Comfort for the Troubled

After thanking God for this church and for their growth in grace and for their steadfast faith in suffering, he prayed for them to live for the day of the Lord.  With this encouragement, he turns to comfort a troubled church over confusion surrounding the return of Jesus.  They were led to believe that Jesus had already returned and yet they were still suffering.  Paul reminds the church of the events preceding the return of Jesus.  While this is considered one of the most difficult passages in the NT, we can still find comfort as Paul speaks to Jesus' return in splendor, power and glory for those who believe and love the truth.