Jesus tells John that the hour of trial “is coming on the whole world.” Jesus had told his disciples that “this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations” (Matthew 24:14), a promise that was already being fulfilled in the days of the apostles (Colossians 1:6, Colossians 1:23). But not all who heard the gospel would respond in faith; many would reject the good news, ridicule the Giver of life, and oppress his people. The latter reaction would trigger the righteous judgments of God (see Romans 1:18 – 2:11; Matthew 24:6–7).
10 Because you have kept my word about patient endurance, I will keep you from the hour of trial that is coming on the whole world, to try those who dwell on the earth.