[Nell]

Originally Posted by Ohio

Nell, Rev 14.9-10 (Warning) and 16.2 (1st Bowl) indicate plainly that those who receive the mark of the Beast and worship the Beast (whether Christians or not) will suffer the wrath of God. This implies that those who reject the mark and refuse to worship the Beast will be protected by God and spared from some of His judgment.

Personally, I believe pre-, mid-, and post-trib themes all have value, but who says that God has one common plan for all of His children? Perhaps all three are correct. Using the metaphor of a ripening harvest, perhaps each will be taken as they mature, some earlier and some later. according to their needs. I think most of the rapture time debates spring from the requirement that all God's children have a similar destiny.

Following this thought, I can't believe that all Christians will reject the mark of the Beast. I have never seen all Christians adhere to anything in total uniformity. Those who accept the mark may be part of the "falling away" apostasy which Paul predicted in 2 Ths 2.3. They may even side with the Beast for temporary gains. (Didn't Nee attempt something similar with the CCP?) I also think it's foolish to write them all off as false or tares, though some may be.

Thanks Ohio,
Good points to talk to the Lord about, huh?

Nell