Scripture: 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10
Sermon notes
Studies in 2Thessalonians #2: Reason to rejoice in suffering 2Thess 1:5-10
Paul rejoices and even glories in the experience of these believers as they evidence a great measure of Divine grace in the face of suffering and trial. This is an unusual thing! Of course, he has his reasons! The spiritual implications of what he observes in them give great reason for delight and joy.
His consideration of their circumstances relates not merely to their present experiences but especially reaches to the future implications of their suffering and endurance by faith in the present. Ultimately, it is the consideration of these future implications that give joy in a very difficult present.
I THE PRESENT EXPERIENCE OF THESE SAINTS WAS A FORESHADOWING OF THE DAY OF ACCOUNT.
A manifest token. Paul draws their attention—and ours—to a very obvious sign. Something here not to be overlooked. There was ‘plain evidence/proof’ in their present condition that dictated how it would be when they met Christ. As a general principle, the experience of saints of earth is a foreshadowing of their experience in the day of judgment. The more our experience resembles theirs the more clear the proof of sharing their experience with Christ in that day.
A double sign. There are two clear parts to this obvious evidence that Paul speaks of:
- The opposition of the wicked. There are clear battle lines drawn here and it is obvious which side these saints were on. Who our enemies are says a lot about us.
- The endurance that these saints displayed. Endurance under great pressure and opposition proved the genuineness of their faith.
Cp Phil 1:27-29
Their experience pointed to the justice of God.
- The opposition of the wicked argues for a day of accountability. Those who oppose the cause of Christ on earth—by opposing His people—will meet God as His enemies in that day.
- Their endurance argued for being counted worthy on that day. The only merit on that day will be the imputed righteousness of Christ. Yet here is the present evidence of possessing that merit.
II THE BASIS OF THIS CONCEPT IS THE REVEALED WORKING OF DIVINE JUSTICE ON THAT DAY.
Seeing…
God will act righteously, v6. Cp Gen 18:10, Rom 2:6-11. There is a very heavy emphasis here on justice. A number of different terms make this clear.
- recompense. This word indicates a strict repayment in kind. It appears in v6 and is obviously implied in v7. This idea of retributive justice is seen in the use of the terms tribulation and trouble, v6. They are the same root term. Cp Ps 94:23.
- Taking vengeance. This word means ‘to do/execute/vindicate justice’. Justice will be done.
- Punished.
To be continued….