What Does The Bible Say About The Tribulation?
The Bible speaks of a period of intense suffering and turmoil that is referred to as the “tribulation.” This period is often associated with the end times and the return of Jesus Christ.
The concept of the tribulation is found primarily in the New Testament, in the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and Revelation. The book of Revelation describes the tribulation in detail, painting a picture of widespread chaos and destruction on earth.
One of the key verses that describes the tribulation is Revelation 7:14, which states, “And I said to him, ‘Sir, you know.’ So he said to me, ‘These are the ones who come out of the great tribulation, and washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.'” This verse indicates that the tribulation will be a time of great suffering, but that those who endure it will ultimately be redeemed through the blood of Jesus.
Another important passage that describes the tribulation is found in Matthew 24:21, which says, “For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be.” This verse emphasizes the unprecedented nature of the tribulation and the unprecedented suffering that will occur during this period.
One of the key events that is associated with the tribulation is the “abomination of desolation,” which is described in Matthew 24:15. This passage states, “Therefore when you see the ‘abomination of desolation,’ spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place” (whoever reads, let him understand)”. This passage is referring to an event that is described in the book of Daniel, where the Antichrist, a powerful political leader, will set up an idol in the Jewish temple and demand to be worshiped as a god. This event will mark the beginning of the tribulation.
Another event associated with the tribulation is the “seals” in the book of Revelation Chapter 6, the opening of these seals reveal natural disasters, wars, famine and pestilence, which will bring destruction to the earth. One of the most catastrophic event is the opening of the 7th seal which will initiate 7 trumpet judgments which brings even more destruction and misery to the world.
The Bible also speaks of the rapture as an event preceding the tribulation which will bring a gathering of believers to meet Jesus Christ in the air before the tribulation starts.
Overall, the Bible describes the tribulation as a period of intense suffering and destruction that will occur before the return of Jesus Christ. Although this period will be marked by widespread chaos and destruction, those who endure it and remain faithful to God will ultimately be redeemed and receive eternal life in heaven.