SUMMARY
In Episode 405, we highlighted the seven times St. Paul used the word “tribulation/affliction” in both 1st and 2nd Thessalonians.
St. Paul was beside himself wondering if the faith of the new Christians would endure under tribulation and persecution. First, he sent Timothy to see firsthand how they were doing. When Timothy returned with a positive report to Athens, St. Paul then sent the letter of First Thessalonians.
Section 675 of the CCC states that “Before Christ’s second coming the Church must pass through a final trial (Great Tribulation) that will shake the faith of many believers.”
How can we stand strong in tribulation?
-
- The power of the Word (episode 407)
- The power of the Holy Spirit (this episode)
As strange as it may sound, Jesus said in his Sermon on the Mount that there is a special blessedness in the midst of persecution.
-
- Read Matthew 5:10-11
The gospel’s power and the Holy Spirit are the keys to standing firm amid tribulation.
-
- Read 1 Thess 1:5-6
The joy experienced in tribulation is the remarkable presence of the glorious future!
-
- Read 1 Peter 4:12-14
The baby Christians withstood tribulation and persecution in Thessalonica because they were experiencing firsthand the spirit of glory despite being persecuted. They were experiencing a real taste of the future through the Holy Spirit.
KEY VERSES TO STUDY
- Matthew 5:10-12
- Romans 5:3
- 1 Thess 5:1
- 1 Thess 1:6
- 1 Peter 4:12-14
- 1 Peter 5:1
DIGGING DEEPER
Did you know that the most influential dispensationalist study bible says, “the Sermon on the Mount in its primary application gives neither the privilege nor the duty of the Church.” – Scofield Reference Bible
Dr. Scofield should have paid careful attention to Matthew 5:19, “Whoever then relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but he who does them and teaches them shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.”