In these trying times, with wars and rumours of wars ragging on every side, our hearts yearn for the promised return of our Lord Jesus Christ. As Christian’s we stand united in the hope of salvation and the Second Coming. Yet, it is with a humble spirit that I invite you to consider a perspective that, while it may differ in tradition, shares our deep commitment to Scripture and the Gospel—a historicist viewpoint on the Great Tribulation.
Tribulation is not merely a future outpouring of wrath but is a present reality of spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:12). Most of Christianity today agree, in the words of Daniel 12:1, which speak of a time of trouble unparalleled in history. But here, we find a call to endurance, not escape. The tribulation is a crucible for refining faith, much like the trials faced by Daniel and his friends—tests that prove our loyalty to God.
Unlike the idea of a pre-tribulation rapture where God’s people escape the Great Tribulation, the scriptures counsel God’s people to prepare to endure the Great Tribulation before Christ’s return (Matthew 24:13). We are told to be watchful, praying and trusting God, walking in the light and not in the darkness that is roundabout, that we may be able to escape all that will come upon the children of disobedience (Colossians 3:6 and 1 Thessalonians 5:5-9). We find solace in the promise that those who stand firm to the end will be saved. This belief does not dismiss the Rapture but places it at the Second Coming, after the Gospel is preached unto all the world (Matthew 24:14).
It is by faith alone, through an unwavering trust in God, that His people will be able to stand through the Great Tribulation. With minds sealed with an assurance of salvation by the grace of God, and hearts guarded by Christ’s righteousness that the people of God may be able to withstand in the evil day (Ephesians 6:13).
“….These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sits on the throne shall dwell among them. They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sunlight on them, nor any heat. For the Lamb which is in the middle of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them to living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.”
Revelation 7:14-17
I challenge you to consider: Are we living as if Christ could return any moment? Are we keeping our lamps trimmed and burning? But for the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, in the last days, none shall be able to stand through the Great Tribulation. Explore these passages of scripture with open hearts and Bibles in hand. Let us seek the fullness of truth in love, supporting one another as we await the blessed hope—the glorious appearance of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ (Titus 2:13).
