We support a missionary  who is originally from Iran, and his ministry is focused on reaching Muslims with the Gospel. He’s seen several people in Iran saved through his outreach. Life for a Christian in Iran is very difficult; many of them are persecuted and oppressed. Some are killed for their faith.

Last week, we began our study of the first chapter of 2 Thessalonians. I mentioned that the main theme in this first chapter is steadfast, patient faith in the midst of persecution. The Thessalonian believers were enduring hostility and opposition against them, yet they retained their faith and even grew in their love for one another during these difficult times. They displayed Christian virtues even when under distress. So this first chapter is Paul’s expression of appreciation for their steadfast faith and endurance.

The example of the Thessalonian believers should challenge us to persevere in steadfast faith, love, and patience even through the trials and difficulties of life. We must patiently endure the tribulations associated with our faith in Christ. One way we prove the validity of our faith is holding up patiently in the face of opposition and hostility that we may experience because of our faith.

Paul next turns his attention from believers suffering tribulation and persecution to God’s just retribution against unbelievers. God’s righteous judgment will fall on the wicked at some point.

This truth is one of the most sobering aspects of the Christian faith. The wicked will suffer under the righteous justice of God. Paul affirms this truth and explains it in stunning detail in this text.

This teaching, that God will punish the wicked for their sin, is also one of the most despised and denied doctrines of the Bible. People simply do not want to think about the fact that the wicked will suffer divine retribution for their sin. They reject the idea that God would pay back the wicked for their evil behavior. But this text is very clear; God will punish the wicked for their sin. If God is righteous, the wicked will suffer righteous retribution for their sin.