Today in God’s Word

Today in God's Word—February 2023

East Tallassee Church of Christ

February 8, 2 Thessalonians 1

It’s been true since the days of the apostles. Persecution hastens the spread of the gospel and helps the church grow. Some of the most remarkable stories of evangelism and discipleship in the world today come from places where it is very dangerous to follow Jesus. If by God’s grace you do not live in a place where persecution is a way of life for Christians, rejoice in that blessing. Never take it for granted. And don’t forget to pray for your brothers and sisters who are suffering, just like disciples who were persecuted twenty centuries ago.

Paul bragged on the Thessalonians to other churches and thanked God for them. Their faith was growing, their love for one another was increasing and they were steadfast in their faith despite the persecution and affliction it brought them. Paul was confident that God’s power would make them worthy of his calling. They would keep their resolutions and accomplish their work through God’s divine strength working within them.

Paul used the promised return of Jesus and the judgment that would accompany his return to bolster the Thessalonians’ courage. He assured them God’s righteous judgment would reverse their present circumstances—the afflicters would be afflicted, and those who had suffered would be granted relief. Against that one sweet descriptive word of reward—relief— Paul penned a poetic

(but horrific) description of the fate of the wicked in judgment. God will inflict vengeance on those who do not know him as their Savior. He will punish those who do not obey the gospel of Christ. He called their awful punishment eternal destruction. They will be forever banished from the Lord’s presence and glory. But the Thessalonians did know him. They had obeyed the gospel. They would see and share in the glory of Christ when he returns.

Jesus is coming again. That fact is never out of view in Paul’s letters to these young Christians. Reward and relief are on the way. It will be worth it then to endure whatever comes now. Stay on course and know your progress is by God’s grace and for his glory. That’s good counsel for you, and for every disciple, at every level of maturity, in every circumstance of life.

From The Abiding Companion: A Friendly Guide for Your Journey Through the New Testament, Copyright © 2010 by Michael B. McElroy. Used by permission. All rights reserved.