Tammrae: I ran across your Substack by accident. When I read the introduction where you explain the conditions which make one susceptible to false teaching, I knew I had to read the rest of your article. Whether others recognize it or not, In that introduction, you articulated reams of wisdom in very few words. Thank you!!
So, for the rest of your piece. First bear with me as I chronicle some of my history regarding my understanding (or lack thereof) of the Lord’s return. 4-5 years ago, a friend challenged me regarding my biblical knowledge of the rapture and the second coming. Truth was I knew very little. He was right. Most of my life I have heard others say things like, “Oh, it’s too complicated.” “There is so much disagreement.” “There is much confusion.” “It causes division.” On and on. That was my mindset, but I decided to do what I could to remedy my ignorance. Boy, was I surprised!
When I set out, I determined to know nothing except what was written. I completely avoided, books, podcasts, YouTube, conferences, preachers, etc. I wanted to know only what the scriptures taught about the subject. And, I asked for understanding. Starting in the Old Testament, I determined to find and underline in red anything that related (even remotely) to the Lord’s return. I carefully underlined everything I could find from Genesis to Revelation. What amazed me was how not confusing, how uncomplicated, how clear the narrative was. What unfolded was a beautiful mosaic in which each piece fit perfectly. It was for me a great affirmation of the Truth of scripture. I have always held the scriptures in high regard, but this exercise did more for my trust in the word of God than any other study I have ever undertaken. I am very greateful.
Your article reveals a deep understanding of the biblical data. Some of the extra-biblical evidence you provide will undoubtedly be questioned, but the biblical framework on which you hang that evidence is solid. Somewhere along the line you have taken the attitude of Daniel in Chapter 9, and the Lord has honored your request. You have been granted understanding.
Please do not be deterred by the inevitable detractors.
I would commend Voddie Baucham's series on the book of Revelation to you for a far different take which you should consider. Available on YouTube and other places including VMMinistries.
Please do not take this as a personal rebuke. It is intended as a correction, writ large, against an fault in Evangelicalism that must be corrected - as it is the source of much error. The notion that there are various interpretations or “different takes,” all of equal validity, causes much confusion and false teaching. Peter tells us that “no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of one’s own interpretation.” “God is not the author of confusion,” so when we encounter scriptures on which we disagree, we can know with certainty that one of us (at least) has not understood the Lord’s intention. What to do? We must take the attitude of Daniel in chapter 9, confession and prayer for understanding. If understanding is granted, accept it with gratitude (certainly not with pride). If it is not granted, silently wait and “grow in grace and knowledge.” Humility is paramount.
Tammrae: I ran across your Substack by accident. When I read the introduction where you explain the conditions which make one susceptible to false teaching, I knew I had to read the rest of your article. Whether others recognize it or not, In that introduction, you articulated reams of wisdom in very few words. Thank you!!
So, for the rest of your piece. First bear with me as I chronicle some of my history regarding my understanding (or lack thereof) of the Lord’s return. 4-5 years ago, a friend challenged me regarding my biblical knowledge of the rapture and the second coming. Truth was I knew very little. He was right. Most of my life I have heard others say things like, “Oh, it’s too complicated.” “There is so much disagreement.” “There is much confusion.” “It causes division.” On and on. That was my mindset, but I decided to do what I could to remedy my ignorance. Boy, was I surprised!
When I set out, I determined to know nothing except what was written. I completely avoided, books, podcasts, YouTube, conferences, preachers, etc. I wanted to know only what the scriptures taught about the subject. And, I asked for understanding. Starting in the Old Testament, I determined to find and underline in red anything that related (even remotely) to the Lord’s return. I carefully underlined everything I could find from Genesis to Revelation. What amazed me was how not confusing, how uncomplicated, how clear the narrative was. What unfolded was a beautiful mosaic in which each piece fit perfectly. It was for me a great affirmation of the Truth of scripture. I have always held the scriptures in high regard, but this exercise did more for my trust in the word of God than any other study I have ever undertaken. I am very greateful.
Your article reveals a deep understanding of the biblical data. Some of the extra-biblical evidence you provide will undoubtedly be questioned, but the biblical framework on which you hang that evidence is solid. Somewhere along the line you have taken the attitude of Daniel in Chapter 9, and the Lord has honored your request. You have been granted understanding.
Please do not be deterred by the inevitable detractors.
Thank you for your comment. I see you are a fellow Berean! The truth of Scripture amazes me, too. Blessings, friend.
Thank you Tammrae!
I would commend Voddie Baucham's series on the book of Revelation to you for a far different take which you should consider. Available on YouTube and other places including VMMinistries.
Please do not take this as a personal rebuke. It is intended as a correction, writ large, against an fault in Evangelicalism that must be corrected - as it is the source of much error. The notion that there are various interpretations or “different takes,” all of equal validity, causes much confusion and false teaching. Peter tells us that “no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of one’s own interpretation.” “God is not the author of confusion,” so when we encounter scriptures on which we disagree, we can know with certainty that one of us (at least) has not understood the Lord’s intention. What to do? We must take the attitude of Daniel in chapter 9, confession and prayer for understanding. If understanding is granted, accept it with gratitude (certainly not with pride). If it is not granted, silently wait and “grow in grace and knowledge.” Humility is paramount.
Thank you for the recommendation. In these latter days, we will soon find out the truth for ourselves!