So begins Paul’s second letter to the church of believers in Thessalonica. It had presumably only been a few months, but Paul felt he needed to give more encouragement and clarification to this fledgling church. They apparently were under attack for their faith and had questions about when Jesus was coming back. Paul touches on both brilliantly, helping us still today navigate what’s happening to us and what we can expect.
Apparently, the church was still impressing Paul with their faithfulness. But Paul knew firsthand about persecution and how that can wear you down. His counsel can speak to our hearts if we find ourselves feeling abused for our faith. “And God will use this persecution to show his justice and to make you worthy of his Kingdom, for which you are suffering.” There’s something oddly comforting to know that in the midst of our suffering God “will use” it for good. Isn’t it an honor to know God is standing by, ready to bring justice? Continue reading “2 Thessalonians 1:1-2:12 – Persecution Before the Day of the Lord”
