“It didn’t take many years of study before I came to the same conclusions you have. Not only is your position based on sound study of the Bible, but it is also based in logic.”
Yes, I think the conclusion is pretty clear, but there are three things that I see which lead people to this error. First, as you said, many are taught these things in church, or from their youth, and don’t question it. Second, it’s a comforting thought to think that we won’t have to worry about some of these fearful events that are prophesied, so there is a strong emotional pull to the pre-trib rapture position. Lastly, as with anything in prophecy, it can easily be misread and misinterpreted, especially if one doesn’t spend a great deal of time studying the Scriptures yourself.
“I’ve also learned to study prophecy and, indeed, the whole Bible in the light of a Jerusalem-centric viewpoint. Everything falls into place so easily when we don’t force a modern Western viewpoint on God’s word.”
Yes, this is important to a lot of prophecy, since Jerusalem really is the focal point on this Earth of much of God’s plan. There are prophecies for other nations, and I believe there are prophecies for the West, but it can be hard to see these clearly, since there was no “England”, “Germany”, “France”, “America”, etc, at the time the prophecies were written.
I agree with you, the disputes about the timing of the rapture aren’t essential to salvation. One thing that I worry about though, is if some will be misled by false expectations. If a great many Christians are expecting to be raptured by Christ before the Antichrist reveals himself, then what might happen if the Antichrist reveals himself first, but in a semblance of Christ? Will some of these people be deluded into thinking that this is the Second Coming, thinking that Christ will return first?
I agree that that many will be deluded and, at first, will think him to be Jesus.
“23 At that time if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or, ‘There he is!’ do not believe it. 24 For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and miracles to deceive even the elect—if that were possible. 25 See, I have told you ahead of time.”
-Matthew 24:23-25
I agree that that many will be deluded and, at first, will think him to be Jesus.
“23 At that time if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or, ‘There he is!’ do not believe it. 24 For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and miracles to deceive even the elect—if that were possible. 25 See, I have told you ahead of time.”
-Matthew 24:23-25