THIS seems to be the general aspect of the subject, without entering into the distinction between the rapture and the appearing. In fact, the truth of the rapture had not yet been revealed, and is added in verses 15-17 to explain how those that had fallen asleep would be able to come with Christ when He comes. It would appear that the Thessalonian saints were expecting the return of Christ to set up His kingdom. The unbelieving Jews brought this charge against the apostle, that they said there was “another king, one Jesus” (Acts 17). Evidently Paul had included in his testimony there that the Lord Jesus would return to reign. It was this that they had in mind when some of their number were called away in death. They argued that these would be absent from the joy and glory of that kingdom. No, said the apostle; when Jesus comes, God will bring them too. But at once the difficulty would arise, How can they come with Him seeing that He is in heaven, and they in their graves? Here a fresh revelation is made that explains all: — “The Lord Himself shall descend,” &c.
ED.