TRIBULATION Part I

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TRIBULATION

In the Bible, “tribulation” generally refers to hardship, suffering, affliction, or distress. It can encompass various forms of adversity, both personal and societal. The concept is also strongly linked to eschatology, particularly the “Great Tribulation” at the end times. 

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

General Meaning:

  • Biblical Definition:

    The Hebrew word ṣar or ṣārâ and the Greek word thlipsis translated as “tribulation” mean pressure, distress, affliction, or suffering. 

  • Common Applications:

    It can refer to:

    • Personal struggles: Sickness, poverty, persecution, and other forms of hardship. 

    • Societal troubles: War, famine, natural disasters. 

    • Testing of faith: Tribulation can be seen as a way to refine and strengthen believers’ faith. 

    • Judgment: In some instances, tribulation is associated with God’s judgment on the wicked. 

Eschatological Significance:

  • The Great Tribulation:

    Many believe in a future seven-year period of intense tribulation preceding Christ’s second coming. 

  • Characteristics:

    This period is often described as a time of unparalleled global chaos, persecution of believers, and God’s wrath on the ungodly. 

  • Interpretations:

    There are different views on whether the church will experience this tribulation or be removed before it. 

Examples in Scripture:

  • Matthew 24:21, 29: 

    Refers to the tribulation surrounding the destruction of Jerusalem. 

  • John 16:33: 

    Jesus tells his disciples they will have tribulation in the world. 

  • Revelation: 

    The book of Revelation speaks of tribulation, including a period of intense suffering before the end times. 

  • Acts 14:22: 

    “We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God”. 

Key Takeaways:

  • Tribulation is a multifaceted concept with both present and future implications. 

  • It can be a source of suffering, but also a catalyst for growth and spiritual strengthening. 

  • The Great Tribulation is a specific and highly debated eschatological concept. 

Online Bible Dictionary :TRIBULATION

In the context of the Bible, “tribulation” refers to

trouble, affliction, and distress of any kind. It originates from the Greek word “thlipsis,” which signifies a “pressing together” or “pressure,” often used metaphorically for oppression and affliction. 

Key meanings of tribulation in the Bible include:

  • General hardships experienced by believers: This includes the challenges and suffering that follow Christ’s followers, such as sickness, disease, and the results of evil actions. Jesus Himself stated, “In the world ye shall have tribulation”.

  • A specific period of intense suffering in the end times: This is often referred to as the “Great Tribulation” and is characterized by unprecedented calamities, persecution, and divine judgment. This period is described in detail in the Book of Revelation and is associated with events leading up to Christ’s second coming.

  • A means of testing and purifying faith: Tribulation can be viewed as a way for God to refine and strengthen believers, revealing the sincerity of their faith. It allows God to work in believers, leading to maturity and a deeper relationship with Him.

  • Discipline from God: Sometimes, tribulation can be a form of discipline or chastening from God for misbehavior. 

Biblical dictionaries and resources define and explore tribulation as follows:

  • Easton’s Bible Dictionary: Defines tribulation as “trouble or affliction of any kind,” referencing specific examples like the destruction of Jerusalem and the penal sufferings of the wicked.

  • International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Online: Notes that the Greek word “thlipsis” is rendered as “tribulation,” “affliction,” or “persecution,” depending on the King James Version or Revised Version, and is used to describe hardships faced by Christ’s followers.

  • King James Bible Dictionary: Defines tribulation as “severe affliction; distresses of life; vexations,” emphasizing its link to persecution in Scripture. 

In conclusion, “tribulation” in the Bible encompasses both general difficulties experienced by believers and a specific, intense period of suffering in the end times. It serves as a test of faith, a means of purification, and a demonstration of God’s sovereignty and purpose.