Prophecy - The End Times

[Nell]

Originally Posted by Ohio

I think it would be wise that all the children of God adopt this daily attitude. Unfortunately many have adopted what I would consider a somewhat cavalier attitude towards the Great Tribulation. Comments like, “I don’t plan to be here during this time,” or “we have nothing to worry about, God will rapture us all to heaven before things get bad,” are far too prevalent. It seems that many American church-goers have never faced real adversity, and may face shocking developments. I hope not.

But this is the scenario that may set us up for “The Apostasy” which Paul speaks of in 2 Thess 2. He assured the Thessalonians that the “day of the Lord” will not come until “the apostasy” comes first. Why would many “leave their stand,” the meaning of apostasy? Paul does not refer to some rebellion by worldly people, but a departure of those who once professed the faith.

Facing unexpected tribulation, while completely expecting to be delivered from it, might cause many to cave under pressure. One Bible commentary used the word “capitulation” to describe the apostasy. In other words, it seems that some, or many, will renege on their faith in exchange for temporary comfort or safety. Such could be envisioned for those who accept the mark of the Beast.

Good points, and I agree.

Christians who believe in their own personal interpretations of scripture, and live their lives according to their own understanding, might be in trouble.With so many contrary beliefs about the Word...everyone cannot be right. We are told to "watch and pray".

This statement from Matt: I believe every believer should avoid making a 100% conclusion that they are certain about the timing of the rapture. I believe it is important to know that God keeps things secret and that it is best for us to have readiness to respond and adapt to whatever happens. This is a healthy position. In most matters of the faith, God keeps things secret...

Based on these verses in Revelation 6 I personally believe that we are in the beginning stages of the tribulation now. I pray I'm wrong.

Rev. 6:1 And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts saying, Come and see.
2 And I saw, and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer.
3 And when he had opened the second seal, I heard the second beast say, Come and see.
4 And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword.
5 And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third beast say, Come and see. And I beheld, and lo a black horse; and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand. (Reference to finance and economy)
6 And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and see thou hurt not the oil and the wine. (Famine)
7 And when he had opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth beast say, Come and see.
8 And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth.


Nell