Who are those coming out of the Great Tribulation?

The Bible is simultaneously the most terrifying and at the same time most comforting book on the planet.  There are parts of the Bible that have the power to not just disturb, but describe in detail what our most horrific nightmare can't begin to touch.  As I have begun to understand the concepts underlying Babylon Singularity, I have been driven to some of the most fearsome texts in the Word of God.  But coming to terms with these prophecies ultimately yields an eternal comfort in knowing our unshakable inheritance in Christ.  Let me show you what I mean.

In Revelation chapter 7 a scene is described in heaven where John sees "a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne..."  One of the elders asks John, "Who are these, clothed in white robes, and from where have they come?"  Without an answer, John asks for an explanation to which the elder replies, "These are the ones coming out of the great tribulation."

John sees an innumerable group of saints in heaven that have come out from the Great Tribulation.  These came "from" the Great Tribulation not came out "before" it.  Could this mean that these saints were the victims of a murderous campaign that the Bible describes in other prophetic texts?  I believe the answer is yes and I believe we are beginning to see from whence this campaign will ultimately arise.

While the prospect of a campaign to eliminate Christians from human society is frightening, the promise that follows this reality swallows up the temporary scare with eternal glory.  Revelation 7.15-17 is the comforting answer that settles the human spirit in light of the incredible distress that imminently approaches.

Who are these coming out of the Great Tribulation?  It might just be you and I.