2 Thessalonians 1:10

When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.

2 Thessalonians 1:10 (KJV)

Context

Paul wrote this second letter to the Thessalonian believers to encourage them amid trials and to correct confusion about the Lord’s coming. In this passage, he assures them that Christ’s return will bring both judgment and glory.

Meaning

The phrase “When he shall come to be glorified in his saints” points to the second coming of Jesus Christ. At that day, Christ will be honored and exalted in His people—those set apart by God the Father and redeemed through His sacrifice. The saints are the redeemed church, and their very transformation will display His glory.

The words “and to be admired in all them that believe” show that all who have faith in Him will marvel at His glory and beauty, amazed that they are admitted to communion with Him. This admiration is mutual: Christ is admired in His saints, and the saints admire Him.

The parenthetical clause “(because our testimony among you was believed)” connects the Thessalonians’ faith to that future day. Because they believed Paul’s testimony, they will be among those who honor Christ at His coming. Their faith validates the truth of his message and assures their place in that glory.

Biblical connections

This verse reinforces Paul’s teaching that the Lord will be glorified in His people, not merely in outward splendors, but in the redeemed themselves. Christ’s chief glory at His return will be seen in His saints, for He will be regarded as the source of all their graces, numbers, joys, and triumphs.

Application

For believers today, this truth offers assurance that their faith is not in vain. The same Christ who will be admired in all who believe is the one who is at work in them now. Their lives, transformed by the gospel, are preparing them to share in that glorious day.

Reflection

How does the certainty of Christ’s coming shape the way you live and believe today? Let the hope of being part of His glory encourage you to hold fast to the testimony you have received.