2 Thessalonians 1

To Glorify Our Lord

Two principles concerning the Christian's relationship to non Christians.

First, (1Thess 4:12) "that you may walk properly toward those who are outside..." Follow the example of Christ.

Second, (1Thess 4:14) "For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus." You will follow Christ into God's presence.

Two aspects of God's judgment.

In the present, the manifest evidence of the righteous judgment of God in the perseverance of the Church. [v. 5]

Psalm 66:12 You have caused men to ride over our heads; We went through fire and through water; But You brought us out to rich fulfillment.

Revelation 1:9 I, John, both your brother and companion in the tribulation and kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was on the island that is called Patmos for the word of God and for the testimony of Jesus Christ...

Hebrews 5:8 though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered.

At the end of the age, the vengeance of God on those who stand against Him [v. 6]

Romans 12:19 Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the Lord.

Galatians 6:7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.

Isaiah 66:15-16 For behold, the LORD will come with fire And with His chariots, like a whirlwind, To render His anger with fury, And His rebuke with flames of fire. For by fire and by His sword The LORD will judge all flesh; And the slain of the LORD shall be many.

Two lessons for our edification.

There is eternal judgment for those who are opposed to God, and we have a duty of love to proclaim to them the truth of the gospel.

Genesis 3:8 And they heard the sound of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God among the trees of the garden.

Matthew 25:41 "Then He will also say to those on the left hand, 'Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels:

Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.

Isaiah 2:21 To go into the clefts of the rocks, And into the crags of the rugged rocks, From the terror of the LORD And the glory of His majesty, When He arises to shake the earth mightily.

There is eternal glory for God's people, and we have a duty of love to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ in the world.

Psalm 4:6 There are many who say, "Who will show us any good?" LORD, lift up the light of Your countenance upon us.

Praying as in verse 11 and 12