South African Pastors’ Predictions of Rapture Stir Controversy on Social Media
- Two South African pastors shared predictions that Jesus Christ would return to the Earth on 23 or 24 September
- The pastors, Joshua Mhlakela and Danie Botha, both claimed that Jesus or the holy spirit communicated the date of the rapture to them
- Social media users made various jokes about the end-time prophecies, as an overwhelming number of netizens doubted the veracity
For seven years, Tebogo Mokwena, Briefly News’ Deputy Head of Current Affairs, South Africa, covered a range of topics, including accidents, fires, outbreaks, nature, weather, and natural disaster-related incidents, at Daily Sun and Vutivi Business News.
Source: UGC
JOHANNESBURG — South African preachers Danie Botha and Joshua Mhakela stirred controversy online when they predicted that the rapture, which is the much-awaited return of Jesus Christ, will happen on 23 and 24 September 2025.
Mhlakela appeared on the Centtwinz TV YouTube channel, where he revealed that the rapture is at hand. He said that he saw Jesus sitting on his throne. Mhlakela added that he heard Jesus tell him that he would return on 23 and 24 September 2025. He added that the Jewish Feast of Trumpets will precede the rapture and Judgment Day.
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Danie Botha also predicts rapture
Singer-turned-preacher Danie Botha also said on his YouTube channel that the Rapture will take place on 23 or 24 September. He said that the holy spirit told him the date. He remarked that he walked into his TV room and switched his TV on to watch YouTube. Big golden letters appeared in front of him, which said:
"Flight 923. You must be ready to depart."
What is the rapture?
According to Christian tradition, the rapture is the event when Jesus Christ will appear in the sky and believers will ascend to him. Although the word does not appear in the Bible, those who adhere to rapture theories quote 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 as evidence.
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An old video of Patriotic Alliance deputy president Kenny Kunene preaching in a ZAR t-shirt went viral in September. He preached at an apostolic church while donned in a two-piece, a poncho, and a ZAR T-shirt.
Netizens react
Netizens on X share various colourful tweets illustrating different views on the alleged return of Jesus.
Pacino asked:
"This rapture tomorrow: is it by time zone or does everybody go at once?"
PrinceZam asked:
"Does anyone know if we need to bring our backpacks for the rapture tomorrow?"
Dutchessprincess said:
"Me hoping the rapture happens so we can finally have universal healthcare and equal rights."
Cornbread Bit said:
"Super stoked for the rapture tomorrow."
Your other mom said:
"Will there be snacks at tomorrow's rapture, or should I pack some?"
Pastor preaches in high heels
In a relayed article, Briefly News reported that a pastor delivered a sermon in high heels. A video of the incident went viral.
The Togo-based preacher was seen walking across the stage in black stilettos. His sermon was about compassion, unity, and a judgment-free world.
Source: Briefly News
