The Jewish Version of the Rapture. First Fruits of Zion Repost
This is a repost of an excellent article by D. Thomas Lancaster, Director of Education at First Fruits of Zion, who unpacks the "Rapture" against Jewish eschatology. He challenges the late interpretations that have influenced Christian theology in the modern era.
The Rapture. This topic seems to come up in everyday conversations with increased frequency. And to be honest, I tend to avoid it.
For one, it takes too long to unpack, as there are too many related concepts that need to be reset in the process.
Another reason is that it is as mired in misinterpretation as emotion.
Believe it or not, the Rapture, as most understand it, is very late in Christian thought, an innovation within the last two hundred years. And despite its popularity, the common view is almost entirely inverted from what the texts and tradition say.
Thankfully, someone has taken the time and effort to explore this topic.
D. Thomas Lancaster
Daniel Thomas Lancaster is the Director of Education at First Fruits of Zion, of whom most of you are already familiar. He is an important voice in this space, and I have immense respect for his work.
In the link below, Lancaster walks through the history of influences that have contributed to the popular view of the Rapture. He then reviews the Apostolic writings, allowing them to speak for themselves.
Read it now or bookmark it for later; I am sure you will find it as informative as I have. Enjoy!
A study of the Rapture from a Jewish perspective