We’ve all heard about the rapture. The concept of all Christians being suddenly snapped up to meet Jesus in the clouds, just in time to escape the wrath of God on earth, is as popular a trope in secular culture as it is in the church.
A 2016 study by LifeWay research* says 36 percent of pastors claim the rapture will not be a literal event. If even pastors have their doubts, is it any wonder there is no consensus as to whether the event will happen at all, or when it will happen (pre-, mid-, or post-tribulation).
But even in these perilous days when many say that end-times prophecy is playing out before our eyes, doubt exists about the validity of the harpazo (the biblical Greek word meaning “to openly, forcefully take up” or “to openly and suddenly catch away”).
In his new book, The Late Great Secret Rapture (Redemption Press), author Dennis Farrell has assembled the research and prevailing thought on this subject. Drawing on the knowledge and expertise of dozens of pastors, authors, and scholars, Farrell has created a comprehensive study of this mysterious concept. But can readers expect to be persuaded to draw the same conclusions as the author?
“My intention,” says Farrell of his book, “was to present my thesis and hope it will inspire evangelicals to investigate these interpretations for themselves.” Farrell’s intent is not to merely give us the answers, but to guide us to study the Bible for ourselves. It’s that complexity that encourages us to ask questions and continue to study the Word, praying for Holy Spirit’s guidance.
The Late Great Secret Rapture won’t give you a day or an hour for the return of Christ, but it will help clear up some questions and help you draw your own conclusions.
*https://www1.cbn.com/cbnnews/us/2016/april/large-number-of-pastors-dont-believe-in-the-rapture
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dennis Farrell was born again in 1975. After teaching for thirty-five years at Luzerne County Community College in Pennsylvania, he is now retired. A member of the Gideons, he has done missionary work with Jews for Jesus. Married for forty-seven years, he and his wife have three children and seven grandchildren. He is the author of Examples and Principles of Psychology in the Bible, Post-Trib, Is God Judging America and the World?, The Day of the Lord, and The Late Great Secret Rapture.
For interviews, contact Dennis Farrell at dnn225@gmail.com.