Conformed to Christ

2 Thessalonians 1. This is the sequel to Paul's first letter. It was written just a few months after the first one, while Paul was still in Corinth. Paul had gotten word that the Thessalonian believers had misunderstood his teaching about the second coming of Christ, due in part to a forged letter that these believers received. So Paul takes the pen in hand and writes to confront and correct these problems.
Overview of the letter:
1. Paul Comforts The Discouraged: Chapter 1
At the second coming of Christ, God will right the injustices that have been inflicted upon His people.
2. Paul Corrects A Misunderstanding: Chapter 2
At the second coming of Christ, the anti-Christ will be destroyed.
3. Paul Condemns Idleness: Chapter 3
Until the second coming of Christ, believers are not to quit their jobs and wait idly, doing nothing.

An Application from chapter one:
In 1:4-5 Paul commends their faith "...in all your persecutions and tribulations that you endure which is manifest evidence of the righteous judgment of God, that you may be counted worthy of the kingdom, for which you also suffer." The fact that you are persecuted and put down is proof that you're part of the kingdom, is basically what Paul is saying. So often I pray to avoid trials, tribulations, problems and persecution. But in reality, it is those very things that would have produced Christlike qualities within me. There is really no other way. If you want to be like Jesus, hard times are inevitable. "Yes, all those who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution." 2 Tim.3:12. Remember, we've said it before, suffering for the believer is not the exception to the rule. IT IS THE RULE. But the goal is to conform us into the image of Christ! Amen!