A Reason to Be Thankful. 2 Thessalonians 2:13-15.
Dear Family,
Paul now turns from the coming horror at the revelation of the Antichrist to the special calling of the Thessalonians. The contrast is intended as an encouragement to the persecuted Christians, that their suffering is not in vain.
Grateful (v. 13). The Thessalonians were chosen by God to be the “firstfruits to be saved.” Firstfruit was a term used for the offering given to God at the time of harvest. Before the people of Israel used any of the harvests, they would choose the best of it as an offering to God. It signified gratitude but also that there was a harvest. The Thessalonians were the firstfruits of a great harvest of souls for Christ. This salvation is “through sanctification by the Spirit.” No one can be saved unless the Holy Spirit transforms his heart. Jesus alluded to this when he spoke with Nicodemus (John 3:5-6). Paul elsewhere also tells it to Titus (Titus 3:5).The new birth and ensuing sanctification – being made more and more like Christ, is dependent on our believing the truth. Many people know the truth of the gospel but are not saved, because they have not made a faith commitment to that truth.
Glorified (v. 14).” Obtain the glory of our Lord” does not mean that the Thessalonians would themselves be glorified. Rather, they would be the object through which the glory of Christ would be seen. Christians are like the moon. It emits no light but only reflects the light of the sun. Depending on its position, the moon can reflect on its full face (full moon) or only a sliver of it, a crescent can reflect the light of the sun. How are you positioned?
Grounded (v. 15). There is every reason for the Thessalonian believers to stand firm in their faith because they reflect the glory of Christ. The faith they stand firm in is what they were taught, either through the spoken word of the evangelists, or the letters that had been written to them. Paul calls this faith “traditions.” There already was a body of commonly held beliefs. If you are out there believing something all by yourself, think again.
Your loving Pastor Chris.