So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.
2 Thessalonians 2:15 NIV
The church at Thessalonica was suffering because of their faith in Christ. And along with that, they had many questions about the return of Christ. Would those who died first miss out? When is he coming? How much longer do we have to go through all of this suffering? Paul answers some of their concerns and reassures them that Jesus will come in the Father’s time and that those who die first will not miss out. And then he tells them to stand firm and hold fast to the teachings that had been passed on to them.
Stand Fast and Hold Firm
Jesus is returning for those who are his so that we can be with him forever. That is the great hope we have as believers. And it is appropriate for us to look forward to his return with great expectation. But as we do so, we need to live for him now. Stand firm in your faith, letting nothing move you away from a sincere faith and devotion to the Lord Jesus. And hold firmly to the teachings of Jesus and his apostles that we have recorded in the pages of the Bible.
Much more important than when Jesus will return, and the circumstances of that return, is how we wait for it. When he returns is not all that important. What is important is how we wait. Does all of the turmoil in today’s world point to the end of the age? Maybe! Although people have had similar thoughts throughout history. But whether we are nearing the end or not, live as though it could be tomorrow, and be faithful.
