Brothers and Sisters to Love One Another

The letter Paul wrote to the Thessalonians was both touching and educative. He mentioned that brothers and sisters at Thessalonica loved each other in their daily lives. It was crucial for them to have this affinity for, being only a few chosen brethren and sisters, people had to learn the Christian type of life from them. In verse 3 of 2 Thessalonians 1, Paul mentioned that their love had increased greatly, and thus work went on easily with their one love. Despite this love, they had troubles one way or another. The ruling authorities of the time abhorred the gospel and the power of God was needed. Persecution and troubles prevailed but the brothers and sisters at Thessalonica persevered (v 4).

It is God who shall pay back trouble to those who gave, and still give, troubles to His children, the believers. These troubles will be relieved when the Son of Man comes. Paul went on teaching them to keep on praying. Some of them had questions as to when the Son of Man was coming. Paul taught them to keep praying tirelessly for his coming, even though the day is unknown. Jesus gave us signs to remind us when he will come. People who do not listen to the truth, perish. We can be saved by listening to the truth. What then is the truth? There is life in Jesus Christ: Jesus is the truth (Romans 5:17; 1 John 5:12; John 3:16, 14:6).

Finally, Paul finished his letter by giving thanks and praise to the brothers and sisters of Thessalonica, who listened to his gospel and spread it throughout the surrounding area. 2 Thessalonians 2:15 encourages them to stand firm in support of the good news they had received. We look forward to receiving eternal encouragement and good hope from Jesus Christ our Lord and God the Father.

Bre Chakumanda and E Akwaa Kondowe (Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe)