What Is the Tribulation?

The Tribulation is a 7-year period of unprecedented judgment, deception, and suffering that precedes the Second Coming of Christ. It is often divided into two halves:

• The First 3½ Years – A false peace, rising deception, and the rise of the Antichrist
• The Second 3½ Years – Called the “Great Tribulation,” it includes intense persecution, global war, and divine wrath

The source of this prophetic period is Daniel 9:27, where the angel Gabriel reveals a final “week” of years (7 years) set aside for God’s dealings with Israel and the world.

When Does the Tribulation Begin?

The Tribulation doesn’t begin with chaos—it starts with deception disguised as peace.

“He shall make a strong covenant with many for one week…”
— Daniel 9:27

This covenant is orchestrated by the Antichrist, a global leader who brings a false peace agreement—likely involving Israel and her neighbors. Many believe the Rapture occurs shortly before or at this moment, though interpretations vary.

7-Year Tribulation Timeline: What Happens in Each Phase?

🌍 The First 3½ Years

• A Peace Covenant Is Signed (Daniel 9:27)
• The Antichrist Rises to Power—a political and charismatic global figure
• The Temple Is Rebuilt in Jerusalem
• Two Witnesses Begin Their Ministry (Revelation 11:3)
• False miracles and deception increase (Matthew 24:5, Revelation 13)
• Seal Judgments are unleashed—war, famine, plague, and death (Revelation 6)

This first half is deceptive. The world will believe things are improving under global unity—until the midpoint arrives.

🔥 The Abomination of Desolation (Midpoint Event)

At the 3½-year mark, everything changes.

“He shall put an end to sacrifice and offering. And on the wing of abominations shall come one who makes desolate…”
— Daniel 9:27

The Antichrist enters the rebuilt temple, declares himself to be God (2 Thessalonians 2:4), and demands worship. This is the **Abomination of Desolation**—a clear sign to those who know prophecy that the Great Tribulation has begun.

⚔️ The Final 3½ Years: The Great Tribulation

• Persecution Intensifies—especially against Jews and Christians (Matthew 24:9)
• The Mark of the Beast Is Enforced (Revelation 13:16–17)
• Trumpet Judgments Fall—ecological disasters, demonic invasions (Revelation 8–9)
• The Two Witnesses Are Killed and Resurrected (Revelation 11)
• Bowl Judgments Are Poured Out—plagues, darkness, and global destruction (Revelation 16)
• Babylon Falls—the global system of false religion and commerce collapses (Revelation 17–18)

This is a time of great suffering—unlike anything the world has ever seen. Jesus said:

“For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been from the beginning of the world until now.”
— Matthew 24:21

How Does the Tribulation End?

The Tribulation ends with the most anticipated event in history: the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.

“Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him.”
— Revelation 1:7

Jesus returns to defeat the Antichrist, the False Prophet, and the armies of the earth at Armageddon (Revelation 19). He casts the beast and his prophet into the lake of fire, binds Satan, and establishes His 1,000-year Millennial Kingdom.

Who Will Be Saved During the Tribulation?

Though it will be a time of judgment, many will come to faith in Christ—often at great personal cost:

• 144,000 sealed Jewish evangelists preach the gospel (Revelation 7)
• Multitudes from every nation are saved—but martyred (Revelation 7:14)
• Angelic proclamations declare God’s truth across the globe (Revelation 14)

God’s mercy endures even in judgment. But the cost of faith during the Tribulation will be high.

Should We Fear the Tribulation?

If you belong to Jesus Christ, you do not need to fear. Though interpretations of the Rapture vary, God’s Word promises that His people are not destined for wrath (1 Thessalonians 5:9).

We are called to watch, pray, and be ready. The signs are increasing. The stage is being set. And the King is coming soon.

Final Thoughts

The 7-Year Tribulation is more than a timeline of doom—it’s a divine countdown. A wake-up call to the nations. A final offer of mercy before judgment falls.

Will you be ready?

🕊️ Download our Tribulation Timeline Chart & End Times Survival Guide →