Bible Discussion Thread

The Apostle Paul's words, under the influence of the Holy Spirit, and in regard to the translation were meant to be a comfort to all believers.

Paul wanted to remove any confusion or doubts regarding the destiny of believers who had died. Upon death, the believer is escorted by angels to the third Heaven. When God the Father tells his son, Jesus Christ, to remove his body, the church or those redeemed and alive on earth, those believers who have died will rise first. That is, their bodies. Their souls will accompany Jesus Christ when it is time for the church or body of Christ to be removed.

Those believers who are alive, literally are transformed or translated once the dead in Christ rise first.

With ressurected bodies, we then follow Jesus Christ, in the clouds, in the air to the Judgement Seat. Somewhere in this universe or possibly in another dimension.

Those were the words of comfort to believers. The hope we have, whether physically dead or alive.

Finally, since sin is dead to the extent of penalty, our works will be the issue. Not to determine status as "sons", but to determine the extent of our blessings in eternity.