Read Revelation 7:9-10.
When the time of great tribulation begins, will it be too late for people to turn to Christ? If I am understanding this passage correctly, there is going to be a countless number of people turning to Christ during the tribulation period (cf. v. 14). There will be saints from every nation, tribe, people, and language. It seems to me that the effects of the tribulation will be enough to convince people that Christ is the Messiah. It is unfortunate that it would take such devastation to turn people to Christ, but thankfully, many people will heed the warning signs and turn. If Christ returned today, I am hopeful that those I know who do not have a saving faith in Christ will still have an opportunity to turn to Christ. I certainly don’t wish upon them the hardships of those coming days, but if it means them turning to Christ, so be it.
With that in mind, it doesn’t mean our work here and now is not needed. Some may think that the tribulation times will provide enough convincing that we don’t need to share the gospel with others today. That is dangerous thinking considering we don’t know when those days of tribulation will begin, and even if we did, there is no assurance that they would know what is going on. If anything, sharing the gospel with others ought to include a little instruction regarding the coming tribulation. In so doing, should someone fail the receive Christ prior to those coming days, at least they would be able to connect the dots with our words and the reality of those days. Our sharing today could aid people in the future. (I realize God’s sovereignty ultimately has control over one’s destiny, but humanly speaking, our words now are better than no words at all.)
With the revelation that a multitude of people from all over the world will come to a saving knowledge of Christ, it is encouraging to know that our work now will reap benefits in the future. Many will come to know Christ – a countless number, due in part to our efforts now in Christ. We mustn’t give up hope, because one day (and hopefully soon), people will see the reality of our words, repent, and trust in Christ as their savior. We may see this period of great tribulation as something horrible, but in fact, it will be many people’s saving grace.