The Pre-Tribulation, A Time of Distress

It has become apparent by now that the world has entered a new period of time that is unparalleled in all of human history.
Marked acceleration of natural disasters that include Earthquakes, Tsunami’s, Nuclear Meltdown, Rioting, Violence and dramatic increases in sin and lawlessness. These events are not mere happenstance, they are voices speaking of a greater Tribulation that is to come.
Jesus said that in this world we would experience Tribulation. Then He added that we should be of good cheer because He has overcome the world:
John 16:33 These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”
It may be that by these words, Jesus was giving us an advanced warning of a pre-tribulation period that wold occur before the seven year tribulation described in the Book of Revelation.
Just as a woman who is about to give birth, will experience the birth pains associated with the immanent arrival of her child, we are experiencing the birth pains of a coming tribulation that will lead to the return of Jesus for His church.