The Great Tribulation
Unequalled trouble before the coming of Christ.
Daniel and Christ Himself foretell a season of unprecedented tribulation preceding the kingdom — a time of distress 'such as was not since the beginning of the world.' Yet for the elect's sake the days shall be shortened.
The Prophecy
"...and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book."
"For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be. And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved..."
Daniel's time of trouble
Daniel 12 ties the tribulation to the deliverance of God's people and the resurrection of the dead — a hinge between the present age and the kingdom.
Shortened for the elect
Christ's word is both sobering and comforting: the days will be terrible, but they will be shortened, and the saints will be preserved.
People in This Prophecy
Verse Commentary
Read verse-by-verse commentary on the key passages of this prophecy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the great tribulation?
A future season of unequalled distress described by Daniel and Jesus, preceding Christ's return.
Will the church suffer the tribulation?
Christians differ; Scripture promises preservation in or out of it for those who are Christ's.
Related Bible Prophecies
The Second Coming of Christ
The visible, glorious return of Christ to judge and reign.
The Day of the Lord
A great and dreadful day of divine judgment and salvation.
The Antichrist and the Man of Sin
A final lawless one to be destroyed by the brightness of Christ's coming.
The Abomination of Desolation
Daniel's sign, partly fulfilled in history, awaiting final unveiling.
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