Worthy Sufferers

Northwest Bible Church – Nov. 12, 2023 – 2 Thess. – Alan Conner
2 Thess. 1:4-5
Worthy Sufferers

Intro

A. PERSEVERING IN PERSECUTION (v. 4).

1. Paul’s boasting in their perseverance and faith.

2. Their persevering faith in the midst of persecutions and afflictions.

B. PROOF OF GOD’S RIGHTEOUS JUDGMENT (v. 5).

1. Our perseverance is evidence of God’s verdict of justification.

2. Our perseverance in persecution is evidence of God’s sanctifying judgment.

a. 1Pet. 4:17

b. The purpose of this practical judgment.

3. God’s righteous judgment in ordering SUFFERING before GLORY.

C. COUNTED WORTHY OF THE KINGDOM (v. 5b).

1. What does “worthy of the kingdom” mean?

2. We are not worthy based on our merit.

3. This worthiness comes from God’s grace.

a. Based on Christ’s atoning death for us.

b. Based on the Spirit’s work in us.

Conclusion

Things to ponder: How are we persecuted today in America? Is there benefit to being persecuted for Christ? How are we made worthy of the kingdom of God? How can we encourage and support others going through persecution? See Mt. 25:31-46.