SEPT 23- RAPTURE CONFIRMATION BY ISRAEL?

A viral prophecy claiming the Rapture will occur on September 23-24, 2025, has gained significant traction online, fueled by assertions that Israel’s recent actions, including the opening of the pilgrimage road in Jerusalem and the upcoming Feast of Trumpets, serve as prophetic confirmation. This claim is linked to a dream experienced by South African pastor Joshua Mhlakela, who stated Jesus revealed the date during a vision. However, religious scholars and commentators have offered strong counterarguments, stating that biblical prophecy requires the revelation of the Antichrist before Christ’s return, a condition not yet met , and that the feasts of Israel were fulfilled in Christ, not meant as predictive calendars.

• Prophecy and Global Reaction: The rumor originated from a viral Instagram clip of Pastor Joshua Mhlakela, who claimed Jesus appeared to him in a dream, specifying September 23-24, 2025, as the date for the Rapture. This has led to widespread online discussion, with some believers selling homes and cars in preparation , while others have created memes and tutorials on how to “ascend with dignity”. The event coincides with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, which some interpret as a significant prophetic sign.

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• Claims of Israeli Prophetic Fulfillment: A prominent YouTube preacher argues that Israel’s official opening of the ancient pilgrimage road in the City of David, leading to the Temple Mount, is a major prophetic event. He connects this to the upcoming Feast of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah) on September 23-24, the planned live-streamed sounding of 100 shofars (chauffars) in Jerusalem, and recent celestial events like a blood moon and solar eclipse, suggesting a “prophetic convergence”. He posits that these events, combined with the global infrastructure for live broadcasting, make the fulfillment of prophecy possible for the first time in history.

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• Skepticism and Counterarguments: Despite the fervor, numerous religious leaders and commentators have dismissed the specific date as unfounded. Pastor Vladimir Savchuk stated that 2 Thessalonians 2 clearly requires the Antichrist to be revealed before Christ’s return, a condition not yet fulfilled. Dr. Arnold Fruchtenbaum and others argue that while the Rapture could occur during the Feast of Trumpets, the specific date of September 23 is not guaranteed by Scripture. Critics also point out the historical pattern of failed end-times predictions, warning that repeated false alarms have led to skepticism and a “false flag” perception.

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