The Rapture Explained: Read the Core Passages

Paul describes believers being caught up together to meet the Lord in 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18. The word Rapture is commonly used for this gathering. The surrounding passage answers grief with hope in resurrection and reunion.

Read and study

• Read 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18 as a whole, including Paul’s purpose of encouragement.
• Compare 1 Corinthians 15:51–58 on resurrection and transformation.
• Read John 14:1–3 for Jesus’ promise to receive his disciples.
• Compare Matthew 24 and 2 Thessalonians 2 before constructing a timeline.

Put the reading into practice

Christians differ on whether this gathering is a distinct event before the Tribulation or part of Christ’s public return. Name the view being presented and distinguish the text from the sequence inferred from it.