The Great Tribulation

The Great Tribulation refers to tumultuous events that are described during what the Christian's refer to as the "End Times" and first mentioned by Jesus in the Olivet discourse. The Great Tribulation is also referenced in the Book of Revelation.

Before the 'end of the world as mankind knows it' can begin and the Great Tribulation of the Great Creator commences, there are a few things that still have to occur in our present world. There are many theories and debates as to when the Great Tribulation will start but the biblical account states the following events must happen first:

One World Government:

http://www.truechristianity.com/prophecy/

Global Economy:
http://signpostsofthetimes.blogspot.com/2012/04/why-entire-global-economic-system-is.html

A restored Jewish Temple:
http://endtimepilgrim.org/temple.htm

Increased power in the Middle East: 
http://www.evidenceandanswers.org/article/read/95

Mass apostasy of the Church:
http://www.lamblion.com/articles/articles_signs5.php

The purpose of the tribulation period is twofold. One, to bring about the conversion of Israel to prepare them for their Messiah. Two, to pour out God’s judgment on the unbelieving nations of the world.

There are a few books, in the Old and New Testaments, of the Christian's Holy Bible which describes a tribulation that will befall mankind.  It will last for seven years, Revelation 11:2-3, which speaks of 1260 days and 42 months, and Daniel 12:11-12, which speaks of 1290 days and 1335 days. Some believe these days have a reference to the midpoint of the tribulation.

Many believe the real suffering will take place in the latter 3 ½ years, with the first 3 ½ years pretty much like it is now. There are also many Bible scholars that believe most of the events of the tribulation period are of a symbolic nature and are not to be taken literally. Like any other theoretical conclusion, it is supported by individual opinion and refuted by individual interpretation.

http://www.openbible.info/topics/the_great_tribulation