Rapture First—Then Tribulation (2 Thessalonians 2:1-12)
Clarifying the Sequence of End Times Events
What will happen before the world plunges into the tribulation? In 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12, the Apostle Paul addresses a confused church, clarifying the sequence of events leading to the end times. Contrary to some false teachings that had spread, Paul emphasizes that the church will be raptured before the tribulation begins. The “day of the Lord,” marked by God’s judgment and the reign of the Antichrist, is yet to come. Before the tribulation, there will be a great apostasy, and the restraining influence of the Holy Spirit through the church will be removed, allowing the “man of lawlessness,” the Antichrist, to be revealed. Paul assures the Thessalonians—and us today—that this time has not yet arrived, providing believers the opportunity to live in hope and anticipation of Christ's return. Join us as we explore the signs of the end times and the assurance that God’s plan is unfolding exactly as He promised.
Scripture reading: 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12