The Secret Rapture -- Fact or Fable?

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Introduction (presented by nitecop@lsa.net )




There is a theological question that has disturbed millions of Christians, and has lent untold doctrinal confusion to the modern religious world. That question revolves around the manner of Yaohushua's coming back to this earth at the end of the world. Multitudes have been led to believe that Yaohushua will return secretly. This doctrine is commonly known as "the Rapture." A large number of Christians have been exposed to this "dispensationalist" or "futurist" interpretation of prophecy, and unknown to them have been purposely misled.

The Deceptive Theory

According to those that teach this theory, the coming of Yaohushua will be in two separate events. First, He will come secretly to take the church to heaven, and then, seven years later, He will come in an open demonstration of power and glory. In between those two events, the Antichrist is supposed to come into power, and the great tribulation period take place.But the truth is that the Bible nowhere speaks of these two separate comings of Yaohushua. There is no second stage of His coming that occurs seven years after the so-called rapture. By the way, that word "rapture" is also an invention of theologians. It can't be found in the Bible in even a single instance. It is a word coined for the second advent of Yaohushua.

Oswald Smith, (noted minister and author of Toronto) Tribulation or Rapture-Which? "I had been taught that the Greek word 'parousia' always referred to the Rapture and that other words were used for the coming of Yaohushua in glory...but I found that this is not true...We might go through all the writers of the New Testament, and we would fail to discover any indication of the so-called 'two-stages' of our Lord's coming...That theory had to be invented by man. Search and see. There is no verse in the Bible that even mentions it."

The Secret

To say that the second coming of Yaohushua to gather His saints will be secret, in absence of any text that even hints at His coming being secret, is to deny the Bible as the Word of God. In an attempt to uphold their contrived theory, the rapturists quote Matthew chapter 24 out of context. (Matthew 24:37-41)
note: Yaohushua is clearly drawing a parallel between the second coming and the days of Noah. Those who entered the ark in Noah's day were saved, and those who refused to enter the ark were left outside. But what were they left for? For another chance? No, obviously they were left to be destroyed by the flood. So, says Yaohushua, will it be when He comes at the end of the world. One will be taken to heaven with Yaohushua and the other will be left for destruction. (see Matthew 24:51)(see Luke 17:26-37)

Rapturists also quote II Peter chapter 3 out of context (II Peter 3:10). Yaohushua Himself explained clearly just how a thief's coming could be related to His coming. (Matthew 24:42,43)
note: In Matthew 24:42,43 the thief would come unexpectedly when the owners were not looking for a thief. In the same way His coming would take people by surprise. They would not be watching or looking for it.

The Seven Year Tribulation

Since so much rapturist theology revolves around the seven-year period, one would assume that the Bible must speak frequently of such a time period. But not so. There is not one single scriptural reference which ties the seven years to the end of the world or the coming of Yaohushua. Most rapturist literature mention the seven-year tribulation period without offering any Bible proof or explanation. Millions have assumed that it must be so well documented that no proof is needed. In fact, the opposite is true. There just isn't any to give.

The Man of Sin

Now we are brought to focus on the most glaring inconsistency of the rapture theory, and that is that the Antichrist will not appear until after the saints are caught away seven years before the end of the world. The Bible says something very different pertaining to the coming of the Antichrist. (II Thessalonians 2:1-4)
note: II Thessalonians 2:1-4 says that the man of sin (Antichrist) is going to be revealed before Yaohushua comes. And when this happens, this man of sin will be destroyed when Yaohushua comes. He does not arrive after the second advent.

Let us now notice how this teaching-that the Antichrist will come in the future-originated. The origin of this false doctrine comes from the Papacy.

Amazing Facts, The Secret Rapture, 1988 "At the time of the Reformation, most of the reformers understood the prophecy of the Antichrist to refer to the great apostate system of Romanism that developed during the Dark Ages. Of course, Rome did not appreciate this interpretation."

The Papacy knew that these prophecies referred to her and she desperately sought to cover this truth. Toward the close of the century of the Reformation (Council of Trent), two men by the names of Alcazar and Francisco Ribera (Jesuits) sought to form a counterfeit theology to the prophecy of the Protestants about the Anti-christ.

(Reverend Joseph Tanner, Daniel and the Revelation, pp. 16,17) Amazing Facts, The Secret Rapture, 1988 "So great a hold did the conviction that the Papacy was the AntiYaohushua gain upon the minds of men, that Rome at last saw she must bestir herself, and try, by putting forth other systems of interpretation, to counteract the identification of the Papacy with the Antichrist. "Accordingly, toward the close of the century of the Reformation, two of the most learned doctors set themselves to task, each endeavoring by different means to accomplish the same end, namely, that by diverting men's minds from perceiving the fulfillment of the prophecies of the Antichrist in the papal system. The Jesuit Alcazar devoted himself to bring into prominence the preterist method of interpretation...and thus attempt to show that the prophecies of Antichrist were fulfilled before the popes ever ruled in Rome, and therefore could not apply to the Papacy. On the other hand, the Jesuit Ribera tried to set aside the application of these prophecies to the papal power by bringing out the futurist system, which asserts that these prophecies refer properly, not to the career of the Papacy, but to some future supernatural individual, who is yet to appear, and continue in power for three and a half years. Thus, as Alford says, the Jesuit Ribera, about A.D. 1580, may be regarded as the founder of the futurist system of modern times.".....It is a matter for deep regret that those who advocate the futurist system at the present day, Protestants as they are for the most part, are playing into the hands of Rome, and helping to screen the Papacy from detection as the Anti-Yaohushua."

The whole theory of the secret rapture with its future Antichrist had its origin with the Jesuits in an attempt to take the blame off the papacy. Let us now see how this teaching was spread across the world, and eventually planting its roots in America.

Amazing Facts, The Secret Rapture, 1988
"The origin of the two-phase coming of Yaohushua has an equally unsavory history. It was not until around the year 1830 that this view began to be taught. In the Scottish church pastored by Edward Irving, a Miss Margaret McDonald gave what was believed at the time to be an inspired utterance. She spoke of the visible, open and glorious second coming of Yaohushua. But as the utterance continued, she spoke of another coming of Yaohushua--a secret and special coming in which those that were truly ready would be raptured. It was John Nelson Darby, however, a Brethren preacher and diligent writer of the time in England who was largely responsible for introducing this new teaching on a large scale. The teaching spread to the United States in the 1850's and 1860's, where it was to received its biggest boost when Cyrus Ingerson Scofield, a strong believer in Darby's teachings, incorporated it into the notes of his "Scofield Reference Bible" which was published in 1909. Since that time, this view has been widely accepted--often by people who are completely unaware that this was not the belief held by Christians over the centuries."

The Second Chance

Finally, the SECRET RAPTURISTS claim that during the tribulation those not raptured will be given another chance to be saved.Nowhere does Scripture speak of a second chance, nor does the Bible anywhere speak of people being saved after Yaohushua comes. This is just another manmade doctrine that is indeed pleasing to the carnal heart of man. Actually, the Bible teaches the opposite. (see II Corinthians 6:2)(see Revelation 22:11,12)(see Jeremiah 8:20)

Conclusion:

Let us stand firm on the Word of YHWH alone and reject these man-made, man pleasing ideas that form the bulk of the secret rapture theory. Let us carefully study our Bibles that we will not be deceived concerning this most important and wonderful hope, the second coming of Yaohushua.

William wrote/Bob Wrote:

We begin where plagues 1 through 6 have already commence. The wicked have decided that the saints are responsible for earth's calamities. A death decree is issued against YHWH's commandment keeping people. As the wicked gather in all parts of the world to kill the saints, the stage is now set for the world's most climatic event.
1) The deliverance of YHWH's people takes place under the "seventh plague." (Revelation 16:17-21)
note: In Revelation 16:17-21 the voice of Yaohushua shakes the heavens and the earth. There is a tremendous earthquake. The glory from YHWH's throne flashes through. The proudest cities of the earth are laid low. Prison walls are torn apart, and YHWH's people who have been held in bondage for their faith, are set free.
I just read Rev. 16:17-21 and failed to see any mention of God's People being persecuted or set free from such persecution. Could you tell me where that is found?

2) The heavens open and Yaohushua rides forth as a "mighty conqueror." (Revelation 19:11-14) note: In Revelation 19:11-14 Accompanied by the armies of the heavenly host, Yaohushua is seen descending from Heaven as "King of kings" in power and majesty to deliver his faithful people from those who are bent upon their destruction. ----"His eyes" represents that as Yaohushua goes forth, the great champion of eternal justice, nothing escapes His notice.----The armies represents the Heavenly Host that accompany Yaohushua at His second coming. (see John 14:1-3)(see Luke 21:26,27)(see Acts 1:9-11)(see Hebrews 9:28)(see 1 Thessalonians 4:16)
Doesn't this chapter that you have quoted deal with Christ's return at the "end" of the millenium? See vs 18-21.

5) The living wicked shall be "slain." (Revelation 19:15,16,21)
note: In Revelation 19:15,16,21 "Out of His mouth" represents the fact that, by the word of YHWH the earth and its inhabitants were brought into being, and now, by the word of His mouth, He terminates the existence of the wicked.----The "remnant" in this case represents the wicked that will quickly be slain by the overwhelming brightness of the YHWH's presence. (see Luke 17:28,29)(see 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9)(2:3-8)
As far as the destruction of the wicked is concerned, Revelation 19 is referring to the "final" destruction of the wicked after the 1000 years. The Bible does not state that the wicked will be destroyed at Christ's Second Coming.

6) Satan is "bound." (Revelation 20:1,2)
note: In Revelation 20:1,2 The binding of the dragon is symbolic of the restrictions placed upon Satan's activities. The wicked will have been slain at the coming of Yaohushua, and the righteous will have been transported to Heaven. Satan will be confined to the desolated earth. There will be no one "left alive" on earth upon whom Satan can exercise his deceptive powers.(see 2 Peter 2:4)(see Jude 1:6)
See above for comment on destruction of wicked. Satan will be bound for 1000 years....What does this mean? It means that there will be no one for him to tempt during this period of time. The righteous will have been taken to heaven and the wicked remaining on this earth will have no need for him, because "their every thought will be evil."

The During Stage

3) The wicked "remain dead" and Satan "remains bound." (Revelation 20:1-3,5)
Let us re-affirm this....The wicked are not killed at Christ's Second Coming. Instead, they are killed by the thousands as a result of the "7 last plagues". It is not made clear in the Bible as to whether there will be any wicked alive at the end of the 1000 years. In all likelihood, the plagues will make this earth a very inhospitable place and no one will be able to survive for 1000 years.

4) The earth is left "ruined"and lies at rest. (Jeremiah 4:23-26)
note: In Jeremiah 4:23-26 Jeremiah describes the extreme changes which will take place in the physical world at the second coming of Yaohushua. Any suggestion that social life, industry, commerce, agriculture, education, sport, travel, etc., will continue as usual during the thousand years is not possible. This planet will be rendered completely uninhabitable when Yaohushua comes. (see Jeremiah 25:30-33) (see Isaiah 24:1,5,6,17-22)
It would appear that this statement is true, But......we must keep in mind that it is the "7 last plagues" that make this earth uninhabitable, not the Second Coming of Christ.

The After Stage

3) YHWH executes his "final judgment," Satan and the wicked are destroyed. (Revelation 20:11-15)
note: In Revelation 20:11-15 All who have ever lived upon the earth will stand alive before YHWH and each other at the same moment. The righteous will be safe inside the walls of the beloved city. The wicked will stand outside awaiting the sentence of everlasting doom. As hell-fire and brimstone streak down upon the earth, Satan and the wicked are destroyed forever. Also, The Bible does not tell how long the wicked will be punished before receiving eternal death in the fire. But, YHWH does specifically state, however, that the wicked will be punished according to their deeds, so those who sin more will be punished longer in the fire before receiving eternal death than those who sin less. (see Zechariah 14:4)(see Malachi 4:1,3)(see Matthew 16:27)(25:41) (see Luke 12:47,48)(see Revelation 22:12)
To state the wicked will be "punished according to their deeds" means that some of the wicked will suffer longer than others is incorrect. God will make the final punishment of the wicked quick and merciful. He does not enjoy the destruction of the wicked and does not want their sufferring to be prolonged. I would hate to think that I will be witness to a long drawn-out death of one of my loved ones. No!... The "fire that comes down from Heaven" will make quick work of the destruction of the wicked.

CONCLUSION:

Through much prayer and by examining the scriptures, the Word of YHWH by His "Holy Spirit" has revealed to us the truth concerning His second coming: First, there is no secret rapture, second, there are no seven years of tribulation, and finally, when Yaohushua comes there is no second chance. Very soon the time of trouble will be at hand, and Yahweh will require us to make a choice. In making our choice, it will all boil down to this: Which side do you want to be on when the world is on fire!
Please provide Biblical texts which validate the conclusion that there will be "seven years of tribulation". I don't remember there being any mention of such a tribulation in the Bible.

Bob Davis

William wrote/Bob Wrote:

We begin where plagues 1 through 6 have already commence. The wicked have decided that the saints are responsible for earth's calamities. A death decree is issued against YHWH's commandment keeping people. As the wicked gather in all parts of the world to kill the saints, the stage is now set for the world's most climatic event.
1) The deliverance of YHWH's people takes place under the "seventh plague." (Revelation 16:17-21)
note: In Revelation 16:17-21 the voice of Yaohushua shakes the heavens and the earth. There is a tremendous earthquake. The glory from YHWH's throne flashes through. The proudest cities of the earth are laid low. Prison walls are torn apart, and YHWH's people who have been held in bondage for their faith, are set free.
I just read Rev. 16:17-21 and failed to see any mention of God's People being persecuted or set free from such persecution. Could you tell me where that is found?

2) The heavens open and Yaohushua rides forth as a "mighty conqueror." (Revelation 19:11-14) note: In Revelation 19:11-14 Accompanied by the armies of the heavenly host, Yaohushua is seen descending from Heaven as "King of kings" in power and majesty to deliver his faithful people from those who are bent upon their destruction. ----"His eyes" represents that as Yaohushua goes forth, the great champion of eternal justice, nothing escapes His notice.----The armies represents the Heavenly Host that accompany Yaohushua at His second coming. (see John 14:1-3)(see Luke 21:26,27)(see Acts 1:9-11)(see Hebrews 9:28)(see 1 Thessalonians 4:16)
Doesn't this chapter that you have quoted deal with Christ's return at the "end" of the millenium? See vs 18-21.

5) The living wicked shall be "slain." (Revelation 19:15,16,21)
note: In Revelation 19:15,16,21 "Out of His mouth" represents the fact that, by the word of YHWH the earth and its inhabitants were brought into being, and now, by the word of His mouth, He terminates the existence of the wicked.----The "remnant" in this case represents the wicked that will quickly be slain by the overwhelming brightness of the YHWH's presence. (see Luke 17:28,29)(see 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9)(2:3-8)
As far as the destruction of the wicked is concerned, Revelation 19 is referring to the "final" destruction of the wicked after the 1000 years. The Bible does not state that the wicked will be destroyed at Christ's Second Coming.

6) Satan is "bound." (Revelation 20:1,2)
note: In Revelation 20:1,2 The binding of the dragon is symbolic of the restrictions placed upon Satan's activities. The wicked will have been slain at the coming of Yaohushua, and the righteous will have been transported to Heaven. Satan will be confined to the desolated earth. There will be no one "left alive" on earth upon whom Satan can exercise his deceptive powers.(see 2 Peter 2:4)(see Jude 1:6)
See above for comment on destruction of wicked. Satan will be bound for 1000 years....What does this mean? It means that there will be no one for him to tempt during this period of time. The righteous will have been taken to heaven and the wicked remaining on this earth will have no need for him, because "their every thought will be evil."

The During Stage

3) The wicked "remain dead" and Satan "remains bound." (Revelation 20:1-3,5)
Let us re-affirm this....The wicked are not killed at Christ's Second Coming. Instead, they are killed by the thousands as a result of the "7 last plagues". It is not made clear in the Bible as to whether there will be any wicked alive at the end of the 1000 years. In all likelihood, the plagues will make this earth a very inhospitable place and no one will be able to survive for 1000 years.

4) The earth is left "ruined"and lies at rest. (Jeremiah 4:23-26)
note: In Jeremiah 4:23-26 Jeremiah describes the extreme changes which will take place in the physical world at the second coming of Yaohushua. Any suggestion that social life, industry, commerce, agriculture, education, sport, travel, etc., will continue as usual during the thousand years is not possible. This planet will be rendered completely uninhabitable when Yaohushua comes. (see Jeremiah 25:30-33) (see Isaiah 24:1,5,6,17-22)
It would appear that this statement is true, But......we must keep in mind that it is the "7 last plagues" that make this earth uninhabitable, not the Second Coming of Christ.

The After Stage

3) YHWH executes his "final judgment," Satan and the wicked are destroyed. (Revelation 20:11-15)
note: In Revelation 20:11-15 All who have ever lived upon the earth will stand alive before YHWH and each other at the same moment. The righteous will be safe inside the walls of the beloved city. The wicked will stand outside awaiting the sentence of everlasting doom. As hell-fire and brimstone streak down upon the earth, Satan and the wicked are destroyed forever. Also, The Bible does not tell how long the wicked will be punished before receiving eternal death in the fire. But, YHWH does specifically state, however, that the wicked will be punished according to their deeds, so those who sin more will be punished longer in the fire before receiving eternal death than those who sin less. (see Zechariah 14:4)(see Malachi 4:1,3)(see Matthew 16:27)(25:41) (see Luke 12:47,48)(see Revelation 22:12)
To state the wicked will be "punished according to their deeds" means that some of the wicked will suffer longer than others is incorrect. God will make the final punishment of the wicked quick and merciful. He does not enjoy the destruction of the wicked and does not want their sufferring to be prolonged. I would hate to think that I will be witness to a long drawn-out death of one of my loved ones. No!... The "fire that comes down from Heaven" will make quick work of the destruction of the wicked.

CONCLUSION:

Through much prayer and by examining the scriptures, the Word of YHWH by His "Holy Spirit" has revealed to us the truth concerning His second coming: First, there is no secret rapture, second, there are no seven years of tribulation, and finally, when Yaohushua comes there is no second chance. Very soon the time of trouble will be at hand, and Yahweh will require us to make a choice. In making our choice, it will all boil down to this: Which side do you want to be on when the world is on fire!
Please provide Biblical texts which validate the conclusion that there will be "seven years of tribulation". I don't remember there being any mention of such a tribulation in the Bible.
Bob Davis



 

 

Greetings..... Im sorry, but it is U who is in error. It has been clearly laid out exactly what will happen. Scripture has been provided which supports the before, during and after. Here is some more info to consider:

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The Seven Vials Of Wrath


"And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of YHWH, and have the testimony of Yaohushua. " (Revelation 12:17)

The Word of YHWH reveals to us that a great crisis will take place in the world. The Bible also reveals that a great crisis awaits YHWH's commandment keeping people (144,000). YHWH's people have received the great outpouring of the "Holy Spirit," and they are sealed with the "seal" of the living YHWH. YHWH's Spirit is then withdrawn from the earth. The saints are made into special objects of hatred because they refused to accept the "mark" of the beast. The saints will experience great persecution on a scale that has never been known. Men, women, and children from all walks of life will be fleeing for their lives and hiding in the most desolate areas, or, if caught, cast into jails to await the penalty. The wicked are finally left to the master they have chosen, which is Satan. (Revelation 22:11-14) note: In V:11 These words are especially applicable to the time when each person's future is irrevocably settled. Such a decree comes at the close of the investigative judgment. The free will of man is not to be interfered with. Men are to be permitted to live life of their own choosing, so that their true character may become apparent. Each person of each age will be made manifest in respect to the class in which he belongs, at the second coming of Yaohushua.
- In V;12 The singular number suggests that the word is used collectively of the acts that make up the life as a whole that a person has lived. The effects of the grace of Yaohushua or of the rejection of that grace are also taken into account when the work of man is examined.
-In V:13 The three titles: Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last is used as descriptive of the Lord as the Creator of all things and as the beginning and final revelation of Cod to men. These titles also represents that all created things owe their existence to Yaohushua; all things find their end in relation to Him.
-In V:14 It is to be the saints privilege and liberty to partake of the tree of life and to enjoy immortality with Yaohushua. Also, the New Jerusalem is to be the capital of the new earth.


The First Judgment

As the great warning against receiving the mark of the beast has finished it's work, and all have made up their minds, YHWH's probation period then comes to a close. (Revelation I5: I-8)
note: In V:1 the plagues are the last with respect to their kind; there will be no more plagues as such, although the ultimate destruction of Satan and sinners is still future. The special punishment reserved for the worshippers of the beast and his image is summed up in the seven last plagues.
-In V:2 the "sea of glass" is likened unto crystal. Here it has a brightness like fire which represents the reflection of the glory of YHWH. This sea of glass represents the people who responded to, and accepted, the message of warning. They have been saved out of the world of trouble and evil, and are now secure in the kingdom of YHWH. The victory was obtained by the blood of the Lamb· They stood loyal to YHWH even when the death penalty was pronounced. Now they stand safe on the sea of glass. They overcame, they triumphed, and now in the heavenly kingdom they sing the anthem of victory.
-In V:3 the "song of Moses" is undoubtedly a reference to the song of deliverance after Israel crossed the Red Sea (see Exodus 15:1-21). That song celebrated the deliverance from Egyptian bondage; the new song represents deliverance from spiritual Babylon. The deliverance of the saints was wrought by Yaohushua, the Iamb of YHWH, and it is but natural that He should be adored and exalted ·in the song of deliverance·
-In V:4 the statement "Who shall not fear thee?" represents the message of the first angel in Revelation chapter 14 which was, "Fear YHWH, and give glory·to him." The saints had heeded this appeal, and now that their pilgrimage is over they join in this wonderful memorial of praise to the glory of YHWH· "
-In V:5 The tabernacle of the testimony applies to the most holy place, or in this case, the entire structure.
-In V:6 white garments are the typical attire of celestial beings (see Matthew 28:3)(see Luke 24:4)(see Acts 1:10)(10:30)
-In V:7 the four beasts represents living beings. these beasts resemble those of Ezekiel's vision, which He calls cherubim (see Ezekiel 1:5-26)(10:12,20-22).
-In V:8 As the tabernacle fills with smoke, this undoubtedly means that the time for intercession is past, and this signifies that man's probation has closed. Any wicked sinner that now attempts to repent and seek forgiveness, their prayers are said in vain. All the judgments upon men, prior to the close of probation, have been mingled with mercy. The pleading blood of Yaohushua has shielded the sinner from receiving the full measure of his guilt; but in the final judgment, Yahshua's wrath is now poured out without mercy on the wicked.



The Seven Plagues

The Bible reveals that those who believe and obey the Word of YHWH will be delivered in the last days (see Psalms 91: I-16), but, those who rejected the word of YHWH, will suffer "seven plagues."


The first plague (Revelation 16: I, 2)

note: According to Webster's 2 Dictionary a sore represents:
I) Causing or suffering pain or tenderness
2) Causing sorrow, misery, or distress
3) Offended, Angry
4) An open skin lesion, wound or ulcer

-In V:1 the fact that the seven plague-bearing angels had already departed from the temple, and that no man (literally no one) was able to enter the temple, this would seem to be the voice of YHWH Himself. Although John does not specify the moment for the giving of this fearful command, the context makes evident that it will be issued soon after the close of probationary time but prior to the coming of Yaohushua.
-In V:2 the numerical designation of each angel implies that the plagues are consecutive. The first plague will cause the wicked to literally receive "grievous sores." Just as a painful sore cannot heal, the reveal miracle-working power of the spirits now cooperating with apostate Christianity apparently proves unavailing. The falsity of the claims that men have based on miracle-working power is demonstrated in a way that they cannot deny. This first installment of "the wrath of YHWH" falls upon those who have failed to heed either the third angel's message, which warned them against worshiping "the beast and his image" or YHWH's final call to come out of spiritual Babylon.


The second and third plague (Revelation 16:3-7)

note: The rivers are primarily useful for such everyday requirements as drinking, bathing, and irrigation. The rivers are also a source of travel, food and marine life.

-In V:3 the second plague would doubtless result in a great inconvenience and perhaps interruption of travel. This plague is designed to demonstrate in a signal way YHWH's displeasure with respect to Satan's plan to bind the nations of earth together under his control.
-In V:4 The effects of the third plague would be immediate and serious, perhaps the destruction of sea life. also the "waters" represents peoples, multitudes, nations and tongues. During the second and third plagues "anarchy" will commence. Blood shed on a massive scale due to wars, civil unrest and total lawlessness will prevail because men have cast aside the law of YHWH and the restraining power of the Holy Spirit. (see Revelation 7:1-3)
-In V:5 the terrible nature of the third plague apparently calls forth a statement in defense of YHWH for authorizing it. He is altogether just in this demonstration of His wrath.
-In V:6 the punishment is precisely appropriate to the crime. The wicked deserve the punishment meted out to them; it is in no sense an optional act on the part of YHWH.


The fourth plague (Revelation 16:8,9)

note: The sun warms and controls plant growth, climate, and many other natural processes necessary to the maintenance of life upon the earth.
-In V:8 those who honored "the day of the sun" according to the traditions of men, the Bible says that YHWH now gives them the sun! The sun sends fourth an excess of warmth and energy that tends to torment men and to destroy life. Though men doubtless suffer directly from the intense heat, its worse results are doubtless the most severe drought and famine the world has ever known. But the literal plague is accompanied by a famine for YHWH's Word. The objective is to escape the misery occasioned by the plagues, not to enter a genuine state of reconciliation with YHWH. Accordingly, Satan convinces the inhabitants of the earth, not that they are sinners, but that they have erred in tolerating YHWH's chosen people.
-In V:9 to blaspheme YHWH is to speak of Him in a derogatory fashion. Men begin to blame Him for their misery and to realize, at last, that they are fighting against Him, Instead of acknowledging their guilt they proceed to lay the blame for their miserable plight upon those who remained true and loyal to YHWH. In utter perversity they refuse to yield to His will, and demonstrate themselves to be what they really are- devoted servants of Satan. The refusal to repent proves them to be altogether and unalterably opposed to YHWH.



The fifth plague (Revelation 16:10, 11)

note: According to Webster's 2 Dictionary the word "darkness" represents:
I) Having little or no light
2) Dismal, gloomy
3) Difficult to comprehend, obscure
4) Unenlightened, ignorant
5) Wicked, sinister
6) In a state of ignorance

note: In V:10 the seat of the beast is apparently his headquarters. The beast here represents primarily the papacy in its revived state, not so much in its religious aspect as in its assumed role of a world power dominant over other world powers. Except for the small remnant that still resists his supremacy Satan numbers the world as his subjects, and it is through the revived papacy in particular that he seeks to secure undisputed control over the entire human race. It would therefore appear that for the duration of this plague the entire world is enveloped in a pall of darkness. Thus, while men grope unrepentantly for light in a spiritually dark world YHWH sends upon them literal darkness, symbolic of the deeper spiritual night that is yet to enshroud the earth.
-in V:11 Men confirm their perverse hatred of YHWH. Their attitude under the fourth plague is not diminished in force or intensity. The effects of the first plague are not immediately fatal, at least not in all cases. Apparently, also, the plagues fall successively rather than simultaneously, and their effects persist.



The six plague (Revelation 16:12-I6)

note: In v:12 the Euphrates represents the people over whom mystical Babylon holds sway; the drying up of its waters represent the withdrawal of their support from Babylon. The "kings of the east" represents Yaohushua and those accompanying Him. Thus, the withdrawal of human support from mystical Babylon is seen as the removal of the last barrier to her ultimate defeat and punishment.
-In V:13 the three unclean spirits represents the "dragon (paganism)," "the beast (the papacy), and "the false prophet (apostate Protestantism). The three unclean spirits represent this evil trio of powers, which together constitutes modern day "great Babylon (modern spiritism)." The "mouth" is the instrument of speech. The three "unclean spirits" also represent the polices that this three fold religious union proclaims to the world, spoken as the wine of Babylon.
-In V:14 the spirit of devils literally refers to demonic spirits, and the performing of miracles which deceives men. Supernatural manifestations of various kinds constitute the means by which Satan, working through various human agencies, succeeds in uniting the world behind his purpose to obliterate those who constitute the only barrier to his unchallenged dominion over mankind. The kings of the earth are the political powers in contrast with the three fold religious union, which summon the nations of earth to unite in a crusade to destroy YHWH's people.
-In V:15 the saints are alert and attentive to the traumatic events at hand. The saints remains steadfast in faith and character and wholly loyal to YHWH (see Matthew 22:11-14).
-In V:16 the English translation of "Armageddon" are actually two Hebrew words, "Har" and 'Megiddon." The word Har means "mountain," the word Megiddon means "destruction." The name Har-Magedon (in the original Greek) represents Mountain of Destruction. Armageddon, represents the last battle of the great controversy between Yaohushua and Satan, which will be fought out on the battlefield of this earth. The gathering takes place under the sixth plague, but that battle itself is fought under the seventh. Under the six plague, this great mountain of destruction is not just limited to a certain place, Armageddon is the result of a universal apostasy from YHWH and Yaohushua. The battle of Armageddon begins when the united religious and political powers of earth open their final attack on YHWH's remnant people.



The seventh plague (Revelation l6:l7-21)

note: In v:17 The dramatic announcement marks the moment when the revelation of the mystery of iniquity is complete, when the true character of the universal religio-political union has been unmasked, YHWH permits the forces of evil to advance to the point of apparent success in their sinister design to eradicate the people of YHWH. As the moment appointed in the death decree arrives and the wicked rush forward with shouts of triumph to annihilate the saints, the voice of YHWH is heard declaring, 'it is done.' This declaration terminates the time of Jacob's trouble, the deliverance of the saints, and ushers in the seventh plague (see 'It is done, " recreation of new earth, Revelation 21:6) (see Yaohushua on the cross John 19:30)
-in V:18 There is a literal and figurative earthquake which shatters mystical Babylon. As a literal earthquake leaves a city in ruins, so a figurative earthquake brings ruin and desolation to "great Babylon." The three fold union collapses both literally and figuratively.
-In V:19 Mystical Babylon of the last days is composed of the Papacy, apostate
Protestantism, and modern spiritism. At the voice of YHWH, this three fold union of apostate religious organizations loses its cohesion, unity, and power to act. The political forces of the earth also lose the state of unity of purpose to which they were gathered under the six plague. There is a terrible awakening among them as YHWH's voice delivers His waiting people from their foes. Now, the earlier components of the universal religio-political combine begin to fight among themselves, and the ten kings take revenge upon mystical Babylon. Fill with fury, the host of earth turn upon their leaders and upon one another the Weapons With which they had purposed to slay the saints. There is strife and bloodshed everywhere. When Yaohushua appears, the clash of arms and the tumult of earthly battle are stilled as the armies of heaven descend. In the mad strife of their own fierce passions, and by the awful outpouring of YHWH's unmingled wrath, fall the inhabitants of the earth, -priests, rulers, and people, rich and poor, high and low.
-In V:20 the convulsions of earth here described result from the earthquake.
-In V:21 A talent weighs about 58-80 pounds. YHWH's seventh plague will cause mass destruction in which great hailstones fall upon the earth. While each stone streams from Heaven, upon impact anything standing in their way would immediately be pulverized. Also, for the third time those upon whom the plagues fall curse YHWH, thus revealing their utter contempt for him, even in the midst of his most grievous judgments.



CONCLUSION

YHWH wants His book called The Revelation to be taught now just as it is, and with great urgency. The book called The Revelation contains YHWH's last, urgent warning message to the people He loves, and that includes you and me. YHWH desperately wants to assign angels to protect you during the plagues. Are you willing to obey Him in all things so He can do so for you?

William wrote/Bob Wrote:

We begin where plagues 1 through 6 have already commence. The wicked have decided that the saints are responsible for earth's calamities. A death decree is issued against YHWH's commandment keeping people. As the wicked gather in all parts of the world to kill the saints, the stage is now set for the world's most climatic event.
1) The deliverance of YHWH's people takes place under the "seventh plague." (Revelation 16:17-21)
note: In Revelation 16:17-21 the voice of Yaohushua shakes the heavens and the earth. There is a tremendous earthquake. The glory from YHWH's throne flashes through. The proudest cities of the earth are laid low. Prison walls are torn apart, and YHWH's people who have been held in bondage for their faith, are set free.
I just read Rev. 16:17-21 and failed to see any mention of God's People being persecuted or set free from such persecution. Could you tell me where that is found?

2) The heavens open and Yaohushua rides forth as a "mighty conqueror." (Revelation 19:11-14) note: In Revelation 19:11-14 Accompanied by the armies of the heavenly host, Yaohushua is seen descending from Heaven as "King of kings" in power and majesty to deliver his faithful people from those who are bent upon their destruction. ----"His eyes" represents that as Yaohushua goes forth, the great champion of eternal justice, nothing escapes His notice.----The armies represents the Heavenly Host that accompany Yaohushua at His second coming. (see John 14:1-3)(see Luke 21:26,27)(see Acts 1:9-11)(see Hebrews 9:28)(see 1 Thessalonians 4:16)
Doesn't this chapter that you have quoted deal with Christ's return at the "end" of the millenium? See vs 18-21.

5) The living wicked shall be "slain." (Revelation 19:15,16,21)
note: In Revelation 19:15,16,21 "Out of His mouth" represents the fact that, by the word of YHWH the earth and its inhabitants were brought into being, and now, by the word of His mouth, He terminates the existence of the wicked.----The "remnant" in this case represents the wicked that will quickly be slain by the overwhelming brightness of the YHWH's presence. (see Luke 17:28,29)(see 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9)(2:3-8)
As far as the destruction of the wicked is concerned, Revelation 19 is referring to the "final" destruction of the wicked after the 1000 years. The Bible does not state that the wicked will be destroyed at Christ's Second Coming.

6) Satan is "bound." (Revelation 20:1,2)
note: In Revelation 20:1,2 The binding of the dragon is symbolic of the restrictions placed upon Satan's activities. The wicked will have been slain at the coming of Yaohushua, and the righteous will have been transported to Heaven. Satan will be confined to the desolated earth. There will be no one "left alive" on earth upon whom Satan can exercise his deceptive powers.(see 2 Peter 2:4)(see Jude 1:6)
See above for comment on destruction of wicked. Satan will be bound for 1000 years....What does this mean? It means that there will be no one for him to tempt during this period of time. The righteous will have been taken to heaven and the wicked remaining on this earth will have no need for him, because "their every thought will be evil."

The During Stage

3) The wicked "remain dead" and Satan "remains bound." (Revelation 20:1-3,5)
Let us re-affirm this....The wicked are not killed at Christ's Second Coming. Instead, they are killed by the thousands as a result of the "7 last plagues". It is not made clear in the Bible as to whether there will be any wicked alive at the end of the 1000 years. In all likelihood, the plagues will make this earth a very inhospitable place and no one will be able to survive for 1000 years.

4) The earth is left "ruined"and lies at rest. (Jeremiah 4:23-26)
note: In Jeremiah 4:23-26 Jeremiah describes the extreme changes which will take place in the physical world at the second coming of Yaohushua. Any suggestion that social life, industry, commerce, agriculture, education, sport, travel, etc., will continue as usual during the thousand years is not possible. This planet will be rendered completely uninhabitable when Yaohushua comes. (see Jeremiah 25:30-33) (see Isaiah 24:1,5,6,17-22)
It would appear that this statement is true, But......we must keep in mind that it is the "7 last plagues" that make this earth uninhabitable, not the Second Coming of Christ.

The After Stage

3) YHWH executes his "final judgment," Satan and the wicked are destroyed. (Revelation 20:11-15)
note: In Revelation 20:11-15 All who have ever lived upon the earth will stand alive before YHWH and each other at the same moment. The righteous will be safe inside the walls of the beloved city. The wicked will stand outside awaiting the sentence of everlasting doom. As hell-fire and brimstone streak down upon the earth, Satan and the wicked are destroyed forever. Also, The Bible does not tell how long the wicked will be punished before receiving eternal death in the fire. But, YHWH does specifically state, however, that the wicked will be punished according to their deeds, so those who sin more will be punished longer in the fire before receiving eternal death than those who sin less. (see Zechariah 14:4)(see Malachi 4:1,3)(see Matthew 16:27)(25:41) (see Luke 12:47,48)(see Revelation 22:12)
To state the wicked will be "punished according to their deeds" means that some of the wicked will suffer longer than others is incorrect. God will make the final punishment of the wicked quick and merciful. He does not enjoy the destruction of the wicked and does not want their sufferring to be prolonged. I would hate to think that I will be witness to a long drawn-out death of one of my loved ones. No!... The "fire that comes down from Heaven" will make quick work of the destruction of the wicked.

CONCLUSION:

Through much prayer and by examining the scriptures, the Word of YHWH by His "Holy Spirit" has revealed to us the truth concerning His second coming: First, there is no secret rapture, second, there are no seven years of tribulation, and finally, when Yaohushua comes there is no second chance. Very soon the time of trouble will be at hand, and Yahweh will require us to make a choice. In making our choice, it will all boil down to this: Which side do you want to be on when the world is on fire!
Please provide Biblical texts which validate the conclusion that there will be "seven years of tribulation". I don't remember there being any mention of such a tribulation in the Bible.
Bob Davis