Dr. Couch, I am still confused about the issue of the "heavenly destiny"
of the church vs. the "earthly destiny" of the nation of Israel in the
kingdom period. Can you help?
ANSWER: Those who do not like this distinction have not read their Bibles very
well. But too, remember they have an agenda to meld together somewhat
the church and Israel. Thus they attempt to downplay the rapture and the
fact that this is the next great event for the church. one of the "big"
Progressive Dispensational teachers says that in his opinion the
rapture is way down the list of important doctrines. With all due
respect, there are over thirteen identifiable rapture passages in the
NT! This does not make the doctrine a minor issue! (I have published a
technical Greek booklet dealing with these passages of Scripture.)
The word "destiny" is possibly misleading. The words purpose, program,
and function are best used to describe what is going on with the church
and Israel. God has a distinct purpose and program for the church now.
He has a distinct purpose, program, and function for Israel in the
kingdom, even though the church will be there with the Lord.
This is a "big" subject that cannot be dealt with in this limited
column. However, I urge you and every one reading this to study
carefully: Acts 1:6-7; 3:18-on; 1 Thessalonians 1:10, and especially all
that is written in Jeremiah 30-33. Observe, observe, observe. What does
God say about the regathering of the Jews? What does He have for them
in the kingdom? What is the kingdom all about?
Part of the problem today is that we have few scholars who will take the
time to study with specific intensiveness to see what the Bible is
saying. I just reread the first book published on Progressive
Dispensationalism, and I am shocked at misquotes of Scripture. The
quotes do not match up with what the authors are saying!
I hope this helps, and, thanks for asking.
Dr. Mal Couch
