Tribulation on SermonAudio

Read: 1 Peter 4:12-19; 1 Peter 5:6-11 Text: Revelation 1:9-11 God gives his powerful word through humble messengers to strengthen his church. 1. The gift of this revelation 2. The need for this revelation Questions for reflection 1. What does it mean that John was "in the Spirit." (Rev 1:10) 2. Where is the island of Patmos? Why was John on that island? 3. In what way do we share in Christ's kingdom? 4. How has God used tribulation in order to shape you? 5. Do you aspire to patient endurance for the sake of the gospel? Why is that so great in God's sight? 6. What is the Lord Jesus intention in giving his powerful word to John?

The sermon urges believers to slow down and study the Bible deeply to uncover spiritual treasures rather than merely checking off reading plans. It interprets Jeremiah 30 as a prophetic timeline that shifts from Israel's historical captivity to future eschatological events, specifically the tribulation period. The preacher distinguishes between the Church, which will be raptured before this time of Jacob's trouble, and Israel, who will endure it but ultimately be restored. Key theological points include the breaking of the Antichrist's yoke by God and the eventual belief of Israel in Jesus Christ after the tribulation. The central message emphasizes that God's written word is reliable, unchangeable, and essential for understanding His sovereign plan for history and salvation.

This study explores Revelation 7 as an interlude between the sixth and seventh seals, focusing on the sealing of God's people before impending judgment. The speaker analyzes the symbolic number 144,000 as representing the complete remnant of believers from both Israel and the nations, preserved spiritually through Christ's blood. Historical context links these judgments to the fall of Jerusalem in AD 70, while also acknowledging their broader theological significance for the church age. The passage highlights God's sovereignty in protecting His elect amidst tribulation and the ultimate victory of the multitude worshiping before the throne. The central message assures believers of their secure identity in Christ and the certainty of their eternal preservation.

The speakers argue that current events in Israel, particularly the preparation for rebuilding the Jewish temple, serve as definitive proof that the end times are near. They emphasize that the Jewish people act as God's prophetic time clock, with their return to the land and the gathering of temple artifacts signaling the imminent start of the seven-year tribulation. The discussion highlights the role of the Antichrist, who will initiate this period by making a covenant with Israel before revealing himself in the rebuilt temple. This timeline implies that the rapture of the church must occur prior to these events, urging believers to remain vigilant and faithful. The overarching message is a call to spiritual readiness and evangelism, warning that time is running out for both the church and the world.

The sermon argues that the church is not currently in nor will be present during the seven-year tribulation, as believers are rescued from God's wrath. It identifies the opening of the seals in Revelation 6 as the beginning of this divine judgment, emphasizing that these events originate directly from Jesus rather than Satan or human agency. The speaker highlights the severity of the first half of the tribulation, describing it as a time of global violence and suffering that has not yet occurred. By contrasting general persecution with specific divine wrath, the message asserts that the church's absence is biblically consistent with God's protection of His bride. Ultimately, the presentation serves as an urgent call to salvation for non-believers, offering the hope of the rapture as an escape from the coming judgment.

Pastor Billy Crone defends the pre-tribulation rapture of the church, arguing that believers are rescued from God's wrath rather than appointed to it. The discussion contrasts four eschatological positions while emphasizing that the seven-year tribulation is a period specifically intended for Israel, not the Church. By analyzing Daniel's seventy weeks and Pauline mysteries, the sermon establishes that the Church age is a distinct parenthetical era separate from future prophetic timelines. It addresses common misconceptions regarding biblical terminology and historical origins to clarify the theological basis for this view. The central message encourages Christians to hold fast to the blessed hope of Christ's imminent return as a source of comfort and encouragement.

The sermon examines Jesus' teachings on the distinction between the spiritual realm of believers and the hostile physical world. It highlights the paradox that while Christians will face tribulation in the world, they possess peace through Christ who has overcome it. The message emphasizes that eternal life is defined not by physical circumstances but by knowing God and Jesus Christ. It further explores Jesus' authority over all flesh and the doctrine of election, asserting that He gives eternal life only to those given to Him by the Father. The overall tone is instructional and reassuring, encouraging believers to remain spiritually focused amidst worldly challenges.

To His children Jesus said that "In the world, ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer..." The world has no such possibility without Christ. The tribulation the world faces will be a troubling time without peace or the grace of God. In this message we examine hos a sinner will be "Troubled in Tribulation".

Preached at Sheffield Presbyterian Church (Con't), England, UK