The Rapture – Fear Or Encouragement?

THE RAPTURE – FEAR OR ENCOURAGEMENT?

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18

Supporting Texts: 1 Corinthians 15:51-52, Matthew 25:1-13, John 14:1-3

INTRODUCTION:

The doctrine of the rapture is a central teaching in Christian eschatology, signifying the moment when Christ will return to take His faithful followers to be with Him. While this should be a source of hope, many react with fear instead of encouragement. Why do some fear the rapture, and why should believers be encouraged?

1. WHY DOES THE RAPTURE BRING FEAR TO SOME PEOPLE?

a) Fear of Being Left Behind (Matthew 25:1-13)

The parable of the ten virgins warns that not everyone who expects the rapture will be ready.

Those who are spiritually unprepared may be left behind.

b) Conviction of Sin (1 Thessalonians 5:3-4)

Those living in sin fear judgment, knowing the rapture will separate the righteous from the wicked.

The Bible warns that sudden destruction will come upon the world.

c) Uncertainty About Salvation (2 Peter 1:10)

Some Christians struggle with doubts about whether they are truly saved.

This insecurity leads to anxiety about being excluded when Jesus returns.

d) Fear of the Unknown (1 Corinthians 15:51-52)

The supernatural transformation of the body and the events surrounding the rapture can be difficult to comprehend.

Some fear what happens next after the rapture.

e) Influence of Fear-Based Teachings (1 Thessalonians 4:18)

Some preachers focus more on judgment and terror rather than the hope of being with Christ.

However, Paul instructs believers to comfort one another with the teaching of the rapture.

2. WHY THE RAPTURE SHOULD BRING ENCOURAGEMENT

a) It Fulfills God’s Promise (John 14:1-3)

Jesus promised to prepare a place for us and return to take us to Himself.

The rapture is the fulfillment of that promise.

b) It Marks Our Eternal Union with Christ (1 Corinthians 15:51-52)

Believers will receive glorified bodies and be with the Lord forever.

Death and suffering will no longer have power over us.

c) It Rescues Us from the Coming Wrath (1 Thessalonians 1:10)

The rapture will remove the church before the great tribulation.

It is a divine rescue plan for God’s faithful people.

d) It Motivates Holiness and Evangelism (1 John 3:2-3)

Knowing that Christ will return at any time inspires us to live in purity.

It also compels us to spread the gospel to others.

Biblical Example: Enoch (Genesis 5:24, Hebrews 11:5)

Enoch walked with God and was taken away without seeing death.

This is a foreshadowing of the rapture, showing that God rewards faithfulness.

CONCLUSION:

The rapture should not bring fear but joy and anticipation for believers. If we are living right, we have nothing to fear. Instead, we should encourage one another and look forward to Christ’s return with hope and readiness.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, help me to be ready for Your coming.

2. Father, remove every fear and replace it with hope in my heart.

3. Lord, cleanse me from anything that can make me miss the rapture.

4. Holy Spirit, empower me to live a life of holiness.

5. Father, give me the grace to win souls for Your kingdom.

6. Lord, help me to remain steadfast in my faith.

7. I reject every spirit of doubt concerning my salvation.

8. Father, keep my family and loved ones prepared for Your return.

9. Lord, may I not be like the foolish virgins who were unprepared.

10. I declare that I shall be caught up with Jesus on the last day.