Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

2 THESSALONIANS 2:14KJV
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2 Thessalonians 2:14 (KJV)

What does 2 Thessalonians 2:14 mean?

2 Thessalonians 2:14 says that God called the believers through the message Paul and his companions preached, so that they could share in the glory that belongs to Jesus Christ. The verse highlights both the way God brings people into faith and the wonderful future promised to those who respond.

Paul is writing to the church in Thessalonica, reminding them that their faith is not accidental but the result of God’s invitation through the gospel message. The verse fits into a larger section where Paul reassures the believers about their place in God’s plan, especially after warning them about deception and trouble in earlier verses.

The Greek behind 2 Thessalonians 2:14

  • The word "called" (ἐκάλεσεν, ekalesen) points to God’s active role in inviting people into relationship with Him, not just a general announcement but a personal summons.
  • "Gospel" (εὐαγγέλιον, euangelion) refers to the good news Paul and his companions shared, emphasizing that the call comes specifically through this message, not through any other means.
  • "Obtaining" (περιποίησις, peripoiēsis) is often understood as "acquiring" or "receiving for oneself," showing that believers are meant to actually take hold of and experience the glory promised, not just see it from a distance.
  • "Glory" (δόξα, doxa) in this context means the honor, splendor, and presence associated with Jesus Christ, suggesting a future transformation or sharing in what belongs to Him.

Why 2 Thessalonians 2:14 matters

  • This verse clarifies that faith is not random or self-generated; it is a response to God’s personal call through the gospel.
  • The focus on "obtaining the glory" connects the everyday life of believers to a promised future with Jesus, giving hope and purpose even in difficult times.
  • In the wider passage, Paul is assuring the Thessalonians of their secure place in God’s plan, especially after discussing confusion about end times and false teachings.

Where else these words appear

“obtaining” Greek G4047 · used in 5 verses

  • Ephesians 1:14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.
  • 1 Thessalonians 5:9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,
  • Hebrews 10:39 But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.

“gospel” Greek G2098 · used in 74 verses

  • Matthew 4:23 And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.
  • 1 Corinthians 4:15 For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.
  • Ephesians 6:19 And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,

“called” Greek G2564 · used in 138 verses

  • Matthew 1:21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.
  • Luke 7:39 Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner.
  • Romans 9:25 As he saith also in Osee, I will call them my people, which were not my people; and her beloved, which was not beloved.