From Duck.ai
The term "Rapture" itself is not explicitly found in the text of the Bible. However, the concept is often derived from a passage in 1 Thessalonians 4:17, which describes the event of believers being "caught up" to meet the Lord. Here's the relevant verse:
1 Thessalonians 4:17
"Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord."
This reference is associated with the Greek word "harpazo," meaning "to snatch away" or "to seize." The Latin Vulgate translates this as "rapiemur," which is the origin of the English term "Rapture."
Conceptual Understanding
Eschatological Context: The Rapture is often discussed in the context of Christian eschatology (the study of end times) and is particularly associated with the belief that Christ will return to take believers to heaven before a period of tribulation occurs.
Differentiation from Second Coming: It's important to note that many Christian denominations do not subscribe to the concept of the Rapture as generally understood in some evangelical circles, distinguishing it from the Second Coming of Christ, which is described in different biblical texts.
Other References
Similar ideas can be found in 1 Corinthians 15 and John 14:1-3, though they do not explicitly mention the term "Rapture."
This teaching has been developed and debated extensively within Christian communities, resulting in various interpretations concerning its timing and significance.