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The book of Revelation tells us that prior to Jesus’ return, the Antichrist will be doing his damnedest to wipe out all who refuse to worship him and refuse to take his Mark. At the same time it makes clear that God will in turn be unleashing terrible plagues and judgments upon the Antichrist and his forces. So although it will be a time of great trouble for believers, it will also be a time of even greater trouble for their persecutors.

The Bible spells out exactly how long this period of “great tribulation” will last: 3½ years, or 42 months, or 1,260 days (Daniel 7:25; 12:7; Revelation 13:5; 12:6). So on the day that the coming world leader breaks that covenant and sets up his image and demands the world’s worship, we will know exactly how long it will be till Jesus returns.