The concept of the rapture refers to an end times event described in 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, when believers who are still alive at the second coming of Christ will be “caught up” into the clouds to meet Jesus in the air. This will precede the tribulation period prophesied in the book of Revelation. Those who are not believers in Christ will be “left behind” to endure this time of great suffering on the earth.
For Christians, the uncertainty of whether they will experience the rapture or be left behind can cause fear and anxiety. However, by understanding what the Bible teaches about salvation and righteous living, believers can have assurance that they will be caught up to meet Jesus when He returns.
Salvation through Faith in Christ
The Bible clearly teaches that salvation comes by grace alone through faith alone in Jesus Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). Our good works cannot earn salvation. We are made right with God by trusting in what Jesus accomplished for us on the cross. He took the punishment for our sins so that we could be forgiven and have eternal life (Romans 5:8-9).
If you have sincerely confessed your sins to God, repented, and believed in Jesus as your Lord and Savior, the Bible assures that you are saved and will spend eternity with God (Romans 10:9-10, John 3:16). Your salvation is secure based on God’s promise and the finished work of Christ, not your own good deeds (John 10:28-29).
Live in Obedience to Christ
While our works don’t earn salvation, the Bible teaches that true saving faith will be accompanied by a life of obedience and good works. Jesus said that those who love Him will keep His commandments (John 14:15). And faith without works is dead (James 2:14-26).
Although Christians may struggle with sin and obedience at times, our lives should be generally characterized by the fruit of the Spirit – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). As we spend time in God’s Word, pray, worship, fellowship with other believers, and allow the Spirit to guide us, our lives will reflect Christ.
The Bible encourages us to examine ourselves to see if we are in the faith (2 Corinthians 13:5). If your life is characterized by unrepentant sin and lack of spiritual fruit, it may indicate that your faith is not genuine saving faith.
Have Confidence Based on God’s Faithfulness
For Christians who are trusting in Christ and seeking to follow Him, we can be confident that God will complete the work He began in us (Philippians 1:6). The Bible says multiple times that God will not abandon His people (Deuteronomy 31:6, Hebrews 13:5). Jesus promised that no one can snatch His sheep out of His hand or the Father’s hand (John 10:28-29).
God knows your heart. If you have sincerely put your faith in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, you can be assured of your salvation and that you will go to be with Him at the rapture. As you seek to grow closer to God each day, allowing His Spirit to transform you, you never need to fear being left behind.
Watch for Christ’s Return
Rather than fearing being “left behind,” Christians should live with hopeful expectation that Jesus could return at any time. He instructed us to be watchful and ready for His coming, keeping our spiritual eyes open (Matthew 24:42, Mark 13:33-37).
The rapture and second coming should motivate us to live godly and dedicated lives, sharing the gospel and making disciples while there is still time (Matthew 28:19-20, 2 Peter 3:11-12). We can look forward to Christ’s return with eager anticipation rather than dread.
Trust God’s Perfect Timing
Ultimately, the exact timing of the rapture is unknown and in God’s sovereign control (Matthew 24:36). We should find comfort in knowing that God is all-powerful, all-knowing, and is working out His perfect plan.
As we wait for Christ’s return, God wants us to make the most of the time He gives us on earth to honor Him and advance His kingdom. Although we don’t know when Jesus is coming, we know that God will accomplish His purposes right on schedule.
Rather than striving to pinpoint a date, our focus should be on maintaining an intimate relationship with Christ and being found faithful when He appears (Matthew 24:45-51, Luke 12:35-40). God promises to reward those who eagerly await His return (2 Timothy 4:8).
Trust in God’s Justice and Mercy
If you have placed your faith in Christ, you can trust that God will deal justly with you. The Bible says that God will repay each person according to what they have done (Romans 2:6) and that He is a righteous judge (2 Timothy 4:8).
At the same time, God is rich in mercy and compassion towards those who love Him (Ephesians 2:4-5). He desires for all to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). As we await Christ’s return, we can have hope in God’s perfect justice and amazing grace.
Seek Godly Wisdom and Discernment
As the day of Christ’s return approaches, false teachers will arise, deceiving many (2 Peter 2:1-3). We need to be vigilant against unbiblical doctrines and carefully discern the truth of God’s Word. The Bible, prayer, godly counsel, and the Holy Spirit will help guide us into accuracy and certainty.
God promises wisdom to those who earnestly seek Him and His will (James 1:5). We can guard against deception by growing in spiritual maturity and knowledge of Scriptural truth (Hebrews 5:14). This will help reassure us of sound doctrine.
Find Comfort in God’s Presence
At times when uncertainty strikes, we can find great comfort in God’s abiding presence. Jesus promised believers that He would never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). Through the Holy Spirit, He lives within those who have placed their faith in Him (Romans 8:9-11).
We can cast all of our cares on God, knowing He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7). He is our rock and refuge when life feels shaky (Psalm 62:2). God’s presence calms our fears if we keep our focus on Him.
Rest in God’s Sovereignty
God is all-powerful, all-knowing, and fully in control of the events at the end of the age. He holds the future securely in His hands. Even in turbulent times, we can find rest in His sovereignty.
The book of Revelation reminds us that God will ultimately triumph over evil completely. He knows the beginning from the end. We have no need to fear because God governs over all things according to His perfect will (Isaiah 46:10).
No matter what circumstances we face, we can trust that God causes all things to work together for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). He faithfully watches over His people and will gloriously fulfill His promises.
The Blessed Hope
Rather than with fear or speculation over being “left behind,” believers should anticipate the rapture with a heart of worship and grateful joy. What an incredible blessing that Christ has gone to prepare a place for us and will return to take us to be with Him forever (John 14:2-3)!
The apostle Paul describes the rapture as a “blessed hope” and the “glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:13). It will be a beautiful day when Christ gathers His people to Himself in the air to enjoy His presence and the unlimited riches of His grace for eternity.
As we eagerly await that day, may we “encourage each other with these words” (1 Thessalonians 4:18). The promise of the rapture fills us with hope and confidence as we fix our eyes on Jesus!
