As we approach the end of the Bible, eschatology or the study of end-times events will become more and more important. It will help us to begin getting a good grasp of the issues now, at this introductory stage. The material we cover today will be foundational to our understanding of all that the Bible says in this area.
We started looking at the Rapture of the Church a couple of weeks ago. This is the second part of that series. Next week there will be another one to complete our look at this highly relevant topic.
The Thessalonian church was eagerly awaiting the return of Jesus Christ, this is evident throughout the letter. But apparently some of their number had now passed away. Did this mean that they would be forever separated from their loved ones if Jesus were to return to set up His kingdom here on earth? Paul writes this section to them to clear things up.
The Thessalonian church was born in an environment of persecution. Moreover the faith of the Thessalonian believers was strong, despite having little early instruction. Many of the key passages in 1 & 2 Thessalonians deal with end times events and prophecies such as the Rapture and the Day of the Lord. Paul wanted them to stay focused on the return of Jesus Christ.
Central Reflections 