Number 6: “There is no ‘rapture’ in the Bible.”

Here Stockin words his statement in such a way that although there is some truth to his argument, the truth does not logically lead to his conclusion.

Let me explain.

He begins his argument by stating that the word “rapture” does not appear at all in the Bible.  This is correct.  In fact, there are a number of terms that theologians use to describe the teachings of scripture that do not appear themselves in scripture.  For instance, no where in scripture does the word “Trinity” appear, yet the consistent testimony of scripture attests to the triune nature of God.

The word “rapture” also falls into this category.  It is not found in scripture, and on this note I would agree with Stockin.

However, Stockin then draws a conclusion from this fact that is less than logical.  The last paragraph in his argument is as follows: “Simply put, the “Rapture” is not biblically supported, and is a very modern Christian precept with a history going back only to the 19th century.  So where did Tim LaHaye and Jerry Jenkins get their “Rapture” ideas that spawned 16 best-selling novels?  Like most Christian dogma it’s pure imagination, and very little Bible.”

Mr. Stockin couldn’t be more wrong.  Although the word “rapture” doesn’t occur within the pages of scripture, it is a concept that is discussed throughout its pages.  The second coming of the Messiah is a major theme of the New Testament, and the reunification of Christ with His Church is a major part of His return.

I’ll quote 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17

For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.

But if one passage isn’t enough…. how about these:  1 Corinthians 15; John 14:3; Matthew 26:29; 1 Corinthians 11:26; 2 Thessalonians 2:1; Jude 14; and 1 Thessalonians 3:13 ought to be a good place to start.