ISB ~ 2 Thessalonians 1 v5

This is evidence:Even before the Judgment, clear distinctions between the righteous and the wicked are emerging in Thessalonica: on one side, believers are suffering and yet holding fast to their faith; on the other, persecutors are harassing and abusing them in godless ways. This is a sign of blessedness for Paul’s readers (Mt 5:9-10) and a frightening omen for their oppressors (2 Cor 2:15-16).

righteous judgment:God will judge the world through Christ (Acts 17:31) with perfect justice and impartiality (Rom 2:9-11; 1 Pet 2:23; CCC 682).

the kingdom of God:The heavenly inheritance of the saints. In Paul’s theology, fidelity through suffering is a means of sanctifi-cation, i.e., it helps to make us worthy of the kingdom (Acts 14:22; Rom 8:17). See note on 1 Thess 2:12.