But some people live with a seemingly insatiable need to be punished. And for them, the idea of a Great Tribulation is truly compelling, appealing and inviting.
Agreed. Sadly they have become so brainwashed by this idea of a rapture just prior to unbelievable chaos and killing on the earth. Because of this, they failed to understand (as I did for the longest time) that the Great Tribulation applied only to Israel and happened back in 66-70 AD. The Word makes clear that the conditions on earth just prior to the return of Christ is like it was in the "Days of Noah and/or Lot."
The so-called "rapture" is not listed as a sign to the GT. The wicked will have no idea that they are about to be taken until it happens. This is crystal clear. We "sons of the light" will have an idea because we will understand the evil conditions around us. Think back just 12 years to 2005. As immoral as things were then, could you imagine what 12 years would bring? Look at us now. Now imagine 12 years from now. What will the moral condition of the earth be in 2029, assuming we have that long?