Regarding the Tribulation, I don't believe the term is Scriptural in a future context. Each Christian will suffer for Christ's sake in order to better know the worth of His sacrifice.
Regarding the end times, I believe we are in them. Jesus Christ began His earthly kingdom during his earthly ministry. He is already reigning as king over the kingdom of God/heaven. This current reign is the millennial time frame in Rev. 20, and covers the time between his first and second appearings -- the "end days."
I don't believe eschatology is a salvation matter. None of us really knows. But I find more strength and sense of purpose in believing Christ reigns today over the earth as well as heaven. I think this is the message of the Gospel --
"These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." -- John 16:33
Yes, Jesus taught that all believers would suffer trials and tribulations for His sake. But then also, in Matthew 24:21, He spoke:
For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.
This is clearly a *very* specific period of unprecedented world tribulation. As Jesus was speaking in future tense, we know this period would follow His time on earth. The only question is, has this period occurred already, or is it still yet to come?
You are correct ... it is not.
None of us really knows.
But both of our sides are trying to come to a solid understanding so we can know ... by exegesis of the relevant Biblical passages. That is what seems to be missing from most discussions of this topic on FR.
But I find more strength and sense of purpose in believing Christ reigns today over the earth as well as heaven.
Wonderful ... and you won't be penalized for your view when you are raptured with the rest of us :-)
We don't disagree. However, what I've found is a sound understanding of the end times leads to a better understanding of Scripture.
He is already reigning as king over the kingdom of God/heaven. This current reign is the millennial time frame in Rev. 20, and covers the time between his first and second appearings -- the "end days."
I think you are wrong for several reasons, but lets start with one. When was Satan bound?