Here we are, this is a picture of our world in the not to distant future? This is where we are heading, whether we like it or not. The bible clearly states in Matthew 24 21-22
 

21"For then there will be a great tribulation, such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever will. 22"Unless those days had been cut short, no life would have been saved, but for the sake of the elect, those days will be cut short.
 

Some believe the church will be taken out before the tribulation starts, others believe that the church will see the first 3.5 years. Either way, we must be ready to endure the persecution that is coming.