In the interim between Christ’s ascension and return, God has granted humanity the opportunity to repent.
In his second epistle, Peter explains the apparent “delay” in the return of Jesus from heaven. God is characterized by mercy and has no desire for anyone to perish. But the apostle even contends that the conduct of the church may “hasten” that day’s arrival. The relationship of men with God is dynamic, not static, and He responds eagerly to repentance.
Continue readingThe Day of the Lord will mean salvation to the “sons of light” who remain ever vigilant and prepared for it – 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11.
Rather than provide a list of “signs” whereby believers can ascertain the imminence of the “Day of the Lord,” the Apostle Paul gave instructions on how they must live in anticipation of that day’s sudden and unexpected arrival. It would not overtake the Thessalonians because they “were not in darkness,” but instead, they were “sons of light” and “sons of the day.”
Continue readingThe arrival of Jesus will mean vindication and “rest” for the righteous, but everlasting loss for the wicked – 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10.
Paul’s second letter to the Thessalonians was written in the months following his departure from the city. The first epistle expressed joy at the good news that the Thessalonians were remaining faithful despite persecution. The second addressed three main issues: Persecution, believers who refused to work, and questions about the “arrival” of Jesus.
Continue readingFalse information about the “day of the Lord” caused alarm among many in the congregation at Thessalonica – 2 Thessalonians 2:1-2.
Paul addressed claims that the “Day of the Lord had set in,” rumors that were disrupting the congregation in Thessalonica, apparently, spread by a “spirit,” a word (logos), or a letter, “as if from us.” In response, Paul listed two events that must occur BEFORE the “parousia” of Jesus – the “revealing of the man of lawlessness” and the “apostasy.”
Continue readingPaul did not detail the “times and seasons” since the Thessalonians understood that the Lord will come “like a thief in the night” – 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3.
Paul continued his discussion about the “coming” of Jesus by addressing its timing and how it will impact believers and nonbelievers. But rather than provide any chronological information, he reminded the Thessalonians that the “Day of the Lord” will come just like “a thief in the night,” as they already knew. No one except God knows the timing of that day.
Continue reading
Disciples Global Network 