As we read through this scripture we find that the
Thessalonians were going through such trials and persecutions and by the preaching
of false teachers they even came to believe they had missed the coming back of
Jesus (the Rapture) and that they had been left behind! They were going through
so much that they thought they were actually in the Tribulation!
Imagine all the questions, insecurities and the fear.
It must have been overwhelming! But when
Paul realized this situation he urged them to keep from false teachings, as he
wrote:
“Now in regard to the
coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our [a]gathering
together to meet Him, we ask you, [b]brothers
and sisters, 2 not to be quickly unsettled or
alarmed either by a [so-called prophetic revelation of a] spirit or a message
or a letter [alleged to be] from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has
[already] come. 3 Let no one in any way
deceive or entrap you…” (2:1-3a)
Paul reminds his Church
about his teachings regarding this matter (2:3b-12) and continues to
encourage this young and growing church just like a father would, letting them
know that God has this and will not forsake them because they are his beloved
children:
“But we should and are
[morally] obligated [as debtors] always to give thanks to God for you,
believers beloved by the Lord, because God has chosen you from the beginning
for salvation through the [e]sanctifying
work of the Spirit [that sets you apart for God’s purpose] and by your faith in
the truth [of God’s word that leads you to spiritual maturity” (2:13)
Paul also affirms God’s purpose and faithfulness:
“It was to this end that He called you through
our gospel [the good news of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection], so that
you may obtain and share in the glory of our Lord Jesus
Christ. (2:14)
Finally he urges them to
stand firm in their faith:
”So then, [f]brothers
and sisters, stand firm and hold [tightly] to the traditions which you were
taught, whether by word of mouth or by letter from us.” (2:15)
But what about us in
today`s world situation? There are also many people filled with fear and with
so many questions regarding this virus that has set our world in shock and the
end of times! Let me remind you of Jesus´
words:
“ And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that
no man deceive you. 5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I
am Christ; and shall deceive many. 6 And
ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all
these things must come to pass, but the
end is not yet. 7 For
nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and
pestilences, and earthquakes, in diverse places. 8 All these are the
beginning of sorrows.” (Matthew 24:4-8 KJV Emphasis
mine)
We as the Thessalonians are so privileged to have
God´s Word in such a time like this, and we should also stand firm and hold to
the Word of Truth because He is with us and strengthening us, because His Comforter
is with us (John 14:26) and Jesus is our Peace :
“Peace I leave with you; My [perfect] peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let
your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid. [Let My
perfect peace calm you in every circumstance and give you courage and strength
for every challenge.]” (John 14:27)
Paul exhorts us to remain steadfast and vigilant:
-Whenever we face persecution and tribulations: 2 Thessalonians1:4
- Because
of the coming judgment of this world, we must remain watchful: 2 Thessalonians1:8
-Because of our glorious future in Christ: 2 Thessalonians 2:14
Finally Paul ends this letter with the following Benediction:
”Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself
and God our Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting comfort and encouragement
and the good [well-founded] hope [of salvation] by His grace, 17 comfort and encourage
and strengthen your hearts [keeping them steadfast and on course] in every good
work and word.”(2:16-17 AMP)
Amen! May we continue to
stand firm and courageous in our faith as we serve others in His love and in
His Truth, until Jesus comes back to take us Home! (John 14:3)
Blessings my sisters!!
