All this is evidence that God’s judgment is right, and as a result you will be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are suffering. (niv)
without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved— and that by God. (niv)
so that no one would be unsettled by these trials. For you know quite well that we are destined for them.In fact, when we were with you, we kept telling you that we would be persecuted. And it turned out that way, as you well know. (niv)