Are Contemporary European "Commotions" Signs of the Great Tribulation?

Written on 16 July 2025.

Are Contemporary European "Commotions" Signs of the Great Tribulation?

Introduction

Recent reports and video content have described widespread social unrest, violent crime, and "anarchy" in parts of Europe, attributing much of this to migrant groups from North Africa and the Middle East. This situation has led some observers, especially those who study biblical prophecy, to ask: Are these events signs that we are entering the great tribulation, as described in Matthew 24 and related passages in the King James Bible (KJV)?

Biblical Prophecy: Matthew 24 in Context

Matthew 24 records Jesus Christ’s response to the disciples’ question regarding the signs of His coming and the end of the world. Jesus outlines a sequence of events:

“And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. All these are the beginning of sorrows.” (Matthew 24:6-8, KJV)

- The "beginning of sorrows" refers to a period marked by global disturbances—wars, unrest ("commotions"), famines, pestilences, and earthquakes. - Jesus makes clear: “but the end is not yet”—meaning these signs are precursors, not the tribulation itself.

Comparison: Current Events and "Commotions"

Recent years have seen:

• Social unrest, riots, and violent crime in various European cities.
• Tensions linked to mass migration, economic hardship, political polarization, and perceived loss of national identity.
• Media reporting of chaotic scenes, breakdown of law and order, and even vigilantism.

While these events fit the biblical description of "commotions" and "nation rising against nation," it is important to recognize that:

• Similar upheavals have occurred throughout history.
• Modern global connectivity amplifies the perception and impact of these events.
• Jesus warned believers not to be troubled by these things, as they are necessary precursors, not the end itself.

The Great Tribulation: What the Bible Says

The “great tribulation” is a distinct period of unprecedented distress: “For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.” (Matthew 24:21, KJV)

- According to Jesus, the "great tribulation" follows the "beginning of sorrows."

- The tribulation will involve greater, more universal turmoil than what the world has previously experienced.

Are We in the Great Tribulation?

• The present "commotions"—social unrest, crime, and disorder—are consistent with what Jesus called the "beginning of sorrows."
• According to Matthew 24, the end is not yet; these signs indicate the approach, not the arrival, of the tribulation.
• The tribulation itself will be more severe and will follow further escalation of these trends.

Spiritual Implications

- Jesus instructs: “see that ye be not troubled.” (Matthew 24:6, KJV)

- Believers are called to remain watchful, steadfast in faith, and focused on the word of God.

- These events serve as reminders of the truth of scripture and the need for spiritual readiness.

Conclusion

While current disturbances and social upheaval in Europe may fit aspects of the "beginning of sorrows" described in Matthew 24, the great tribulation, according to scripture, is yet to come. These events should prompt vigilance and faith rather than fear. As the world moves closer to the fulfillment of biblical prophecy, the believer’s call is to read their king james bible, pray, and await the return of Christ.