Hi Paul, I believe survive applies to now, people are dying and being martyred now before the rapture before the resurrection and it could yet get worse there's no reason why it couldn't,there are christians in other countries being hunted down right now,christians in famine,war etc. trying to survive. Who knows what degree a christian will be persecuted?Jesus said endure to the end and keep your faith that applies and did apply to all christians of all times,we are no different or better than they. That's what it means to me anyway.
God bless you
Candace