New Testament faith foresees a coming era characterized by "the restoration of all things" (Acts 3:21). Jesus referred to this time in terms of "the regeneration" (i.e., renewing of that which has been lost, Matt. 19:28).
Within this context Jesus also addressed a preceding "beginning of birth pains" (Matt. 24:8, "sorrows," KJV) leading up to a time wherein, "for the elect's sake," humanity itself will be spared only by divine intervention (Matt. 24:22; Mark 13:20).
Of this point in time, Jesus did not offer an easy escapism as per much popular teaching. Rather, "He that shall endure to the end, the same shall be delivered" (Matt. 24:13; 10:22).
Much of the present confusion derives from the fact that many believers are not aware that the "imminent Pre-tribulation Rapture" teaching first surfaced approximately two hundred years ago. Jesus never proposed such, nor did the apostles or early Church father perceive such in his teaching.
Some years ago Dave MacPherson researched the Church's teachings throughout the centuries concerning the culmination of the age, Christ's return, end time Church and role of the Antichrist. His work included the writings of individuals such as Barnabas who played a prominent role in the Book of Acts; Clement of Rome (mentioned by Paul in Phil. 4:3); Polycarp, disciple and understudy of the apostle John; and many others of note.
While we may not agree on every eschatological point with MacPherson, his study has proven of profound worth in assessing the Pre-tribulation Rapture position as compared to Scripture, apostolic viewpoint, early Church understanding and subsequent perception for some eighteen hundred years. It may be accessed at:
http://www.historicist.com/articles/famousrapturewatchers.htm
Burl Ratzsch
