2 THESSALONIANS 2:13-17 - CHOSEN, COMPLETED AND COMFORTED BY THE LORD

2 THESSALONIANS 2:13-17

CHOSEN, COMPLETED, AND

COMFORTED BY THE LORD

2 Thessalonians 2:13 But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth: 14 Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Paul assured the Thessalonians they had been set apart by God for divine purposes. God had chosen them from the beginning of the world and loved them. They had embraced the gospel by trusting the truth of Jesus Christ that Paul had proclaimed to them. Their redemption was for the glory of God.

2 Thessalonians 2:15 Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle.

Paul urged them to stand firm and continue to follow the truths and principles he had taught them in person and via correspondence. These believers did not need to be concerned that they had somehow missed the rapture and were doomed.  Paul assured them they could stand on the fact, the certainty, of their salvation and continue in their service to the Lord.

2 Thessalonians 2:16 Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, 17 Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.

Paul pronounced a blessing over these believers. God who gave you salvation as a free gift is going to be faithful to complete every good word and work He has established within you. He will also give you comfort and peace in times of trial that could cause doubt. He will enable you to stand firm.

Ponder This: If you are a Christian, a member of God’s forever family, He chose you, enabled you to believe, is making you more like Jesus through the work of the Holy Spirit, will enable you to continue serving Him well, and will ultimately glorify you.  God has done, is doing, and will do everything needed to make you fit for Heaven. Your job is to simply keep trusting Him and obeying His word while you rest in His ability to do what He has promised.