2 Thessalonians 1

To those who are saved, the gospel message is the sweetest message ever given. But to those who are not saved, the gospel message is at best interesting and at worst offensive. It is the latter reaction which has caused many throughout the ages to look at the message and say, "Are we missing something? Why do most people not want to be Christians after they hear this message?" But the Bible is clear that some will respond that way, and 2 Thessalonians 1:5-12 is one such passage.

In verse 5 Paul reflects on the growing faith of the Thessalonians, how that is "evidence of the righteous judgment of God," and that they "may be considered worthy of the kingdom of God." Their faith did not earn them a place in the kingdom of God; rather their faith was evidence that God had secured that place for them.

This stands in stark contrast to another group of people, "those who do not know God" and "those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus" (vs 8). Paul says this group "will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might" (vs 9).

This is the reality of the gospel in our world. The way is broad that leads to destruction, and many will enter through it. But the solution is not to change the gospel so many will accept it. In 2 Timothy 1:8 Paul says, "Do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, but join with me in suffering for the gospel." We are called to be faithful to the gospel, to preach Christ crucified, even if we suffer for it.

Expect to be persecuted for this view. Expect to be rejected. The Thessalonians were, yet they still held fast to the truth. When persecution and rejection come, will you be faithful to the gospel too?