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Harpazo the Greek Word for RaptureTwo arguments I hear is that since the rapture is based on the Greek word ἁρπάζω (harpazo), which means "to snatch", the rapture will be fast and unseen. Some also claim that harpazo is a technical term for the rapture. Verses such as John 10:28 prove that harpazo is not a technical term. John 10:28 NETWebster’s defines snatch as "to attempt to seize something suddenly." They also define it as "to take or grasp abruptly or hastily." Before I get further into the Greek, in English, if I snatch someone's purse, it does not mean no one will see it happen. Additionally, a robbery consists of two parts, the robbery (snatch) and the getaway. Optimally the getaway should be fast, but if it's slow, it does not negate the snatch aspect of the initial robbery. When Jesus ascended back to heaven after his first coming, it was a slow drawn-out process that was clearly visible to all who were there to witness it. Acts 1:9-11 NASBI would doubt any pre-triber would argue that this return to heaven could be considered a rapture (harpazo), since it was visible and not fast moving. Therefore, would it be wrong to say that Jesus was snatched? It may surprise you, but in fact the Bible says that Jesus was raptured (harpazo) back to heaven! Revelation 12:5 NASBThis return to heaven as a harpazo was Jesus’ accession back to heaven after His resurrection from the dead; the same exact event described in Acts 1:9-11. In Acts it says he will return the same way he left, but as outlined in Acts, it is clear that this harpazo was a slow event that was clearly visibly. Therefore, since Jesus returns in the same way He left, Jesus will slowly and visibly descend (Cf. Acts 1:9-11). In relationship to the rapture in 1 Thessalonians 4:17, Paul further describes it in 5:2 occurring on the day of the Lord and like a thief in the night. Peter further describes this event in his second letter. 2 Peter 3:10 NASBIn his epistle, Jude further describes the rapture occurring on the day of the Lord, while the earth is being burned with fire. Jude 1:23 NASBThis is exactly what occurs during the post-trib rapture. We are raptured out of the earth immediately before fire rains down and destroys all inhabitants of the earth. HOME | ABOUT | ARTICLES: The Timing of the Rapture The Testimony and Parables of Jesus Does apostasia in 2 Thessalonians 2:3 refer to the rapture? The Church Not Found In Revelation The Resurrection 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11, New Doctrine or Just a Clarification? Who Escapes What in Revelation 3:10? Imminence Refuted John 14 - In My Fathers House Harpazo the Greek Word for Rapture Behold! I tell you what mystery means The Dead in Christ & Tribulation Saints Andy Woods Revelation is NOT Chronological Is the Holy Spirit the Restrainer? What I believe - Day of the Lord Timeline Understanding Zechariah 14 Blasted Hope or Blessed Hope? Understanding Greek Pronouns and Their Importance The Comfort Given by Paul The Rapture in Revelation 7, Part 1 The Rapture in Revelation 7, Part 2 | |||
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