The Tribulation first, then the Millennium … that’s the Biblical Order. Based on a literal reading of the Book of Revelation, the Book of Zechariah, the Book of Isaiah, the Book of Jeremiah, and the list has just begun!

“The time of Jacob’s Trouble,” a phrase used in Jeremiah 30:7 … followed by the time when “the Lord will be King over all the earth,” quoting Zechariah 14:9.

Wow!

Well, today’s Text highlights (emphasizes) this sequence. Graphically so in my estimation.

“For a small moment have I forsaken thee; but with great mercies will I gather thee. In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment; but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the LORD thy Redeemer.” Isaiah 54:7-8

It almost speaks for itself, doesn’t it?

Obviously, God is the Author, the Speaker.

“A little wrath” (the Tribulation, comparatively so) followed by “everlasting kindness” (the Millennium)!

But note that the Millennium (the time of Kindness) is here NOT limited to a thousand years. It is now said to be “eternal!”

This kind of analogy reminds me of Paul. “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.” 2 Corinthians 4:17 … a “little” suffering here … a “ton” of Glory over yonder!

But why the Tribulation, all that trouble, God’s wrath … anyway?

I believe to humble Israel, to bring her to repentance … to put her under conviction … all of which leads to her salvation!

In microcosm, Isaiah 66:8 … “For as soon as Zion travailed (the Tribulation), she brought forth her children (New Birth, Millennium, Salvation).

Zechariah 12:12 … the Tribulation … “And the land shall mourn (under conviction for sin), every family apart; the family of the house of David apart, and their wives apart; the family of the house of Nathan apart, and their wives apart.” (Here’s Genuine Brokenness, Sorrow.)

Then immediately … Zechariah 13:1 … “In that day there shall be a fountain opened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem for sin and for uncleanness.” Salvation, Jesus returning, sin forgiven!

Comparatively speaking … “For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.” Psalm 30:5

Hallelujah for Israel!

And we New Testament believes will be eye-witness to this Majesty!

Hallelujah for the Church!

— Dr. Mike Bagwell

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