Are you ready for today’s adventure?  Today, more than ever, I’m asking you to do your own thinking!  The objective is not to come to agreement with the theory being presented, but to bring us all to a place of considering how imminent The Rapture could be.  So first, let’s take a careful look at what Scripture has to say.

What event is being referenced and what is the key point in each of the following verses:

• Matthew 24:36
• Matthew 25:13
• Mark 13:32

Based on those verses, who knows when Jesus will return?

Now, let’s contrast those teachings of Jesus, with other passages. 

• Luke 12:54-56
• 1 Thessalonians 5:1-5

With that as our backdrop, we’ll spend the day on a rather long article, but one that will intrigue to you.  Please read The Fig Tree has Budded, an article by Douglas Hamp.  (Seriously, the article is amazing…take the time to read it!)

What are your thoughts?

Dear friends, it is extremely important not to become dogmatic about things to which the Bible never gives a very clear, specific answer.  Indeed, we are told that no one other than the Father knows the exact time of Jesus’ return.  On the other hand, we are told specifically in Scripture to know and be aware of the season of Jesus’ return.  Thus, you are exhorted to do your own research and rely upon the Holy Spirit’s revelation to you personally.

In tomorrow’s lesson, we’ll gather on deck as we return to our hometown harbor, where we attempt to answer the question, “How close are we?”  Finish strong, valiant travelers!