When are the Old Testament and Tribulation Saints resurrected?

April 30, 2025

In this End Times Q&A teaching, we explore a crucial but often overlooked question: When are the Old Testament saints resurrected? Are they raised at the Rapture, the Second Coming, or during the Millennial Reign of Christ?
We walk through the full biblical timeline and explain how Jesus’ death, resurrection, and ascensions impacted the destiny of Old Testament believers. From the relocation of Paradise to the final bodily resurrection of saints, this study connects key Scriptures to provide a clear, dispensational understanding of God’s redemptive plan.
Key Points:
- Paradise (Abraham’s Bosom) was relocated from the heart of the earth to Heaven after Jesus’ resurrection
- Christ had two ascensions: one private (relocating Paradise), one public (seen by His disciples)
- Old Testament saints were spiritually taken to Heaven, but their bodily resurrection occurs after the Tribulation, at the Second Coming
- The Great White Throne Judgment includes reward and remembrance for the righteous — not just condemnation for the wicked
- The Church is glorified at the Rapture, while OT and Tribulation saints are resurrected to reign in the Millennial Kingdom
- Cremation does not hinder resurrection — God’s power transcends burial methods
Key Scriptures:
Luke 23.43 – "Today you will be with me in Paradise"
Matthew 12.40 – "Three days and three nights in the heart of the earth"
John 20.17 – "I have not yet ascended to My Father"
Ephesians 4.8–10 – "He led captivity captive"
2 Corinthians 12.2–4 – Paul’s vision of Paradise now in Heaven
Revelation 20.4 – Resurrection of Tribulation and OT saints
Daniel 12.2–13 – OT prophecy of resurrection and reward
Acts 1.9–11 – Christ’s public ascension from the Mount of Olives
Revelation 11.15–18 – Judgment and reward for prophets and saints
Resource Links: 
https://www.blueletterbible.org/assets/images/study/larkin/dispensationalTruth/c63.jpg
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1J4jhMVUBCuvJ_Vsfx8ljZcc6nzm-01kd/view?usp=share_link
https://docs.google.com/document/d/18FQWs3tfph-W9npLMiUAGdOqw6QcAJwR1xTkJ01Hrf8/edit?usp=share_link
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1mVtyjPwHN6zOZRD9MbZHBskLIqiDK6IR/view?usp=share_link