Understanding the Message of Jesus: 'One Will be Taken and the Other Left'

The phrase 'one will be taken and the other left' is a profound statement made by Jesus in various contexts, most notably during his teachings and during the events leading up to his second coming, the final judgment, and the end of the world, referred to as the Battle of Armageddon. This article delves into the spiritual and theological implications of this message, drawing parallels from biblical accounts and prophecies to offer a comprehensive understanding.

Theological Implications

The meaning of this phrase is rooted in the principles of salvation and destruction, which have been consistent themes throughout the Bible. For example, in the narratives of Noah and Lot, we see clear examples of salvation and destruction:

Noah's Salvation: Noah walked with God and was preserved through the flood, symbolizing those who call on the name of the true God, Jehovah, and are thus saved. Lot's Salvation: Lot was guided by angels out of Sodom and Gomorrah, representing those who follow God's guidance and are spared from the subsequent destruction.

Modern-Day Application

In modern-day terms, this message suggests that:

Those who embrace the narrow road that leads to everlasting life by calling on the name of Jehovah and having faith in the value of the Ransom Sacrifice of Jesus Christ will experience salvation. Those who are enamored with "Satan's world" and are enemies of the Kingdom of God will be on the broad road that leads to destruction.

The Battle of Armageddon

As the Bible foretells, the book of Revelation describes the final battle, known as Armageddon, where God's chosen ones will be separated from those who are to be destroyed. This separation will occur during the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, a critical event when his angels will gather out of his kingdom all things that offend and those who practice lawlessness:

The Son of Man will send out His angels and they will gather out of His kingdom all things that offend and those who practice lawlessness and will cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth. - Matthew 13:41-43

From this perspective, being left (or saved) during the Last Judgment is a positive outcome, while being taken (or destroyed) is a terrifying and painful fate.

Scriptural Support

The message of 'one will be taken and the other left' is also supported by numerous other passages in the Bible, including:

Psalms 37:

Let go of anger and abandon rage. Do not become upset and turn to doing evil. For evil men will be done away with, but those hoping in Jehovah will possess the earth. Just a little while longer, and the wicked will be no more. You will look at where they were, and they will not be there. But the meek will possess the earth and will find exquisite delight in the abundance of peace.

These verses underscore the cleansing of the earth of all evil, the saving of the righteous, and the everlasting peace for those who walk in the path of righteousness.

Conclusion

The message of 'one will be taken and the other left' is a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, obedience, and righteousness. It calls on individuals to choose between the narrow path of salvation or the broad road of destruction, ensuring eternal life or eternal judgment.

As Christians and people of faith, it is crucial to understand and embrace this message, for it holds the key to ensuring a place in the kingdom of God during the coming of the Son of Man.