<<<<< The YO-YO Theory>>>>>>
What about post-Tribulationism? This theory destroys both the doctrine of imminence and teaching of dispensationalism. Imminence means "at any moment." The Rapture is not based on any specific set of signs because it is imminent -- it could happen at any moment. This is the reason I believe the signs are fulfilled after the Rapture. Remember, the Rapture takes place in Revelation 4:1, and the signs begin in chapter 6. The signs point to the Revelation, or Christ's return to the earth (Revelation 19:11). This event is not based on the Bible teaching of imminence. One can definitely know when it will transpire by the signs pointing to it in Revelation, chapters 6 to 18. When one studies Acts 1:11, Philippians 3:20, Colossians 3:4, 1 Timothy 6:14, James 5:8, and 2 Peter 3:3,4, he notices that these passages mention Christ's coming for His own, without any specific timetable. This is because the Rapture is connected with imminency while the Revelation is not.
As you know, pre means "before" and post means "after." So those who adhere to the post-Tribulation theory say that the Church will go through the seven years of Tribulation and will meet Christ at the other end, then come right back with Him.
I call this the Yo-Yo Theory in my video study, The Great Escape. I have a friend who is in the ministry, and we love each other. But he believes the Church will go through the seven years of Tribulation. I believe we won't.
<Picture>This makes me a pre-Tribulationist, while he is a post-Tribulationist. Recently, he came to see me and said, "Look at this headline! Jesus is coming soon!" I said, "Amen." He said, "We're going to see Him soon." I said, "Yes, we are. And I'll see Him seven years sooner than you will! So take care of my car while I'm gone!"
(Jack Van Impe)
God Bless,
James |
