Bible Strands
2 Thessalonians 1:6
After all, it is only right for God to repay with affliction those who afflict you,
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — Paul writes to the Thessalonian believers during active persecution, situating their current suffering within the framework of God’s impending righteous judgment.
The words — δίκαιον (dikaion) indicates what is just or righteous, and ἀνταποδοῦναι (antapodounai) means to repay in return.
The thread — The theme of reciprocal recompense for wrongdoing runs through Colossians 3:25 and Deuteronomy 32:41, where divine judgment is explicitly linked to just repayment.
Why it lands — The text states that God will repay affliction to those who afflict believers, requiring a reader to reject personal vengeance and anchor their hope in God’s future justice.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you;
Cross-references
- Zechariah 2:8 For this is what the LORD of Hosts says: “After His Glory has sent Me against the nations that have plundered you—for whoever touches you touches the apple of His eye—
- Colossians 3:25 Whoever does wrong will be repaid for his wrong, and there is no favoritism.
- Deuteronomy 32:41 when I sharpen My flashing sword, and My hand grasps it in judgment, I will take vengeance on My adversaries and repay those who hate Me.
- Psalms 94:20 Can a corrupt throne be Your ally—one devising mischief by decree?
- Exodus 23:22 But if you will listen carefully to his voice and do everything I say, I will be an enemy to your enemies and a foe to your foes.
- Psalms 74:22 Rise up, O God; defend Your cause! Remember how the fool mocks You all day long.
- Isaiah 49:26 I will make your oppressors eat their own flesh; they will be drunk on their own blood, as with wine. Then all mankind will know that I, the LORD, am your Savior and your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob.”
- Revelation 6:10 And they cried out in a loud voice, “How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge those who dwell upon the earth and avenge our blood?”
- Revelation 19:2 For His judgments are true and just. He has judged the great prostitute who corrupted the earth with her immorality. He has avenged the blood of His servants that was poured out by her hand.”
- Psalms 79:10 Why should the nations ask, “Where is their God?” Before our eyes, make known among the nations Your vengeance for the bloodshed of Your servants.