Is it possible that we may face great persecution before the blessed hope?

I asked that once, at a mens' Bible study some years back, and was rebuked.

I was told that we won't face that because of the blessed hope (rapture).

But I have read a number of things that Fay has written here, over the past few years.

She has brought up all the persecuted Christians in various parts of the world.

Why would the blessed hope protect some Christians, but not others?