2 Thessalonians 1:8
“In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →At His coming the Lord will bring just retribution in flaming fire upon those who refuse to know God and will not obey the gospel of Jesus Christ.
What Does 2 Thessalonians 1:8 Mean?
Paul describes the manner of Christ's coming with imagery drawn from the prophets: "flaming fire," a frequent biblical sign of God's holy presence and judgment. The Lord who appears in glory comes not only to rescue but to render justice. Two groups are named: those who "know not God" and those who "obey not the gospel," likely describing the same refusal from two angles, ignorance of God and rejection of His good news.
It is sobering that the gospel, which is good news offered freely, calls for a response of obedient trust, not mere acknowledgment. To turn from it is no small thing. Yet the emphasis here is comfort for the suffering church: the One they love is strong enough to right every wrong. The fire that judges is the same glory that saves, and which it becomes for any person depends on how they have answered His call.