2 Thessalonians 2:14

To this He called you through our gospel, so that you may share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Study Bible

To this He called you
This phrase emphasizes the divine initiative in the process of salvation. The calling is not based on human merit but on God's sovereign will. This aligns with passages like Romans 8:30, which speaks of those whom God predestined, He also called. The calling is a personal invitation to enter into a relationship with God, reflecting the biblical theme of God as the initiator of salvation.

through our gospel
The "gospel" refers to the good news of Jesus Christ's death, burial, and resurrection, as outlined in 1 Corinthians 15:1-4. The use of "our gospel" indicates the message preached by Paul and his companions, which is consistent with the apostolic teaching. This highlights the importance of the apostolic witness and the transmission of the gospel message through the early church. The gospel is the means by which God calls individuals to salvation, as seen in Romans 10:14-15.

so that you may share
This phrase points to the purpose of the calling, which is to participate in something greater. The concept of sharing or partaking is common in the New Testament, as seen in 1 Peter 4:13, where believers are encouraged to rejoice as they share in Christ's sufferings. It implies a communal aspect of the Christian faith, where believers are united in their experience and destiny.

in the glory
"Glory" in the biblical sense often refers to the divine presence and majesty of God. In this context, it suggests the future state of believers who will be transformed and glorified, as described in Philippians 3:21. This glory is not only a future hope but also a present reality in the sense that believers reflect God's glory in their lives (2 Corinthians 3:18).

of our Lord Jesus Christ
This phrase identifies the source and focus of the glory. Jesus Christ is central to the Christian faith, and His lordship is a key theme throughout the New Testament. The title "Lord" signifies His authority and divinity, while "Jesus Christ" emphasizes His role as the Messiah. The glory believers are called to share is intrinsically linked to the person and work of Jesus, as seen in passages like John 17:22, where Jesus speaks of giving His glory to His followers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of the letter, who is writing to the church in Thessalonica to encourage and instruct them in their faith.

2. Thessalonica
A city in Macedonia where the church to whom Paul is writing is located. It was a significant city in the Roman Empire.

3. The Thessalonian Church
The recipients of the letter, who were facing persecution and confusion about the return of Christ.

4. The Gospel
The good news of Jesus Christ, which Paul preached and through which the Thessalonians were called.

5. The Glory of Our Lord Jesus Christ
The ultimate hope and destiny for believers, to share in the eternal glory of Christ.

Teaching Points

Understanding Our Calling
Recognize that our calling is initiated by God through the gospel. It is not based on our merit but on His grace and purpose.

The Role of the Gospel
The gospel is the means by which we are called. It is essential to understand and embrace the gospel message as the foundation of our faith.

Sharing in Christ's Glory
Our ultimate hope is to share in the glory of Jesus Christ. This future promise should motivate us to live faithfully and expectantly.

Living with Eternal Perspective
In light of our calling and future glory, we should live with an eternal perspective, prioritizing spiritual growth and godly living.

Encouragement in Persecution
Just as the Thessalonians faced persecution, we can find encouragement in knowing that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding our calling through the gospel impact the way we live our daily lives?

2. In what ways can we actively participate in sharing the gospel with others, knowing it is the means by which God calls people?

3. How can the promise of sharing in Christ's glory provide comfort and strength during times of trial and persecution?

4. What practical steps can we take to maintain an eternal perspective in our decision-making and priorities?

5. How do the additional scriptures connected to 2 Thessalonians 2:14 deepen our understanding of our calling and future hope in Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 8:17
This verse speaks about believers being heirs with Christ and sharing in His glory, which aligns with the promise in 2 Thessalonians 2:14.

1 Peter 5:10
This verse discusses God calling believers to His eternal glory in Christ, reinforcing the theme of sharing in Christ's glory.

Ephesians 1:18
Paul prays for believers to know the hope of their calling and the riches of His glorious inheritance, which connects to the calling mentioned in 2 Thessalonians 2:14.

Philippians 3:14
Paul talks about pressing on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus, which relates to the calling through the gospel.

Colossians 1:27
This verse highlights the mystery of Christ in believers, the hope of glory, which complements the idea of sharing in Christ's glory.