For Fair Use Discussion and Educational Purposes

Here is an excerpt from a well researched book regarding this subject. My question in purple is enclosed within. Please consider it very thought-fully. Gerlinda

In the Book of Jude, the main comments here are reserved for the unbelieving angelic beings that are presently bound for judgment on the Great Day, as examples of the fate due to those that believe not.

However, the Book of Jude does exhort the called out ones to believe that the Lord is coming, and to be wary of ―scoffers‘ who will try to divide them away from the truth.

This particular chapter of our book, once again, has been specifically devoted to reacquaint the reader with the many verses that deal with the subject of suffering, hardship, persecution and tribulations that Christians will experience for holding to the testimony of Jesus Christ.

Theorists and scoffers will respond by saying that these instances of affliction were solely accomplished in the persons of Paul and the other apostles in the early days of the Christian Movement. Some will say that these afflictions are not to be taken literally, that they merely represent the emotional and psychological trauma being experienced in this fast-paced society we live in.

Some would even say that the words spoken of by Christ when He said ―pick up your cross and follow me are merely symbolic of what society today calls ―everyday problems. However, we intentionally cited all the passages that deal with suffering, affliction, hardship, persecution and tribulation for two special reasons.

Number one, throughout all the books the author has read about the so-called Rapture, whether Pre-Trib, Mid-Trib or Post-Trib, very few have touched on the subject of the sufferings that Christians are destined for.

Here is the very strong point made by Joe Ortiz regarding the fact, "Why are there so many instances given of what the believers will have to suffer IF they are taken out before the Suffering/Great Tribulation begin?

Obviously, if a secret escape to heaven is what theorists believe scripture teaches, then not a single Christian has to worry about facing great tribulation before the Lord returns. However, it almost seems as if they (theorists) feared to tread on these heretofore mentioned subjects in fear of or at the expense of losing an audience that wishes not to be presented a doctrine that calls for these impending horrors; or, that to take such an unpopular position would be cause for expulsion from their respective position in the church community (See John 12:42). Or is it possible that theorists find it more profitable (financially and status wise) to avoid the subject of great tribulation, altogether?

A reading of this book, posted right at the Top of the Forum, is not long but full of Biblical reasons why we must understand what is ahead and be prepared within ourselves to face what is, assuredly, ahead.

Gerlinda