I had a very good Meeting with the Presbyterian Woman today. It is amazing to me the things I am learning in this bible study group. We are dealing with Revelations this time around and I was very hesitant to delve into this book of the bible. I used to think it was chalk full of violence and drug induced visions. [Blasphemous sounding isn’t it. But that is just how I felt.]
I love this chapter on the Rapture. I found out a Lot of things that make me question the things I grew up with. Barbara Rossing teaches that the word rapture is not in the bible. The concept was first introduced in the 1900’s and is pieced together from various texts through out the bible. It was made popular by works of fiction like the “left behind” books and is now a part of our American culture.
I also learned today that the Big war … the last battle is fought between Angels and demons in the last days and Not by us. We are not the soldiers of Christ in this war, this is not a war of bloodshed and mayham. We are not called to violence and battle… We are called to fight violence with Kindness and fight hate with Love.
Most of the Chapters of Revelations relate directly to the Roman Empire rather than a prophesy of what is to come.
It is truely amazing and interesting bible study and so not what I expected.
Here’s her youtube video of this particular chapter.
additional information
I almost forgot to mention the wonderful lunch of soup and sandwiches that Jean made.
Wonderful luncheon with a marmalade cake served afterward.
Fantastic lesson, Fantastic food, and I thoroughly enjoyed the company! YAY for Tuesdays!