Should Christians Prepare for the Great Tribulation? (Part 1)

TEXT: Matthew 24:14-22

During World War II, the government of Great Britain commissioned the creation of bunkers deep underground to protect citizens during Nazi aerial bombing campaigns. The cavernous bunkers were stocked with bunk beds, blankets, and food. Some of them held up to 8,000 people at time. For weeks, Londoners wondered if they would have to go down into those bunkers for protection. Some people probably laughed off the idea and thought the war would never come to British shores. But, when the Nazi planes began flying over southern England, and thousands of people were herded underground, I’m sure everyone was glad the bunkers had been built. Even though the bombing campaign was devastating, the city was prepared, and many lives were saved.
 
The Bible gives us very vivid descriptions of a time known as The Tribulation. Jesus Christ spoke of it in His Olivet Discourse in the verses we just read. A critical question for us as Christians is should we be gearing up for the Tribulation. Should we make preparations for those dark days that are coming in the future, just as the British made preparations for the German bombers.
 
It is wonderful to think about the Rapture and Jesus coming back to remove us from this sin-cursed world and take us to Heaven to be with Him. But, it is quite a different matter to think about the Tribulation -- the wars, disasters, and divine wrath that will be poured out on Earth. Should Christians be preparing for the Tribulation?

Now, I and the majority of Christians are of the pre-tribulational view. We believe that the Rapture of the church will take place before the Tribulation. And, today, I want to show you from the Word of God why I believe the Bible teaches that the Rapture will take place before the Tribulation.

...