2 Thessalonians 1:10
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Thessalonians 1:10
10 When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.
Chapter Context
2 Thessalonians 1 is a eschatological epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of judgment, holiness, faith. Written during shortly after 1 Thessalonians (c. 50-51 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Confusion about Christ's return caused some believers to abandon daily responsibilities.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 2 Thessalonians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
2 Thessalonians 1:10
10 When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.
Analysis
When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day—Christ comes both to judge (vv. 8-9) and to be glorified in (endoxasthēnai en, ἐνδοξασθῆναι ἐν) His saints. They become His glory, reflecting His character perfectly. To be admired (thaumasthēnai, θαυμασθῆναι, 'to be marveled at') shows Christ receiving worship through transformed believers.
In all them that believe includes the Thessalonians—because our testimony among you was believed (parenthetical insertion). Their present suffering guarantees future participation in Christ's glory. In that day refers to 'the day of the Lord' (2:2), the second coming. Believers won't merely attend Christ's coronation—they'll be His crown.
Historical Context
Roman triumphs displayed conquered peoples as trophies, glorifying the emperor. Paul inverts this: Christ's triumph displays redeemed saints as His glory. The conqueror is glorified through those He liberated, not humiliated. Believers become living monuments to Christ's victory over sin and death.
Reflection
- How will your life specifically glorify Christ on that day?
- What does it mean for Christ to be 'admired' through believers rather than independent of them?
- How should the certainty of glorification with Christ affect your current trials?
Word Studies
- Believe: πιστεύω (Pisteuo) G4100 - To believe, trust, have faith
Cross-References
- Glory: Isaiah 49:3, John 17:10, Ephesians 1:18
- Holy: Psalms 89:7, 1 Peter 2:9
- Witness: 1 Corinthians 1:6
- Parallel theme: Numbers 23:23, 1 Corinthians 3:13, 2 Timothy 4:8