4. The Overcomers During the Great Tribulation
"Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell." (Matthew 10:28, NIV)
The overcomers during the Great Tribulation are the martyrs who fight for the Lord and are beheaded for preaching the Gospel. They refuse to compromise with the devil, firmly hold to the truth, and absolutely refuse to worship the beast’s image or receive its mark, even unto death. These martyrs will take part in the first resurrection and reign during the Millennium.
"Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection. The second death has no power over them, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with him for a thousand years." (Revelation 20:6, NIV)
Note: Their reign is limited to a thousand years, exercising authority on earth (Revelation 5:10).
In contrast, the overcomers who are raptured before the Tribulation are those who seize the last remaining moments before the Great Tribulation, laboring diligently for the Lord without slackness, striving to attend the wedding feast of the Lamb. These will reign in the heavenly Jerusalem forever and ever! (Revelation 22:5, NIV)