THE RAPTURE: WHO GOES?

What Scripture Actually Says About the Coming of the Lord

Many people talk about the Rapture, but very few understand what the Bible actually teaches. This study breaks down what Scripture says about who goes, who stays, and what it means to be ready when Jesus returns.

KEY SCRIPTURE

For the Lord Himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God... 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17 (NLT)

Additional Scriptures

• Matthew 24:40–42
• Matthew 25:1–13 (Wise & foolish virgins)
• Revelation 3:10
• 1 Corinthians 15:51–52

TEACHING OVERVIEW

The Rapture will be sudden, visible, and unmistakable. Jesus will gather His people, and the world will enter a time of tribulation. This is not a message of fear—this is a message of hope and preparation.

TEACHING SECTIONS

A. What the Rapture Really Is

The Rapture is the catching away of God’s people when Jesus returns for His church. Those who belong to Him—who walk with Him, love Him, and obey Him—will be taken to be with Him.

B. Who Actually Goes?

Not everyone who says “Lord, Lord” will enter the Kingdom. The Rapture is for those who have a real relationship with Jesus. Not perfect believers—but surrendered believers.

• Those who walk with Christ
• Those whose faith is genuine
• Those living in obedience
• Those with oil in their lamps (Matthew 25)

C. Who Is Left Behind?

Those with lukewarm faith…
Those who never truly surrendered…
Those who believed in Jesus but never followed Him…

Being left behind is not the end of mercy. God still calls people during the Tribulation. Many will come to faith. But the cost will be higher.

D. Why the Rapture Matters Right Now

The Rapture reminds us to stay awake, spiritually alert, and close to Jesus. This teaching is not to scare you—but to wake the church up and draw us back into real relationship with God.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR US TODAY

Reflection points:

• Am I walking with Jesus or only talking about Him?
• Do I have a surrendered heart?
• Is my faith real, or routine?
• Am I ready to meet the Lord if He came today?

Jesus is coming again. He loves you, He is calling you, and He wants you close to Him. This is not the end—it is the invitation. Come to Him now while there is time.

WATCH THE FULL VIDEO

Watch the full teaching: Who Will Be Left Behind? (The Story Most People Never Hear)