Will there be a Rapture of the church this year? Many believe a rapture is imminent. Some believe it will occur within the next five years. They claim that Matthew 24 teaches there are signs of the Rapture that either are being fulfilled or which are about to be fulfilled. Many of these events according to Rapture theorists will result in tremendous bloodshed, famine, pestilence and death.

They also believe the temple will be built in Jerusalem in the state of Israel and that Jesus Christ will return after a literal 1000 years to sit upon the throne of David. Some believe that according to Ezekiel 37 David, the ancient king of Israel will be resurrected to sit on that throne. The mark of the beast will prevent many from buy and selling food and thus food shortages will add to the miseries of the populous.

The antichrist is expected to make an appearance in the temple showing himself as God. Some believe the antichrist is Jewish. Others believe he will come outside of that community. The battle of Armageddon will be waged in the Middle-East. The. Heavens and earth will be destroyed.

Three views occupy the space of the Rapture, the Pre-Tribulation Rapturists. These are the people who believe that the Rapture will occur before the great tribulation of seven years. They expect to be raptured from the earth in advance, avoiding altogether the chaos for those left behind. Many believe this is the safest view for the church. The Mid-Tribulation theorists teach that they will only suffer half of the tribulation, but will be raptured in the midst of it. So, they expect some collateral damage in the church. Finally, the Post tribulation Rapture view holds that the church must endure the entire tribulation and then the 1000 year millennium will begin.

These views heavily depend on Matthew 24, 1 Thessalonians chapter 4 and the book of Revelation to support their theories. Even though they have experienced many challenges in the past with the accuracy of their predictions and prophecies, they confidently march forward believing this time will be the one. There are a few more hurdles they must face before these eschatological dreams are realized. In a word, it is the word of God. It's time we examine what God has to say on the matter of thee millennial theories. Hold on to your hats. This will be bumpy ride for anyone hoping to soar through the clouds. Fasten your seat belts. We are about to encounter some turbulence ahead.