Jesus Shall Be Revealed In Flaming Fire

The Thessalonian believers were “troubled” (v. 7a), because they endured numerous persecutions for the cause of Christ (Acts 17:8). But Paul gave them assurance that there would be rest in the last day, when Jesus “shall be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels” (v. 7b). He will come “in flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God.” Paul already mentioned to them that the Lord “shall descend from heaven” (1 Thes 4:17), in the clouds at the rapture. He also gave an additional description that the Lord’s coming will be accompanied with “flaming fire;” or most likely with continual sparks of lightning, making the clouds to become brightly illuminated with fire!

It is only proper for God to execute such righteous judgment (Deut 32:4); because “the wicked shall not be unpunished: but the seed of the righteous shall be delivered” (Prov 11:21). God “is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy” (Ps 145:8). But He is also “a God of judgment” (Isa 30:18); reminding us that the sinful and ungodly ways shall not go unnoticed! We are all sinners (Rom 3:10). And sin is not just “the transgression of the law” (1 Jn 3:4), but it is also missing the mark of moral purity (1 Cor 6:18), by falling short of God’s righteousness (Rom 3:23).

Sin creates a separation from God (Isa 59:2), which leads people to the broad way “that leadeth to destruction” (Mt 7:13). God said that “vengeance is Mine; I will repay” (Rom 12:19). Often, His punishments are means to lead individuals back to repentance (Rom 2:4). When we begin to understand that there will always be consequences to our sinful actions (Gal 6:7), then we should be convicted to align our lives according to God’s word (Ps 119:105). It is not just about fearing God’s punishment, but about recognizing His great love for us (Heb 12:6), to ensure that we are always on the right path (Ps 37:23)! God bless you!



- Pastor Melito Barrera