2 Thessalonians 1:3-10
A common circumstance of Christians in the first century was the suffering of persecution for the kingdom’s sake. Paul referred in this text to the “persecutions and tribulations” that the Thessalonians had endured.
He commended them for their perseverance, and promised them that God would “give you who are troubled rest” at the Advent of Christ.
The reason for the promise is the character of Almighty God. “It is a righteous thing with God to repay with tribulation those who trouble” His children, and to give His children rest “when the Lord Jesus is revealed from Heaven with His mighty angels” (cf. vs. 6-7).
Because of who God is (His person and character) we can be assured that he will treat us fairly in judgment. That is a reason for the ungodly to fear, but it is a basis for our hope and comfort as we live righteously in His service.
