Expert: Mrs. Priscilla Lyons - 11/5/2011

Question
dear madam,

  do you believe in pre tribulational rapture?

would you please explain  John 16:33 "These things I have spoken unto you,that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world"(Authorized KJV,pure cambridge edition)

thanks,
KC. Lalropuia

Answer
Dear KC.Lalropuia,
   Thank you for writing.
   Yes, I believe in pre-tribulational rapture.  Mainly I base that on Dan.9:24, that in the "70th week," God's focus will be on Israel again, instead of the church.
   I'm not sure what you are thinking about concerning John 16:33, but perhaps it is the thought that Jesus' statement about overcoming the world is taken by some to mean that His people are to usher in His kingdom here on earth, instead of being raptured.
   I don't believe our interpretation of prophecy concerning the future can be dogmatically adhered to.  Rather, I believe Christians should keep their focus on God's desire to change us more and more into His image (Gen.1:26 His purpose for creating us) as II Cor.3:18 tells us.  This is done by the Spirit of God, so it is not our job to "win elections," especially not at any cost, perhaps using dubious means.  However, using influence that God has given us, to positively affect government or elections, is just one sphere of our lives in which God wants us to exercise good stewardship.  Decisions concerning our health, our time, our money, etc. all need to be under God's leading.  Trusting and following God's prompting, as confirmed by His Word, gives us peace in Him, as Jesus said in John 16:33.
   I pray that this response is an encouragement to you.
   Sincerely,
   Mrs. Lyons