Paul clarified his earlier teachings about Jesus’ future return and rebukes the Christians who were disrupting the community.
In 2 Thessalonians, Paul addresses ongoing problems in the Church. Despite intense persecution, Paul encourages them to show victory over the world by imitating Jesus’ non-violent and patient endurance.
Maintain hope
While they also worried they had missed Jesus’ return, Paul clarifies that they should not fuel apocalyptic speculation but recall Jesus’ words in Mark 13 about the public and obvious events leading up to His return. They should also remain faithful, hopeful, and confident and not fearful while waiting for Jesus’ return and deliverance from the evil ruler.
Finally, Paul addresses idleness and challenges believers to imitate Jesus’ self-giving love. Their hard work provides for themselves and benefits others. Throughout the book, we see that what we hope for shapes what we live for.