*2 Thessalonians 1:1-12
Paul encourages the Thessalonians to stand firm in their faith despite persecution, expressing God’s coming wrath on the wicked and comfort for the faithful.
- Greetings and Thanksgiving:
- The letter begins with Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy addressing the church in Thessalonica, extending grace and peace to them.
- Paul expresses gratitude for the Thessalonians’ growing faith and their love for one another, highlighting their endurance and faith amidst persecutions and afflictions.
- Encouragement Amidst Trials:
- Paul acknowledges the Thessalonians’ suffering as evidence of God’s righteous judgment, which will result in their being counted worthy of the kingdom of God.
- He assures them that God will bring justice to those who trouble them and to grant relief to the afflicted, including the Thessalonians, when Jesus is revealed from heaven.
- This revelation will come with flaming fire, bringing retribution to those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus.
- They will suffer punishment of eternal destruction, separated from the presence of the Lord and the glory of his might.
- Prayer for Spiritual Growth:
- Paul concludes by praying for the Thessalonians, asking God to count them worthy of their calling and to fulfill every good resolve and work of faith by his power.
- This prayer is intended to glorify Jesus, and the Thessalonians, like Paul, are encouraged to live in a manner worthy of the calling they have received, so that the name of Jesus may be glorified in them, and they in him.