The Church and the Tribulation
A Bible study outline exploring the timing of the church in relation to the tribulation.
1. Biblical Indications of Pre-Tribulation Removal
1.1 Promises of Deliverance
Verses: 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 1 Thessalonians 5:9
- The church is promised deliverance from wrath (1 Thessalonians 1:10).
- God has not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation (1 Thessalonians 5:9).
1.2 The Gathering of Believers
Verses: 1 Thessalonians 4:17; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3
- The rapture is described as a gathering together with the Lord in the air (1 Thessalonians 4:17).
- This event precedes the day of the Lord, which includes tribulation (2 Thessalonians 2:1-3).
2. Revelation and the Restrainer
2.1 The Church in Heaven Before Tribulation
Verses: Revelation 4:1-2; Revelation 5:8-10
- The book of Revelation depicts the church in heaven before the tribulation judgments are poured out (Revelation 4:1-2).
- The 24 elders represent the redeemed in heaven, worshiping God (Revelation 5:8-10).
2.2 The Removal of the Restrainer
Verses: 2 Thessalonians 2:6-8
- The restrainer (Holy Spirit) is removed before the Antichrist is revealed (2 Thessalonians 2:6-8).
- The church, indwelt by the Spirit, is the primary agent of restraint.
3. The Nature of God and the Tribulation
3.1 Purpose of the Tribulation
Verses: Daniel 9:24-27
- The purpose of the tribulation is to judge the wicked and prepare Israel for the Messiah's return (Daniel 9:24-27).
- The church, having already accepted Christ, is not the primary target of this judgment.
3.2 God's Character and Grace
Verses:
- God's character is one of mercy and grace towards believers.
- It aligns with His nature to remove the church before pouring out His wrath on the earth.