2 Thessalonians 2:14

2 Thessalonians 2:14 (KJV): "Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ."

Context

This verse from Paul's Second Epistle to the Thessalonians provides a profound statement of God's salvific purpose. It follows immediately after Paul reassures the believers, stating that God "hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth" (2 Thessalonians 2:13). In a chapter primarily warning about the "man of sin" and the great apostasy that will precede Christ's return, verse 14 shifts focus from future tribulation to the glorious certainty of the believer's calling and destiny. It underscores God's sovereign initiative in bringing people to salvation amidst a world prone to deception.

Key Themes

• Divine Calling: The verse emphasizes that it is God ("he") who initiated the call to salvation. This is not a human endeavor but a divine act of grace, demonstrating God's sovereign choice and eternal purpose for believers.
• The Gospel as the Means: God's call is extended "by our gospel." Paul refers to the message of salvation through Jesus Christ that he and his companions preached. This highlights the indispensable role of the gospel as the powerful instrument through which God's saving grace is revealed and applied to humanity.
• Glorious Destiny: The ultimate purpose of this divine calling is "to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ." This speaks to the believer's future glorification, where they will share in Christ's own divine splendor and honor. It is the ultimate hope and inheritance of every true follower of Christ, assuring them of a future free from suffering and filled with divine presence, as seen in the promise of being co-heirs with Christ.

Linguistic Insights

• "called" (Greek: καλέω - kaleō): This word denotes an effective summons or invitation. It's not merely an offer but a purposeful act of God that brings about a response, leading to salvation.
• "gospel" (Greek: εὐαγγέλιον - euangelion): Literally meaning "good news" or "glad tidings," it refers to the message of salvation through the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Paul's use of "our gospel" signifies the specific message they faithfully proclaimed, which is inherently God's message.
• "obtaining" (Greek: περιποίησις - peripoiesis): This term carries the sense of "acquisition," "possession," or "preservation." Here, it refers to the secure and certain inheritance of glory that believers will receive and possess as a result of God's calling.
• "glory" (Greek: δόξα - doxa): This speaks to the inherent divine splendor, majesty, and honor of God and specifically of Jesus Christ. The believer's destiny is to participate in this divine radiance.

Practical Application

For believers today, 2 Thessalonians 2:14 offers profound assurance and purpose:

• Assurance of Salvation: It reminds us that our salvation is rooted in God's initiative, not our own merit. This truth provides immense comfort and security, especially during times of doubt or trials.
• Value of the Gospel: The verse elevates the importance of the gospel message. It is the very means by which God accomplishes His saving work, underscoring its power and necessity for all people.
• Hope for the Future: Believers are called to a glorious destiny – to share in the very glory of Jesus Christ. This future hope encourages perseverance, resilience, and a heavenly perspective amidst earthly challenges.
• Motivation for Evangelism: Knowing that the gospel is the instrument of God's call should motivate believers to faithfully share this good news with others, inviting them to experience the same divine calling and glorious hope.