The word rapture is not found anywhere in the Bible. So where does the idea come from?

In 1 Thessalonians 4:17, Paul writes: "After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them [the dead who were raised] in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever" (NIV).

The Latin for the words caught up is the root of the word rapture. Although Latin is not the original language, the meaning is the same in the Greek. It meens to rush off. So the rapture refers to the time when Jesus will return to take those who believe in Jesus Christ as their Savior to be with him forever.

Although this is a doctrine of the church that is debated by many, there are references to a rapture that precedes God's wrath in the great tribulation that is to come. For example, in Matthew 24:40,41, Jesus says, "Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left" (NIV). This shows that believers in Christ will be taken prior to the final resurrection after the tribulation shown in Revelation.

Another proof for the rapture prior to the tribulation is found in Revelation 3:10, "Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole world to test those who live on the earth" (NIV). If you interpret the promises to the seven churches of Revelation to apply to all believers, then this is a promise that we can hold on to. Therefore, be encouraged. If you believe in Christ as your personal Savior, Christ will return and take you to live with him forever.