2 Thessalonians 1:6

Seeing [it is] a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you;

Seeing {G1512} it is a righteous thing {G1342} with {G3844} God {G2316} to recompense {G467} tribulation {G2347} to them that trouble {G2346} you {G5209};

For it is justice for God to pay back trouble to those who are troubling you,

After all, it is only right for God to repay with affliction those who afflict you,

if so be that it is a righteous thing with God to recompense affliction to them that afflict you,

2 Thessalonians 1:6 offers a profound statement about divine justice, assuring believers that God sees their suffering and will righteously deal with those who oppress them.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's opening thanksgiving and encouragement to the church in Thessalonica. The Thessalonian Christians were enduring significant persecution and affliction for their faith, demonstrating remarkable patience and faith amidst their trials (2 Thessalonians 1:4). In light of their steadfastness, Paul reassures them that God is a just judge who will ultimately bring recompense.

Key Themes

  • Divine Justice and Retribution: The core message is that God is not indifferent to suffering. He is perfectly righteous and will ensure that those who inflict pain on His people will face a just repayment. This is not about human revenge, but God's sovereign and fair judgment.
  • Reassurance for the Persecuted: For those undergoing tribulation, this verse offers immense comfort and hope. It reminds them that their suffering is seen by God and that their oppressors will not escape accountability.
  • God's Righteous Character: The phrase "a righteous thing with God" emphasizes His inherent nature as just and fair. His actions are always consistent with His perfect character.

Linguistic Insights

The key Greek word for "recompense" is antapodounai (ἀνταποδοῦναι), which means "to give back," "to repay," or "to reward." It carries the connotation of a just and equitable return. Interestingly, the word for "tribulation" (thlipsis, θλῖψις) is the same word used earlier in the chapter to describe the suffering the Thessalonians themselves were enduring. This highlights the principle of like for like – those who cause affliction will themselves experience affliction, but from God's hand of justice.

Practical Application

For believers today, 2 Thessalonians 1:6 provides a powerful anchor in times of injustice or suffering. It encourages us to:

  • Trust God's Sovereignty: We are reminded that ultimate justice belongs to God. We do not need to seek personal revenge, but can rest in His perfect timing and judgment, as seen in Romans 12:19.
  • Find Comfort in Persecution: If facing opposition for faith, this verse assures us that God is aware of our struggles and will act righteously on our behalf.
  • Live Righteously: It also serves as a sober warning to those who might cause trouble for others, emphasizing that God's justice applies to all.

This verse points forward to the day when God will bring "rest with us" to the afflicted and "flaming fire" upon those who trouble them, as described in 2 Thessalonians 1:7-8.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Colossians 3:25

    But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.

  • Zechariah 2:8

    For thus saith the LORD of hosts; After the glory hath he sent me unto the nations which spoiled you: for he that toucheth you toucheth the apple of his eye.

  • Psalms 94:20

    Shall the throne of iniquity have fellowship with thee, which frameth mischief by a law?

  • Psalms 94:23

    And he shall bring upon them their own iniquity, and shall cut them off in their own wickedness; [yea], the LORD our God shall cut them off.

  • Deuteronomy 32:41

    If I whet my glittering sword, and mine hand take hold on judgment; I will render vengeance to mine enemies, and will reward them that hate me.

  • Deuteronomy 32:43

    Rejoice, O ye nations, [with] his people: for he will avenge the blood of his servants, and will render vengeance to his adversaries, and will be merciful unto his land, [and] to his people.

  • Psalms 74:22

    Arise, O God, plead thine own cause: remember how the foolish man reproacheth thee daily.

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