1 Corinthians 15: 51-53

Here Paul shares a "mystery" with the church at Corinth. He tells them that they will not all sleep but they will be "changed." He reveals the plan. In the "twinkling of an eye" the dead will be raised and the living will be "changed". He is talking about what Christians commonly refer to as "The Rapture." Though the word "rapture" itself is not found in the Bible, the references to this "lifting up" are many. Paul seeks to give hope to his listeners as he explains how believers will be transformed when Christ returns to claim us. We will be transported instantly, those who are living. Those who have died in Christ and are "sleeping" will be raised from the dead in that "twinkling." Paul calls this a "mystery." It is a special secret that he shares only with God’s people, intending to excite them and arouse their curiosity. He shares with them to emphasize their importance to the Christ they have chosen to serve.

PRAYER

Lord, this great mystery is exciting for me. It gives me hope. In my mind’s eye, I see Your coming. I see the saints who have died being given new bodies. I see those alive being instantly transformed. I pray for those who don’t believe. I ask that You will exhaust every resource You have so that all will be a part of this glorious event and that none will be left behind on that day. Amen.