1. Counted worthy of the kingdom (1-5)

The Thessalonian Christians suffered intense persecution, rejection and trials. But they did not give up. Instead their faith and love for one another increased. Paul, Silas and Timothy praised God for this. Persecution was evidence that God's judgment against his enemies was right, and that the Thessalonians would be counted worthy of the kingdom because they had remained faithful.

2. God is just (6-12)

God will bring justice. Those who trouble his people will be paid back. Persecutors will be punished with eternal suffering in hell. This will happen when our Lord Jesus returns to judge. On that day Jesus will also be glorified and honored by believers. May God help us to be worthy of our calling and by his power, bear the fruit of goodness and faith, even as we suffer persecution for him.