The Bible in Context Ep 59: Is There a Rapture? With Matthew Halsted
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Oct 31, 2024 In this insightful discussion, Matthew Halsted, an Associate Professor of Biblical Studies and author of "The End of the World as You Know It," dives into the complexities of the rapture. He challenges traditional interpretations and explores how historical context reshapes our understanding of key biblical texts. Halsted emphasizes the importance of language and context to avoid misinterpretations, arguing for a more hopeful engagement with faith. He also critiques popular misconceptions shaped by recent global events, advocating for a transformative view of scripture in the modern world.
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Book's Origin
- Matthew Halstead's book, "The End of the World As You Know It," originated from a Facebook post about Revelation.
- It became a popular blog post and eventually a book.
Rapture Defined
- The popular view of the Rapture involves Jesus returning in stages: a secret return for believers, followed by a period of tribulation, and then a final return.
- Halstead disagrees with the staged return view and instead suggests the scriptures indicate only a single return of Jesus.
Shifting Views
- Matthew Halstead grew up believing in the Rapture but changed his view based on biblical evidence.
- He found that the concept of a staged return fostered fear, not hope, and shifted his view to seeing a culmination not a radical end to history.