What event begins the seven-year tribulation?
The seven-year tribulation begins with the signing of a seven-year treaty between the Antichrist and the nation of Israel. This treaty, described as the curtain rising on prophecy, marks the start of God dealing prophetically with Israel again. It initiates the final seven-year period.
Les explains that all prophecy is directed to the nation of Israel, and since God is not yet dealing with the nation, prophecy is not being fulfilled today. Rather, the stage is being set: the props are being put in place and the players are getting ready. The curtain will rise at the signing of the seven-year treaty by the Antichrist and the nation of Israel. At that point the seven-year period of tribulation begins, which is God dealing prophetically with Israel again. The fulfillment of prophecy is yet future.