From the Pulpit...

Pastor O'Dell presupposes a pre-tribulation rapture based on a plain reading of the Biblical text. There is a clear distinction between the rapture and the second coming of Jesus Christ. In the latter, the Lord is coming back to the earth, and will sit on his throne literally in Jerusalem for 1000 years. See the connection to the millennial kingdom in Isaiah 11 and 12. In the rapture, He comes in the clouds to receive the church, and this is prior to the second coming. It is imminent and can thus happen at any moment. There are no signs that need to be fulfilled before it occurs. There are many signs that deal with the second coming. No man knows the day or hour of the rapture. However, there are indications that the rapture is potentially very near. This is illustrated in how we see the signs of upcoming holidays in October and November of the year (Christmas movies, songs, decorations in stores), so we know that Thanksgiving and Christmas is around the corner. We do not, however focus our attention on this world and things happening in it. We should not be disturbed and fearful of the things that are coming. The message today is that we must not be troubled. No matter what we face, we can face with peace and joy. We can be at comfort because our provision and protection is found in Christ—not in our abilities or possessions. See John 16:33. Pastor O'Dell appealed to us to make sure that we are "in Christ." Otherwise, we will not have the peace available "in Him." If you do not know Christ, you face a fearful future. But even though we can have peace in Christ, and even though we will escape the Tribulation, that does not exempt us from tribulation in general. "In the world, you will have tribulation." The stage seems clear that the rapture may be soon; but God can reset the stage! Pastor O'Dell closed with the idea that we are without excuse if we do not come to faith in Christ. Whatever we face: fear not, look up, be ready, redemption draws near. Until it comes, trust in God because He will see you through, and He will see you through with peace and with great cheer. Be cheerful no matter what happens in 2021.