The Bible in Matthew indicates that before the return of Jesus, we shall face a time of trouble, From a prophetic standpoint there was a time of great persecution during the Middle Ages which is part of the prophecy of 1,260 years. But Jesus was referring to a time of terrible anguish that will far exceed this. Many have speculated that the faithful will not have to go through this great tribulation but there is nothing in the Bible to support this. Moreover, both the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy say we are admonished to be prepared for this time of trouble. The verse goes on to say,"then shall be great tribulation such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever shall be." *1.
"[and] unless those days were shortened, no flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened." *1.
This refers to all those who are alive at the time of tribulation. Daniel says,
"at that time shall arise Michael the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people. It will be a time of trouble such as never was since there previously, but at that time your people, all who are included in the book. Many who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, some to shame and everlasting contempt." *2.
In these two chapters we find the same message referring to the time of anguish which we all have to face but only those whose names are inscribed in the book of life will be saved. Then Michael’s, i.e. Jesus' returning as KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS puts an end to everything!
The reason this period will be so terrible is because there will no longer be anyone interceding for us in heaven. When the time of grace ends (I will cover this topic in a later) the verse found in the book of Revelations is fulfilled,
"He who is unjust, let him be unjust still: he that is filthy, let him be filthy still: he that is righteous, let justice yet, and he that is holy, let him be holy still more.” *3
The main question that always comes to mind is, why if God is a God of love and mercy will he allow his people to go through this great tribulation? I link this question with a question that people who do not believe in God ask. If God exists why is there so much pain and suffering in the world? These two questions I will answer later, but I will say this. Sin is a mystery, the Spirit of Prophecy tells us that
"The entrance of sin in heaven cannot be explained. If it were understandable it would show that there was a reason for sin. But since there was not the slightest excuse for it, the origin will always be a mystery."*4.
There are many things which we cannot understand because we are created beings, and only our creator has the power to understand.
“It is impossible for finite minds to fully understand the character or the works of the Infinite." *5
The apostle stresses,
"Depth of wealth, wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways!"*6.
Something that is not a mystery is the plan of salvation. The problem is that human beings tend to think only of today and rarely stop to see the big picture. Of course we as humans are severely limited but in heaven throughout eternity the Lord will present the history of mankind and we will further understand the plan of salvation. As we further analyze these topics it is necessary to pray and ask for the Lord's direction. Then we can start to analyze the plan of salvation from the standpoint of an angel in heaven or a being who has never fallen. Understanding that the law of God is eternal and perfect and that the wages of sin is death*7, was there some other way to save humanity? Is there any other way to purify sinners and prepare them to live eternally in heaven where there is purity, perfection, love, and where God reigns?
1* Matthew 24:21
2* Daniel 12:1-2
3* Revelation 22:11
4* The Truth About Angels, The Origin of Evil, Ellen G. White.
5* Steps To Christ, 12 - What to do with doubt? El en G. White.
6* Romans 11:33
7* Romans 6:23
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