I would like to see some more discussion on the original question posed concerning the "rapture" of the Church; there is no doubt that there will be a gathering back to Christ, the question is when. Most people use 1 Thessalonians 4 as their basis for the rapture theory; as I recall, none of the "early Church fathers" or commentators ever mentioned a rapture [any moment, any time] doctrine, but rather see these verses as comforting those who mourn the loss of a loved one; however, if we do want to use these verses, how does 2 Thess 2 fit in?
Quote:
2Th 2:1 Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him,
2Th 2:2 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.
2Th 2:3 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;
2Th 2:4 Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.
2Th 2:5 Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things?
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These verses seem to indicate that we will be here at least for a part of the tribulation or am I missing something?? I'd love to read some discussion....God bless