Irresponsible Journalism & The Rapture?

I suppose all this snaky talk about the Rapture is over now, but I want to get in a cheap comment, too.

I don’t understand why everyone was so concerned. I stare wide-eyed at those who are pleased that they “survived” the Rapture. I’m befuddled by those who don’t know the difference between the Rapture and “the end of the world.” And I turn my back on the news outlets (think TV) who helped promote the recent wild “prediction(s).” How can anyone trust news organizations that didn’t lift a finger of research on this subject; of media that grope Facebook and Twitter for information? Immaturity never had it so good.

Let’s see if we can get level-headed about this.

First, Lemme tell you that there is a big difference between the Rapture and “the end of the world.” The Bible does not use the word Rapture. Rapture is a comforting late-1800s idea that was developed to help allay Christians’ fears of struggling through the hell-on-earth at the hands of the anti-Christ. The Bible calls that time “the tribulation period.” It will last seven years. As for the Rapture, most Christians believe that Jesus will Shout! and Gabriel’s Trumpet will sound to call all Christians (only) to meet Jesus in the sky and “…to be with Him forever.”

But when? At the beginning of the seven year period? In the middle of it when all hell literally breaks loose on earth? At the end of it when not too many living Christians remain after the tribulation period?

Or is there a Rapture at all?

Second, at the end of those seven years, Jesus will return, bringing an army of saints to the Valley of Armageddon. (Yes, Virginia, there are horses in heaven.) There, almost in an instant, He’ll crush completely the enemies of Israel and will set up headquarters to deliver 1,000 years of world-wide peace.  This—is the Second Coming of Christ! That—is more spectacular than a Rapture event! And Jesus will be the King of the World the whole time! (Well, He already is but not currently seated on this special planet.) Can you imagine even one year of peace? But he promises a thousand years!

Beginning with year 1,001 comes a short “season” when the devil is allowed to run amuck on earth again. Maybe this is the Rapture year. Ever think of that? Amazingly, there will be folks who refused to accept Jesus as their personal savior, even during 1,000 years of His visible righteous and perfect leadership. Those folks will run amuck again creating unexplainable havoc once more. Then comes the “end of the world” as we know it. It will be burned completely and thoroughly. (We’ve got to get rid of all that plastic, drugs, and pavement, you know. A new “green” environment once again?)

Finally, the Rapture (if there is one) is NOT the end of the world. Christ's coming will occur unannounced—like a thief in the night. The Rapture is only for Christians, and a thousand-plus years of earthliness are yet to follow. So if you’re not a Christian don’t worry; no Biblical harm will come to you. Fortunately, you can explain to your kids and grandkids why you’re still here—if they're still here.

All this to say that just reading in the Bible about “end times” is where the irresponsible networks and journalists need to begin their research. The Bible is factual. The Bible is truth. It’s all right there. Look it up.