1 Thessalonians 4:16 – Dead In Christ Rise First

1 Thessalonians 4:16 (NKJV)
For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel,
and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first.

Christians are perhaps more divided on this scripture than any other. Scripture is not clear on the timeline of these events. However, the fact that it will occur is the main focus. Some of the Thessalonians were saying that Jesus would only come back for the people who were still living. Paul wanted to set that straight.

^“We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:8). Scripture seems to indicate that when a believer dies, the spirit and soul goes immediately to be with the Lord. Then some time later, most believe at the second coming, our bodies will be united with our spirits. Then we will have a glorified body such as Jesus had while He was on earth after His resurrection.

This verse pictures a marvelous event in the history of mankind. Jesus Himself will appear in the heavens. He will give a shout that will be heard around the world. This is the long-awaited moment for the glorious return of the savior. He came the first time as a servant king. The second time He will return as the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords.

The head archangel, probably Michael, will shout a summons to the rest of the angels who will move into action. And then a trumpet will sound reminiscent of the Old Testament trumpet blasts. (Exodus 19:16) Three sounds occur—Jesus, the archangel, and the trumpet. That should wake every on up including the dead in Christ.

It doesn’t matter if there is nothing left of the dead person, God will assemble the body. He has DNA of every person. (My interpretation) God will restore the body and it will become a glorified body and will meet with its spirit and soul. How this all happens is not my concern. When it all happens is not my concern. The fact it does happen is my joy.

^“He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus” (Revelation 22:20).