The rapture refers to an eschatological event discussed in the Christian faith where believers will be taken up to heaven prior to the start of the tribulation period. There are differing views on the timing of this event - whether it will occur before, during or after the tribulation.

The key biblical passages that discuss the gathering of God's elect or chosen ones come from Jesus' own words in Matthew 24:29-31 and Mark 13:24-27. In both passages, Jesus states that immediately after the tribulation of those days, the elect will be gathered from the four winds by God sending out his angels. This indicates the rapture will take place post-tribulation, not before as some pre-tribulation rapture views teach.

When Jesus refers to "the elect" in these passages, he is referring to all believers in him based on Paul's definition in Colossians 3:11-12. Paul states there is no distinction between Jew or Gentile, slave or free, as all are one in Christ. So the elect are all true followers of Christ.

It's important to note that nowhere in scripture is there a promise of an easy escape from suffering, trouble or tribulation in this world. Rather, Jesus promised persecution and suffering for his name in passages like John 16:33 and Philippians 1:29. The call of God is to take up our cross and follow Christ, which may involve enduring hardship and tribulation before the hope of eternal life.

I'm happy to discuss and explain these passages further regarding the rapture doctrine. If you have any other questions unrelated to this topic, please feel free to visit WeAreTheLastGeneration.com and choose the "My AI Chat Bots" section for additional perspectives.