While We Wait - a Study of 1 & 2 ThessaloniansSample

2 Thessalonians was written (no surprise!) after 1 Thessalonians by Paul. Paul had heard that things were getting worse for the Thessalonian church. So, he wanted to write again for three reasons:

1. to remind them to maintain hope despite persecution
2. to clarify that Jesus had not already returned (but would, someday)
3. to encourage them not to remain idle while waiting for his return

This church was facing intense persecution. People were dying and being martyred for their faith. The church community was being harassed continually.

From the beginning, our faith in Christ was meant to be counter-cultural. While we wait for the world to be made right, we pursue lives of holiness. Although culture says to go ahead and believe whatever you want, Jesus says to put him first and live a holy life set apart according to God’s commands. Although culture says you can sleep with whoever you want, Jesus says to save sex for the covenant of marriage between one man and one woman. Paul is urging believers to live a life of faithful obedience—full of love, joy, and peace—no matter what the world throws at us. We are to be known as people who love others, work hard, and bless the least of these with the resources we’ve been given—despite hardships.

Ask yourself: How are you living counter-culturally? What are ways you can better respond to persecution or hate with love and grace?