The Second Coming vs. the Rapture

I always found it confusing that Jesus could return at any moment, yet can’t return until the “gospel is preached in the whole world” (Matt. 24:14). But recently I discovered that this refers to the 2nd Coming—not the Rapture. After all, Jesus warned even the ‘first’ generation of believers to be ready (Mat 24:36, 44; Rev 3:3). 

But the 2nd Coming occurs at the end of the Tribulation.  And there's a prophecy  that says during that time God will send an angel to proclaim the gospel to every person on earth (Rev. 14:6).  Problem solved.  Right?!



Well, I am not naïve; I know there are different interpretations of how end-time events will unfold.  But I do know this. Regardless of how and when these events will occur, one thing is perfectly clear: the Groom wants a Bride who is eagerly waiting and longing for Him to return (Titus 2:13; 2 Tim 4:8).