When will the great tribulation happen?
The great tribulation occurs during the final seven years of human history, specifically as a 3 1/2 year period when God pours out His wrath. It is yet future, and the world is currently setting itself up for it, as spoken by Jesus in Matthew 24:21.
Les teaches that Jesus, in His earthly ministry, spoke to the Twelve on the Mount of Olives in Matthew 24:21 about the final seven years of human history, saying, "for then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the world began." Les explains this as a 3 1/2 year period of God's wrath, things beyond human comprehension. He contrasts it with the flood, which was not His wrath but an act of mercy. This period is still coming, and the world is setting itself up for it, as also pictured in Revelation 6.
For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.
More Questions
When does the great tribulation begin and how does its severity compare to all other times?
The great tribulation starts at the midpoint and is a time of trouble greater than anything from the beginning of the world or that will ever happen again.
Why is the coming tribulation worse than the Flood?
The coming great tribulation is worse than the Flood because the Flood was an act of mercy (instant death), whereas God's wrath will be 3 1/2 years of incomprehensible suffering.
Why will the great tribulation be so awful?
The second half of the tribulation is so terrible because it involves both the outpouring of Satan's wrath and the outpouring of God's wrath on the whole human race.
What does the great tribulation in Matthew 24:21 refer to?
The 'great tribulation' Jesus speaks of in Matthew 24:21 refers to the final seven years of human history.