Song of Solomon 4-6, 2 Thessalonians 1
The church of Thessalonica faced intense persecution. We know they were frustrated and discouraged, but Paul does not describe how the Thesolonicans were persecuted. It probably looked like ridicule. People would shout at them with insults and call them names. They were slandered and mocked. Kind of like today. I only have to name Planned Parenthood, or LGBTQ, for you to quickly remember that Christians are often targets. What about prayer in schools or the woke movement? You and I both know that the world calls us not only to tolerate but to accept and even celebrate these divergent points of view. Our failure to comply has consequences. Those consequences, my friends, are called persecution. It feels bad. It’s easy to get discouraged.
As a leader, Paul knew that the general discouragement of the Thessalonians could be deadly. He was not about to let that happen, so he wrote this simple letter of encouragement. His words are as true today as they were then.
Good job! He reminds them. Your suffering is evidence that God is with you v5.
Don’t worry, you will win, and God will be your relief. v6 – 10.
He will empower you. This is not going to end soon, so have faith that God is near v11
He will be glorified, and you will be with him. You will prevail. v12