The Great Tribulation refers to a period of intense suffering, persecution, and turmoil that is believed to occur before the Second Coming of Christ, as described in the Bible, particularly in the book of Revelation. It is a time when believers will face severe trials, and the world will experience widespread chaos and destruction. This period is often associated with the final defeat of evil, the rise of the Antichrist, and the ultimate triumph of God’s Kingdom.

Key Concepts:

1. Time of Suffering and Persecution:
   The Great Tribulation is marked by unprecedented suffering for Christians, including persecution for their faith, natural disasters, wars, and widespread moral decay (Matthew 24:21-22, Revelation 7:14). Jesus warned that this time would be the worst in human history, a period of great distress (Matthew 24:21).
2. The Rise of the Antichrist:
   During the Tribulation, the Bible describes the rise of a figure known as the Antichrist, who will deceive many, set up a false kingdom, and persecute believers. The Antichrist is often seen as the ultimate embodiment of evil, opposed to God’s will (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4, Revelation 13:1-8).
3. Cosmic and Natural Disasters:
   The Great Tribulation is associated with cosmic signs, such as the darkening of the sun, the falling of stars, and earthquakes. These events symbolize the chaos and judgment that will accompany the final days (Matthew 24:29-30, Revelation 6:12-17).
4. The Second Coming of Christ:
   The Great Tribulation will culminate in the return of Jesus Christ, who will defeat the forces of evil, including the Antichrist, and establish His reign. This is when believers will be vindicated, and God’s judgment will be fully realized (Matthew 24:30, Revelation 19:11-16).

Historical Background:

1. Biblical Foundation:
   The Great Tribulation is most prominently described in Matthew 24:21-22, where Jesus speaks of a time of unprecedented suffering before His return. The term also appears in Revelation 7:14, where a multitude of saints are said to have come through the Great Tribulation and been washed in the blood of the Lamb (Jesus).
2. Old Testament Prophecies:
   The Great Tribulation is often linked to Old Testament prophecies about a time of great distress, such as those found in Daniel 12:1, where a time of trouble is foretold. Jesus’ reference to these prophecies in Matthew 24 connects the events of the Tribulation to God’s ongoing plan of salvation.

Written by AI. A more correct, God given, explanation can be found here.