People think the rapture is coming mainly due to a combination of religious beliefs rooted in certain interpretations of Christian scripture, cultural influences, and contemporary world events. The rapture is believed by some Christians, especially evangelical groups, to be an imminent event when Jesus Christ will return to take true believers up to heaven before a period of great tribulation on Earth. This belief provides both hope and a warning: hope for being saved from future suffering, and a call to live a faithful Christian life to be ready for this event. Key reasons include:

1. Biblical Interpretation: Passages in the New Testament, especially the Book of Revelation and Paul's letters (like 1 Thessalonians 4:17), describe Christ's return and believers being caught up ("raptured") to heaven. The idea has been developed and popularized particularly in American evangelical circles since the 19th century.
2. Signs of the Times: Many believers see current world events such as wars, natural disasters, famines, and social upheaval as fulfillment of biblical prophecies signaling the rapture and end times are near.
3. Cultural and Media Influence: Books, movies (like the "Left Behind" series), and sermons reinforce and spread the idea, sometimes with predicted dates gaining attention even if they do not come to pass.
4. Psychological and Social Factors: The rapture offers a promise of deliverance from a troubled and uncertain world, providing comfort, meaning, and motivation to adhere to a moral and religious lifestyle.

Overall, the belief in the rapture combines theological, cultural, and existential elements that lead people to think it could be coming soon.