What We Believe | Article VI: The Rapture and the Return | Scripture: John 14:1-3 | Pastor Jonathan Evans

Overview

Pastor Jonathan discusses the Rapture and the Return, referencing John 14:1-3. He explains the belief in the great tribulation, the millennial kingdom, and the pre-tribulation rapture at Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship (OCBF). The rapture is likened to an ancient Jewish wedding paradigm, emphasizing betrothal, departure and preparation, and the unexpected return. He highlights the importance of being ready, sharing the gospel, and the significance of the rapture preceding the second coming. The sermon concludes with a call to accept Christ and be prepared for the rapture.

Speaker 1 expresses gratitude and praise for God’s grace and protection, emphasizing the goodness of Jesus.
Pastor Jonathan begins the worship service, reading from John 14:1-3, encouraging the congregation to believe in God and Jesus.
The discussion transitions to the articles of the Constitution, focusing on the Rapture and the Return, and the great tribulation.
Pastor Jonathan explains the belief in the great tribulation, the coming of Jesus to set up His millennial kingdom, and the pre-tribulation rapture.

Pastor Jonathan emphasizes the importance of trusting in God and Jesus, referencing Proverbs 3:5-6.
He explains that the disciples’ hearts were troubled due to Jesus’ impending death, and Jesus reassures them not to be troubled.
The concept of believing in God and Jesus is highlighted, with Jesus using the phrase “believe also in me.”
Pastor Jonathan draws parallels to the ancient Jewish culture, explaining the patriarchal system and the concept of many rooms in the father’s house.

Pastor Jonathan introduces the ancient Jewish wedding paradigm, explaining the betrothal, departure and preparation, and the wedding.
He describes the legally binding covenant of betrothal and the dowry paid by the son to the father.
The departure and preparation phase is explained, where the son prepares a chamber for the bride.
The father determines the time of the wedding, and the son comes unexpectedly with a shout and trumpet to sweep the bride off her feet.

Pastor Jonathan explains that the rapture of the church is embedded in John 14:3, using the ancient Jewish wedding paradigm.
He emphasizes that the rapture precedes the second coming, and the church is called to be ready.
The signs of the second coming are discussed, including false Christ and false prophets, wars, and the great tribulation.
Pastor Jonathan warns about the pandemonium that will follow the rapture, with the devil taking the stage as the Antichrist.

Pastor Jonathan stresses the importance of being ready for the rapture and the second coming, sharing the gospel actively.
He explains that the rapture inaugurates the second-coming season, and the signs of the second coming are already visible.
The consequences of the rapture are discussed, including lawlessness, false prophets, and the rise of the Antichrist.
Pastor Jonathan reassures the congregation that Jesus will keep His bride from the hour of testing and the wrath to come.

Pastor Jonathan explains that the bride of Christ is protected and secure, and Jesus will return to sweep her off her feet.
He emphasizes that the bride will share in the inheritance of the King and rule with Him after the seven-year tribulation.
The parable of the talents is used to illustrate the preparation of the bride for her role in the kingdom.
The importance of living a dedicated life to the King is highlighted, with the judgment seat of Christ determining the bride’s rule.

Pastor Jonathan concludes by encouraging the congregation to take the message seriously and make it applicable to their lives.
He emphasizes the importance of sharing the gospel and living a dedicated life to the King.
The congregation is invited to accept Christ and be ready for the rapture.
Pastor Jonathan calls for a moment of stillness for reflection and decision-making.