Wednesday
1 Thessalonians 2:13-16

Paul brings up an important point here. The Thessalonians were suffering at the hands of their own people. Apparently, persecution instigated by jealous Jews was actually carried out by Gentiles. Paul reminded his readers the same thing was happening in Judea. Christians were suffering at the hands of Jews in Israel. Though Paul had deep concern for the salvation of his own people, he did not tolerate Jews who persecuted the church.

Paul leveled serious accusations at his own people.

1. They killed Jesus and the prophets.
2. They persecuted Christians.
3. They did not desire to please God.
4. They were arrogant—claiming to be God’s chosen ones.

Someone summed up their exclusive attitude.

“We are God’s chosen few;
All others will be damned.
There is no room in heaven for you;
We can’t have heaven crammed.”