Day 198

Description of Thessalonians’ faith 

Key Verses: 4, 8, 10, 11,

Written just a few short months after the first letter, Paul wants to correct some misunderstandings about Jesus’ Second Coming that he has heard they have. Timothy has returned and given him a report. They are growing in their faith, even though persecution has come. I am afraid that many who claim the name of Christ in this country would quickly fall away if persecution came here. Many would abandon their thin veneer of faith, living what they have lived all along, except for the occasional ‘religious’ moments.

The Thessalonian believers have been troubled because of their faith. The word for trouble is a general term meaning difficulty. I am glad that Paul used a general term rather than a specific one. If he had been specific by saying physical beatings, then we could excuse what Paul said in our case, if we were not undergoing physical beatings. But these words apply across the centuries to all kinds of difficulties that are connected to persecution. Them might be loss of employment, residence, investments, wealth, health, physical safety, or even grief at the loss of a loved one. Persecution can bring all types of trouble. Relief to all of these and more will come when Jesus returns. Wrong will be made right.

Notice the two outcomes of Jesus’ return. The first is judgment on those who did not obey the Gospel. Their choice to reject the Truth leads to their permanent rejection from God’s presence, the Garden punishment made complete.

The second is His glorification in us. When that happens we will marvel at what He has done. His work will be so evident and glorious, not hidden behind these thin veneers of skin and bones, that we will all marvel. Our breath will be taken away as we see His grace manifested in each of us.

Paul’s prayer is that we would be worthy of this calling, that our lives would match the greatness of what God wants to do in and through our lives. Paul prays that His power would work in us. If we would allow God to work, the possibilities are unlimited. When His power is at work our desires and deeds are changed into ones that reflect His character. Our small lives take on eternal significance and glory. He is glorified and we are glorified because we are connected to Him.