He Feels It In His Gut — The Rapture Is Near & The Test Has Begun

A growing number of Christian voices are expressing a sense of urgency about the spiritual condition of the world and the Church. In a recent discussion centered on Pastor Anthony Mitchell’s interview with The 700 Club, one message stood out above all others: believers should prepare themselves spiritually because the tests of faith have already begun, and the return of Christ may be closer than many realize.

The speaker opened with a reflection on a common biblical theme—God tests His people. According to the message, no matter how mature, faithful, or spiritually gifted a person may be, God continues to allow tests and trials in their lives. These tests are not intended to reveal information to God, who already knows the hearts of humanity, but rather to prepare believers for greater responsibilities and deeper spiritual growth.

The speaker emphasized that spiritual testing functions much like a process of graduation. Just as students must pass examinations before advancing to the next level, Christians often encounter challenges before stepping into new seasons of ministry or purpose. Difficult circumstances, hardships, and moments of uncertainty are viewed not as signs of abandonment but as opportunities for character development.

A significant portion of the discussion focused on comments made by Pastor Anthony Mitchell during his interview. Mitchell spoke about the importance of faithfulness, contentment, and obedience. He reflected on earlier stages of his ministry when he faithfully served a small congregation without seeking greater recognition or influence. According to him, many of the opportunities and growth that later followed were not things he actively pursued but blessings that emerged through consistent faithfulness.

One of Mitchell’s most notable observations was that many people desire success, influence, or larger platforms without fully understanding the process required to sustain them. He suggested that some blessings can become burdens if a person lacks the character, maturity, and endurance necessary to manage them. Painful experiences, according to Mitchell, often serve as preparation for future responsibilities.

The speaker connected this idea to the experiences of many believers who pray to be used by God. He argued that when Christians ask God to use them for His purposes, they should not be surprised when difficulties arise. Trials may be part of God’s preparation process. Rather than becoming discouraged, believers are encouraged to persevere, trusting that their challenges may be helping them develop the qualities needed for future assignments.

The conversation then shifted to a more urgent topic: the condition of the Church and the possibility of Christ’s return. During the interview, Pastor Mitchell described his prayer life as increasingly emotional and burdened. He shared that he often spends time in prayer weeping for the Church and sensing that time is running short.

According to Mitchell, many believers appear distracted by secondary issues while neglecting what he views as the Church’s primary mission: spreading the gospel, making disciples, raising children in faith, and pursuing personal holiness. He referenced Jesus’ parable of the ten virgins, emphasizing the importance of being spiritually prepared rather than assuming there will always be more time.

Mitchell expressed concern that many warning signs are being overlooked. He pointed to what he believes are prophetic developments and cultural shifts occurring around the world. While interpretations of such events vary widely among Christians, Mitchell’s central message was clear: believers should live with a greater awareness of eternity and focus on their relationship with God.

The speaker further argued that the Church should spend less time criticizing fellow believers and more time engaging in ministry, repentance, and spiritual renewal. He described a need for revival, humility, and a renewed commitment to biblical values. In his view, Christians should recognize both their own shortcomings and the brokenness of the world around them, allowing that awareness to motivate compassionate action and gospel-centered outreach.

Another topic discussed was a recent announcement involving 2819 Worship signing with Reach Records. While celebrating the opportunity for wider exposure and influence, the speaker framed the development as a potential test for Pastor Mitchell. He expressed concern about the challenges that can accompany partnerships with larger organizations, particularly regarding influence, control, and maintaining spiritual priorities.

However, he also acknowledged that God can work through such opportunities. Ultimately, he suggested that the outcome depends on continued faithfulness, humility, and a willingness to remain attentive to God’s guidance.

Throughout the message, the speaker repeatedly returned to the theme of testing. He claimed that many believers, pastors, ministries, businesses, and institutions may face significant tests in the days ahead. These challenges, he argued, are not random but part of a broader spiritual preparation process.

The message concluded with a strong emphasis on readiness. The speaker stated that he believes the Rapture is drawing near, although he acknowledged that he does not know the exact timing. He pointed to social instability, economic uncertainty, and unusual weather patterns as indicators that the world is experiencing significant change.

For those listening, the central takeaway was simple: remain faithful, stay close to God, and be spiritually prepared. Whether one agrees with every prophetic interpretation or not, the message encouraged believers to examine their lives, strengthen their faith, and focus on what they believe matters most.

In the end, the speaker’s conviction remained unwavering. He believes that a season of testing has already begun and that Christians should respond not with fear, but with renewed commitment, perseverance, and hope as they await what they believe is God’s ultimate plan for the future.