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However, interpreting the tribulation in physical terms cannot be entirely ruled out. Such interpretation is, in part, plausible because spiritual tribulation will have an outward influence in the physical life of human kind. But, again, since the spiritual life of humankind is the special concern of Scripture, it seems only appropriate to direct our attention primarily to how this prophecy may be related to our inner lives. (92:4) We have already noted that the tribulation is described as an event which has no parallel 'since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be' (v. 21). This verse, if taken literally, suggests a single cataclysmic period which stands alone in history. However, we have seen that terms which appear to be all-embracing often are limited to specific contexts. For example, Paul indicated that the Gospel had been preached 'unto the ends of the world' and 'to every creature which is under heaven' (Rom. 10:18; Col. 1:23). Yet, at that time, Paul had not taken the message beyond the Roman world. These passages demonstrate that the verses of the Bible may be all-inclusive only in their specific contexts. In the case of the tribulation, the context is likely to be the Christian era.
(92:5)
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