What is the great tribulation?
Quick answer
The great tribulation is a period of intense suffering and judgment preceding Christ’s return, mentioned in Daniel, the Gospels, and Revelation. Christians disagree on whether it is mostly past (preterist), future (futurist), or a long arc spanning history.
Jesus refers to it in Matthew 24:21 — "great tribulation, such as has not been from the beginning of the world."
Futurist views see it as a specific 7-year (sometimes 3.5-year) period before Christ returns. Other views interpret more symbolically or historically.
Common to all: the church is called to faithful endurance, the day is in God’s hand, and Christ’s return ends the trouble.
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Original BibleDawn answer · reviewed 2026-06. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.