What is one thing you must do regardless of which theory of the Great Tribulation you believe? Before we answer that question, let’s briefly explain Tribulation Theory
Tribulation Theory
First, what is tribulation theory? Tribulation theory addresses the anticipated gathering or rapture of believers in the last days. More specifically, when does the rapture occur?
While there are various theories, there are three primary theories about this event.
Pre - Mid - Post
Pre-Tribulation believes Christians will be gathered unto the Lord before the great tribulation. In this theory, Christians are spared the suffering that prefaces the establishment of the new heaven and new earth.
Mid-Tribulation believes that Christians will endure the first three and half years of the tribulation, but believers will not experience all of the tribulation. Half-way through the great tribulations, Christians will be gathered unto the Lord.
Post-Tribulation believes that Christians will undergo the great tribulation just as everyone else will. At the end of time, believers will be gathered at the second-coming of Christ. Then, the new heaven and earth will be established.
These theories have been around for years. Advocates for each of the doctrines can support their claim with scripture. They are very different in belief but they do share one thing in common other than a belief in Jesus Christ. So what do they hold in common?
Endurance
Endurance is the one thing they all have in common. Regardless of what belief a person adheres to they must endure in the faith until the rapture. The Pre-Tribulationist must maintain their faith until Christ gathers them. The Mid-Tribulationist must endure a portion of the tribulation. The Post-Tribulationist must endure for a much longer time. Endurance is the common theme.
The Apostle Paul stated,
Hebrews 10:36
NRSV
“For you need endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised.”
Endurance is the key to faith regardless of what you believe about the return of Jesus Christ and the rapture of his followers. Without endurance we fail to be true to Christ.
In the Letters to the Seven Churches in the book of Revelations, Jesus calls each of the churches to endure until his return. Jesus uses words like “conquer”, “overcome”, and “holding fast”. Each of these terms entail endurance.
No matter what type of tribulation theory you believe, endurance in faith until Christ returns is required. So keep the faith.
Continue to run the race of faith.
