What is the great tribulation in Matthew 24:21 in relation to Revelation?
Matthew 24:21's great tribulation is the same period pictured in Revelation, specifically the trumpet judgments and bowl judgments. It is unequaled trouble, shortened so it will not run past its appointed three and a half years, ending right on schedule for the elect's sake.
Les explains that when Jesus speaks of the great tribulation in Matthew 24:21, this is picked up back in the book of Revelation—the trumpet judgments, the bowl judgments, and what have you. He notes the days will be shortened, but he does not believe that means three years instead of three and a half. Rather, the Greek word implies that when the three and a half years are over, it will not go an hour over; it will end right on schedule. If that period went on even 24 or 48 hours, no flesh could be saved, but it is shortened for the elect's sake. The elect are believers, whether Jew or Gentile.
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 according to Matthew 24:21?
In Matthew 24:21, 'for then' means from the midpoint on, which is when the great tribulation will come.