2:12 This verse summarizes Paul’s exhortation and charge during his initial visit in Thessalonica. In contrast to the idols the Thessalonians had forsaken (1:9), the true and living God has a “kingdom and glory,” and in His fathomless mercy He chooses to share this kingdom with those who worship Him through Jesus Christ. Called to enter this kingdom, believers know its power and enjoy its life here and now (Rom. 14:17; 1 Cor. 4:20; Col. 1:13, 14) while they long for the day they will enter its fullness.