View 1:
Everything happens in sequence and not in parallel. We are
currently at the edge of the end of the "Church age". The
"Church Age" is the timespan from Pentecost ~2000 years
ago until the (first) Rapture which happens before the
first Seal will be opened. The timespan of the Church Age
is best described by the 7 letters to the 7 angels of the
7 churches at the beginning chapters of revelation. I can
recommend the following article to study the Church Age:
http://www.thepropheticyears.com/The%20book%20of%20Revelation/Revelaltion%20chap%202.HTM
According to that view, the Trumpets of Revelation
will not start too soon. Raptured Christians will first
of all witness the opening of the 7 Seals in the throne
room of God.
This view is mainly based on understanding and studies
of the scripture. It is independent of dreams and
visions from others, as they are too subjective.
View 2:
Everything happens in sequence and not in
parallel. Some Doves think (and have presented some
strong arguments) that Obama is the antichrist. In that
case, the tribulation has possibly started already
without a rapture in 2008. This view is supported by
Dr. Owuors visions about the first 4 seals that have
been opened since then. It means that the next
seal is the persecution of the saints (which maybe
happens after the rapture?) and the 6th seal seems to be
some kind of cosmic event (some people say its Elenin,
but I doubt it).
According to that view, the Trumpets of Revelation
could start soon after the cosmic event (6th seal) took
place - maybe even sooner than we think?
View 3:
Some say the seals, trumpets and bows happen in
parallel. That are interesting parallels but it makes
much more sense to place them in a sequence or
in a circle. I personally have given up this view.
Other views:
There are all kind of other mixed views, but most
of them can be debunked clearly by scripture.
When is the rapture?
Depending on your view, you will expect a Pre-Trib,
Mid-Trib, End-Trib Rapture, or 2 raptures or no
rapture... ...I personally believe in a firstfruits
rapture (at the beginning of the 7 years) and main
harvest rapture (in the middle of the 7 years). The
following article had a significant effect on my own
understanding about the timing of the rapture (and my
personal belief in View 1):
Conclusion:
As you see, nobody can give you the ultimate
answer. There are only different views based on
different understanding of the scriptures and some are
supported by visions of others. My recommendation is to
read some books and articles and over and over again
study the Bible yourself. FiveDoves is a good place to
exchange your thoughts and get fresh input. In any
case, being ready and watchful and telling others about
our faith and the times we live in is of utmost
importance! Maybe also want to check out my post
"how to be ready": http://www.fivedoves.com/letters/apr2011/josua415-2.htm
Watch & Pray!
Maranatha!
YBIC, Josua