2Thessalonians 1:5-6 Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that you may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you also suffer: Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you
‘Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God.’ Two effects of tribulation: A guarantee of the righteous judgment of God in punishing persecutors for their rebellion against Him and His people (1:5-6) and a guarantee of the rewards of those who endure persecution.
‘Righteous judgment of God.’ All God’s judgments are righteous and based upon the law of sowing and reaping (1:5-6; Gal. 6:7-8; Deut. 32:4). God demands justice of man in judgment (Lev. 19:15, 35; Deut. 1:17; 16:18-19; 24:17).
‘Counted worthy of the kingdom of God.’ From Luke 21:36; Acts 5:41 and Hebrews 3:3 we see that we must be worthy, that is to have or show the qualities that deserve the specified regard.
‘Righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you.’ Righteous for God to trouble troublemakers and give rest to the troubled when the Messiah comes (1:6-7). At this time all persecutors will be dealt with; all who are persecuted will be given rest and be allowed to enter the eternal kingdom (Matt. 16:27; 25:31-46; Zech. 14:1-21; Rev. 19:1-21).
Living the Word 