eahaddix
12-12-2006, 11:20 PM
I believe in a Pre-Tribulation Rapture (http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?term=rapture). Specifically, I believe that before the 70th Week of Daniel (ref. Daniel 9:24-27 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Daniel%209:24-27;&version=31;)) or "the Tribulation" begins, Christ Jesus will unpredictably and invisibly return (Matthew 24:36-51 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2024:36-51;&version=31;))[1] to "snatch away (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=726)
(http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/extras.cgi?number=5691)" the Church (ref. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Thessalonians%204:16-18;&version=31;), 1 Corinthians 15:51-52 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%2015:51-52;&version=31;)).
Now, among other prooftexts, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-8 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:1-8;&version=31;) serves as a central prooftext of Pre-Tribulation Rapture theology. Let us examine this text more closely.
2 Thessalonians 2 [NIV] (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:6-8;&version=31;)[Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=2+Thessalonians+2%3A6-8§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)
(http://net.bible.org/passage.php?passage=2%20Thessalonians%202:6-8)
6 And now you know what is holding him back, so that he (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=846) may be revealed at the proper time. 7 For the secret power (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3466) of lawlessness (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=458) is already at work; but the one (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3440) who now (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=737) holds (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=2722) it back (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=2722) will continue to do so till he is taken (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1096) out of (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1537) the way (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3319). 8 And then the (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3588) lawless one (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=459) will be revealed, whom (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3739) the Lord Jesus will overthrow with the breath of his mouth and destroy by the splendor of his coming.
*See also 2 Thessalonians 2:6-8 [NASB] (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:6-8;&version=49;) and 2 Thessalonians 2:6-8 [KJV] (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:6-8;&version=9;).
In 2 Thessalonians 2:6-8 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:6-8;&version=31;), Paul states that the removal of the Restrainer precedes the revealing of the "lawless one (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=459)" or the Anti-Christ (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=500) (verse 8 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:8;&version=31;)), for the Restrainer restrains the Anti-Christ (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=500) (verse 6 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:6;&version=31;)), cross ref. Revelation 6:1-2 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%206:1-2;&version=31;)).
Now, in verse 7 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=31;), Paul states that the Restrainer restrains "the mystery (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3466) of lawlessness (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=458)" [NASB] (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=49;), which empowers the restrained "lawless one (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=459)" [NIV (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:8;&version=31;), NASB (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:8;&version=49;)]. This secret force of "lawlessness (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=458)" can[2] and must refer to any and all sources of sin, which includes any and all humans and evil spirits. Specifically, since the Anti-Christ (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=500) will be empowered abroadly by Satan[3], other evil spirits[4], and many human forces [5][6], the secret force of "lawlessness" must include multiple sources of sin simultaineously and worldwide. As a result, the Restrainer, the singular "he" (verse 7 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=31;)) and "what" (verse 6 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:6;&version=31;)), must be omnipresent and omnipotent, as in God the Spirit (ref. Genesis 6:1-5 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis%206:1-5;&version=31;), Isaiah 59:19 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2059:19;&version=31;), 2 Thessalonians 3:3 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%203:3;&version=31;))[7][8].
Now, in verse 7 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=31;), Paul states that the Restrainer "holds (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=2722) it back (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=2722)" [NIV] (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=31;), but will be "taken (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1096) out of (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1537) the way (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3319)" [NIV (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=31;), NASB (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=49;), KJV (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=9;)]. This removal[9][10] must include the removal of the Church from Earth (ref. Revelation 3:7, 10 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%203:7,%2010;&version=31;), cross ref. John 14:2-4 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2014:2-4;&version=31;)), otherwise the Thessalonians would not have feared that they had entered "the day of the Lord" (verse 2 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:2;&version=31;)), but rather would have expected it[11]. Pursuant to this observation, we observe that . . .
(a) God the Father has no reason to direct his wrath towards the Body of Christ[12]. Any mistreatment of the Church inherently constitues a mistreatment of Christ Jesus himself[13].
(b) God the Spirit[14] restrains evil through the Church[15] and indwells the Church[16]. God the Spirit and the Church cannot be separated.
(c) Freedom in Christ Jesus[17] is essential to fulfilling the Great Commission[18]. Specifically, if a Biblical Christian must fear the loss of their salvation and/or entry into the Tribulation, then the said Christian will not be focused on spreading and defending the Gospel. Such fears promote a spirit (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=4151) of fear (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=5401), which is not from God (Romans 8:15 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%208:15;&version=31;) [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=Romans+8%3A15§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na), cross ref. 1 John 4:18 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20John%204:18;&version=31;)).
Now, as an example of the Pre-Tribulation Rapture in action, consider the 2 (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1501)4 (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=5064) elders (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=4245)[19] of Revelation 4 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%204;&version=31;). These elders, who possess rewards[20], are present at the throne of God the Father[21] before the breaking of the Tribulation Scroll's first seal, which releases the Anti-Christ (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=500) (Revelation 6:1-2 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%206:1-2;&version=31;)). After this, the Two Witnesses will be sent to earth for a 3.5 year ministry (Revelation 11:3 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2011:3;&version=31;)) during the first half of the Tribulation[22].
As a result, we can logically conclude that the Pre-Tribulation Rapture is a Biblical and logical doctrine.
Footnotes:
[1] Many advocates of Pre-Tribulation Rapture theology, or "Pre-Tribbers," advocate the doctrine of Immanency, which states that the Rapture could have happened at any time after Christ Jesus's ascension (ref. Acts 1:9-11 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%201:9-11;&version=31;)). However, this doctrine inherently undermines the spread of the Gospel, which needs an unknown amount of time to reach a certain number of Gentiles (Romans 11:25 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%2011:25;&version=31;)) worldwide (Matthew 28:18-20 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2028:18-20;&version=31;)).
[2] The Greek word for "lawlessness" [NIV (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=31;), NASB (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=49;)] and "inquity" [KJV] (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=9;) is anomia (Strong's #458), which means:
"contempt and violation of law, iniquity, wickedness" [Strong's Lexicon] (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=458).
"from anomoV - anomos 459 (http://www.htmlbible.com/sacrednamebiblecom/kjvstrongs/STRGRK4.htm#S459); illegality, i.e. violation of law or (genitive case) wickedness:--iniquity, X transgress(-ion of) the law, unrighteousness" [Strong's Greek Dictionary] (http://www.htmlbible.com/sacrednamebiblecom/kjvstrongs/STRGRK4.htm#S458).
As demonstrated by the data immediately above, "lawlessness" can refer to any and all violations of God's Law by anyone or anything.
[3] Revelation 13:1-2, 4 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2013:1-2,%204;&version=31;), cross ref. Revelation 12:9 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2012:9;&version=31;).
[4] Revelation 16:13-14 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2016:13-14;&version=31;), 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:9-10;&version=31;), ref. 1 Timothy 4:1 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Timothy%204:1;&version=31;).
[5] Revelation 13:7-8 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2013:7-8;&version=31;), ref. Revelation 17:1-3, 7, 9-13, 15 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2017:1-3,%207,%209-13,%2015;&version=31;).
[6] As the leader of the "Revived Roman Empire" (Daniel 2:26-27, 31-45 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Daniel%202:26-27,%2031-45;&version=31;), Daniel 7:2-8, 16-18, 23-25 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Daniel%207:2-8,%2016-18,%2023-25;&version=31;), Revelation 13:1-8 (http://Revelation 13:1-8), Daniel 9:27 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2013:1-8;&version=31;)), the Anti-Christ (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=500) could be a leader of the Western European Union, European Union, and/or the United Nations. However, regardless of what positions the Anti-Christ (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=500) will possess, the Anti-Christ (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=500) will possess worldwide influence. And "influence" can manifest and function in many forms.
[7] God the Spirit is a "person" and an "it." Specifically, God the Spirit is a "person," as in possessing will (1 Corinthians 12:11 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%2012:11;&version=31;)), mind (Romans 8:27 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%208:27;&version=31;)), congnition (1 Corinthians 2:10-11 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%202:10-11;&version=31;), Acts 15:28 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%2015:28;&version=31;), John 16:13 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2016:13;&version=31;)), and emotion (Isaiah 63:10 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2063:10;&version=31;), Ephesians 4:30 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%204:30;&version=31;), Romans 15:30 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%2015:30;&version=31;), Hebrews 10:29 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews%2010:29;&version=31;)) In addition, God the Spirit is an "it," as in an eternal (Hebrews 9:14 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews%209:14;&version=31;)) divine (2 Corinthians 3:17 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Corinthians%203:17;&version=31;)) spirit (John 4:24 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%204:24;&version=31;)) which possesses omnipotence (Luke 1:35 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%201:35;&version=31;)), omnipresence (Psalms 139:7-10 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalms%20139:7-10;&version=31;)), and omniscience (1 Corinthians 2:10-11 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%202:10-11;&version=31;)).
As a rhetorical philosophical consideration, God the Spirit cannot intercede for us before God the Father (Romans 8:26-27 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%208:26-27;&version=31;)), if God the Spirit is the impersonal power of God the Father.
[8] Many people identify other individuals or uniplural entities as the Restrainer. None of these alternatives are viable, as any further examination will evidence.
For instance, many people believe that the Archangel Michael is the Restrainer. However:
(a) If Michael will "stand up (http://www.studylight.org/lex/heb/view.cgi?number=05975)" [KJV] (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Daniel%2012:1;&version=9;) to defend Israel during the Tribulation (Daniel 12:1 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Daniel%2012:1;&version=31;) [Hebrew] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=Daniel+12%3A1§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)), then Michael will be "taken (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1096) out of (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1537) the way (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3319)" [NIV (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=31;), NASB (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=49;), KJV (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=9;)] in order to "stand up (http://www.studylight.org/lex/heb/view.cgi?number=05975)" [KJV] (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Daniel%2012:1;&version=9;) again.
(b) Satan alone is more powerful than Michael (Jude 1:9 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jude%201:9;&version=31;)).
[9] The phrase "out of (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1537) the way (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3319)" [NIV (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=31;), NASB (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=49;), KJV (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=9;)] is composed of two Greek words. Specifically:
(a) The Greek word for "out of" is ek (Strongs #1537), which means
"out of, from, by, away from" [Strong's Lexicon] (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1537)
"or ex ex a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause; literal or figurative; direct or remote):--[...]" [Strong's Greek Dictionary] (http://www.htmlbible.com/sacrednamebiblecom/kjvstrongs/STRGRK15.htm#S1537)
(b) The Greek word for "the way" is mesos (Stong's #3319).
"1. middle
2. the midst
3. in the midst of, amongst" [Strong's Lexicon] (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3319)
"from meta - meta 3326 (http://www.htmlbible.com/sacrednamebiblecom/kjvstrongs/STRGRK33.htm#S3326); middle (as an adjective or (neuter) noun):--among, X before them, between, + forth, mid(-day, -night), midst, way." [Strong's Greek Dictionary] (http://www.htmlbible.com/sacrednamebiblecom/kjvstrongs/STRGRK33.htm#S3319)
As demonstrated by items (a) and (b) of Footnote [4], the phrase "taken (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1096) out of (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1537) the way (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3319)" [NIV (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=31;), NASB (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=49;), KJV (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=9;)] cannot simply refer to any worldly geographical segregation. Specifically, since "secret power (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3466) of lawlessness (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=458)" [NIV (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=31;)] is a worldwide phenomenon at all times, any geographical location on Earth entails being in "the middle" or "the midst" of lawlessness.
[10] The degree of God the Spirit's self-removal is unknown. Advocates of Pre-Tribulation Rapture Theology, or "Pre-Tribbers," have produced many eschatological hypotheses, many of which include a complex change of dispensation.
[11] As he had previously instructed the Thessalonians (verse 5 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:5;&version=31;)), Paul unequivocally told the Thessalonians that "the day of the Lord" (ref. verses 1-2 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:1-2;&version=31;)) begins after the great apostasy (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=646) (verse 3 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:3;&version=31;)), the removal of the Restrainer (verses 6-8 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:6-8;&version=31;)), and the revealing (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=601) of the Anti-Christ (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=500) (verse 3 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:3;&version=31;)).
[12] God the Father would not subject the Body of Christ to his wrath directly or indirectly (ref. Revelation 3:10 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%203:10;&version=31;)), for Christ Jesus's substitutionary sacrifice is a propitiation (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=2434) (1 John 2:2 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20John%202:2;&version=31;) [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=1+John+2%3A2§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)
(http://net.bible.org/verse.php?book=1%20John&chapter=2&verse=2)).
[13] ref. Colossians 3:3 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Colossians%203:3;&version=31;), Galatians 3:27 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians%203:27;&version=31;), Romans 6:3-11 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%206:3-11;&version=31;), Galatians 2:20 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians%202:20;&version=31;), 1 Corinthians 12:13 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%2012:13;&version=31;), i.e. Matthew 25:31-46 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2025:31-46;&version=31;).
[14] Elohiym (http://www.studylight.org/lex/heb/view.cgi?number=0430) acts by God the Spirit (Zechariah 4:6 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Zechariah%204:6;&version=31;)).
[15] Spirit-led Christians (ref. Romans 8:9, 14 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%208:9,%2014;&version=31;)), individually and collectively, are "the salt (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=217) of the earth (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1093)" (Matthew 5:13 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%205:13;&version=31;) [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=Matthew+5%3A13§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)). Salt can serve as a fertilizer, seasoning, and preservative. As a result, among other things, one can logically assert that God the Spirit restrains evil through Spirit-led Christians in many ways (i.e. Ephesians 2:10 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%202:10;&version=31;), Ephesians 3:10 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%203:10;&version=31;) [cross ref. 1 Peter 2:9 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Peter%202:9;&version=31;), Malachi 2:7 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Malachi%202:7;&version=31;)], Ephesians 6:10-18 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%206:10-18;&version=31;)), a function which closely parallels God the Spirit's personal work (ref. Genesis 6:1-5 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis%206:1-5;&version=31;))
For example, consider the lukewarm church of Laodicea (Revelation 3:14-22 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%203:14-22;&version=31;)). When the city of Laodicea tried to pipe healing hot water from Hierapolis and refreshing cold water from Colossae, all of the said water usually arrived as lukewarm water, which is repulsive and relatively useless (further reading (http://www.padfield.com/2005/laodicea.html), pics (http://www.biblepicturegallery.com/pictures/Laodicea.htm)). Christ Jesus used this historical reality as an illustration of Laodicean spirituality. As a result, one could logically assert that the church of Laodicea lost its "spiritual medical value" or "saltiness," thereby making this church deserving of entering the Tribulation (cross compare Revelation 3:16 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%203:16;&version=31;) and Revelation 3:10 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%203:10;&version=31;)).
[16] Christians (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=5546), individually and collectively, are the permanent temple of God the Spirit (John 14:16-17, 23 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2014:16-17,%2023;&version=31;), Romans 8:9 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%208:9;&version=31;), 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%203:16-17;&version=31;), 1 Corinthians 6:19 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%206:19;&version=31;), Ephesians 2:19-22 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%202:19-22;&version=31;)). Hence, as the temple of God the Spirit, Christians (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=5546), individually and collectively, represent the most potent and immediate presence of God the Spirit on Earth.
[17] Galatians 5:1 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians%205:1;&version=31;), 1 Corinthians 6:12 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%206:12;&version=31;), 1 Corinthians 10:23 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%2010:23;&version=31;), cross ref. 1 Corinthians 8:9 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%208:9;&version=31;), Galatians 5:13 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians%205:13;&version=31;).
[18] Matthew 28:16-20 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2028:16-20;&version=31;).
[19] Biblical Scripture never applies the term "elder," or presbuteros (Strong's #4245) (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=4245), to angelic beings (ref.) (http://www.htmlbible.com/sacrednamebiblecom/kjvstrongs/CONGRK424.htm#S4245).
[20] The 2 (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1501)4 (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=5064) elders (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=4245) wear . . .
(a) brilliant white (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3022) garmets (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=2440) (Revelation 4:4 [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=Revelation+4%3A4§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)). The saints will be rewarded (ref. 1 Corinthians 3:12-15 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%203:12-15;&version=31;)) with "glory (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1741)" and "shining (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=2986) pure (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=2513) linen (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1039)," which represent the Church's innocence and holiness (Ephesians 5:25-27 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%205:25-27;&version=31;) [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=Ephesians+5%3A25-27§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)) and the saints' righteous acts (Revelation 19:8 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2019:8;&version=31;) [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=Revelation+19%3A8§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)) respectively.
(b) crowns (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=4735) of gold (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=5552) (Revelation 4:4, 10 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%204:4,%2010;&version=31;) [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=Revelation+4%3A4%2C+10§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)). Saints will be rewarded (ref. 1 Corinthians 3:12-15 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%203:12-15;&version=31;)) with a crown (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=4735) or crowns (Revelation 3:11 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%203:11;&version=31;) [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=Revelation+3%3A11§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)), such as the crown (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=4735) of righteousness (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1343) (2 Timothy 4:8 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Timothy%204:8;&version=31;) [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=2+Timothy+4%3A8§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)), the crown (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=4735) of life (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=2222) (James 1:12 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%201:12;&version=31;) [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=James+1%3A12§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na), Revelation 2:10 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%202:10;&version=31;) [Greek[ (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=Revelation+2%3A10§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)), and the crown (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=4735) of glory (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1391) (1 Peter 5:4 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Peter%205:4;&version=31;) [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=1+Peter+5%3A4§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)).
[21] Before the Second Coming (Revelation 19:11-16 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2019:11-16;&version=31;), cross ref. Matthew 24:29-31 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2024:29-31;&version=31;), Colossians 3:4 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Colossians%203:4;&version=31;), 1 Thessalonians 3:13 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Thessalonians%203:13;&version=31;), Jude 1:14-15 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jude%201:14-15;&version=31;)), the Church will undergo the Marriage Supper of the Lamb (Revelation 19:7-9 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2019:7-9;&version=31;)), where the Church "marries" Christ Jesus (ref. Revelation 21:9 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2021:9;&version=31;), 2 Corinthians 11:2 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Corinthians%2011:2;&version=31;)). This imagery explicitly invokes the imagery of Jewish wedding customs, including the chronology of the said customs. As a result, the said chronological correlation between the 70th Week of Daniel (ref. Daniel 9:24-27 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Daniel%209:24-27;&version=31;)) and Jewish wedding customs would require a Pre-Tribulation Rapture.
"The Marriage and Marriage Supper of the Lamb" by Dr. Renald Showers @ IFCA.org (http://www.ifca.org/voice/7Jan-Feb/lamb.htm)
"The Rapture and the Jewish Wedding Tradition," by J.R. Lawendowski @ Tribulation Forces Network (http://www.tribulationforces.com/tfcdr/rapturejw.shtml)
"A Bible Study of the Marriage of the Bride of Christ (The Jewish Wedding)," by Jason Hommel @ BibleProphecy.org (http://www.bibleprophesy.org/introwedding.htm)
However, Jewish wedding customs require that the bride and the groom go into seclusion. As a result, since the Old Testament saints are the "wedding guests" (ref. Matthew 9:14-15 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%209:14-15;&version=31;), John 3:28-29 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%203:28-29;&version=31;)) at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb, only these saints would appear "publicly" in Heaven. Hence, these 24 elders may be Old Testament saints (ref. Luke 22:28-30 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2022:28-30;&version=31;)) who parallel the 24 divisions of Israel's priesthood (ref. 1 Chronicles 24:1-19 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Chronicles%2024:1-19;&version=31;)).
[22] During the 70th Week of Daniel (ref. Daniel 9:24-27 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Daniel%209:24-27;&version=31;)), the Two Witnesses will exercise an unstoppable 1 (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=5507),2 (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1250)60 (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1835) day (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=2250) prophetic ministry (Revelation 11:3-6 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2011:3-6;&version=31;) [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=Revelation+11%3A3-6§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)), until God gives the Beast power over the saints for 3.5 years (Revelation 11:7-12 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2011:7-12%20;&version=31;), cross ref. Revelation 13:5-8 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2013:5-8;&version=31;), Daniel 7:25 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Daniel%207:25;&version=31;)). Hence, when the former's dominance ends, the latter's dominance begins, otherwise a conceptual paradox results.
Moreover, the world would not need the Two Witnesses' prophetic ministry for the first 1,260 days, if the Church remains in the world during this time.
(http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/extras.cgi?number=5691)" the Church (ref. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Thessalonians%204:16-18;&version=31;), 1 Corinthians 15:51-52 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%2015:51-52;&version=31;)).
Now, among other prooftexts, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-8 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:1-8;&version=31;) serves as a central prooftext of Pre-Tribulation Rapture theology. Let us examine this text more closely.
2 Thessalonians 2 [NIV] (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:6-8;&version=31;)[Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=2+Thessalonians+2%3A6-8§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)
(http://net.bible.org/passage.php?passage=2%20Thessalonians%202:6-8)
6 And now you know what is holding him back, so that he (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=846) may be revealed at the proper time. 7 For the secret power (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3466) of lawlessness (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=458) is already at work; but the one (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3440) who now (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=737) holds (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=2722) it back (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=2722) will continue to do so till he is taken (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1096) out of (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1537) the way (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3319). 8 And then the (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3588) lawless one (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=459) will be revealed, whom (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3739) the Lord Jesus will overthrow with the breath of his mouth and destroy by the splendor of his coming.
*See also 2 Thessalonians 2:6-8 [NASB] (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:6-8;&version=49;) and 2 Thessalonians 2:6-8 [KJV] (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:6-8;&version=9;).
In 2 Thessalonians 2:6-8 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:6-8;&version=31;), Paul states that the removal of the Restrainer precedes the revealing of the "lawless one (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=459)" or the Anti-Christ (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=500) (verse 8 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:8;&version=31;)), for the Restrainer restrains the Anti-Christ (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=500) (verse 6 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:6;&version=31;)), cross ref. Revelation 6:1-2 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%206:1-2;&version=31;)).
Now, in verse 7 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=31;), Paul states that the Restrainer restrains "the mystery (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3466) of lawlessness (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=458)" [NASB] (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=49;), which empowers the restrained "lawless one (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=459)" [NIV (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:8;&version=31;), NASB (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:8;&version=49;)]. This secret force of "lawlessness (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=458)" can[2] and must refer to any and all sources of sin, which includes any and all humans and evil spirits. Specifically, since the Anti-Christ (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=500) will be empowered abroadly by Satan[3], other evil spirits[4], and many human forces [5][6], the secret force of "lawlessness" must include multiple sources of sin simultaineously and worldwide. As a result, the Restrainer, the singular "he" (verse 7 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=31;)) and "what" (verse 6 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:6;&version=31;)), must be omnipresent and omnipotent, as in God the Spirit (ref. Genesis 6:1-5 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis%206:1-5;&version=31;), Isaiah 59:19 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2059:19;&version=31;), 2 Thessalonians 3:3 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%203:3;&version=31;))[7][8].
Now, in verse 7 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=31;), Paul states that the Restrainer "holds (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=2722) it back (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=2722)" [NIV] (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=31;), but will be "taken (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1096) out of (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1537) the way (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3319)" [NIV (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=31;), NASB (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=49;), KJV (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=9;)]. This removal[9][10] must include the removal of the Church from Earth (ref. Revelation 3:7, 10 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%203:7,%2010;&version=31;), cross ref. John 14:2-4 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2014:2-4;&version=31;)), otherwise the Thessalonians would not have feared that they had entered "the day of the Lord" (verse 2 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:2;&version=31;)), but rather would have expected it[11]. Pursuant to this observation, we observe that . . .
(a) God the Father has no reason to direct his wrath towards the Body of Christ[12]. Any mistreatment of the Church inherently constitues a mistreatment of Christ Jesus himself[13].
(b) God the Spirit[14] restrains evil through the Church[15] and indwells the Church[16]. God the Spirit and the Church cannot be separated.
(c) Freedom in Christ Jesus[17] is essential to fulfilling the Great Commission[18]. Specifically, if a Biblical Christian must fear the loss of their salvation and/or entry into the Tribulation, then the said Christian will not be focused on spreading and defending the Gospel. Such fears promote a spirit (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=4151) of fear (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=5401), which is not from God (Romans 8:15 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%208:15;&version=31;) [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=Romans+8%3A15§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na), cross ref. 1 John 4:18 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20John%204:18;&version=31;)).
Now, as an example of the Pre-Tribulation Rapture in action, consider the 2 (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1501)4 (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=5064) elders (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=4245)[19] of Revelation 4 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%204;&version=31;). These elders, who possess rewards[20], are present at the throne of God the Father[21] before the breaking of the Tribulation Scroll's first seal, which releases the Anti-Christ (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=500) (Revelation 6:1-2 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%206:1-2;&version=31;)). After this, the Two Witnesses will be sent to earth for a 3.5 year ministry (Revelation 11:3 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2011:3;&version=31;)) during the first half of the Tribulation[22].
As a result, we can logically conclude that the Pre-Tribulation Rapture is a Biblical and logical doctrine.
Footnotes:
[1] Many advocates of Pre-Tribulation Rapture theology, or "Pre-Tribbers," advocate the doctrine of Immanency, which states that the Rapture could have happened at any time after Christ Jesus's ascension (ref. Acts 1:9-11 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%201:9-11;&version=31;)). However, this doctrine inherently undermines the spread of the Gospel, which needs an unknown amount of time to reach a certain number of Gentiles (Romans 11:25 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%2011:25;&version=31;)) worldwide (Matthew 28:18-20 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2028:18-20;&version=31;)).
[2] The Greek word for "lawlessness" [NIV (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=31;), NASB (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=49;)] and "inquity" [KJV] (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=9;) is anomia (Strong's #458), which means:
"contempt and violation of law, iniquity, wickedness" [Strong's Lexicon] (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=458).
"from anomoV - anomos 459 (http://www.htmlbible.com/sacrednamebiblecom/kjvstrongs/STRGRK4.htm#S459); illegality, i.e. violation of law or (genitive case) wickedness:--iniquity, X transgress(-ion of) the law, unrighteousness" [Strong's Greek Dictionary] (http://www.htmlbible.com/sacrednamebiblecom/kjvstrongs/STRGRK4.htm#S458).
As demonstrated by the data immediately above, "lawlessness" can refer to any and all violations of God's Law by anyone or anything.
[3] Revelation 13:1-2, 4 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2013:1-2,%204;&version=31;), cross ref. Revelation 12:9 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2012:9;&version=31;).
[4] Revelation 16:13-14 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2016:13-14;&version=31;), 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:9-10;&version=31;), ref. 1 Timothy 4:1 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Timothy%204:1;&version=31;).
[5] Revelation 13:7-8 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2013:7-8;&version=31;), ref. Revelation 17:1-3, 7, 9-13, 15 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2017:1-3,%207,%209-13,%2015;&version=31;).
[6] As the leader of the "Revived Roman Empire" (Daniel 2:26-27, 31-45 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Daniel%202:26-27,%2031-45;&version=31;), Daniel 7:2-8, 16-18, 23-25 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Daniel%207:2-8,%2016-18,%2023-25;&version=31;), Revelation 13:1-8 (http://Revelation 13:1-8), Daniel 9:27 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2013:1-8;&version=31;)), the Anti-Christ (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=500) could be a leader of the Western European Union, European Union, and/or the United Nations. However, regardless of what positions the Anti-Christ (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=500) will possess, the Anti-Christ (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=500) will possess worldwide influence. And "influence" can manifest and function in many forms.
[7] God the Spirit is a "person" and an "it." Specifically, God the Spirit is a "person," as in possessing will (1 Corinthians 12:11 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%2012:11;&version=31;)), mind (Romans 8:27 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%208:27;&version=31;)), congnition (1 Corinthians 2:10-11 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%202:10-11;&version=31;), Acts 15:28 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%2015:28;&version=31;), John 16:13 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2016:13;&version=31;)), and emotion (Isaiah 63:10 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2063:10;&version=31;), Ephesians 4:30 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%204:30;&version=31;), Romans 15:30 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%2015:30;&version=31;), Hebrews 10:29 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews%2010:29;&version=31;)) In addition, God the Spirit is an "it," as in an eternal (Hebrews 9:14 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews%209:14;&version=31;)) divine (2 Corinthians 3:17 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Corinthians%203:17;&version=31;)) spirit (John 4:24 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%204:24;&version=31;)) which possesses omnipotence (Luke 1:35 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%201:35;&version=31;)), omnipresence (Psalms 139:7-10 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalms%20139:7-10;&version=31;)), and omniscience (1 Corinthians 2:10-11 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%202:10-11;&version=31;)).
As a rhetorical philosophical consideration, God the Spirit cannot intercede for us before God the Father (Romans 8:26-27 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%208:26-27;&version=31;)), if God the Spirit is the impersonal power of God the Father.
[8] Many people identify other individuals or uniplural entities as the Restrainer. None of these alternatives are viable, as any further examination will evidence.
For instance, many people believe that the Archangel Michael is the Restrainer. However:
(a) If Michael will "stand up (http://www.studylight.org/lex/heb/view.cgi?number=05975)" [KJV] (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Daniel%2012:1;&version=9;) to defend Israel during the Tribulation (Daniel 12:1 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Daniel%2012:1;&version=31;) [Hebrew] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=Daniel+12%3A1§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)), then Michael will be "taken (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1096) out of (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1537) the way (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3319)" [NIV (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=31;), NASB (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=49;), KJV (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=9;)] in order to "stand up (http://www.studylight.org/lex/heb/view.cgi?number=05975)" [KJV] (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Daniel%2012:1;&version=9;) again.
(b) Satan alone is more powerful than Michael (Jude 1:9 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jude%201:9;&version=31;)).
[9] The phrase "out of (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1537) the way (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3319)" [NIV (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=31;), NASB (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=49;), KJV (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=9;)] is composed of two Greek words. Specifically:
(a) The Greek word for "out of" is ek (Strongs #1537), which means
"out of, from, by, away from" [Strong's Lexicon] (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1537)
"or ex ex a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause; literal or figurative; direct or remote):--[...]" [Strong's Greek Dictionary] (http://www.htmlbible.com/sacrednamebiblecom/kjvstrongs/STRGRK15.htm#S1537)
(b) The Greek word for "the way" is mesos (Stong's #3319).
"1. middle
2. the midst
3. in the midst of, amongst" [Strong's Lexicon] (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3319)
"from meta - meta 3326 (http://www.htmlbible.com/sacrednamebiblecom/kjvstrongs/STRGRK33.htm#S3326); middle (as an adjective or (neuter) noun):--among, X before them, between, + forth, mid(-day, -night), midst, way." [Strong's Greek Dictionary] (http://www.htmlbible.com/sacrednamebiblecom/kjvstrongs/STRGRK33.htm#S3319)
As demonstrated by items (a) and (b) of Footnote [4], the phrase "taken (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1096) out of (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1537) the way (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3319)" [NIV (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=31;), NASB (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=49;), KJV (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=9;)] cannot simply refer to any worldly geographical segregation. Specifically, since "secret power (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3466) of lawlessness (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=458)" [NIV (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:7;&version=31;)] is a worldwide phenomenon at all times, any geographical location on Earth entails being in "the middle" or "the midst" of lawlessness.
[10] The degree of God the Spirit's self-removal is unknown. Advocates of Pre-Tribulation Rapture Theology, or "Pre-Tribbers," have produced many eschatological hypotheses, many of which include a complex change of dispensation.
[11] As he had previously instructed the Thessalonians (verse 5 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:5;&version=31;)), Paul unequivocally told the Thessalonians that "the day of the Lord" (ref. verses 1-2 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:1-2;&version=31;)) begins after the great apostasy (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=646) (verse 3 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:3;&version=31;)), the removal of the Restrainer (verses 6-8 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:6-8;&version=31;)), and the revealing (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=601) of the Anti-Christ (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=500) (verse 3 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%202:3;&version=31;)).
[12] God the Father would not subject the Body of Christ to his wrath directly or indirectly (ref. Revelation 3:10 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%203:10;&version=31;)), for Christ Jesus's substitutionary sacrifice is a propitiation (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=2434) (1 John 2:2 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20John%202:2;&version=31;) [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=1+John+2%3A2§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)
(http://net.bible.org/verse.php?book=1%20John&chapter=2&verse=2)).
[13] ref. Colossians 3:3 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Colossians%203:3;&version=31;), Galatians 3:27 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians%203:27;&version=31;), Romans 6:3-11 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%206:3-11;&version=31;), Galatians 2:20 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians%202:20;&version=31;), 1 Corinthians 12:13 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%2012:13;&version=31;), i.e. Matthew 25:31-46 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2025:31-46;&version=31;).
[14] Elohiym (http://www.studylight.org/lex/heb/view.cgi?number=0430) acts by God the Spirit (Zechariah 4:6 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Zechariah%204:6;&version=31;)).
[15] Spirit-led Christians (ref. Romans 8:9, 14 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%208:9,%2014;&version=31;)), individually and collectively, are "the salt (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=217) of the earth (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1093)" (Matthew 5:13 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%205:13;&version=31;) [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=Matthew+5%3A13§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)). Salt can serve as a fertilizer, seasoning, and preservative. As a result, among other things, one can logically assert that God the Spirit restrains evil through Spirit-led Christians in many ways (i.e. Ephesians 2:10 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%202:10;&version=31;), Ephesians 3:10 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%203:10;&version=31;) [cross ref. 1 Peter 2:9 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Peter%202:9;&version=31;), Malachi 2:7 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Malachi%202:7;&version=31;)], Ephesians 6:10-18 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%206:10-18;&version=31;)), a function which closely parallels God the Spirit's personal work (ref. Genesis 6:1-5 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis%206:1-5;&version=31;))
For example, consider the lukewarm church of Laodicea (Revelation 3:14-22 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%203:14-22;&version=31;)). When the city of Laodicea tried to pipe healing hot water from Hierapolis and refreshing cold water from Colossae, all of the said water usually arrived as lukewarm water, which is repulsive and relatively useless (further reading (http://www.padfield.com/2005/laodicea.html), pics (http://www.biblepicturegallery.com/pictures/Laodicea.htm)). Christ Jesus used this historical reality as an illustration of Laodicean spirituality. As a result, one could logically assert that the church of Laodicea lost its "spiritual medical value" or "saltiness," thereby making this church deserving of entering the Tribulation (cross compare Revelation 3:16 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%203:16;&version=31;) and Revelation 3:10 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%203:10;&version=31;)).
[16] Christians (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=5546), individually and collectively, are the permanent temple of God the Spirit (John 14:16-17, 23 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2014:16-17,%2023;&version=31;), Romans 8:9 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%208:9;&version=31;), 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%203:16-17;&version=31;), 1 Corinthians 6:19 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%206:19;&version=31;), Ephesians 2:19-22 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%202:19-22;&version=31;)). Hence, as the temple of God the Spirit, Christians (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=5546), individually and collectively, represent the most potent and immediate presence of God the Spirit on Earth.
[17] Galatians 5:1 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians%205:1;&version=31;), 1 Corinthians 6:12 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%206:12;&version=31;), 1 Corinthians 10:23 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%2010:23;&version=31;), cross ref. 1 Corinthians 8:9 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%208:9;&version=31;), Galatians 5:13 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians%205:13;&version=31;).
[18] Matthew 28:16-20 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2028:16-20;&version=31;).
[19] Biblical Scripture never applies the term "elder," or presbuteros (Strong's #4245) (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=4245), to angelic beings (ref.) (http://www.htmlbible.com/sacrednamebiblecom/kjvstrongs/CONGRK424.htm#S4245).
[20] The 2 (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1501)4 (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=5064) elders (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=4245) wear . . .
(a) brilliant white (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=3022) garmets (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=2440) (Revelation 4:4 [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=Revelation+4%3A4§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)). The saints will be rewarded (ref. 1 Corinthians 3:12-15 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%203:12-15;&version=31;)) with "glory (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1741)" and "shining (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=2986) pure (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=2513) linen (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1039)," which represent the Church's innocence and holiness (Ephesians 5:25-27 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%205:25-27;&version=31;) [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=Ephesians+5%3A25-27§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)) and the saints' righteous acts (Revelation 19:8 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2019:8;&version=31;) [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=Revelation+19%3A8§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)) respectively.
(b) crowns (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=4735) of gold (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=5552) (Revelation 4:4, 10 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%204:4,%2010;&version=31;) [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=Revelation+4%3A4%2C+10§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)). Saints will be rewarded (ref. 1 Corinthians 3:12-15 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%203:12-15;&version=31;)) with a crown (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=4735) or crowns (Revelation 3:11 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%203:11;&version=31;) [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=Revelation+3%3A11§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)), such as the crown (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=4735) of righteousness (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1343) (2 Timothy 4:8 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Timothy%204:8;&version=31;) [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=2+Timothy+4%3A8§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)), the crown (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=4735) of life (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=2222) (James 1:12 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%201:12;&version=31;) [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=James+1%3A12§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na), Revelation 2:10 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%202:10;&version=31;) [Greek[ (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=Revelation+2%3A10§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)), and the crown (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=4735) of glory (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1391) (1 Peter 5:4 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Peter%205:4;&version=31;) [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=1+Peter+5%3A4§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)).
[21] Before the Second Coming (Revelation 19:11-16 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2019:11-16;&version=31;), cross ref. Matthew 24:29-31 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2024:29-31;&version=31;), Colossians 3:4 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Colossians%203:4;&version=31;), 1 Thessalonians 3:13 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Thessalonians%203:13;&version=31;), Jude 1:14-15 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jude%201:14-15;&version=31;)), the Church will undergo the Marriage Supper of the Lamb (Revelation 19:7-9 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2019:7-9;&version=31;)), where the Church "marries" Christ Jesus (ref. Revelation 21:9 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2021:9;&version=31;), 2 Corinthians 11:2 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Corinthians%2011:2;&version=31;)). This imagery explicitly invokes the imagery of Jewish wedding customs, including the chronology of the said customs. As a result, the said chronological correlation between the 70th Week of Daniel (ref. Daniel 9:24-27 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Daniel%209:24-27;&version=31;)) and Jewish wedding customs would require a Pre-Tribulation Rapture.
"The Marriage and Marriage Supper of the Lamb" by Dr. Renald Showers @ IFCA.org (http://www.ifca.org/voice/7Jan-Feb/lamb.htm)
"The Rapture and the Jewish Wedding Tradition," by J.R. Lawendowski @ Tribulation Forces Network (http://www.tribulationforces.com/tfcdr/rapturejw.shtml)
"A Bible Study of the Marriage of the Bride of Christ (The Jewish Wedding)," by Jason Hommel @ BibleProphecy.org (http://www.bibleprophesy.org/introwedding.htm)
However, Jewish wedding customs require that the bride and the groom go into seclusion. As a result, since the Old Testament saints are the "wedding guests" (ref. Matthew 9:14-15 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%209:14-15;&version=31;), John 3:28-29 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%203:28-29;&version=31;)) at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb, only these saints would appear "publicly" in Heaven. Hence, these 24 elders may be Old Testament saints (ref. Luke 22:28-30 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2022:28-30;&version=31;)) who parallel the 24 divisions of Israel's priesthood (ref. 1 Chronicles 24:1-19 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Chronicles%2024:1-19;&version=31;)).
[22] During the 70th Week of Daniel (ref. Daniel 9:24-27 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Daniel%209:24-27;&version=31;)), the Two Witnesses will exercise an unstoppable 1 (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=5507),2 (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1250)60 (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=1835) day (http://www.studylight.org/lex/grk/view.cgi?number=2250) prophetic ministry (Revelation 11:3-6 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2011:3-6;&version=31;) [Greek] (http://www.studylight.org/isb/bible.cgi?query=Revelation+11%3A3-6§ion=0&it=kjv&ot=bhs&nt=na)), until God gives the Beast power over the saints for 3.5 years (Revelation 11:7-12 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2011:7-12%20;&version=31;), cross ref. Revelation 13:5-8 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2013:5-8;&version=31;), Daniel 7:25 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Daniel%207:25;&version=31;)). Hence, when the former's dominance ends, the latter's dominance begins, otherwise a conceptual paradox results.
Moreover, the world would not need the Two Witnesses' prophetic ministry for the first 1,260 days, if the Church remains in the world during this time.