Appointed for Tribulation

Paul used his own afflictions to remind the Thessalonians that believers have been “appointed for tribulation” – 1 Thessalonians 3:1-13. 

After leaving Thessalonica and Berea, Paul traveled to Athens where he proclaimed the resurrection of the dead before the Greek philosophical schools. At that time, he sent Timothy to strengthen the Thessalonian congregation in the faith, which was even more necessary because of “these afflictions,” especially those endured by the Apostle - [Photo by Lawrence Hookham on Unsplash].

Behaving Blamelessly

If the Thessalonians emulate the apostolic example, they will receive the “crown of glory” at Christ's return – 1 Thessalonians 2:1-20. 

Opposition from the synagogue had compelled Paul to leave Thessalonica prematurely. Though initially, some members of that group had welcomed his message, they turned against him once large numbers of Gentiles began to embrace the gospel. And even after he left the city, some of the synagogue leaders pursued him as he preached elsewhere in Macedonia - [Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash].

Rescued from Wrath

Already, Jesus is “rescuing” his people from the coming “wrath” that will befall the unrighteous when he arrives – 1 Thessalonians 1:10. 

From the start, the congregation at Thessalonica had experienced hostility. From concern for their welfare, Paul sent Timothy to determine how the church was faring. His letter to the Thessalonians begins with his thankfulness for their perseverance, and then he reassures them that Jesus will rescue his people from a far worse fate than any present “tribulation” - [Photo by Lucy Chian on Unsplash].

Mystery of Lawlessness

Even now, the mystery of lawlessness is preparing the way for the appearance of the lawless one who will cause many Christians to apostatize. 

According to Paul, the “mystery of lawlessness” is working  in the world to prepare hearts and minds for the “arrival” of the “lawless one.” It will continue to do so until the appointed time when this deceiver will “come out of the midst” and appear in the “sanctuary of God.” Thereafter, he will employ “lying signs and wonders” to cause many saints to apostatize - [Photo by Chris Buckwald on Unsplash].

Lying Signs and Wonders

The final deceiver will use “lying signs and wonders” to deceive and cause many saints to depart from the faith – 2 Thessalonians 2:8-9. 

The “Day of the Lord” will not arrive until the “lawless one” is “revealed” when he “seats himself in the sanctuary of God.” This will coincide with the “apostasy,” and he will be characterized by his ability to deceive, especially with “lying signs and wonders.” Satan himself will equip this master deceiver to destroy as many saints as possible - [Photo by Slava Abramovitch on Unsplash].