Today´s church wants to be raptured from responsibility." -Leonard Ravenhill

I understand that many reading this will likely have embraced this false teaching. Some will argue that it is implied in Scripture and will not be open to considering anything different. But the reality is, the momentum for rapture teaching arose primarily out of the dream of a 15 year old girl in Scotland.

Others dreams of modern times too, have resulted in false doctrines, such as Joseph Smith (Mormonism - pictured), John Wilson (British Realism), Ellen G.White (Some Seventh Day Adventist teachings) and many more. While dreams can be revelatory, they must be in line with Scripture. That applies not only to dreams but to prophecy and teaching as well. Prophets are subject to confirmation.....

Teachers will be judged most severely for false teachings as well.....

I put Leonard Ravenhill's quotation at the beginning because my conclusion too, for the popularity of rapture theory is that the church and Christians are looking for an easy way out.

Persecution is a forgotten word in our materialistic, soft Western society, in particular. However persecution was the norm for Jesus, culminating in His crucifixion - and for the disciples and believers of the day.

Walking with Jesus is not meant to be easy.....

Jesus summed up end times in Matthew.....

Personal sacrifice is required.....

We are strengthened through persecution.....

Rapture teaching runs contrary to the very foundation of Scripture. As the righteous were persecuted in both the Old and New Testaments, why should we be exempt now?

Paul explains the return of Jesus simply and clearly.....

The subject of the rapture is a vital one, not because it is true, which it isn't, but because it is leading so many good people astray. The consequences are severe, not only in the lack of spiritual commitment now, but as a preparation for the persecution to come.

My prayer is that you will seek the truth for yourself in this vital matter of teaching and faith.

SEALS AND SIGNETS

The ancient seal was a stamp or engraving set in stone, metal or some hard substance like crystal. It was usually a symbol or a figure that was used to make an impression on clay or wax, or some other soft substance. It was usually attached to an object like a possession or a document, in order to give it authenticity, ownership or authority. It was used often in the ancient world, especially in Egypt, Babylonia and Assyria and surrounding nations including Israel.

Illustrated: Seal of Chalcedony, with Persian Inscription (Original is in British Museum)

Source:http://www.bible-history.com