At the 2023 Prophetic Summit in Cleveland, Tennessee, Perry Stone delivered a thought-provoking message titled, “Something I Have Missed Concerning the Pre-Tribulation Rapture” that provides fresh insights and perspectives on the timing of Christ’s return.
Stone reveals a principle that he says many, including himself, have overlooked, and he makes a compelling case for the pre-tribulation rapture of the church.
The Church Age and the Feast of Pentecost
Stone shares that in 2014, he received a revelation regarding the church’s position within the current dispensation of God’s grace, known as the Church Age.
He expounds on the biblical significance of the Feast of Pentecost, explaining that the church is presently positioned at Pentecost (Acts 2:1-47). Stone believes that the next feast in the biblical calendar is the Feast of Trumpets, symbolizing the rapture. Consequently, he says that the rapture will occur at the end of the Church Age, ushering in the subsequent tribulation period.
The Order of the Festivals and the Rapture
Stone explains the significance of the order of the seven festivals of Israel (Lev. 23) and their correlation to the rapture. He highlights the importance of maintaining the correct order, demonstrating that certain festivals must follow a specific sequence.
By aligning these festivals with significant events such as the resurrection of the dead and the coronation of the king, Stone asserts that the rapture must occur before the tribulation. Placing the rapture in the middle or at the end of the tribulation disrupts the established sequence Stone believes.
Patterns in Exodus and the Book of Revelation
Examining patterns in Exodus chapter 19 and the book of Revelation, Stone discusses additional evidence supporting the pre-tribulation rapture. He draws attention to the parallels between the sounding of trumpets and significant events in both instances. Stone asserts that these patterns indicate a clear flow in the book, connecting the Church Age, rapture, tribulation and Christ’s return.
The Significance of the Number Seven
Throughout his message, Stone emphasizes the profound significance of the number seven in biblical prophecy. He explains that seven represents completion, finish and fullness.
Stone provides numerous examples, ranging from the seven days of creation and the seven festivals of Israel to the seven judgments in the book of Revelation. By highlighting the prevalence of the number seven, Stone presents a compelling case for the pre-tribulation rapture, emphasizing its connection to the concept of fullness and completion within God’s divine plan.
Understanding the Sabbath of Rest
The crux of Perry Stone’s teaching lies in the revelation of the sabbath of rest during the seven-year tribulation period. Drawing from the biblical sabbath, Stone asserts that every seventh day is designated as a time of rest. Expanding on this principle, he suggests that the seven-year tribulation period serves as a sabbath of rest for believers who are in heaven during this time.
This understanding presents a compelling argument for the pre-tribulation rapture, emphasizing the significance of rest and completion within God’s divine timeline. As believers engage with these insights, Stone encourages them to deepen their understanding and prepare their hearts for the imminent return of the Lord.
For Christians, it is essential to recognize and embrace the understanding that there are varying views concerning the concept of the rapture.
While some believers interpret it as a pre-tribulation event, anticipating the gathering of the saints before the period of tribulation, others hold to a post-tribulation perspective, expecting the rapture to occur after the trials and challenges. Additionally, there are those who perceive a mid-tribulation timing, placing the rapture in the midst of the tribulation’s intensity.
Amidst these differing views, it is crucial for Spirit-filled Christians to approach this subject with humility, love and a desire for greater biblical understanding. As we navigate these varying interpretations, let us hold fast to our common faith in Jesus Christ, the source of our hope and unity, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us into a deeper revelation of God’s Word and His imminent return.
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