Our background photo today follows the same theme as yesterday. Once again, our gateway leads to a National Park. And as is obvious, everyone cannot freely enter into the Park. A fee must be paid to enter.
Neither size nor importance matters. Whether a large truck, a convertible, or even a bicycle … everyone must pay the fee to enter the Park.
The same thing is true when it comes to the Kingdom of Heaven. Not everyone is automatically allowed entrance into Heaven. A fee must be paid. Importance does not matter. Size does not matter.
The good news is that Jesus Christ has graciously paid the fee for everyone! Jesus offers an Eternal Kingdom of Heaven Pass … for free! The only thing a person must do is believe in Jesus and accept His free gift.
The people who lived in the city of Thessalonica had eagerly accepted the free gift from Jesus! They had passed through the entrance gateway into the Kingdom of Heaven!
We notice in our background photo today that this particular National Park is a volcano. Volcanos are often associated with the end of the world. Indeed, if we were to be visiting this National Park when this volcano erupted, it most certainly would be the end of the world for us.
The book of 2 Thessalonians was written to address questions the new Christians in Thessalonica had about the end of the world. The end of the world can be scary to think about.
In both the first and second letters to the Thessalonians, the Apostle Paul encourages these new believers by giving them hope concerning the end of the world.
Before the end of the world comes:
#1 – First, the great apostacy/rebellion will occur.
– 2 Thessalonians 2:3
#2 – This will be followed by the Restrainer being removed.
– 2 Thessalonians 2:6-8
#3 – This will be followed by the Man of Lawlessness coming to power!
– 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4; 2 Thessalonians 2:7-12
But, Paul encourages the Thessalonians, there’s no reason to be afraid. Don’t be fearful. Because God has chosen you … God has saved you … God is making you holy … God has called you to share in the glory of Jesus Christ. (2 Thessalonians 2:13-14)
* “So then, stand firm.” – 2 Thessalonians 2:15
* “The Lord is faithful, He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.”
– 2 Thessalonians 2:3
* “May the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way.”
– 2 Thessalonians 3:16
Jesus Christ in 2 Thessalonians
– Jesus is the coming Judge who will reward the righteous and destroy the wicked, including the coming Man of Lawlessness at the end of time. – 2 Thessalonians 1:6-2:12
– Jesus is the Lord of Peace – 2 Thessalonians 3:16
