As in the first letter, Paul saw no need to mention his apostleship as he introduced himself, so it can be assumed no one had challenged it in this city. Silas and Timothy were also well known among these brethren. The church is the body of Christ (Ephesians 1:22-23), thus Paul described it as being... [ Continue Reading ]
PAUL'S THANKFULNESS FOR THE CHURCH IN THESSALONICA Paul felt compelled to thank God because his prayer for the Thessalonians (1 Thessalonians 3:10-13) had been answered. Their faith had been lacking at the time of the first letter but, by the time this second letter was written, Paul was able to say... [ Continue Reading ]
GOD'S COMING JUDGMENT The very fact that they were able to endure such hardships was a clear indication that God was with them. It also foreshadowed a day when God would judge all and punish those who had caused His children to suffer. Of course, Christians should be thankful for the maturity which... [ Continue Reading ]
PUNISHMENT The apostle said Jesus would come in flaming fire and take "vengeance," which is from the same root as "righteous" in verses 5 and 6. The punishment for wrongs committed against God and man in the final judgment will be just, or righteous, because it will be based on the deeds wrought on... [ Continue Reading ]
PAUL'S PRAYER DURING THEIR AFFLICTION Paul wanted them to be prepared for the kingdom of God when Christ would come again for judgment. So, he, along with Silas and Timothy, prayed for them that they would be considered by God ready to enter heaven (Matthew 25:14-30). Christians must strive to live... [ Continue Reading ]