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The problem is that it is very difficult to counter faith, even (or more especially) misplaced faith through rational argument

So, in other words, no one know for sure until it happens?

I was referring to attempts to convince the disciples of Mr Camping. I was and am quite sure in my own mind that he was and is wrong.

The answer to the issue you imply with your comment "so, in other words, no one knows for sure until it happens" is that those of us who believe Mr Camping is wrong are doing so on the basis that we acknowledge that we do not know when Jesus will return. It is perfectly possible it could have been on May 21st 2011, in which case we would all have looked ridiculous! It might very well be tomorrow. It might be one hundred years from now. Mr Camping is not wrong to assert Jesus is returning - all Christians believe that - his error is in stating specifically when. He has no logical, biblical, rational or even inspirational basis for setting a date of May 21st, or any other for that matter. By doing this he not only brings the faith into disrepute, he also wastes huge amounts of people's time, energy and money that could be better spent elsewhere.