Is Rapture Happening on September 23? Truth & Rumors Decoded on Viral Jesus Prophecy

Is the rapture about to happen, happens on September 23, or is this simply an internet rumor? Millions of people have seen the posts or videos or trending hashtags on TikTok #RaptureTok. All this content claims that on September 23-24, 2025, Jesus is coming back, and the rapture will happen. The September 23 prophecy originated when South South African Pastor Joshua Mhlakela stated he had a vision that news became widespread among the Christian community.

Since then, many have liquidated physical assets, both large and small, and mentally prepared for "the end." These posts and videos eventually went viral, showing footage of people selling cars, screenshots of believers quitting jobs, and people talking about dreams they had about Jesus coming back.
Is the above claim true? Here is what Scholars and theologians, facts, and the bible indicate.

Jesus, The Rapture & September 23 Prophecy

Many believers in Jesus subscribe to the rapture, a spectacular event in which true followers of Jesus will be “caught up” to meet him in the air. Mostly derived from the first two scripture references below 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, and 1 Corinthians 15:51-52.

However, biblical experts and lifetime pastors have stressed the important point that nobody can predict the actual date and time. It is clearly stated in Mathew 24:36 where Jesus said, “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” Additionally, most theologian would agree, "date setting" goes against biblical values. There is no rapture is happening on september 23, 2025.

Who Will See Jesus at the Rapture?

The Bible teaches that everyone, believers and non-believers alike, will witness the return of Jesus. Revelation 1:7 states, “Every eye will see Him.” Christians believe those who follow Christ—through faith and personal relationship—will be “caught up” (raptured) to meet Him. This event, sometimes described as instantaneous, is open to all who have placed their trust in Jesus.

Signs of Jesus’ Return: What Does The Bible Say?

The Bible outlines several signs pointing to Jesus’ return and the end times. These include:

• The rise of false prophets, rumors of wars, and global conflicts.
• Widespread moral and spiritual decline.
• Surges in natural and cosmic disasters.
• The rebirth and rising prominence of Israel in prophecy.
• Increase in deception and confusion (especially online).

Christian scholars say these “birth pangs” demonstrate that believers should “live ready,” focusing more on spiritual preparation and less on trying to pinpoint an exact date.

Social Media & The Viral Rapture Rumor Decoded

Social media trends—not verified prophecy—generate much of the panic and excitement. From TikTok to YouTube to Instagram, fear and even misinformation have been spread—and more significantly, panic can be felt in real life and in some communities, emotional distress is underway. Many have claimed that the rapture is on 23 september as you saw in videos doen below:

Are you ready for the rapture?

Every few years, someone claims to know the exact date of Jesus’ return. This fall, that claim comes from South African pastor Joshua Mhlakela, whose prophecy has gone viral on TikTok and YouTube.

Mhlakela says Jesus told him He will return… pic.twitter.com/9DK7ifknBX

— ZiFM Stereo (@ZiFMStereo) September 23, 2025

Additionally, it should be observed that such claims have come and gone many times over history, nor is there any precedent in which a predicted date has matched an event in the world.

What Should Christians Do Now? 

While different pastors and scholars may emphasize different aspects, the main refrain is to Ground Yourself: be aware, don’t be anxious. We should be asking how to live with faith, hope, and readiness—not in reaction to trending phenomena.