Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
- (Luke 4:13; Ephesians 6:11-17; James 4:7.)
Stedfast - (cf. 2 Peter 1:12, end.) Satan's power exists only against the unbelieving: the faithful he cannot touch (1 John 5:18). Faith gives strength to prayer, the instrument against the foe, (James 1:6, etc.) Knowing ... - `encouragement not to faint in afflictions:' your brethren have the same common lot of Christians (1 Corinthians 10:13). It is a sign of God's favour, rather than displeasure, that Satan is allowed to harass you, as he did Job.
Are - are being accomplished according to God's appointment.
In the world - lying in the wicked one, therefore the scene of "tribulation" (John 16:33).