In what ways can we support others facing persecution, as taught here? Setting the Scene 2 Thessalonians 1:7: “and to grant relief to you who are afflicted, and to us as well, when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with His mighty angels.” Paul reminds a suffering church that God Himself will give “relief”—real rest and vindication—when Christ returns. While we await that day, we are called to share that promised relief with brothers and sisters who face persecution right now. Relief: The Promise that Fuels Support • God guarantees rest; therefore we can offer hope without hesitation. • Our support flows from confidence that Jesus is coming back “with His mighty angels,” a literal, unstoppable rescue mission. • Because the outcome is certain, we can invest ourselves sacrificially in the present. How to Stand With the Persecuted • Encourage with the promise of rest – Remind them of 2 Thessalonians 1:7. – Point to Matthew 5:12: “Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven.” • Pray persistently and specifically – Acts 12:5 shows the church praying “earnestly” for imprisoned Peter. – Keep their names before the throne daily; let them know you are doing so. • Provide practical help – Hebrews 10:34: believers “sympathized with those in chains and joyfully accepted the confiscation” of their own property. – Send letters, legal aid, food, clothing, financial support. • Stand in visible solidarity – Hebrews 13:3: “Remember those in prison as if you were bound with them.” – Attend court hearings, advocate publicly, share their stories. • Speak words of hope and identity – 1 Peter 4:13: share in Christ’s sufferings “so that you may rejoice and be glad when His glory is revealed.” – Affirm their value and calling; persecution does not define them—Christ does. • Strengthen the wider body – 1 Corinthians 12:26: “If one part suffers, every part suffers with it.” – Organize church-wide awareness nights, fasting days, or letter-writing campaigns. Scripture Connections that Deepen Our Resolve • Romans 12:15 – “Weep with those who weep.” • Galatians 6:2 – “Carry one another’s burdens.” • Revelation 2:10 – “Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.” • Philippians 1:14 – Persecution can embolden others to speak the word “without fear.” Our support multiplies courage. Take It to Heart and to Action God will “grant relief” when Jesus appears. Until that day, we become living previews of that relief by encouraging, praying, supplying, standing, speaking, and strengthening. The promise is sure; our participation is urgent. |
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