Prophetic events and their timing are intricately woven into the divine plan, reflecting a perspective far beyond human comprehension. Prophetic time, as revealed in the Scriptures, often blends historical time, natural cycles of days and years, and future messianic or disastrous events. This timing is oriented toward the future, whether immediate or distant, yet it carries urgent implications for the present. It can be categorized into end-time and future-time, focusing on conditions at the close of the age, marked by a mixture of mystery and specific sequences. The mystery lies in not knowing the exact moment, while specific sequences, as seen in Jesus Christ's Olivet Prophecy, provide a detailed chronology of events to come, often underscored by terms like "the last day(s)" or "the last time." These prophetic visions offer a preview of final things, creating a sense of urgency and anticipation. The Scriptures foretold the timing of Christ's coming, and just as those prophecies were fulfilled on schedule, they provide a firm basis for confidence in God's control over time and the future return of Jesus Christ. God's timetable in world history is precise, though not always discernible to us, as no one knows the exact day or hour of His return. We observe signs of the world's conditions, yet await the revelation of the specific time. The events of Christ's life, including His birth, life, and death, were fixed by the eternal decrees of God, accomplished within the timeframe of His plan. This principle of time-determination is evident in prophecies like the Seventy Weeks prophecy in Daniel, which points to the exact timing of His death, affirming that all events of His ministry were divinely ordered. God's perspective, seeing all of history simultaneously, ensures that His decisions are eternal and unchanging, with no surprises or variables, determining both problems and solutions in advance. This divine timing extends to the interval between Christ's resurrection and His second coming, a period of waiting for the New Testament church. During this time, believers live in the awareness of mysteries now revealed, yet groan inwardly for final redemption. New Testament writers regarded this interval as a short time, with an end that would come quickly, fostering an urgency that persists even two thousand years later. This urgency calls for patience, a necessary restraint while facing trials, as emphasized in James 5, where patience is urged in waiting for the return of Jesus Christ. Such patience, rooted in faith, mirrors the farmer awaiting the early and latter rains, trusting in God's perfect timing for the harvest. God's control over time is further highlighted in II Peter 3, where the last days are portrayed as a time for repentance, salvation, and hastening the day of God. With the Lord, one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day, demonstrating His transcendence over earthly time and His patience in waiting for the right moment to show mercy. This divine timing assures us that everything planned by God will be accomplished as intended, encouraging trust in His ordering of our days and hope in the fulfillment of His promises.

True prophets, the biblical kind, receive direct revelations from God, who declares the end from the beginning and ensures that what He speaks will come to pass. Their prophecies, whether from dreams, visions, or direct conversations with God, are certain because the Source never fails. In contrast, speculations about prophetic events, particularly regarding the timing of their fulfillments, should be approached with caution, mindful of Christ's words on the uncertainty of such matters. Herbert Armstrong's predictions, often based on his understanding of the Bible and world events, are better termed speculations rather than prophecies. Though many of his predictions remain unfulfilled, this does not mark him as a false prophet, as his sense of urgency aimed to prepare believers for the Kingdom of God. For those who follow his teachings, the vital task is to maintain that urgency for the nearness of Christ's return, living each day as if it were the last opportunity to strengthen a relationship with God.

The timing of prophetic events, particularly the event often referred to as the Rapture, is crucial to understanding the sequence of end-time occurrences. When this event happens is key; if the timing is incorrect, the sequence of events becomes disordered. The notion of a Pre-tribulation Rapture disrupts this sequence, necessitating the rearrangement -rearrangement of other events and the misinterpretation of scriptures to support it. A primary verse often misused in this context is Daniel 9:27, which speaks of a covenant confirmed for one week, with sacrifice and offering ceasing in the middle of the week. This is attributed to Messiah, who confirmed the New Covenant and ended sacrifice through His redemptive death in AD 31, rather than to any other figure, rendering the concept of a seven-year tribulation period unfounded. Further clarity on timing is provided in I Thessalonians 4:15-16, where Paul indicates that this event occurs at the coming of the Lord, with Christ descending from heaven accompanied by a shout, the voice of an archangel, and the trumpet of God. This last trumpet, also referenced in I Corinthians 15:50-52, signals the return of Christ, the establishment of God's Kingdom, the judgment of the nations, and the rewarding of the saints, all happening simultaneously. The last trumpet sounds at Christ's return, not 3½ years prior. Additional scriptures, such as Matthew 24:30-31, confirm that the trumpet sounds immediately after the tribulation of those days to gather the elect from across the earth to meet Him upon His return. Other passages, including Isaiah 27:12-13, Joel 2:1-11, and Zechariah 14:3-5, 9, further substantiate this timing of events.

The concept of prophetic events and their timing, particularly regarding the return of Jesus Christ, is central to understanding end-time prophecies. Many evangelical Protestants adhere to a pre-tribulation rapture belief, asserting that Christ will return before the Great Tribulation to snatch away believers to heaven, marking the beginning of a seven-year tribulation period. This view posits that Christ's return occurs years before His second coming to earth, suggesting two distinct returns: one to gather the saints and another to establish His Kingdom. They base this timing on interpretations that place the rapture prior to the catastrophic events of the Tribulation and the Day of the Lord, arguing that believers are not appointed to wrath and must therefore be removed beforehand. In contrast, a different understanding aligns the event of believers being caught up to meet the Lord in the air with the singular, glorious return of Jesus Christ at the end of the Tribulation, not before. This perspective sees the timing as post-tribulation, occurring at the moment of His descent, accompanied by a shout, the voice of an archangel, and the trumpet of God, as described in I Thessalonians 4:15-16. These elements are understood as parallel indicators of the same event, reinforced by the Feast of Trumpets, which commemorates loud noises and shouting, symbolizing the announcement of Christ's return. Scriptures such as I Corinthians 15 further clarify that this transformation and resurrection of the saints happen at the last trumpet, synonymous with the trumpet of God, marking the establishment of His Kingdom. Additional passages, including Exodus 19, Joel 2, and Zephaniah 1, depict God's descent to earth with loud noises, trumpets, and dramatic signs, all pointing to a singular, powerful event rather than multiple returns. Matthew 24 explicitly states that the gathering of the elect occurs immediately after the tribulation, supporting a post-tribulation timing. Isaiah 27 and Zechariah 14 also indicate that when Christ returns, the saints accompany Him to earth, not to heaven, to participate in establishing His Kingdom. Revelation 11 and 14 further align the resurrection of the saints and their gathering with Christ's return at the culmination of end-time events, not as a separate occurrence years prior. This understanding emphasizes that the timing of prophetic events centers on one magnificent return of Jesus Christ, announced by the last trumpet, where the saints are caught up to meet Him and immediately return with Him to earth to engage in the work of His Kingdom. The notion of a pre-tribulation removal to heaven is not supported by the consistent scriptural depiction of a singular return at the end of the Tribulation, marked by clear, unmistakable signs and sounds.

The Day of Trumpets stands as a pivotal holy day, central to God's plan, bridging past redemptive works with future events of broader salvation for all humanity. It is the next prophetic event anticipated, marking the consummation of hopes and efforts, and will be remembered in the millennium as the seminal event enabling salvation. This day, associated with the blowing of trumpets, signifies a memorial of shouting, often linked to the noise of war, alarm, and also joy or jubilee, as seen in various scriptural contexts. The sounding of trumpets, particularly the seventh trumpet, heralds significant prophetic events, including the return of Jesus Christ as King in great wrath, executing judgment upon the earth. This trumpet, described in Revelation 11:15-19, announces the establishment of God's Kingdom, a proclamation of His reign, and the transfer of power from the kingdom of this world to the Kingdom of our Lord. The timing of these events, occurring after the Tribulation and marked by heavenly signs, indicates a sequence where Christ returns to judge and slay, ending the times of sin for many. The seventh trumpet's sounding is not a brief fanfare but lasts for days, encompassing the seven last plagues, or bowls of God's wrath, which unfold over an extended period. These events, including the gathering of armies and significant battles, suggest a duration that could span days or weeks, culminating in Christ's return at the end of this trumpet's fulfillment. The plagues and judgments soften the enemies of God before Christ finishes the conflict, rewarding the saints in the first resurrection at His coming. Scriptural references across both Old and New Testaments consistently tie the trumpet's blast to the Day of the Lord, embodying themes of war, judgment, gathering of God's people, victory, and the rewarding of the saints. The loud voices in heaven proclaim the Kingdom's arrival as if already accomplished, reflecting the certainty of God's plan. Thus, the Day of Trumpets serves as a yearly memorial to remind us that God is coming soon, bringing both judgment and reward as He establishes His reign on earth.

The Day of Trumpets holds profound prophetic significance, marking a memorial of what will be the most spectacular event ever to occur on earth. Its fulfillment will alter the course of history forever. Trumpets, in their plural form, signify more than just the last trumpet, which is often associated with the resurrection of the dead. Throughout Scripture, trumpets have varied uses, including calling people to assemble, signaling leaders to meet, directing tribes during marches, sounding alarms for war, marking new moons, accompanying peace offerings, and announcing holy days. They also heralded God's presence at Mount Sinai, manifesting His power, and announced the Jubilee year with its promise of liberty. At the dedication of the Temple, trumpets signaled God's arrival as the Ark of the Covenant was brought in, akin to the arrival of a ruler. In prophetic contexts, trumpets consistently announce significant events within God's purpose, drawing attention to what is occurring or about to occur. They often signify something good for God's people and something bad for His enemies. The 7th Trumpet, in particular, combines multiple meanings: a call to assemble for battle, a signal to go into war, and the announcement of the arrival of Christ as King at His return. In Revelation, each trumpet blast heralds an event unfolding, serving as a warning to those who understand God's Word, even if the sound is not literal. These warnings enable God's people to recognize and respond to unfolding events, as God reveals His plans beforehand to prepare them. The timing of these prophetic events, however, remains undisclosed. Despite over 500 prophecies in Scripture pertaining to the return of Jesus Christ, none specify when these events will occur. God, sovereign over time, withholds this information intentionally to prevent complacency and to encourage His people to focus on preparation and obedience. This lack of specific timing serves to keep believers diligent, ensuring they do not relax or delay their efforts, but instead continuously strive to grow in faith and submission to Him. God's purpose is best served by this mystery, urging His people to concentrate on their responsibilities and readiness for His Kingdom rather than fixating on a date.

The Feast of Trumpets holds profound prophetic significance, memorializing an event that will change the course of history for all time. This day has been prophesied by God for over 5300 years, as Enoch, the seventh from Adam, spoke of the Lord coming with ten thousands of His saints to execute judgment on the ungodly. While other holy days like Passover have seen fulfillment, Trumpets still awaits its ultimate realization, marking a future event of immense importance. In biblical prophecy, trumpets signal significant events and serve as alarms for what is occurring or about to occur. The book of Revelation describes seven trumpets, each announcing catastrophic events that act as warnings to humanity. These events, unfolding over a period understood to be one year, are themselves the trumpets, drawing attention and urging repentance. Each trumpet blast represents a wave of destruction, followed by a period of easing, giving people opportunities to turn to God before the final judgment at the seventh trumpet, which heralds the return of Christ and the establishment of the Kingdom of God on earth. Scriptures such as Joel, Zephaniah, Isaiah, and Zechariah paint vivid pictures of the devastation and terror associated with the Day of the Lord, a time of darkness, wrath, and unparalleled destruction. These prophecies emphasize the trumpet as an alarm against fortified cities and high towers, underscoring the inevitability of God's judgment and the urgent need for readiness. The return of Jesus Christ, accompanied by His saints, will culminate in a cataclysmic battle, with imagery of a winepress symbolizing the crushing judgment on the disobedient, while offering salvation to the faithful. Despite the detailed prophecies surrounding these events, the exact timing of Christ's return remains undisclosed. Jesus Himself stated that no one knows the day or hour, not even the angels of heaven, but only the Father. This secrecy is reiterated across scriptures, as in Matthew, Acts, and the epistles of Paul and Peter, emphasizing that the timing is not for humanity to know. Instead, the focus is placed on continual preparation and steadfastness, as the Day of the Lord will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night. Believers are urged to remain vigilant, to watch and be sober, and not to let down their guard, as the human tendency is to relax or procrastinate if a specific time were known. The withholding of this knowledge is seen as an act of divine wisdom, ensuring that God's people remain diligent, growing in grace and knowledge, and living as witnesses to His power. Thus, while the question of "How long, O Lord?" persists, the answer remains a secret belonging to God, encouraging a life of constant readiness for the most significant event in history.

The timing of prophetic events, particularly the return of Jesus Christ, remains a profound mystery that no one can predict with certainty. Despite the increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters and global crises, such events do not necessarily signal an imminent end, as they have been part of human experience throughout history. Jesus Himself emphasized in Mark 13:32-33 that no one knows the day or hour of His return, not even the angels in heaven nor the Son, but only the Father. He urged His followers to take heed, watch, and pray, underscoring that the exact timing is in the Father's hands alone. Scripture provides signs and warnings of the end times, such as wars, famines, pestilences, and earthquakes, described by Jesus in Matthew 24:3-8 as the beginning of sorrows. These are precursors, not definitive indicators of the immediate end. More specific events, like the abomination of desolation and the great tribulation mentioned in Matthew 24:15-22, will mark a period of unprecedented suffering, worse than anything in history. Yet, even these do not pinpoint the exact moment of Christ's return. His coming will be unmistakable, like lightning flashing from east to west, a worldwide phenomenon accompanied by cosmic disturbances and the gathering of His elect with the sound of a great trumpet, as detailed in Matthew 24:29-31. The prophecies in Scripture are straightforward and will manifest in visible, unmistakable ways, not through speculative numerology or media-driven fear. Amos 4:6-12 reveals that current disasters and crises serve as warnings, precursor judgments meant to awaken nations to their sins and urge repentance before greater punishment arrives. Isaiah 66:14-16 further describes Christ's return as a time of wrath and judgment, a great and dreadful day of darkness, not an event to be eagerly desired for its destruction but understood as necessary for God's justice. Therefore, the focus should not be on calculating the timing of these prophetic events but on spiritual readiness. Jesus instructed in Mark 13:34-37 to watch constantly, remaining alert and in prayer, prepared to respond appropriately at any moment. This spiritual vigilance, rooted in a relationship with God through spirit and truth, ensures endurance until the end, as Matthew 24:13 promises salvation to those who endure. The return of Jesus Christ will happen in God's appointed time, and His people must trust in His Word rather than external speculation or worldly news to guide their understanding of where they stand in the prophetic timeline.