What does "marveled at among all who have believed" mean for believers today? Setting the Scene • 2 Thessalonians 1:10: “on that day He comes to be glorified in His saints, and to be marveled at among all who have believed—because our testimony to you was believed.” • Paul is describing the visible, bodily return of Jesus Christ. • Two responses are highlighted: Christ is “glorified in His saints” and “marveled at” by every believer. The Meaning of “Marveled at” • “Marveled at” (thaumazō) means to be filled with astonishment, awe, wonder. • It is not casual admiration but a profound, overwhelming recognition of His glory. • This wonder is shared “among all who have believed.” Every redeemed person, from every age, joins the same chorus of amazement. Implications for Our Daily Walk 1. Expectation shapes living – Titus 2:13: “while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.” – A heart set on His future marvel lives with purity and purpose today. 2. Worship fueled by certainty – Revelation 5:12 shows the heavenly cry, “Worthy is the Lamb.” Knowing we will marvel then pushes us to worship now. 3. Courage in persecution – 2 Thessalonians 1:4–7 ties present affliction to future relief. The coming day of marvel assures that suffering is temporary and meaningful. 4. Gospel motivation – Because the testimony was “believed,” Paul links evangelism to that future marvel. Seeing Christ’s glory drives believers to share so others will marvel too. Cultivating a Heart of Marveling • Meditate on Christ’s revealed glory (John 1:14; Hebrews 1:3). • Sing truth-filled hymns and songs that exalt His majesty (Colossians 3:16). • Practice thankful remembrance of past deliverance (Psalm 103:2–5). • Observe creation as a preview of His power (Romans 1:20). • Gather regularly with saints; corporate worship rehearses the coming marvel (Hebrews 10:24–25). Encouragement from Other Scriptures • Isaiah 25:9: “Surely this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He has saved us.” Anticipation turns to wonder. • 1 John 3:2: “When He appears, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.” The vision that astonishes also transforms. • Philippians 2:10–11: Every knee bows, every tongue confesses. Believers lead the way in marveling before the nations follow. Living in Light of His Coming Marvel • Keep eyes fixed on Jesus’ imminent return; let that hope purify motives and choices. • Engage in bold, compassionate witness; each new believer adds to the chorus of marvel. • Endure hardships with joy, knowing a moment is coming when all doubts disappear in His unveiled splendor. When Christ returns, His glory will not merely be observed—it will evoke unending, astonished praise from every believer. Let that promised marvel ignite worship, holiness, and courage today. |
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