2 Thessalonians

Persecution

Paul writes his second epistle to the Thessalonians (many scholars believe it was written soon after the first epistle) encouraging them to stand firm in the faith in the face of persecution which they were suffering.  Additionally, false teachers had come in presenting the idea that the Lord had already come.  Paul clears this up in chapter two providing more details on what he had already brought in 1 Thessalonians 4.

Instead of fighting the persecutors, Paul exhorts them to prayer reminding them that the Lord is the judge and He will visit justice upon those who teach heresy and persecute the church.  In addition to the persecution and false teaching, this church was afflicted by laziness on the part of some members. These felt that they had the right to not work but still live off of the other believers.  Paul exhorts the true believer to warn the offenders and pray for them.

May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.