What does 2 Thessalonians 1:5 mean?
The Thessalonians' endurance of persecution and afflictions would demonstrate the fact that God is just. When God evaluated the Thessalonians' faith, He would declare them worthy of His kingdom.Enduring trials with faith does not earn anyone a place in God's kingdom, but enduring trials by faith shows the reality of our faith. If a person fails the test of suffering, it shows his faith is false. Writing to suffering Christians, James counsels: "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness…Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him" (James 1:2–3, 12).
Paul writes that the Thessalonian believers were suffering for the kingdom of God. During his visit to Antioch, Paul encouraged the believers there to continue in the faith. He told them "that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God" (Acts 14:22).