Fatal Flaws of the Modern Tribulation Views Comparison
The perspectives on the timing of the rapture and the events surrounding the tribulation period have been a subject of intense debate among biblical scholars and theologians. Each view – pre-tribulation, mid-tribulation, and post-tribulation – presents its own set of challenges and apparent inconsistencies with various scriptural passages. This document delves into a comprehensive analysis of these flaws, aiming to shed light on the complexities involved in interpreting the prophetic literature.

The 70th Week of Daniel

Point 1 Daniel talks about a very important prophecy that has big implications for the end times. This prophecy is about 70 "weeks" (which really means 70 sets of 7 years), and it explains what will happen in the final 7-year period before Jesus returns. (Daniel 9:24-27) The concept of a 360-day prophetic year in the Bible is inferred from several scriptural references, rather than being explicitly stated. Likewise the weeks as 7 years sets are Example Genesis 29:27-28 Jacobs Bridal week to get His Bride. Jacob’s agreement to work for seven years for Rachel is described as a "week," further indicating a "week" can represent a seven-year period. This idea comes from the interpretation of certain time periods in prophetic books like Daniel and Revelation. Here are the key references: Daniel 9:24-27 (Seventy Weeks Prophecy): - The "seventy weeks" are often interpreted as seventy weeks of years (70 x 7 years = 490 years). This interpretation is based on the context of Daniel's prayer concerning the seventy years of desolation of Jerusalem mentioned earlier in the chapter. Daniel 7:25 and 12:7 (Time, Times, and Half a Time): - These passages mention a period of "time, times, and half a time," which is generally understood to mean 3.5 years. This interpretation is supported by Revelation. Revelation 11:2-3 and 12:6, 14: - Revelation 11:2-3: "They will trample on the holy city for 42 months. And I will appoint my two witnesses, and they will prophesy for 1,260 days, clothed in sackcloth." - Revelation 12:6, 14: The woman is said to be nourished in the wilderness for "1,260 days" and "a time, times, and half a time" (3.5 years). By comparing these references: 1,260 days / 42 months = 30 days per month. 3.5 years = 1,260 days / 3.5 = 360 days per year. Thus, prophetic years in these contexts appear to be calculated based on a 360-day year (12 months of 30 days each). Additional Context Genesis 7:11, 24 and 8:3-4 (The Flood Narrative): - The duration of the flood is given as 150 days, which spans from the 17th day of the second month to the 17th day of the seventh month, suggesting a 30-day month. These inferences have led some to propose that God uses a 360-day year when dealing with prophetic events. Point 2 You see, the first 69 "weeks" have already happened. During that time, the Messiah (Jesus) came and was killed. (Daniel 9:26) The starting point for the prophecy is the decree by Artaxerxes to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem, which is dated to 445 BC. (Nehemiah 2:1-8) The 69 weeks (483 years) from this decree brings us to the time of Christ's death, which is around 32 AD. (Daniel 9:25) So, if we consider 483 × 360 (God's years) = 173,880, then divide by 365, we get 477 years on our calendar. This calculation aligns with the period from 445 BC to 32 AD. (Daniel 9:25) Point 3 The Last 7 years, known as the 70th week, is still yet to come. This final 7-year period is what the book of Revelation in the Bible describes in detail. (Revelation 6-19) Point 4 When and What's going to happen in the 70th week? Well, that's what we

The 70th Week
The 70th week refers to a prophetic timeline described in the book of Daniel, chapter 9. In Daniel 9:24-27, the prophet is given a vision of "seventy weeks" or 490 years that were decreed for the people of Israel. The first 69 weeks (483 years) have been historically fulfilled, including the coming of the Messiah and his "cutting off" - the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The final 70th week is yet to come, marking a pivotal time of tribulation and the culmination of God's plan for the redemption of Israel and the world.
Specifically, Daniel 9:27 states: "And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate." This final 7-year period, often referred to as the Tribulation, will see the rise of the Antichrist and the outpouring of God's judgment on the earth.
As the early church fathers recognized, this 70th week of Daniel is yet to be fulfilled in the future. In the 3rd century AD, Tertullian wrote, "The prophet Daniel had evidently declared that there was still remaining one week, the last one, in which Antichrist, having been manifested, would be exterminated and the kingdom of Christ, the everlasting kingdom, would be set up."
Around 180 AD, Irenaeus also noted, "When this Antichrist shall have devastated all things in this world, he will reign for three years and six months, and sit in the temple at Jerusalem; and then the Lord will come from heaven in the clouds."
Similarly, in the 3rd century AD, Hippolytus affirmed, "After the completion, therefore, of the entire week, the time of the Antichrist, for whose sake even the foregoing period was abridged, the promise of the covenant being then fulfilled, Jerusalem shall be inhabited."
Four Endtime Views
Pre-Tribulation View
Believers will be taken to heaven before the tribulation period begins.
Reference: Revelation 3:10
Learn More
Mid-Tribulation View
Believers will be taken to heaven in the middle of the tribulation period.
Reference: Revelation 11:3-12
Post-Tribulation View
Believers will be taken to heaven after the tribulation period ends.
Reference: Matthew 24:29-31
Pre-Wrath View
Believers will be taken to heaven before God's wrath is poured out in the endtime events at the 6th Seal and Before the 7th Seal
Reference: Revelations 6:12-17
Jewish Feasts Templates
The Jewish feasts hold profound significance, but their symbolism can be less straightforward than the New Testament's clear signs for end-time events.
The New Testament provides specific markers, such as the tribulation period and Christ's return, that offer greater accuracy in comprehending God's plan for salvation.
A key sign is the appearance of the Antichrist, who will make a covenant with Israel, marking the beginning of the final seven-year period before Christ's return.
Timeline - Daniel's 70th Week
All Agree on these Elements: Anti-Christ starts by Signing a Covenant, Abomination of Desolation is at Midpoint, 3 ½ year Tribulation or Beginning of Sorrows, 3 ½ year Great Tribulation, God's Wrath, Second Coming…

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Scrolls 1-7

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Trumpets 1-7

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Vails 1-7
Lets Look at the KEY Signs

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PreCursors

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The Day of the Lord

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Israel to sign a covenant with the Antichrist and His Identity Confirmed

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Unknown Hour

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He be taken out of the way

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Antichrist revealed

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Mark of the Beast

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144,000 from the tribes of Israel

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Abomination of Desolation

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Saints Return With Christ

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3 ½ year Tribulation & 3 ½ year Great Tribulation

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Second Coming & Appearance
The Precursors
The doctrine of imminence, which states that the Rapture could happen at any moment and it's held by Pre-Tribulationists
1. The Great Falling Away (Jacob's separation of Labans flock as an inheritance.) is a precursor to the Rapture, as described in 2 Thessalonians 2:3. It foreshadows the FINAL separation in the Great White Throne Judgment in Revelation 20:11-14. This Great Falling Away is a divine appointment carried out by angels, where the wheat and the tares are gathered, and again foreshadowed in Matthew 13:40 and later in matt 25:32-46 with the Sheep and the Goats.
.2. Another precursor is the revealing of the man of sin or antichrist, as described in 2 Thessalonians 2:3. This must happen before the Rapture can occur. Again this must happen before the Rapture, further disproving the doctrine of imminence.
Day of the Lord
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Biblical References
"The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and notable day of the Lord come."
Acts 2:20 (KJV)
"The great day of the Lord is near, it is near, and hasteth greatly, even the voice of the day of the Lord: the mighty man shall cry there bitterly."
Zephaniah 1:14 (KJV)
"Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the Lord cometh, for it is nigh at hand;"
Joel 2:1 (KJV)
"But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up."
2 Peter 3:10 (KJV)
"Behold, the day of the Lord cometh, cruel both with wrath and fierce anger, to lay the land desolate: and he shall destroy the sinners thereof out of it."
Isaiah 13:9 (KJV)
"For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night."
1 Thessalonians 5:2 (KJV)
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Pre-Tribulation Problem
The pre-tribulation view suggests that the Day of the Lord (DOTL) begins before the cosmic disturbances described in Matthew 24:29. However, some interpret Acts 2:20 as indicating that the DOTL comes after these disturbances, presenting a potential contradiction.
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Mid-Tribulation Problem
Similarly, the mid-tribulation view faces a challenge regarding the timing of the DOTL. According to Matthew 24:29, the cosmic disturbances occur before the DOTL, which is difficult to reconcile with the mid-tribulation perspective.
The Mystery of the Man of Sin
The Bible warns of a troubling figure who is to come – the Antichrist. This man will speak blasphemous and arrogant words, exalting himself above God
"He shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time."
(Daniel 11:36, 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4, Revelation 13:5-6). He will be empowered by the forces of darkness, as the "mystery of lawlessness" will be at work through him (2 Thessalonians 2:9).
"Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God." (2 Thessalonians 2:3-6)
The Antichrist's rise to power will be a display of Satan's influence and deception. He will seek to undermine the authority of God and lead many astray with his false claims and wicked ambitions. This sobering prophecy serves as a warning to all who would follow after him, lest they be caught in his web of lies and destruction.
In the book of Isaiah, the prophet warns of a "wicked one" who will arise and exalt himself against God: "And the mean man boweth down, and the great man humbleth himself: and the eyes of the lofty shall be humbled" (Isaiah 2:9).
Many early church fathers, such as Justin Martyr and Irenaeus, believed that the Antichrist would come from the tribe of Dan.
"Dan shall be a serpent by the way, a viper by the path, that biteth the horse heels, so that his rider shall fall backward."
(Genesis 49:16-17) This tribe was known for its idolatry and was often associated with rebellion against God (Judges 18). The Antichrist will leverage this connection to gain the trust of the Jewish people and eventually betray them, signing a false treaty and then launching a devastating attack against the saints of God (Daniel 9:27, Revelation 13:7).
The Antichrist will be given great power and authority by the dragon, which is Satan (Revelation 13:2). He will use this power to blaspheme God, persecute the followers of Christ, and demand worship for himself. This display of Satan's influence and the Antichrist's wickedness will be a profound test of faith for believers, who must remain steadfast in their devotion to the true and living God.
As we approach the end times, it is crucial that we remain vigilant and grounded in the right Bible of God's Words. Only then can we hope to discern the schemes of the Antichrist and stand firm in our faith, no matter the challenges that lie ahead.
Abominations of Desolation
Both the pre-tribulation and mid-tribulation views face challenges regarding the timing of the Abomination of Desolation. According to the cited passages, believers must witness this event, which seems to contradict the notion of a pre-tribulation or mid-tribulation rapture.
Tribulation vs. God's Wrath
The scriptures make a clear distinction between tribulation and God's wrath. Tribulation refers to the suffering and persecution that believers may face, while God's wrath is His divine judgment upon the lost. These are two distinct concepts that should not be conflated.
The timing of the rapture in relation to these events is a matter of ongoing debate among Christians. However, it is crucial to rightly divide the Word of truth and understand the biblical nuances between tribulation and God's wrath.
In the New Testament, Jesus warns His disciples that they will face tribulation in the world, saying "In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33). The Apostle Paul also encourages believers, saying "We must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God" (Acts 14:22). Additionally, the book of Revelation describes a period of "great tribulation" that will last for 3.5 years (Revelation 7:14).
The Bible also speaks of the tribulation in the last days, as described in Matthew 24:21: "For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be." This tribulation will be a time of unprecedented suffering and persecution for believers (Matthew 24:15-22).
Throughout the Old Testament, we see examples of God's wrath poured out on the wicked. In Genesis 6-9, God sent the great flood to destroy the ungodly, while sparing Noah and his family. In the book of Revelation, we read of the seven seals, trumpets, and bowls of God's wrath that will be unleashed in the last days (Revelation 6-16).
It is critical that we rightly discern the difference between the trials and persecutions that believers will face, and the outpouring of God's divine judgment on the unrepentant. Only then can we be properly prepared for the events to come.
In Revelation 20, we read about the rewards for those who endure the tribulation. "Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years" (Revelation 20:6). Those who overcome the tribulation will be part of the first resurrection and reign with Christ for a thousand years.
Unknown Hour

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Mid-Tribulation Problem
The mid-tribulation view suggests that Christ's return would be predictable 3 1/2 years after the signing of the treaty, contradicting the idea of an unknown hour mentioned in Matthew 25:16. This predictability challenges the notion of watchfulness and preparedness emphasized in Scripture.

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Post-Tribulation Problem
Similarly, the post-tribulation view faces a challenge with the unknown hour concept. If Christ's return is expected 7 years after the treaty, it would be predictable, conflicting with the biblical passage in Matthew 25:16.

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Biblical Reference
"But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only."
Matthew 24:36 (KJV)
"Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh."
Matthew 25:13 (KJV)
"For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night."
1 Thessalonians 5:2 (KJV)
"For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief."
1 Thessalonians 5:3-4 (KJV)

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Consistency with Last Trumpet View
The concept of the unknown hour aligns with the PreTrib, PreWrath and Last trumpet views, as it emphasizes the unpredictability of Christ's return.
Wrath of God
Post-Tribulation Problem
The post-tribulation view suggests that believers would endure the wrath of God during the tribulation period. However, this seems to contradict Scriptures like 1 Thessalonians 5:9 and 1 Thessalonians 1:10, which state that believers are not appointed to wrath.
Biblical Assurance
"For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ."
1 Thessalonians 5:9 (KJV)
"And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come."
1 Thessalonians 1:10 (KJV)
These verses provide biblical assurance that believers are not appointed to wrath but are instead appointed for salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ. They emphasize that believers are waiting for the Son, Jesus, whom God raised from the dead and who has delivered them from the wrath to come. Thus, the post-tribulation view of believers enduring the wrath of God during the tribulation is contradicted by these scriptural references.
Mystery of The Abomination of Desolation
The abomination of desolation, as described in the Bible, holds profound significance in God's plan. This cataclysmic event is a key turning point, marking the transition from a period of relative calm to the outpouring of God's wrath upon the world. It is a stark reminder of the gravity of sin and the necessity of repentance before the impending judgment.
Through this abomination, God is sounding the alarm, calling all to heed His warnings and return to Him before it is too late. It is a call to reflection, repentance, and a recommitment to living in accordance with His divine will. For those who heed this warning, it offers a chance to find shelter in the shadow of the Almighty, as the storm of His judgment sweeps across the earth.

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The Third Temple
The third Temple must be built

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Animal Sacrifices
Animal sacrifices must be started again

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3 1/2 Years Later
The daily sacrifices will be cut off with the abomination of desolation
"When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)" (Matthew 24:15, KJV)
"And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh." (Luke 21:20, KJV)
"And arms shall stand on his part, and they shall pollute the sanctuary of strength, and shall take away the daily sacrifice, and they shall place the abomination that maketh desolate." (Daniel 11:31, KJV)
"And from the time that the daily sacrifice shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, there shall be a thousand two hundred and ninety days." (Daniel 12:11, KJV)
"He shall enter also into the glorious land, and many countries shall be overthrown: but these shall escape out of his hand, even Edom, Moab, and the Chief of the Children of Ammon." (Daniel 11:41, KJV)
These are ancient lands mentioned frequently in the Bible, particularly in the Old Testament. They were located in the region that is now modern-day Jordan. Edom was the land of Esau, and Moab and Ammon were lands of Lot's descendants. These lands were frequently at odds with the Israelites and were often the subject of prophetic judgment. In the end times, these lands will be spared from the Antichrist's wrath, as they will be given protection by the Lord Himself (Daniel 11:41).
"Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the LORD cometh, for it is nigh at hand;" (Joel 2:1, KJV)
"Set the trumpet to thy mouth. He shall come as an eagle against the house of the LORD, because they have transgressed my covenant, and trespassed against my law." (Hosea 8:1, KJV)
"Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins." (Isaiah 58:1, KJV)
The abomination of desolation and the cutting off of the daily sacrifices have been interpreted in various ways by theologians.
  1. One interpretation is the animal sacrifices that have been started again, after the future creation of the Third temple and the blood of the Red Heifer will be cut off.
  1. Another interpretation is that Christ's blood will be altered, therefore the ultimate TRUE daily sacrifice will be polluted, and without His blood, there can be no salvation. If the daily sacrifice is cut off, it would signify a departure from the redemptive work of Christ and the need for a different atonement or method of salvation.
Furthermore, if the wrath of God is poured out, it would have profound implications for salvation. The outpouring of God's wrath signifies a time of judgment and divine intervention. It may require a different form of atonement or a new method of salvation for those living in such a time.
It is important to study and seek understanding in these matters, as they provide insights into God's plan and His expectations for humanity. They remind us of the seriousness of sin, the need for repentance, and the urgency to seek God's forgiveness and salvation through Christ.
Christ, Our Burnt Offering and Daily Sacrifice
The Bible makes it clear that Jesus Christ is our burnt offering and daily sacrifice. In the Old Testament, we read "And he shall put his hand upon the head of the burnt offering; and it shall be accepted for him to make atonement for him." (Leviticus 1:4, KJV) This foreshadows how Christ would offer himself as the ultimate sacrifice, allowing atonement for our sins.
Christ is also referred to as "our daily sacrifice", as the scriptures state "And he shall put his hand upon the head of the burnt offering; and it shall be accepted for him to make atonement for him." (Leviticus 1:4, KJV) This speaks to how Christ's sacrifice is a perpetual, ongoing offering that provides continuous atonement and cleansing for us.
The Old Testament also describes "a perpetual sacrifice" where "two lambs of the first year day by day continually. The one lamb thou shalt offer in the morning; and the other lamb thou shalt offer at even." (Exodus 29:38-39, KJV) This foreshadows how Christ's sacrifice would be the ultimate, perpetual offering for all time.
Additionally, we see a powerful parallel in the account of Abraham being called to sacrifice his son Isaac as a burnt offering. Just as Abraham was willing to offer his beloved son, God the Father offered His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, as the ultimate sacrifice for the sins of humanity (Genesis 22:1-19).
The question then arises - what would it mean if these daily sacrifices were taken away? If the perpetual sacrifices were taken away, it would signify the loss of the means of atonement and cleansing that mankind so desperately needs. Without these sacrifices, the people would no longer have a way to make atonement for their sins before God. This would break the covenant relationship between God and his people, requiring a new covenant to be established with a new means of atonement. Additionally, the nations would lose access to the perpetual cleansing provided by these sacrifices, leaving them without a way to approach the holy God. Possible solutions could include God raising up a new priesthood to perform the sacrifices, or providing an alternative means of atonement, such as the ultimate solution of his Son Jesus Christ at Armageddon. ??? it's just a weird mind meltdown
"he be taken out of the way" (2 Thessalonians 2:7) - Holy Spirit's Removal
Pre-Tribulation Problem
The pre-tribulation view suggests the removal of the Holy Spirit, which presents a challenge in understanding how the remnant of Israel would be sealed without the Spirit's presence, as described in Revelation 7:3.
Post-Tribulation Problem
The post-tribulation view also faces a dilemma regarding the removal of the Holy Spirit. If the Holy Spirit is taken away, it is difficult to comprehend how believers would return with Christ, as stated in 2 Thessalonians 2:7.
Biblical References
"And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel."
Revelation 7:3 (KJV)
"For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way."
2 Thessalonians 2:7 (KJV)
Slain Saints
Pre-Tribulation Problem
The pre-tribulation view raises questions about the identity of those who come to Christ during the tribulation period, as described in Revelation 20:4-5. Without the Holy Spirit's presence, it is unclear how people would be drawn to salvation and why they would miss the feast and marriage.
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Biblical Reference
"And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time. But the judgment shall sit, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and to destroy it unto the end. And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him."
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Context
This passage describes the resurrection of those who were martyred during the tribulation period, raising questions about their salvation and the means by which they came to faith without the Holy Spirit's presence, according to the pre-tribulation view.
Daniel
"And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time. But the judgment shall sit, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and to destroy it unto the end. And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him."
Daniel 7:25-27 (KJV)
Matthew
"Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake."
Matthew 24:9 (KJV)
Mark
"But take heed to yourselves: for they shall deliver you up to councils; and in the synagogues ye shall be beaten: and ye shall be brought before rulers and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them."
Mark 13:9 (KJV)
Luke
"But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name's sake."
Luke 21:12 (KJV)
Revelation
"And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held: And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?"
Revelation 6:9-10 (KJV)
The Presents of Saints in Tribulation
Pre-tribulationists believe that the Saints will be raptured before the tribulation period, a period of intense persecution and suffering. This raises the question: how could the Saints, who are believers in Christ, be present during the tribulation?
The Bible clearly states that the Saints will be persecuted during the tribulation period. The Bible also states that believers will be removed from the Earth before the wrath of God. These two truths seem to contradict each other. Pre-tribulationists have to reconcile these two truths.
In the Old Testament - Daniel 7:25 states that the "little horn" will "wear out the saints of the Most High," highlighting the persecution of believers during the tribulation period. Additionally, Jesus himself spoke about the persecution of the elect, stating in Matthew 24:9, Mark 13:13, and Luke 21:12, "Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake."
"And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held: And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?" - Revelation 6:9-10 (KJV)
Elijah Appears

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Pre-Tribulation Problem
The pre-tribulation view presents a challenge regarding the appearance of Elijah before the Day of the Lord (DOTL). According to Malachi 4:5, Elijah must return before the DOTL, which conflicts with the timing of the pre-tribulation rapture.

2

Biblical Prophecy
"Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD."
Malachi 4:5 (KJV)

3

Context
If the DOTL occurs during the tribulation period, as suggested by various passages, the pre-tribulation view raises questions about the timing of Elijah's appearance and its relation to the rapture event.

4

Enoch and Elijah as Two Witnesses
"And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth."
Revelation 11:3 (KJV)
3.5 years
1260days/360days

5

Two Lampstands or Two Olive Branches
"And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth. These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth."
Revelation 11:4 (KJV)

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Christ's Words on Elijah's Appearance
"And his disciples asked him, saying, Why then say the scribes that Elias must first come? And Jesus answered and said unto them, Elias truly shall first come, and restore all things."
Matthew 17:10-11 (KJV)
Saints U-Turn

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Post-Tribulation Problem
The post-tribulation view suggests that the rapture and Christ's return for battle occur simultaneously. However, the idea of saints being caught up in the air while Christ rushes into war is difficult to reconcile, as depicted in Luke 17:34-36. This poses a challenge in understanding the sequence of events.

2

Biblical Passage
"I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed; the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left. Two women shall be grinding together; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Two men shall be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left."
Luke 17:34-36 (KJV)

3

Other Gospels Mention
The same event is also mentioned in Matthew 24:40-41 and Mark 13:34-37.
Matthew 24:40-41 (KJV)
"Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left."
Mark 13:34-37 (KJV)
"For the Son of Man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch. Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning: Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping. And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch."
The Bride Before the Father at His Coming

1

Post-Tribulation Problem
The post-tribulation view suggests that the Bride (the Church) would come before the Father (Christ) after the battle of Armageddon. However, this seems to contradict the imagery presented in 1 Thessalonians 3:13, which depicts the Bride being presented to the Father at His coming.

2

Biblical Reference
"To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints."
1 Thessalonians 3:13 (KJV)
Lamb or Lion Marriage Feast
Post-Tribulation Problem
The post-tribulation view raises questions about the imagery used to describe the marriage feast. If Christ returns as a conquering lion after the battle of Armageddon, it seems inconsistent with the depiction of the "Marriage Feast of the Lamb" (Revelation 19:7-9), which portrays a more peaceful and celebratory tone.
Biblical Reference
"Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready."
Revelation 19:7 (KJV)
Context
The imagery of the Lamb and the marriage feast seems to conflict with the portrayal of Christ as a conquering lion immediately after the battle, as suggested by the post-tribulation view. This raises questions about the timing and nature of the marriage feast celebration.
Christ's Manifestation
Post-Tribulation Problem
According to Revelation 19:11, when Christ returns, He is described as riding a white horse, ready for war. This depiction seems to conflict with the post-tribulation view, where the rapture is expected to occur at the same time as Christ's return. The idea of Christ rushing into battle immediately after the rapture raises questions about the sequence of events.
Pre/Mid/Pre/Last Trump-Tribulation Perspectives
The pre-tribulation, Mid,Pre, Last Trump views argues that Christ's return will be a two-step process – first, a meeting in the air, the rapture, and then His VISIBLE RETURN for the battle of Armageddon. This separation of events allows for the fulfillment of the prophecy in Revelation 19:11 without contradicting the rapture's timing.
Biblical References
Here are some biblical references on how Christ will look when He returns:

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From the Gospels and Acts
"And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory."
Matthew 24:30 (KJV)
"Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven."
Acts 1:11 (KJV)

These appearances seem very different -why?? do they effect our views of the second coming, of course!

2

From Revelation
"And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war."
Revelation 19:11 (KJV)
"And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters."
Revelation 1:15 (KJV)
"And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud one sat like unto the Son of man, having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle."
Revelation 14:14 (KJV)
"And his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength."
Revelation 1:16 (KJV)

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Fatal Flaws_2024.pdf

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Chart: Comparing Pre, Mid, and Post-Tribulation Views
You Fill In the Chart: Comparing Pre, Mid, and Post-Tribulation Views
The Last Trumpet

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Warning
The last trumpet signals God's coming judgment.

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Impending Wrath
The trumpets in Revelation warn of God's imminent wrath.

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Final Trumpet
The last trumpet ushers in Christ's return and the end of the age.
Lets explore the possibility that the answer is simpler than the three modern views, lacking the clear problems the others views seem to bear, and appearing to be ripe with consistency. The apostle Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 15:52 may provide the key to understanding the timing of Christ's return. If the Lord is coming at the sound of the last trumpet, we must examine the series of trumpets described in the book of Revelation. These trumpets signal God's impending judgment, warning of His coming wrath. The sounding of the final trumpet may mark the moment of Christ's glorious manifestation and the end of the age.
The Last Trumpet and Christ's Return
If the last trumpet in the series of trumpets described in Revelation marks the return of Christ, it would resolve several inconsistencies we observed in the previous tribulation views. This interpretation aligns the timing of Christ's manifestation with the sounding of the final trumpet, which heralds God's imminent judgment and the end of the age.

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  • The pre-tribulation view's need to explain an additional, unmentioned trumpet before the last one would be eliminated.
  • The mid-tribulation view's challenge of reconciling Christ's return with the midpoint of the tribulation period would be resolved.
  • The post-tribulation view's difficulty in differentiating the last trumpet from the trumpet of 1 Corinthians 15:52 would no longer be an issue.
  • This interpretation provides a clear connection between the last trumpet and Christ's return, bringing consistency to the understanding of the end times.
  • It simplifies the timeline by aligning the sounding of the last trumpet with the glorious manifestation of Christ and the end of the age.
  • By focusing on the last trumpet, it highlights the significance of God's impending judgment and the urgency of preparing for Christ's return.
  • The interpretation also offers reasonable explanations for other events:
  1. The slain saints can be understood as those who have faithfully followed Christ and have now been resurrected to reign with Him during His millennial kingdom.
  1. The marriage feast of the lamb represents the celebration of the union between Christ (the Lamb) and His bride, the Church, which includes all believers.
  1. The Lord coming back with the Saints can be seen as Christ returning in His full glory, accompanied by the resurrected and transformed believers.
  1. The Holy Spirit leaving refers to the removal of the restraining influence of the Holy Spirit, allowing for the full manifestation of evil during the tribulation period.
  1. All the believers gathered for the marriage feast of the lamb signifies the culmination of God's redemptive plan, where all believers are united with Christ in eternal fellowship and joy.
  1. And one shall say unto him, What are these wounds in thine hands? Then he shall answer, Those with which I was wounded in the house of my friends (Zechariah 13:6, KJV). Salvation seems to appear only after the victory of Armageddon for the nation Israel.
Three Scriptural Supports for the Last Trumpet View
  1. The last trumpet call is connected to Christ's return: "Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed" (1 Corinthians 15:51-52).
  1. The last trumpet is linked to the gathering of believers: "And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other" (Matthew 24:31).
  1. The seventh trumpet announces the establishment of Christ's kingdom: "And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever" (Revelation 11:15).

Eschatology: Definitions and Perspectives

Overview of pre-millennial, amillennial, post-millennial eschatological views.

Eschatological Perspectives on Matthew 24:33-34

Pre-Millennial View Pre-millennialists believe that the second coming of Christ will precede a literal 1,000-year reign on earth, during which Christ will rule with His saints. They interpret the passage in Matthew 24:33-34 to mean that the generation living when the prophesied signs occur will not pass away before Christ's return and the establishment of His kingdom. For example, they point to the rebirth of Israel in 1948 as a key sign that the end times are approaching, and that the current generation will witness Christ's reign on earth. Amillennial View Amillennialists see the millennium as a symbolic, not literal, period representing the current age between Christ's first and second coming. They interpret Matthew 24:33-34 to mean that the generation alive when the signs begin to occur will see the fulfillment of all Christ's prophecies, including His return, within their lifetimes. Amillennialists argue that the Book of Revelation uses symbolic language to describe the ongoing spiritual battle between good and evil, rather than a literal future period of earthly peace. For example, the "kingdom of heaven" mentioned in Revelation is understood as the spiritual reign of Christ in the hearts of believers, and the "thousand years" is seen as a symbolic representation of the church age between the two comings of Christ. Each view must deal with this passage Matt 24:33-34 So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors. Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled. Post-Millennial View Post-millennialists believe that the millennium is a future golden age of spiritual prosperity and growth, brought about through the gradual influence of the gospel. They interpret Matthew 24:33-34 as indicating that the generation alive during the events described will witness the establishment of Christ's kingdom on earth, rather than His immediate, personal return. Post-millennialists are optimistic about the church's ability to transform society and usher in an era of worldwide Christian dominance prior to Christ's second coming. Early Church Fathers The early church fathers held a range of views on the topic of eschatology and the interpretation of Matthew 24:33-34. For example, Justin Martyr argued for a literal 1,000-year reign of Christ on earth, aligning with the pre-millennial perspective. In contrast, Augustine promoted an amillennial view, seeing the millennium as a symbolic representation of the current age. Meanwhile, Irenaeus expressed optimism about the church's ability to transform the world, echoing the post-millennial outlook.

Pre-Millennial Eschatology

Overview Pre-millennialists believe that Christ will return to earth before the 1000-year reign described in the book of Revelation. This view holds that Jesus will establish His literal, earthly kingdom and rule over the world for a millennium. Critique Critics argue that the pre-millennial view misunderstands the relationship between the church and the kingdom of God. They point to passages like Matthew 5:5, "Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth," suggesting that the kingdom Christ spoke of was intended to be built upon this earth, not a separate future reign. Further Considerations Pre-millennialists counter that the Old Testament prophets and the book of Revelation clearly describe a future, physical kingdom on earth. They see this as the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel and the climax of redemptive history.

Amillennial Eschatology

Definition Amillennialists believe there will be no literal 1000-year reign of Christ on earth. They view the millennium as the current age between Christ's first and second comings, during which the church experiences the kingdom of God spiritually. Amillennialists see the book of Revelation as primarily symbolic rather than a literal chronology of future events. They believe that when believers die, they immediately enter into the presence of the Lord and experience eternal life. Amillennialists also hold that Christ's second coming will be a sudden, unexpected event that brings about the end of the world and the final judgment. Flaws "Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection." (Revelation 20:6) "And they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years." (Revelation 20:4) Amillennialists struggle to explain these clear references to a literal 1000-year reign of Christ in the book of Revelation.

Flaws of Amillennialism

Lack of Fulfillment "The Lord shall reign for ever and ever." (Revelation 11:15) Ignores Prophecies "The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord." (Revelation 11:15)

Post-Millennial Eschatology

Tenets World gradually improves before Christ returns. Weaknesses "Evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse." (2 Timothy 3:13)

Flaws of Post-Millennialism

Scriptural Inconsistencies "The day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night." (1 Thessalonians 5:2) "In such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh." (Matthew 24:44) Post-millennialists believe that the return of Christ will be a gradual, expected event as the world improves and the church expands. However, the Bible instructs us to "watch" for Christ's return, suggesting it will be sudden and unexpected, like "a thief in the night." This is inconsistent with the post-millennial view that the world will gradually become better before Christ's return. Furthermore, post-millennialists believe that when a person dies, they immediately enter into the presence of the Lord and experience eternal life. But the Bible clearly teaches that Christ will return and there will be a final judgment, after which the righteous will enter into eternal life. This contradicts the post-millennial belief that the world will gradually improve before Christ's return.

Accurate Eschatological Understanding

Vital for proper biblical interpretation and application. "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15)

Biblically-Grounded Eschatology

Embrace a premillennial, futurist perspective grounded in Scripture. "Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven." (Matthew 6:10)