Persevering in Hope
In order to persevere through any trial, hardship, persecution, affliction you have to believe that things will get better. Under such conditions, Paul writes this letter of hope to the church in a dark time of persecution and affliction, a persevering hope. 2nd Thessalonians is written to give suffering Christians a reason to remain steadfast. Hope is the fuel for perseverence and is focused on the certain return of Jesus Christ. In this series, we will not only discover more about the Lord’s return but stand on the same hope the Thessalonian believer possessed. A hope that can be passed on to every believer.
Persevering in Hope
We can endure through hardship if there is a reason. That applies to diets, long night shifts, exam week or cancer treatment. Purpose gives rise to perseverence. That is true of our faith as well. Dr. John teaches from 2 Thessaloninans on the reason for endurance of believers. The future return of our Lord is cause for joy and endurance today.
It Will Be Fair
Our expectations for justice in society will be disappointed. Our ideal is not wrong, just premature. Today’s message carries a reminder from Paul, that while injustice is evident in our day, there will be a day when wrongs are made right.
Heaven and Hell
The return of Jesus is the goosebump hope of all believers. But it is more. It is also the assured accountability of this world. Jesus returns to administer justice. Dr. John reminds us of what that justice is. It is a fearsome warning to all unbelievers.
End Times Confusion
In matters of mystery, speculation thrives. The fact of Jesus’ return is no mystery, but the timing of it is; so some speculate with wild theories. Paul cautions the Thessalonians (and us) to not get carried away with false claims. We rest in the certainty and hope of His return. We live ready.
The Rebellion Must Come First
We learn to discern the signs of a storm. Thick clouds, strong winds, distant thunder. Are there signs of Jesus’ return? Dr. John points to three signs of immanence for Jesus’ second coming. The signs do not offer a date, but suggest a nearness that invites preparation.
The One Who Restrains
The capacity for human evil seems unbounded. We can be shocked by the wrong that people do. And yet – God is restraining the evil on earth. What will be when that restraint is lifted? Today Dr. John speaks of the lawless time to come, but with this encouragement. Regardless of the rise of sin, Jesus remains Lord over all creation.
Remaining Strong
When things are hard and we’re told that they are going to get worse, we may wonder if we can endure. How do we not feel overwhelmed? Dr. John points to three truths that fortify us in the midst of trouble.
Carrying On in Faithfulness
Life is not a dash but a marathon. Faith for today must stretch into all of our tomorrows. How can we persevere to the finish line? Dr. John echoes Paul’s encouragement to the Thessalonians. Listen and take hope.
Productive for Life
It may be that on a Monday morning you ask yourself, “Why am I going to work?” If we are just working for a paycheque, our motivation can wane. Today Dr. John reminds us of both God’s intent for work and His blessing upon it.
