Little Red Book Ministry

d. The Abomination of Desolation
This act is best described in 2 Thessalonians 2:4. At this point the beast will make his claim to divinity in a direct challenge to Jesus Christ. He will demand the worship of all people. The false prophet of Revelation 13:11–17 will be his enforcer.

Daniel 2:11; 9:27; Matthew 24:15; Mark 13:14

2. The Great Tribulation
This is the part of the tribulation that occurs after the Abomination of Desolation, generally considered to be 3 1/2 years long. The judgments meted out during this period are often three times as intense (or more) as the trumpet judgments of the first half.

Matthew 24:21–22; Mark 13:19–20; Luke 21:25–26

a. The “mark” of the beast

Many have speculated as to just what the mark of the beast of Revelation 13 might be. The Bible is not specific about this time but it does tell us that it will be placed in the right hand or in the forehead (Revelation 13:16). Furthermore, it will be a sign of loyalty to the beast and therefore a rejection of the Lord. Taking the mark of the beast is an unpardonable sin. It is so serious that God will send an angel to fly around the world calling out and warning men not to take it. You cannot therefore be tricked into taking the mark as some believe.

Revelation 13:16–18; 14:9–11

b. The vial judgments—the seven last plagues

Most of the world by this time will have knowingly chosen the beast over Jesus Christ. They will have declared their loyalty by taking his mark. There remains no other recourse but judgment from God on unredeemable sinners.

Revelation 15 and 16

c. The marriage supper of the Lamb

This is an event which occurs just prior to the Second Advent in which the Church, corporately and collectively, will celebrate her “marriage” to her Lord Jesus Christ.

Matthew 25:10; Revelation 19:7–9