Why Do People Think the Rapture Is Coming? Everything We Know

Talk of the Rapture has spread again on social media. Many videos claim it will happen on Sept. 23 or 24, 2025. The main keyword driving searches is why do people think the rapture is coming.

The idea comes from evangelical interpretations of the Bible. A South African pastor predicted the Rapture would begin this year during the Jewish holiday Rosh Hashanah. The claim quickly went viral, linking prophecy, dates, and recent events in the U.S.

Why Do People Think the Rapture Is Coming Now?

The belief in the Rapture is rooted in evangelical end-times theology. It comes from verses in 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 and 1 Corinthians 15:51-52, which speak of the faithful being “caught up in the clouds” to meet Christ. These passages have been read literally by some preachers, especially those who follow pre-millennial dispensationalism, a system of interpreting the Bible’s end-times prophecies.

This week’s speculation started after pastor Joshua Mhlakela said Jesus appeared to him in a vision. He predicted that the Rapture would align with Rosh Hashanah, also known as the Feast of Trumpets. Supporters point to the “trumpet call of God” in the Bible as a sign. Videos on TikTok have urged Christians to prepare by leaving passwords for their families and “looking up” when the moment arrives.

Major news outlets including Reuters, BBC, and the Associated Press have reported on the renewed attention. Many experts stress that similar predictions have been made before and have always proven wrong. The Bible itself warns that no one knows the day or the hour.

The Broader Impact of Rapture Predictions

The renewed Rapture talk comes at a tense time. The assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk added fuel to fears among some evangelicals. At his funeral, leaders described his death as part of a “spiritual war,” reinforcing the sense that end times are near.

Historically, predictions of the Rapture spike during periods of social unrest. Scholars note that pre-millennial theology thrives in bad times because it promises escape and hope. However, many Christian denominations do not accept the idea of a literal Rapture, focusing instead on other aspects of faith.

For ordinary people, these predictions raise questions and sometimes fear. Families may prepare for scenarios that never happen. Online, the talk drives massive engagement, clicks, and debates. The cycle repeats every few years, showing how powerful and persistent the idea is.

So, why do people think the Rapture is coming? Because preachers, social media, and world events combine to make old prophecies feel urgent again. But history shows the predictions have always failed, and experts urge caution before believing bold claims.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the Rapture in Christianity?

It is the belief that Christians will be taken up to Heaven before a period of tribulation on Earth. The idea is mainly held by evangelicals.

Q2: Why do people think the Rapture is happening in September 2025?

A pastor predicted it would align with Rosh Hashanah. He said Jesus told him this in a vision. Videos spread the claim online.

Q3: Has the Rapture been predicted before?

Yes. Notable dates include 1994, 2011, and 2017. All proved false. Experts say no one can know the exact time.

Q4: Do all Christians believe in the Rapture?

No. Many denominations do not. It is mainly an evangelical belief tied to a specific end-times theology.

Q5: How is this linked to Charlie Kirk’s death?

His assassination reinforced fears of evil times among evangelicals. That made predictions about the Rapture spread faster.

References

Reuters. (2025). Evangelical pastor predicts Rapture on Rosh Hashanah.

Associated Press. (2025). Social media spreads claims of Rapture timing.

BBC News. (2025). Why Rapture predictions keep returning.