the chaff will burn with an unquenchable fire (Luke 3:17). An unquenchable fire is an all-consuming fire; students of God's word know this "For our God is a consuming fire" Hebrews 12:29.

EVIDENCE

   Even though rapture theorists insist that there are passages in scripture, which contain the rapture within them, there's no demonstrative evidence supporting their theory. Whenever passages, which purportedly show the existence of the rapture, are closely examined, their theory becomes fruitless and nonexistent. Moreover, comparing their doctrine to the actual subject, which is being discussed in a passage, their theory is proven extrinsic. Theory cannot change the subject or the object, which is set and written in the manuscripts. There's no documentary or direct evidence what so ever, in any passage of the bible that could prove the rapture anything more than a fabrication from the imagination of men (Imagined first in 1830 by an ill young girl as documented above.).

   At the opening of this study, I claimed that in the battle of truth the frontline is, 1 Thessalonians 4:17. This is the passage where rapture theorists believe the rapture occurs. If this is true, then by simply reading this verse even a preponderance of the evidence of a rapture will speak for itself. If we allow the Word of God to speak from within itself and only regard to what the subject and object teach us, NOT allowing the traditions of men to slip in. If this can be done and we let God's word speak for itself, it will speak more loudly and more effectively for itself, than any man can speak on its behalf.

   You should understand everything the rapture theorists represent revolves around this one verse, both their theory and their entire ideology rest upon the belief that a rapture is occurring in this verse. Therefore, don't expect the rapture theorists to concede or to be persuaded by any evidence because that would speak to their failure. Nevertheless, the student of God's word will always follow the truth and not the traditions of men. So, to understand the truth in 1 Thessalonians 4:17 we must begin reading in the 13^th verse, where we will find the subject; where are the dead that Jesus brings with Him.

1^ST THESSALONIANS   4:13-18

   ¹³ "But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. 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. ¹⁸ Wherefore comfort one another with these words."

   Reading those verses, I didn't read of any rapture; there's certainly not any subject or object of a rapture written in those verses. Did you read anywhere in those verses in which some are left behind, while others are taken to heaven? I didn't. Did you read anywhere in those verses in which unbelievers must remain and experience the tribulation, but believers escape the tribulation by flying away? I didn't.

   Remember when reading you must only regard to what the subject and object actually teach in the verse, not allowing the traditions of men to slip into your mind. At times, this can be very hard, because as you read you can hear their words ringing in your mind. This is because you've heard them inject the same lie into those verses time after time, so now whenever you read those verses to yourself, you hear their lies ring in your mind (this is called brainwashing). This is why they add their rapture theory every time particular words come up or certain verses are read. It's to develop a behavior pattern or a conditioned response (or reflex) every time certain verses or words are heard or read.

PARTICULAR   WORDS   MEAN   RAPTURE ?

   Verse 17, of 1 Thessalonians chapter 4, does have some of those very particular words (you were warned about above) which the pretribulation rapture theorists just love to quote all the time in their literature, such as: "caught up," "clouds," "meet" and "in the air." The rapture theorists must take these words out of context in order to build their doctrine of rapture but, if you knew the proper context of the words in question, then their propaganda couldn't nor could any man deceive you by any means.

   Let's take a look at some of these words and then you go back and read the verses in question again. Understand there are words in the English language which change meaning quickly depending on how they're used. Take for instance; the other day I was supposed to have lunch with an old friend, but he got caught up in a meeting at work and had to cancel our lunch date, yet his feet are still firmly upon the earth; my point is, sometimes "up" doesn't mean the opposite of down.

FIGURES   OF   SPEECH

   Paul used figures of speech at times to get his point across, for instance; a multitude of locusts are referred to as a cloud of locusts; a multitude of people forming a cloud-like mass can also be referred to as a cloud. Paul actually used this idiom in Hebrews 12:1; "...with so great a cloud of witnesses..." so, as Paul wasn't referring to a body of fine water droplets in the atmosphere, in Hebrews 12, he's also not referring to a body of fine water droplets in the atmosphere in the 17^th verse of 1 Thessalonians chapter 4.

BREATH   OF   LIFE

   Do you know when man became a living soul? "And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul" Genesis 2:7. This: "breath of life," is the Hebrew word: neshamah, (Strong's Hebrew: 5397), it means: "a puff," that is, "wind" or the "intellect." This is what Paul was speaking of when he used the Greek word: "aer" (Strong's Greek: 109) in that 17^th verse and it means: "to breath unconsciously," that is to say, "respire" translated into English as "air," but it doesn't and cannot mean atmosphere; it's referring to the breath of life body or the spiritual body, that is to say, your celestial body.

RIGHTLY   DIVIDE   THE   WORD

   Before you read those verses again you should understand what the subject is and rightly divide the word according to that subject. Paul is teaching them about where the dead are (they, which are asleep). Paul doesn't want them (or us) to be ignorant as the heathen are. Heathen don't believe Jesus rose from the dead. But, if you believe Jesus rose from the dead then you must also believe all those, which are no longer alive in the flesh, have risen also and are now with Jesus in heaven (as discussed above), and its these souls that are referred to in verse 14, which will return with Him. That's why at the seventh trump the dead rise first because they're already with Jesus. This explains why those which are alive and remain shall not prevent (precede) them which are asleep (them which the flesh body has died) because all of the souls of those which have died believing in Jesus are already with Him in heaven in their spiritual bodies.

   Paul wants us to comfort one another with this knowledge, knowing our loved ones are in heaven with Jesus, not asleep in a grave and that we'll see them at the seventh trump. Paul taught about this in 1 Corinthians chapter 15; we've covered it earlier in this study (above). Now read those verses again from your bible, use your Strong's Concordance you may find it helpful. Pray to keep the traditions of men from ringing in your mind and to let God's truth come through the pages. Rightly dividing the word will prove the rapture theory to be a false doctrine.

   Very soon after Paul's first epistle to the church at Thessalonica, he sent another epistle. We know this second epistle closely followed the first one because; Paul was still at Corinth with both Silas and Timothy. Apparently, Paul's first epistle confused some, so the second epistle was called forth and sent very quickly in order to repair any confusion the first epistle may have caused. In Paul's second epistle we have careful statements in plain terms of events that were in the future and not having yet taken place are future still (at the time of the writing of this study). The prophecy is given in such language that even the simplest reader may understand. This second epistle would specifically mention Paul's first epistle in verse two; Paul didn't want them to be shaken in mind or be troubled by his first letter, that the day of Christ is at hand.

THE   2^ND  EPISTLE   MAKES   IT   CLEAR

   So than this second epistle to the Thessalonians puts an end to any confusion that anyone may have had over Paul's first epistle. The Holy Spirit through Paul gives important details connected with the coming of our Lord and the day of the Lord and the warning in which that day wouldn't come unless a falling away comes first (a warning much needed today) and the important prophecy regarding the man of sin (man of lawlessness). Before we continue in this study it must be understood that the Greek language utilizes a transitive verb. Simply put, a transitive verb means one cannot change the verb that has already been established; one must transfer the power of the definition to that which is being discussed. Keep this in mind as we move forward.

2^ND THESSALONIANS   2:1-12

   ¹ "Now We beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him," Paul stating we must have a serious discussion with you about how our Lord Jesus Christ comes and how we're going to gather back to Him; this is how it's going to happen, that's the subject.

   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." Don't allow any evil spirit, or any preacher man or even our first letter (1 Thessalonians) I wrote to you neither deceive nor confuse you. Don't think it's going to happen at any moment because it's not. The "day of Christ" in this verse is in fact: the day of the LORD of Old Testament prophecy (see Isaiah 2:12). The prophecy must be fulfilled first, that's what Paul is saying.

   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, showing himself that he is God." Paul explicitly stating, in which, that day will not come, except a falling away come first. The words: "a falling away" is one Greek word: "apostasia" (Strong's Greek: 646); in English: "apostasy." The apostasy will be a defection from (or a forsaking of) one's faith in mass; Paul continuing states, the son of perdition must also be revealed first. There is only one son of perdition and as we know perdition means: "damnation" and "ruin" (a complete and irreparable loss of the soul). There's only one entity that fits that description and you know that's Satan (Satan being the subject now). In Ezekiel chapter 28, God sentenced Satan to death, that is to say, the death of the soul. Paul is clearly specifying Christ isn't coming here until "the apostasy" and Satan (the son of perdition), the one going into Perdition comes here first and sits on Mt. Zion, in the Temple of God, claiming to be Jesus (claiming to be God himself), is revealed first.

   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." Paul reminding them they know all this. The word: "withholdeth" in verse six is: katecho (Strong's Greek: 2722) and means: "hold fast"; "ye know what withholdeth" (holds [him] fast) that he (Satan) might be revealed in his time (season). The word: "iniquity" in verse seven is: anomia (Strong's Greek: 458) and means: "lawlessness"; "doth already work" (is already active). The next part of the verse confuses some, but in the Greek, it's straightforward; the word: "letteth" is also the Greek word: katecho (Strong's Greek: 2722), "only he who now letteth" (only he who now holdeth fast). Remember the subject is still Satan and "Letteth" is a transitive verb; so, the power of the definition transfers to it (letteth). It's Satan, who holdeth fast to something, he holdeth fast to his position in heaven; until, as we read in Revelation 12:7-9, Michael and his Angels cast him and his Angels out of heaven into the earth.

   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:" The word: "Wicked" is: anomos (Strong's Greek: 459) and is the "lawless one"; the spirit of His mouth is the Word of God (the sword of the Spirit; Ephesians 6:17) and is quick and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12).

   ⁹ "Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders," This is the lawless one in his role as the false prophet who lie's so wonderfully with all the signs of Satan's angelic power.

   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." The deception of the lawless one misleads those that perish, that is to say, those that don't love nor even care enough about the truth to make the effort and find out if they're really receiving the truth of salvation from the written word; instead they've chosen to believe the theories of men and listen to his traditions.

   ¹¹ "And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:" Because they don't care enough about God to seek out His true salvation, He will bolster the deception. The fact of this passage occurring here should speak to us of the love that Father has for His children. Almost two thousand years before the fact, Father would have these words of warning on this subject spelled out just for us and the fact that the lie of the rapture is so prevalent in the world today is proof God's word is true.

   ¹² "That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness." Those who love man's word over God's word will be made to give an account for their work (Revelation 20:12, 22:12). You must understand the correct sequence of events in which we gather back to our Lord at the seventh trump; it's so important to know the truth about the rapture. There are many scriptures that should be studied to bring one to an even better understanding, in this study we've embraced just a few, so you should seek out a good Bible teacher that will teach you all of the scriptures, line-by-line, and chapter-by-chapter. For instance: Enoch and Elijah, they were taken (I believe Moses was also), but they were taken in a very specific manner, so there's no way this can be proof of the rapture. Our Heavenly Father's word makes it very clear what happened to Enoch and Elijah and informs us exactly how Jesus ascended into heaven and exactly how He'll return (Acts 1:9-11).

MATTHEW   7:15-23

   ¹⁵  "Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.  ¹⁶ Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?  ¹⁷ Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.  ¹⁸ A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.  ¹⁹ Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.  ²⁰ Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.  ²¹ Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.  ²² Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?  ²³ And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity."

BECOME   A   FRUIT   INSPECTOR

   Who are these which say they have prophesied in the name of Jesus? Who are these that say they have cast out devils and have done many wonderful works in the name of Jesus? Who are these wolves that come in sheep's clothing? Jesus called them false prophets and told us to beware of them, so who are they? Jesus told us we will know them by their fruits; understand that fruit is the product of maturity, something which has come to full development will produce fruit; here Jesus is teaching us which produce or fruit we should look for and find, so it's up to us to do the inspecting.

   A prophet is a teacher and to prophesy means to teach or preach, but not everyone that says they preach God's word is actually teaching God's truth and so it's up to you to protect yourself (and your family if you're the head of the household) from these ravenous wolves, these false prophets, that is to say, false teachers. As the scriptures so elegantly bring to light; if anyone tells you their fruit is good, that is to say, their teachings are truth, but upon inspection you find the fruit isn't as promised then you'll know for a fact their tree is evil; because Jesus said: "A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit." Matthew 7:18. It would be even worse if you didn't make any effort to protect yourself from false teachers. By now you should've been able to answer the question from the last paragraph (who are they?) and the answer is, of course, liars.

   A student of the word would never (without dispute) allow anyone to declare; the interpretation of a passage is only open to a few or a subject is secret and its interpretation is only known to the leaders of their church (in some churches the leaders won't even give their names nor their numbers; so they can't be asked any questions; because you don't know who they are or how many of them there are), but I digress. A student of God's word would dispute their lies; because it is written: "Knowing this first, that no prophecy of scripture is of any private interpretation." 2 Peter 1:20. So then, if any teacher should teach the interpretation of a verse is thus; if it's the truth, then students of God's word should also be able to interpret it thusly, for instance, the rapture theorists literature says: (speaking of the rapture) "...and was first revealed by Christ to His disciples on the last night before His crucifixion (John 14:1-3)."¹ Searching their literature, I couldn't find how it was revealed or any explanation for their statement nor how they arrived at their conclusion (again). So, let's do a little inspection!

   ¹ Quote from Tim LaHaye Prophecy Study Bible; AMG Publishers; article: "The Rapture," by John F. Walvoord, page 1152.

JOHN   14:1-3

   If rapture theorists are real bible teachers and are truly teaching the word of God; then the rapture will be revealed (in these three verses) just as their literature declares. John 14:1 "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.  ² In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.  ³ And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." I think the rapture theorists are lying to us once again; I didn't learn of any rapture in those verses; did you? Again, the rapture theorists make a statement and the statement turns out to be false. But, let's take a closer look at these verses and find the interpretation.

A   CLOSER   LOOK  &  THE   INTERPRETATION

   John 14:1 "Let not your heart be troubled..." do not worry (Jesus would repeat this in verse 27) "...ye believe in God, believe also in me." Here in this first verse Jesus is revealing a truth and will complete the teaching in the 9^th verse; continuing to the next verse. ² In my Father's house are many mansions..." the translators of the original 1611 bible should've done a better job translating this verse from the Greek manuscripts, but with a Strong's everyone can understand the interpretation. The word: "house" is oikia (Strong's Greek: 3614) and can mean: "an abode," but the implication is: "a family"; the word: "many" is polus (Strong's Greek: 4183) and means: "much"; the word: "mansions" is mone (Strong's Greek: 3438) and means: "a staying" (the act or the place), this Greek word is only used here and in verse 23, of this same chapter and comes from the primary verb: meno (Strong's Greek: 3306) which means: "to stay." Utilizing the Strong's Concordance we may accomplish the interpretation as In my Father's family there is room for all... Doctor Lamsa interprets this as A kingdom for all races and peoples. But, I still don't see the rapture, let's continue.

   In the manuscripts there are no punctuations or separations by chapters and verses; at times the punctuation can confuse the reader, such is the case here (speaking of the second part of verse 2). The 1611 edition has a colon after "you," but most current editions have a period (full stop). "...if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you." But why would He have told them about it if it were not so? The whole statement seems so unimportant, so illogical. But, if we punctuate it as a question, and take out the full stop after "you" the verse begins to make sense and our understanding is more insightful, the Greek manuscripts support this translation as well as the subject; which gives us confirmation of what He said: "In my Father's family there is room for all: if it were not so, would I have told you I go to prepare a place for you?" Anyone can find this interpretation Utilizing the Strong's Concordance and a KJV Bible (check me out), but I still don't see the rapture...

   Let's move on to the third verse. There are many different bibles and each version translates this verse a little differently from one another. There are versions which translate the word "receive" as "take" in this third verse; this is unacceptable and unsupported by the manuscripts. The Greek word is: "Paralambano" (Strong's Greek: 3880) and means: to "receive near," that is to say, "associate with" oneself; and shouldn't be translated as "take." Students which have The Companion Bible by Doctor Bullinger will have in the critical, explanatory and suggestive notes (most of) the correct Greek translation of verse three. "And if I go and prepare a place for you, again I am comming, and I will associate you unto myself in order that where I am ye also may be." This interpretation is open to everyone by doing the work in the Greek as we've just done (clearly achievable with a Strong's Concordance) and easily understood by taking into consideration that Christ has told them; He would rise in three days (John 2:19, Luke 24:46, Acts 10:40, 1 Corinthians 15:4). That when He said: "I go and prepare a place," you do understand the different dimensions of heaven and earth; and understand (He's saying) He'll be sending the Holy Spirit back to them (Acts 1:8, Luke 24:49) and He's going to preach (salvation) to the souls in prison (1 Peter 3:19). Then you can begin to understand this verse; for a little more help understanding read: verses 24, 25, and 26 of chapter 17 (Chapter 17, is called the Lord's Prayer), in this book of John. But still, I see no rapture.

   Using a Strong's Concordance you can take the scriptures back into the languages of the manuscripts and read the definition of every word for yourself, that's called translating; you now know how to translate. With that knowledge comes power, the power to translate scripture for yourself; so now, if you should have any trouble with the English translation of the Bible, you don't have to rely on any man to give you the meaning of a word, you can take the English back into the languages and find the definition of any word you're having trouble with and glean the meaning for yourself. The LORD, Jesus Christ gave you power over all your enemies (Luke 10:19), use that power and knowledge don't let some false teacher, minister, pastor or priest (that teach traditions of men) deceive you. Should anyone give you their interpretation, you scrutinize that interpretation to see if they've given you the truth (as God intended you to have: Matthew 11:25, Luke 10:21).

RECONCILING   THE   TRUTH

   The rapture theorists teach: "the rapture must occur before the tribulation" ¹ and the "tribulation would end immediately prior to His return to this earth" ² and (as quoted above: they believe) the tribulation will be this great terrifying time of wars and commotions. Now, there seems to be a big contradiction here; Jesus, in the scriptures informs us that as long as there is nation against nation, kingdom against kingdom, wars, and commotions, it's not yet the end (Mark 13:7, Matthew 24:6-7, Luke 21:9-10); and it's understood Jesus doesn't return until the end of this earth age; then the end can't be this great terrifying time of wars and commotions; how does one reconcile this? By reading and studying for yourself, rightly dividing the word of truth; not just sitting there listening to the profane babbling of men and their theories of fly-away which just increases ungodliness (2 Timothy 2:15-16).

   ¹ References from Tim LaHaye Prophecy Study Bible; AMG Publishers; article: "The Rapture," by John F. Walvoord, page 1152.
   ² References from Tim LaHaye Prophecy Study Bible; AMG Publishers; article: "The Tribulation," by Tim LaHaye, page 1374.

   Let's get (as my mentor used to say) down to where the rubber meets the road; we know at the 6^th seal, the 6^th golden vial, and the 6^th trumpet, Michael casts Satan and his angels out of heaven and onto the earth, "defacto" into this dimension in their angelic bodies (Revelation 12:9) and Satan knows he has but a short time here on earth (Revelation 12:12), and he'll look like the lamb, but he's really the dragon (Revelation 13:11). From scripture, we also read the antichrist comes in peacefully and prosperously (Daniel 8:24-25, 11:21, 24).

   From scripture we read what the tribulation will look like, in Matthew 24:36-39 and Luke 17:26-30, we read it'll be like the days of Noah; "They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage..." Luke 17:27. The whole world will be rejoicing in song and celebration giving and taking in marriage, the whole world will be caught up in worship to the instead-of-Jesus (antichrist), which they think is the Messiah come to rapture them away. Sounds very festive like a revival, but what is being described here is the great apostasy; the falling away spoken of in 2 Thessalonians 2:3 which must happen before Jesus' return (2 Thessalonians 2:2).

   According to 2 Corinthians 11:14 "for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light," the word; "transformed" used here is; metaschematizo (Strong's Greek 3345), it means: "disguise," Satan is disguised as the angel of light, he's pretending to be Jesus, but what of his fallen angels that come with him? "For this cause ought the woman to have power on her head because of the angels" 1 Corinthians 11:10 (also verse 15). Because of the angels, all women should have the protection of Christ over them; because of what angels?

   The fallen angels which come with Satan (Revelation 12:9), as they did in Genesis 6:2-4, they're coming again for the daughters of man and they'll also disguise themselves; as ministers of righteousness: "Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness..." 2 Corinthians 11:15; the word: "transformed" used here is also the word: metaschematizo and means: "disguise." Imagine what a time it'll be, one which was never before, neither shall ever be again (Mark 13:19).

   The scriptures inform us; "Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh" Matthew 24:44 (also see Matthew 24:42, 25:13, Mark 13:33, 35, 36, 37, Luke 12:40, Revelation 3:3). If the Son of man comes at a time when they least expect Him; exactly when would that be? It'll be when they think He's already here; now that's when anyone would least expect Jesus to return; when they believe they're already worshipping Him. But, because they've listened to the stories of men and didn't read or study the truth, they aren't able to see they're worshipping the instead-of-Jesus; they've been brainwashed into believing Jesus comes back twice, so they end up worshipping the first angelic being that claims to be Jesus, whom they've been taught would come to rapture them away.

   Understand this will be a global celebration of peace and safety, just like an old-fashion tent revival. Instead of (as the rapture theorists teach) an ominous time of butchery and war; there will be revivals, celebrations and wedding festivals all around the whole world, but as a student of God's word you know; it is written: "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" 1 Thessalonians 5:3 (also see Isaiah 13:6-9). With that being said, can we understand the time and events surrounding Jesus' return? Yes! Jesus said that as long as there is nation against nation, kingdom against kingdom, wars, and commotions, it's not yet the end (Mark 13:7, Matthew 24:6-7, Luke 21:9-10). The rapture theorists literature paint a completely different picture of the tribulation than do the scriptures; understand that it's this lie about what the tribulation actually is that will deceive the whole world and will lead it into worshipping the first Jesus that comes, stay with me...

   Turn to the 11^th chapter of Revelation; where God's two witnesses are killed because of their testimony (Revelation 11:7) and lay there in Jerusalem for 3½ days (Revelation 11:9). The whole world is watching and celebrating (Revelation 11:10), the very same world that the rapture theorists would have you believe will be at war. Think of it this way: you read the Bible, know that they are reading it too; it's just that they've not read the truth for themselves, but listened to the traditions of men, this is why they keep the two witnesses right there, to watch them (to prove the two wrong), they don't believe they'll rise, you see, they believe this is the rapture and they think it's the real Jesus there in Jerusalem with them, they can't see it's really Satan and the great apostasy (as was the testimony of the two witnesses and the reason for their murder). But after 3½ days the Spirit of life from God enters into them and they stand up; this is when the whole world suddenly realizes that they've been worshipping Satan. This verse reads: "great fear fell upon them which saw them" (Revelation 11:11).

   "And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither. And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud; and their enemies beheld them" Revelation 11:12. And so, it will happen just like that, but don't let anyone fool you by telling you this is the rapture; though God's two witnesses do ascend up, you must understand they are the only two that ascend and if you just keep reading you'll find that what is being described is the very end of this earth-age at the seventh trump (Revelation 11:15). There is much more information you should have concerning the two witnesses, but that will have to be another study at another time. It's very important you have this 11^th chapter of Revelation in your mind; read the whole chapter again and put it in context to what we've been learning in this study. If you're still willing to defend the rapture theory after all the evidence that's been presented to you in this study, then you're just trying to rationalize away the truth. That being said, you believe what you must, but when you see all these things come to pass, then you'll understand the difference between God's Word and the traditions of men.

YOUR   CHOICE

   So, while the rapture theorists hang around waiting to fly away; students of God's word will put on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18), to stand against Satan, in that day were delivered up for a testimony against them (Mark 13:9, Matthew 10:17, Luke 12:11), praying and watching (Ephesians 6:18, Mark 13:35, 37, Matthew 24:42, 25:13, Luke 21:36, 1 Thessalonians 5:6), unlike those which (in ignorance) state they want to be the first ones taken; it's because they will not follow the article and subject of the Greek, they cannot know that the first ones taken are taken by Satan.

   The rapture can be found in every verse of the bible if that's what you're looking for and you're willing to pervert and twist God's word just to see it. Father gives us all free will; the free will to choose between Him and Satan (in contrast: Satan will tempt, trick and lie to you), so you believe in whatever it is you choose, God's word or the traditions of men; but know this, teaching the traditions of men as if it was God's word will not only bring His wrath upon you, it jeopardizes your very soul. So then you believe in whatever you will, but don't ever teach the fabrications from the minds of men as if it were God's word. Know this; those that teach lies, God will visit upon those false pastors the evil of their doings (Jeremiah 23:1 forward). I'd like to show you all the places in the scriptures which tell us what "Adonay Yehovah" will do to all those that lie and misled His children, but this study must have an end to it. We've covered a lot of ground exposing the theory of there being a rapture, as false doctrine and there's still more that could be brought to light. There is a sufficient amount of evidence presented here to prove to any Christian that it's: "thy kingdom come," and NOT "thy kingdom go!"

   This shouldn't be the end of your search for truth, there are still good teachers in the world today, so if you don't have a teacher that will teach line-by-line; go, seek one out, time is getting short. Either way, keep reading and searching the scriptures and remember it's okay to listen to men, but whenever you do just make sure to inspect their fruit. With that being said: please, you must understand it's not by our words, nor our wit, neither has it been in any measure our logic that's proven the rapture theorists teachings to be false; it's the "sword of the Spirit," which is the "word of God" (Ephesians 6:17) that's exposed their false teachings, we just wield the "sword of the Spirit" as instructed too as students of God's word (Ephesians 6:11-17). It has been an honor bringing you this in-depth look into the "Rapture Theory." Thank you for your time and may God bless you.

All Scripture Quotes from K.J.V. unless otherwise stated. | Ethelbert William Bullinger, D.D. (1837-1913), "Figures of Speech Used in the Bible," Baker Books (1968 ed). | E. W. Bullinger "How To Enjoy The Bible," Kregel (1990 ed). | E. W. Bullinger "Critical, Explanatory and Suggestive Notes; Appendixes," Kregel (1990 ed). | George Mamishisho Lamsa, "Idioms In The Bible Explained" and "A Key To The Original Gospels," HarperCollins (1985 ed). | Professor James Strong, LL.D., S.T.D. "The New Strong's Exhaustive concordance of The Bible," Nelson (1984 ed). | Jay P. Green, Sr. "The Interlinear Hebrew-Greek-English Bible," Hendrickson (1976 ed) & Authors For Christ (2005 ed). | "The Holy Bible 1611 Edition (Collector's)," Nelson (1993). | James A. R. Moffatt, "The Bible: James Moffatt Translation," Kregel/HarperCollins (1994 ed). | Ed F. Vallowe, Evangelist, "Biblical Mathematics-Keys to Scripture Numerics-How to Count the Bible," Vallowe Ev. Assoc. (1995 ed). | Dave MacPherson, "The Incredible Cover-Up," Omega (1975 ed). | "Webster's New World Dictionary, Third College Edition," (1988). | G. S. Cansdale,  The Zondervan Pictorial Encyclopedia of the Bible," vol. 5 Q-Z (1975 ed), article: "Scorpion," page 297, it Ref. "Encyclopedia Britannica," vol. 20 (1951), page 137. | G. J. Jennings,  The Zondervan Pictorial Encyclopedia of the Bible," vol. 1 A-C (1975 ed), article: "Agriculture," page 71-78. | Dr. William Smith, (1813-1893) "A DICTIONARY OF THE BIBLE," Nelson (1986 ed). & "SMITH'S DICTIONARY OF THE BIBLE," Holman (1995 Revised Edition). | Tim LaHaye, D.Min. Litt.D., "Tim LaHaye PROPHECY STUDY BIBLE KJV (aka TLPSB-KJV)," AMG (2000 ed). | John F. Walvoord, Th.D., TLPSB-KJV; article: "The Rapture," page 1152. | Edward Hindson, Th.D. D.Phil., TLPSB-KJV; article: "The Rapture Compared to the Return of Christ," page 1285; & article: "The Antichrist," page 1291. | Paul Benware, Th.M. Th.D., TLPSB-KJV; article: "The Timing of the Rapture," page 1308. | David R. Reagan, Ph.D., TLPSB-KJV; article: "The Signs of Our Lord's Return," page 1127; & article: "The Signs of the Times," page 919. | Tim LaHaye, D.Min. Litt.D., TLPSB-KJV; article: "The Tribulation," page 1374; & article: "Reasons for a Pretribulation Rapture," page 1475. | Renald E. Showers, Th.D., TLPSB-KJV; article: "The Imminent Coming of Christ," page 1072.

   To aid the student and assist the reader follow who is speaking, we have incorporated a font color coded system into this study. Please note some computers and hand-held reading devices may only allow one type of font for all text, but should allow all the different colors of text. On the right is how your device decodes this system:—