2 Thessalonians 1 Commentary

This second letter to the Thessalonians was likely written soon after the first, and it proceeds to further clarify questions the Thessalonians had about the end times, and about Jesus's return.

Paul greets the Thessalonians, telling them how much thanks he gives to God for their growing faith and love. They are persevering so well against persecution that Paul boasts of their example to other churches. He points to God's approval of their faithfulness, that they are suffering for the coming Kingdom and will be found worthy due to their endurance.

The Thessalonians should bear in mind that God will repay those who are attacking them. Eventually, there will be relief and peace for believers when Jesus comes back to earth and deals out judgement— rewards to the faithful and retribution to unbelievers. People who do not believe in the gospel will experience eternal separation from relationship and fellowship with God, but believers will be in relationship and fellowship with Christ forever.

Paul prays for the Thessalonians to continue to endure through suffering, so that God will count them worthy of the coming Kingdom. The degree of faithfulness will determine the extent of rewards. Paul encourages them to persist in faithful obedience and bring honor to Christ by living out the goodness and favor of God, that they might glorify the name of Jesus.