We are told in Revelation 6-19 many things that will happen during the Tribulation. JESUS told us that when we see these things happening we are to look up for our redemption is drawing near (Luke21:28 NIV).
So much is happening worldwide that point to the coming Tribulation that many wonder if the Great Tribulation spoken of in Revelation 6-19 has already begun. Yet one thing has to occur before the Great Tribulation.
The restrainer (the HOLY SPIRIT within each believer of JESUS) must be taken away/caught up before the Antichrist can be revealed and come to power (2 Thessalonians 2:3,6-7). Then the lawless one makes a 7-year covenant with the Jews (that last week of Daniel called Jacob’s trouble). That covenant isn’t made cause we (those belonging to JESUS and indwelt by the HOLY SPIRIT) are still here restraining complete lawlessness.
We have been told that GOD’s ways are not our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9). I for one have found that all too true.
The following 2 verses is an example of one of GOD’s ways. In the Bible GOD will prophesy an event; then there is at least one temporary fulfillment that POINTS to the final fulfillment of that prophesy. Just as we are now feeling some of the similar things that will come in much greater intensity during the Great Tribulation.
“And HE (JESUS) answered and told them, Elias (Elijah) really must come (FUTURE event) first (before JESUS returns to earth a 2nd time and sets up a kingdom on earth), and restoreth all things” (Mark 9:12).
This speaks of Elijah coming in the FUTURE as 1 of the 2 witnesses (Revelation 11) once the church is raptured and her witness is gone. At that time Elijah will be preparing the way for JESUS’ 2nd coming to earth as a ruling King (Malachi 4, Revelation 20).
“and how it is written of the Son of man, that HE (JESUS) must suffer many things, and be set at naught (at HIS 1st coming). But I say unto you, That Elias (Elijah) indeed has (already) come, and they have done unto him whatsoever they chose, as it is written of him” (Mark 9:12-13).
This speaks of John the Baptist who came in the spirit of Elijah (Luke 1:13-17) and prepared the way for JESUS 1st coming as the Lamb of GOD who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).
There are many times we do not understand why GOD gives previews like HE does. But knowing HIS promises and that “HE knows all HIS works from the foundation of the world” (Acts 15:18) helps me accept what I cannot understand. Hope it is a comfort to you as well.
Hugs
Sharon
wakemyear 