Introduction
The Thessalonian Church was undergoing persecution, and some believers thought they were already in the Great Tribulation. They had received a false letter, supposedly from Paul, that taught this false doctrine. Paul sets out to correct this false teaching and explain three purposes behind their suffering.
Suffering Helps Us Grow, vv. 3-5
A. Their reputation, v. 3
1. Growing faith
2. Abounding hope
3. Radiant love
B. Their perseverance, v. 4
1. Tribulation produces perseverance, Romans 5:3-4.
2. Perseverance is enduring in the Lord, keeping going when the going is tough.
C. Their prize-->the Kingdom of God
1. If we yield to God’s will, and by faith continue to stand true, then suffering will make us grow.
2. If we resist God’s will, and give up in unbelief, then suffering will break us and weaken our testimony.Suffering Prepares Us for Glory, vv. 6-10
A. Suffering is a privilege, Philippians 1:29; Romans 8:18; 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
B. Suffering is a testimony to the lost.
1. God will mete out judgment in the same measure they meted out persecution.
a. Pharoah drowned the male babies of Israel, and God drowned the Egyptian army in the Red Sea.
b. Judas betrayed Jesus to be hanged on a tree, and Judas hanged himself.
c. King Saul tried to kill David with a sword, and was killed by a sword.
2. Sinners will reap what they sow, Galatians 6:7.Suffering Glorifies Christ Today, vv. 11-12
A. Christ is at work in the world, in spite of troubles.
B. What are Christians to do?
1. Thank God for salvation and His presence.
2. Surrender to the will of God without complaint.
3. Ask God to give wisdom to understand His will.
4. Watch for opportunities to witness and glorify Christ.
5. Wait patiently until God’s purposes are fulfilled.