II Thessalonians - Week 2
Sunday, June 6, 2021
In the first few verses of II Thessalonians, we learned about the commendable qualities of the Thessalonian church, one of which was their ability to remain steadfast amidst persecution and trial. The rest of chapter 1 is all about God’s promise that He will vindicate the church that is afflicted. Read II Thessalonians 1:5-12 aloud.
What types of persecution, trial, or “affliction” do you see the church experiencing today?
Referring to vs 5-9, Pastor Jason shared 2 ways that God will vindicate the afflicted church. What were they? (Hint: One has to do with us, His church, and the other has to do with those who are against the church.)
According to vs 7, when will this vindication happen?
Why is it important for us to keep this in mind?
Why is God going to do all of this? (see vs 10-12)
What does He get from this vindication?
What do we get out of it?
Multiple times in this passage we are challenged to see our lives through the lens of God’s glory - to be people who are zealous for His glory! What does it look like when someone is zealous for God’s glory? What about a church that is zealous for His glory?
Are you experiencing that zeal right now?
Do you see it at UBC?
How can we encourage each other to remain steadfast when trial comes? (Be specific.)
In light of this passage, why is it important for us to have a right belief about Hell?
At the end of the sermon, Pastor Jason reminded us that the good news of redemption through Jesus is tied with the call to repent. Have you repented of your sin and asked Jesus to be the Lord of your life?
If not, what is keeping you from doing that today?
If you have obeyed the call to repent, are you living out a life of repentance and belief?
Why is the return of Christ (and His judgement) both sobering and joy-giving?
As you think about the coming judgement for those who don’t believe, who is someone that you need to pray for today?