Condemnation or Consolation

Such a strong contrast Paul makes in the space of just a few verses in 2 Thessalonians 2. The contrast is between condemnation or eternal consolation. In 2 Thess 2.8 he writes: "In order that all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness."

Those who take pleasure in unrighteousness; those who reject the gospel will be condemned, Paul says. Straightforward and blunt. Indeed, the KJV translates this: "That they all might be damned who believe not the truth." Ouch. No political correctness in Paul's words there. Yet this truth ought to be the driving force of our motivation to share the gospel with blood earnestness. These are weighty matters; matters of eternal and lasting consequences.

Just a few short verses later, Paul contrasts condemnation with the hope of those who have been covered by Christ's righteousness. "Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace" (2 Thess 2.16).

The contrast could not be more stark. Condemnation or eternal consolation through God's grace established by Christ at the cross. Which will it be for you condemnation or consolation?