What's the Point?

Paul describes an exciting time at the end of history in verses 16-18.

Jesus returns to earth to meet everyone, dead and alive, who are his followers.

The confusion comes when we attempt to correlate these verses with other end-times descriptions by Jesus and John.

Ultimately, Paul tells the Thessalonians to "Encourage each other with these words." The idea is not to generate additional confusion, but to encourage Christians with the truth that Jesus will return.

This exhibits my bias, but the whole "Left Behind" buzz strikes me the wrong way. People who aren't Christians often love it, and many Christians are uncomfortable with the stories and movies.

The reality of Jesus' return should not excite non-Christians. It should make them terrified!

How can I express the truths about the end of history to non-Christians in a way that is compelling and encourages faith?

Interesting...use these verses to encourage believers emotionally and non-believers toward saving faith.