The Thessalonians had Paul with them for only about three weeks, Acts 17:1-6. The conditions were not favorable for Christians, as the following verses show.

.In Acts 14 there is similar persistence from Paul, who is chased from city to city and even stoned; but he simply acknowledged that much persecution was to be expected.

1 Thess. 3:1-5, Paul’s interest was to establish them so they would not be shaken.

• Daniel 3, the young men were not shaken
• James 1, not doubting
• 2 Thess 1:1-4, faith and love proved their perseverance

The coming of the Lord is a key foundation that establishes the believer, especially in the face of difficulty.

• 2 Corinthians 4:16, the inward self is renewed even though the outward self weakens
• 1 Corinthians 15:58, death will be overcome with the victory of resurrection; so serve
• Romans 8:18, the coming glory though now we groan

The Rapture is an accurate teaching of Scripture when we consider that the 1st century believers were waiting for Christ’s return day by day; 1 Thess. 1:10, Philippians 3:21. This is the hope of the Christian.

Other aspects of persevering Christians:

• Join hands with those who are suffering, Heb. 13:1, 3
  • …and rejoice if we ourselves suffer, 1 Peter 4:12-13
• Realize that other things beside persecution can shake our faith, such as adversity in a fallen world or influences that create doubt. Ishmael persecuted Isaac by laughter, Galatians 4.
• Take advantage of relative freedom by spiritual activity. Behave consistently. Don’t walk disorderly, 2 Thessalonians 3:5-12.
• Realize that grace under pressure encourages others, 1 Thess. 3:6-7
• Titus 2:13, denying ungodliness
• 1 Peter 1:3-9 in trials, look at what God has already done for us
  • in verse 12, the face of the Lord is against evil
  • in verse 15, we can give a reason for our hope

Overcoming adversity will make us contagious Christians.