“Because you have kept my word about patient endurance,
I will keep you from the hour of trial that is coming on the whole world,
to try those who dwell on the earth.”(Revelation 3:10 ESV)
Soms Bible teachers take the “keep you from the hour of trial” statement to mean that we will be raptured from the earth when the tribulation comes. We will escape the hour of trial that everyone else will experience, and in particular the nation of Israel. But Jesus doesn’t say that here, nor does the Bible say that anywhere else.
The Greek word for “keep” (tereo) means to “keep, guard, observe, watch over”.
John uses it twice in this verse:
- for “keeping” God’s word
- for “keeping” believers from the hour of trial
What he is saying is that we will go through the hour of trial, but Jesus will protect us. No matter which trial you are facing, even the great tribulation that is coming, God will protect you if you keep his word, if you stay rooted in his word.
“Keep” doesn’t mean we won’t suffer or die. It just means that God will give us grace to go through the trials and tribulations we will face.
Jesus said: “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.” (Matt.10:28 ESV)
Paul said: “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” (Phil.1:21 ESV)
Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus!
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