Hey friends, before we jump back on our boat to continue our journey into 2 Thessalonians, it is important for you to have a general understanding of the differences between the rapture and the Second Coming (also known as the glorious appearing). They are distinctly different, yet very much reliant upon one another! In 1 Thessalonians we focused almost exclusively on the rapture, but 2 Thessalonians will feature more detail about the Second Coming of Christ. Two different things!

First, let’s tackle semantics. Many Bible scholars view the Second Coming as one event in two phases. We know believers will be “caught up” in the rapture to meet Jesus in the air prior to the tribulation.  (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, 1 Corinthians 15:51-55)  The Bible also teaches us that Jesus Christ will physically return to earth (often called His “glorious appearing”) at the end of the tribulation period.  Thus, think of Jesus’s Second Coming as one event, two phases: rapture and glorious appearing.

To help us collectively understand these two ideas, hear Pastor Jack Hibbs answer questions about the rapture, including the differences between the rapture and Jesus’ physical return. (Hint: click on “Watch on YouTube” in the bottom left corner of the video below.) Then, below that, I’ll provide another resource. Enjoy!

For more info, and an easy-to-understand diagram about the timing of end time events, check out Jesus’s Second Coming as one event, two phases.

Shabbat shalom!