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Paul thanks God because the Thessalonians’ faith is growing and their love is increasing, even while they face persecution and affliction (vv. 3–4). Their endurance is a sign of God’s righteous judgment—He is making them worthy of His kingdom (v. 5). God will bring justice: those who afflict believers will face affliction, and the afflicted will receive relief when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven (vv. 6–7). Christ will come “in flaming fire” to judge those who do not know God and who do not obey the gospel; the result is eternal destruction—separation from the Lord’s presence (vv. 8–9).
But for believers, that day is full of hope: Jesus will be glorified in His saints and marveled at among all who have believed (v. 10). Until then, Paul prays that God would make them worthy of His calling, fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by His power, so that the name of Jesus is glorified in them (vv. 11–12). Suffering is not a sign that God has abandoned His people; it’s often the place where His grace, power, and future glory shine the brightest (vv. 4–5, 10–12).
🌀 Reflection:
Where are you carrying pressure or pushback for following Jesus? Ask God to grow faith and love in that very place and to help you live worthily of His calling today (vv. 3, 5, 11).
💬 Mission Challenge:
Encourage a suffering believer. Send a message or pray with someone facing a hard week. Remind them that Jesus will bring relief and will be glorified in His people (vv. 7, 10).
Click here to return to the contents page for Phase 2.2 — The Savior, His Church, and the Mission.
Just Keith Harris 
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