Viral rapture date prediction sparks debate, but UNISA lecturer says it’s not Biblical

A social media debate erupted last month after speculation predicting a Rapture date went viral.

Kobe says it was interesting to observe, as many Christians do not believe in the Rapture, nor is it directly mentioned in the Bible.

Instead, references to the ideology are made, and the theology was popularised in America during the 19th century through books and films.

“The whole concept of the Rapture is that those who have been loyal or righteous will go to heaven with Jesus," she says.

"Those who remain will then face the tribulations."

A date for the Rapture has not specifically been mentioned, and many believe it will be secret and unexpected.

Kobe says the online debate highlights just how much people may be suffering.

“Whether this was true or not, people have nothing, so the idea of Jesus coming to take them from suffering... people will be inclined to believe it.”

Dr Sandiswa Lerato Kobe in conversation with Aubrey Masango.

Listen to the full interview in the audio below: