Paul is the author. Timothy and Silas are with Paul and "join" him in sending greetings. This opening verse is similar to the first letter. 2. "Grace and peace" is a common greeting in Paul's letters. (Romans 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:3; 2 Corinthians 1:2; Galatians 1:3; Ephesians 1:2; 1 Peter 1:2; Colos... [ Continue Reading ]
Paul often begins his letters by expressing gratitude for the faith of those to whom the epistle is addressed. Their faith was growing exceedingly. They showed love for each other. 4. Paul rejoices in their patience and faith in the face of persecution and afflictions. They have learned to endure.... [ Continue Reading ]
God is righteous and will judge all men righteously. "To recompense" means he will pay back with a full and complete payment. God is a God of mercy and love. He is also a God of justice and wrath. (Romans 11:22; Galatians 6:7) 7. "Paying back" is not limisted to punishment of the wicked. It also in... [ Continue Reading ]
Vengeance belongs to God, not man. Daniel 7:13-14 teaches that Jesus will be given a kingdom, dominion and authority to execute judgment. "Vengenace" does not indicate a vindictive spirit of retaliation, but expresses thought in administering justice. The vengeance is rendered upon two groups of peo... [ Continue Reading ]
This verse shows both the certainty of Christ's coming and the uncertainty of when he will come. There is one coming, not two, three, seven or more. The purpose of his coming is two-fold. [1] "To be glorified with his saints." Christ will be glorified when all the faithful saints are gathered togeth... [ Continue Reading ]
"The end"indicates that the second coming will be the end of time, the end of this world, the end of wickedness, the end of affliction, hardship and persecution, the end of suffering. Paul continues to pray for them to remain faithful so that "the end" will be a time of rejoicing and victory. The "c... [ Continue Reading ]