I would shy from such an explanation to other Christians. It is speculative AND it would ill prepare them for an ordeal.
Rev 12: 11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.
Those that “watch” will know the days.
They will know when it is time to go to the place in the desert that he has promised.
1thessalonians 5:
[1] But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.
[2] For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.
[3] For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.
[4] But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.
[5] Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.
[6] Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.
That is no contradiction!
Yes, he will come as a thief, and no he will not come as a thief to those that watch.
Those that refuse to watch can look forward to him coming as a thief. (Rev 3:3)