PEOPLE OF THE DAYLIGHT

1 Thessalonians 5:1-28

Since the coming of the Lord is a certain event those who are born again will not be surprised at that coming, but will be prepared and ready, by being prepared by God for that great day.

In the last chapter, the last six verses, we saw the blessing of being in Christ, whether we are alive at His coming or dead [asleep].

It is exciting thinking of our Lord’s certain return. There may be many who name the name of Jesus, but call this teaching myth, or someone’s wild imagination run wild. Jesus, our Savior said He was returning. If He lied about this how can we trust Him for salvation? We virtually cannot, because His coming is further evidence of His bodily resurrection; especially when He raises those who have died as His followers. The only way He would not return is if He did not rise bodily from the grave. He will return as He said.

In this present chapter and the final chapter of First Thessalonians we find more encouragement for the bornagain child of God, but it is also a warning to those who do not know Jesus. Verses one through eleven tell of the “Day of the Lord”. The “Day of the Lord” is also mentioned in the Old Testament books of Joel 2:1-2, ff; Amos 5:18-20; Zephaniah 1:14-18; Isaiah 2:12-21. It is also called “The time of Jacob’s trouble” in Jeremiah 30:7. This is a day of darkness for the reprobate and unbelieving. A day of struggle and sorrow.
In verses twelve through twenty two we are instructed in our daily lives, how we ought to live. It involves respect of our spiritual leaders, warning those who reject authority, being thankful, rejoicing, praying, our responses to the preaching [prophecy] of the Word and other such things.

Verses twenty three through twenty eight is the conclusion of the letter. There is much to this conclusion – Our sanctification, the faithfulness of God (v. 24; Also see Philippians 1:6), a request for prayer, and the way we are to greet one another. There is much in this chapter as there is in the whole letter.

“But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. 2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.” 1 Thessalonians 5:1-2.

Paul had evidently spoken to the church concerning times and seasons before he was ran out of town, but here is a friendly reminder.

Why should the teaching of the rapture of the Church and “The day of the Lord” be preached and taught? 1.) For the comfort and encouragment to the believers; 2.) For the purity of the believer, “Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. 14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.” (2 Peter 3:13-14); 3.) For a zeal in the hearts of believers for those who are lost, “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. 10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.” (2 Peter 3:9-10), “Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.” (2 Cor. 5:11); 4.) “For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy” (Rev. 19:10).

Jesus will come like a thief when He comes in the clouds. Only those who know Him (not know about Him) will rise to meet Him in the air. When people suddenly realize a co-worker, a wife or husband, son or daughter, a friend, the driver of an automibe, the pilot of an airpland, the pastor, the deacon, or a Sunday School teacher is missing, there will be such chaos as the world has never seen. There are people who are unaware. These are people who are still in darkness.

The “Day of the Lord” will be a time of darkness. If Jesus comes “Like a thief” that means something is taken. It is He that “Hinders” who will be taken, and that will include the Church and its witness (2 Thes. 2:6-8).

I think there is a point of clarity that needs to be made at this point. I read someone’s comment the other day about the one’s missing would be the unrighteous, but that will be for the millennial period. The missing at the Rapture of the church will be true believers in Christ Jesus taken to Heaven to receive their reward. Following the departure of the Church there will be such an unprecedented time of horror on earth. It will be the time God uses the torments upon the earth to call the people of Israel back to Himself. They will look upon the One whom they pierced and believe.

“For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. 4 But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.” vv. 3-4.

The world is longing for peace, even while there is war raging in the Middle East, there is a longing for peace. We are hungry for it. We can almost taste it. When it appears there is peace; when it appears that economic recovery is here, that is when people are at ease. Nothing destructive will happen, people believe. Who would dare upset our progress? Jesus will come and the unprepared “Shall not escape”.

This day will come “As a thief” for the prepared (Matthew 25:1-13). This work “Darkness” is used in reference to those who are outside of Jesus. Therefore, if one is in the Light he is not in darkness. When you know Jesus is on His way you will always be ready, and witnessing, calling others to repentance and faith in Christ Jesus.

“Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.6 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. 7 For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night. 8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation.” vv. 5-8.

Sleeping is a time in our life where we are unaware. When we are asleep we could almost care less for what goes on around us. It is in fact the most dangerous time for us all.

This sleep is of the spiritual sort. Unaware of the darkness. Unaware of the peril that is in the path ahead. It means satisfied with the way things are – COMPLACENCY. Indifferent, uncaring about what is ahead – you know but you are unwilling to act upon it – APATHY.

“Let us not sleep”, but let us be aware, able to control ourselves, watching, waiting for the Lord’s appearing, which is the “Blessed Hope” (Titus 2:13). Those who are watching are those “Who love His appearing” (2 Timothy 4:8). Jesus commands us to watch (Matthew 24:42-43); Luke 12:35-40). The person [believer] who is watching is an alert believer. We are to be “Watchmen” sounding an alarm to the populace (See Ezekiel 33:1-6). The “Watchmen” must remain awake.

There are all kinds of evil wickedness going on in the darkness. people doing their evil hate for the light to expose them (John 3:19). The ones who participate in the darkness are not people of light. They too, need the light.

The “Breastplate of faith” is to turn the fiery darts of satan, which is constantly hurled at the children of light. The “Helmet of salvation” is on our head where we have most of our sense – sight, smell, hearing, and tasting; and the head is also the control center for the body. We reason with our head. At least hopefully we do. Is it any wonder we must have the “Helmet of salvation”.

“For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.” vv. 9-11.

Of course, the Thessalonian people knew they had, by faith in Jesus Christ, been saved from the punishment of sin and death. Paul must be talking of an event coming up in the future. It must be an “Appointed” day of wrath which will be experienced by any and all who do not trust Jesus Christ, as God, Lord, Savior, Creator, Redeemer, Master, etc..

It is evident by verse nine that God has not intended for the Church to go through the “Time of Jacob’s trouble” (Jeremiah 30:7), which we call the “Great tribulation period”. It does not stand on the one verse alone, though, “Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. 11 Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.” (Rev.3:10-11); “For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.” (2 Thes. 2:7). It stands on the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The comfort of these words are not empty. Where would the comfort be if we had to endure “Great tribulation”? We endure tribulation already, but nothing the like of which awaits the “Day of the Lord”, when all living unbelievers will be tried, “And they shall not escape”.

“And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; 13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’ sake. And be at peace among yourselves. 14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men. 15 See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men. 16 Rejoice evermore. 17 Pray without ceasing. 18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 19 Quench not the Spirit. 20 Despise not prophesyings. 21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. 22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.” vv. 12-22.

Here is listed some things which seem to indicate those who are awake, aware, and ready for the Lord’s return.
vv. 12 – 13 — Having resspect for your pastor(s), deacon(s), teachers, the ones who are responsible for your spiritual well being. Hold them up in prayer for boldness, love, and encouragement.

This is certainly not an excuse for overlooking a false preacher or teacher, but one who teaches and believes the Bible is the inerrant, infallible, Holy Spirit inspired Word of God.

PEACE = Not constantly squabbling, quarelling, but working in unity for the same cause and purpose. If the church cannot be at peace with one another there is little hope for the world to be at peace.

v. 14 — The word “unruly” means insubordinate (in religious matters) which is an unwillingness to submit to authority. We are told to warn of such. We are not to be in such a case.

Encouragement is always needed. When others encourage us we are motivated to serve the Lord in a greater capacity. We can minister to others with encouragement. Patience is a necessity for Christian living in an impatient world. We ought to be pictures of patience, especially with the unbelieving, and our brothers and sisters in Christ. We need patience for understanding why a new brother in Christ might still use a swear word, now and then, and we certainly can understand why the unbelieving would do so. Unholy things come from unholy people.

v. 15 — Always pursue the good. Do good to others even when they treat you evilly. When someone, lost or saved, does you wrong, do them a kindness. It pays great rewards. Peace of heart and mind, and you make friends that way.
v. 16 — Rejoicing is a sign of no fear, a sign of peace and contentment. When we rejoice in our Lord ther is also a witness to those around us.
v. 17 — Pray with perseverance. Keep on bringing your request to the Lord until He answers – He will either give what you ask, or He will say “No!”, or you may learn patience, and to “Wait on the Lord…”
v. 18 — When others around are complaining, whether about their work, home, family, sickness, or church, we are to be thankful “In everything” knowing that God is in control of the circumstances and He is using them to make us stronger and better Christians.
v. 19 — The Holy Spirit is likened unto fire. To quench a fire we often dump water on it – we put the fire out. To “Quench the Spirit” is to hear Him speak to us, but determine we will not heed His leading, and do our own thing. This is sin, and one that is very often committed by us all. We do not have time, or not right now, or somebody else can do it are words often expressed that quenches the fire of the Spirit.
v. 20 — Prophecy is the “Foretelling” of the future or the “Forthtelling” of the Word of God. All the prophets of the Bible “Foretold” the future – but even more importantly, they were “Forth-Tellers” of God’s Word. Many, many times when God’s prophet told of some future event it was confirmed as the Word of the Lord by a present sign. Today the prophet of God only foretells by the written Word of God, and it is confirmed, and authenticated by that same Word. He also forth-tells by that same Word.
The word ‘despise’ means contemptible, least esteemed – to have no delight in. It means you may like music in the worship, but you cannot stand the preaching of God’s Word. It makes you uncomfortable, you want to get out of the building, just as quickly as you can. Ask yourself “Why?” You are uncomfortable in the presence of God and His holy Word. That is why.
Proverbs 13:13 says, “He who despises the Word will be destroyed.”
v. 21 — This verse goes along with verse twenty. When a man stands to deliver God’s message there is to be a test. Does it come from God, or does it contradict His Word? It it goes against the Bible it is not a message of God.
v. 22 — Staying away from every form of evil is the Christian’s calling, if we are prepared for His coming. If it shows up, and you are tempted by it, flee from it; run with all the streength you have away, away; far, far away from that temptation.

“And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.” vv. 23-24.

God Himself is the One who sets us apart from all others, and He preserves us blameless for the coming of Jesus His Son.

God is faithful. He started the work, and He has never left anything undone which He started to do, “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:” (Philippians 1:6).

“Brethren, pray for us. 26 Greet all the brethren with an holy kiss. 27 I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read unto all the holy brethren. 28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.” vv. 25-28.

A request for prayer, greeting and a charge or challenge to read this epistle to all Christians is given by Paul in closing.

His request for prayer was not just empty words. Paul knew the importance of prayer, and how powerful it is when Christians pray for one another.

Never short on grace he always left it with others. So ought we.

WORD STUDY:
1. Despised = contemptible, least esteemed (v. 20).
2. Unruly = insubordinate, unwilling to submit to authority (v. 14).
3. Complacency – satisfied with present situation, even though in need of work.
4. Apathy = knowing the way things are, able to do something about it, but unwilling to act.

THE WALK WHICH PLEASES GOD

1 Thessalonians 4:1-18

As Christians we are to grow in the faith, live a life that honors God and show forth His holiness working in our livs; we are to love one another, and to comfort one another with the words of hope concerning the Lord’s return.
In the Christian life growth occurs as one is obedient to the principles of God’s Word. To participate in the demeaning, immoral activities of the world system, as a Christian is to rob one’s self of spiritual growth.
Verses one through twelve have to do with a Christians growth. The same man who [under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit] wrote about our freedom [liberty] in Christ, also writes about abstaining from certain activities. Paul is here concerned abou their sanctification, as he would be ours as well. Our being separate, peculiar, different, is to be a distinction even others can notice. In the first chapter verse four, Paul recognized some individuals as being, “The elect of God”. He knew this by the way they lived, and so did “those who are outside”. Their lives were different, certainly in the way they loved (v. 9). There had been changes wrought in their lives; dramatic changes.
The growing Christian is changing daily. Each day he is more like Jesus than the day before, at least that is how it should be. Yielding to the Father; trusting Him with lifes ups and downs, ministering to others needs, never taking advantage of a brother’s weakness(es) to profit himself. Paul warned that, “The Lord is the avenger of all such” (v. 6).
The people at Thessalonica were concerned about their deceased loved ones, who had died in Christ and verses thirteen through eighteen handle that teaching for us. These fit together real well, because a clean and holy life is the only one God will accept into His Kingdom (Psalm 15). We can only live that life in the power of God’s Spirit, and that through faith in the shed blood of Jesus and His finished work. Our redemption finished when the bodies of the Saints shall all be redeemed by Jesus’s coming in the clouds.

Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more.  2 For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus. vv. 1-2.

Pleasing God, to even professing Christians is often as difficult as walking a narrow pole across the Grand Canyon. It is not that difficult if one is born-again through Christ Jesus. It is a matter of trusting Him to carry you across the canyon.
This leader (Paul) is calling on them to get nearer to Jesus. The life of a Christian is to be lived as an example to others, keeping the commandments, and being pleasing to God. We are not being saved by keeping the commandments, but being saved we keep the commandments.

For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: 4 That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour; 5 Not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God: 6 That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter: because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified. vv. 3-6.

Knowing the will of God is at times difficult, especially when we get confused about what is important, confused about what should take top priority in life, and when we are not giving to God what we already know to be His will.
The Word of God tells us God’s will for our lives. If we shun His Word why should we expect Him to show us His will in what boy or girl to marry, which house to buy, or which job to take? If we keep His commandments, because we love Him (Not for salvation), we will know His will, and can then, seek His counsel in every day questions.
There must be holiness in the Christian’s life. “This is the will of God”. It means abstaining from all forms of immorality, having self-control and knowing how to treat your spouse, caring for the weaker brother, and even the stronger. It means loving the Lord Jesus. Paul warns that the Lord is the one who avenges in such cases.

For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness. 8 He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not man, but God, who hath also given unto us his holy Spirit. vv. 7-8.

God has called us to be holy. Holiness is being clean for this Person of purity [the Holy Spirit] to live in and use for God’s glory. Jesus said, “He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart [belly] shall flow rivers of living water” (John 7:38). How can the water be clean if the vessel is dirty? If you are living in sin who is going to believe you when you say, “Jesus can set you free. Look what He has done for me!”? No one will. You can count on it.
To reject is to wreak havoc upon your life. These are God’s words, God’s instructions to His people. If you will not believe His Word at this point you do not believe it at any place, therefore, you are lost and condemned to the fires of Hell.

But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another. 10 And indeed ye do it toward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia: but we beseech you, brethren, that ye increase more and more; 11 And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you; 12 That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing. vv. 9-12.

The lack of love was not a problem, yet Paul says, “We urge you…increase more and more”. In what? In love. You cannot love, with God’s love, too much.
It is because of love we are to work, and not meddle in other’s lives, and to take care of our own business. Out of love our work life is to be just as good a witness to the condemned world as our faithfulness to attend worship. Others are watching. Those who do these things will live a life of joy, peace, and lack no good thing.

But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. 15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not preventd them which are asleep.  16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. vv. 13-17.

These verses speak of the “Blessed hope…”, which Paul writes of in Titus 2:13, and says, “Looking for that blessed hope…”. Paul was looking for it then, why are we not “Looking for that blessed hope” today?
A proper walk with God is not only conducive as a witness to the condemned, but also in preparation for the coming of Jesus.
The Thessalonian Christians were uncertain about their dead loved ones in Christ. What would become of them? For some reason the church – or at least many of them – were afraid that their loved ones who had died in Jesus would miss “the victories and glories” of Jesus’s return. It is made clear that, that just is not true. The word sleep is used in reference to the body, not the soul and/or spirit. “To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:8).
There was some ignorance concerning those who “Slept”. Some, evidently thinking it was over for the dead; no hope, no glory, no eternal life.
Verse fourteen clarifies that those who are dead will be with Him [Jesus] when He comes for His Church. Their spirit and soul will be united with a new resurrected body. It will be a body like that of Jesus’s resurrected body.
Verses fifteen and sixteen make it clear the living believers will not go before or without the dead in Christ. The dead will rise first (v. 17); then, the living will rise with them to meet the Lord Jesus; the Lamb of God; the King of kings, and Lord of lords.

Wherefore comfort one another with these words. v. 18.

We need this kind of comfort. Knowing Jesus is coming back should cause us to be comforted. Notice though who is to be the comforter – we are to one another; “With these words…”. There is comfort in reading the Scriptures of prophecy in the prophets, Moses, the apostle John, and in Matthew chapter 13, and 24-25. These should be encouraging words for the Christian, and real motivation to warn those who are condemned by sin.

In conclusion of these verses, our lives should be lived for Jesus. This is certainly a world in desparate need, but the child of God can live in comfort and peace by taking heed to God’s Word. We need each others encouragement if we are to live in this “Modern World”. We need to be encouraged to abstain from things that displease God. We need to be encouraged to live clean lives. We need to be encouraged about the return of Jesus.
Not only the people of the world, but the earth itself is in a state of madness. Earthquakes where they have never been before – in recorded history. The weather odd and unseasonal, breaking into storms that cause multibillions of dollars of damage; thousands and thousands of peoples lives destroyed by death and destruction.
The Christian can live in peace. She/He can live, because they know God has their life in His hands, and we encourage one another to this extent.
THE WALK WHICH PLEASES GOD is when we walk with Jesus Christ our sin-bearer, Redeemer, and expecting His soon return. “Even so, come Lord Jesus”.

A ROCK SOLID FAITH

1 Thessalonians 3:1-13

In the day we live every Christian needs to be encouraged to live a life of purity and faith in the sight of God, and others, and to always be prepared for the glorious appearing of Jesus our Lord.

When we are not with our children we wonder, ‘How are they doing without us present?’ We may be away a little longer than expected. Some unexpected traffic jam, or we make a detour to WalMart, or the bookstore, and we are there longer than expected. Parents seem to never end in their wondering about their children.
Paul was in a similar situation, only he was being hindered from his “parental” duties by satan. He just could not take it any longer, and sent Timothy to be with them in his place; to find out how they were.
Timothy brought back that encouraging report, but still, Paul longed to see his children in the faith, to visit with them and encourage them.

“Wherefore when we could no longer forbear, we thought it good to be left at Athens alone; 2 And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith…” vv. 1-2.
The word, “Therefore” means this carries on from chapter two – especially vv. 19 & 20. Paul sharing with the church how he could not wait to be with them and find our their physical and spiritual condition.

“That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto.  4 For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know. 5 For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain.” vv. 3-5.
Many times when afflictions hit us we tend to think that God has forgotten us. When we feel that way we can get to a place where we can not-care, and really get into a state of depression. You could say, “We faint” in the faith.
Suffering for Christ’s sake should not come as a surprise to us. When we live holy in Christ Jesus it will come, “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: 13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’ sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. 14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.” “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.”(1 Peter 4:12-14; 2 Timothy 3:12).

“But now when Timotheus came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and charity, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also to see you: 7 Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith:” vv. 6-7.
There is a mutual love between the “Parent and the child”. There is great comfort, even in persecution for the one who founded the church, to hear of the people’s desire to see him again. It would have been a great encouragement to Paul as well, in his afflictions to hear of their faith. What a joy it is to the spiritual leader in Christ when they hear of others desire to be with them.

“For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord.” v. 8.
Caring can steal the strength away. Being unable to build up the church in faith Paul was fearful for them, that they might fall away. The heart was heavy. Sleep was slow in coming, if it came. When Paul was not working, preaching, or sleeping he was praying for this church, and others. They were “Babes in Christ” and they needed nourishment and care.
At receiving the news, Paul rejoiced. He could now live free from the worry and care of this infant church.

“For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God; 10 Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith?” vv. 9-10.
A desire to see them and help them grow in the faith. A new born child does not have all it takes to grow. It needs fed. It needs to be nourished, and sheltered from harm. The same is true of a spiritual child or church
Prayer is for the church, what breathing is for our bodies. The study of God’s Word is for the church what food is for our bodies.
Note Paul’s joy when he has received the good news of their growing and active faith.

“Now God himself and our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way unto you.” v. 11.
If we are to care and to be cared for we must trust our directions to be led by Jesus in us. Paul realized, that if he was going to see the people of the church of Thessalonica it would be by the direction and provision of the Lord Himself. When we put our faith and trust in Jesus in this fashion the problems we face in life do not seem so large, and burdensome.

“And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you: 13 To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints. vv. 12-13.
This is Paul’s prayer for the church. 1) Increase and abound in love – “Godlike love”; 2) In order to ‘establish’ [be grounded] in heart. Set them up as stable, unshakeable sanctuaries of peace; 3) Blameless in God’s holiness – To be holy is to be clean and fit for God’s Spirit to use.
We are called upon throughout the Word to be fit, to be holy for His use and service. Here we are told to be, “Blameless in holiness” meaning God’s holiness. We must be clothed in that if we are to be caught up with the rest of the saints. The true child of God will, by the power of the Spirit of Christ in us, keep ourselves holy and fit for that glorious day.
The saints mentioned are the souls and spirits of the departed dead in Christ referred to in chapter 4:14, “For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.”
Notice that in each of these three chapters there is reference to the coming of Jesus. “…wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.” 1:10. “Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?” 2:19. Then in chapter 3, “…at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints. v. 13.

WORD STUDY –
1. Establish (vv. 2 & 13) – To set fast – to turn resolutely in a certain direction;
2. Holiness (v. 13) – Quality; sacredness;
3. Increase (v. 12) – To do , make or be more;
4. Abound (v. 12) – To be in excess; to excel;
5. Direct (v. 11) – To straighten fully;
6. Moved or shaken (v. 3) – to wag; to disturb. 

This is the second part of LIVING AS CHRISTIANS IN OUR MODERN WORLD. Paul the apostle, an instrument in the hand of God was and still is teaching God’s people how we ought to be living in any age we find ourselves. This second part, will itself be in two parts. In this part we will look at verses 1 – 12.

In these verses we see that caring Chrisitans live, not for themselves, but for the Lord, and those who have come to Christ through their ministry.

Paul calls the Thessalonian church to remember how it was when he came to them. He reminds them how he worked and labored; how he had suffered persecution, realizing they were as well.

The concern Paul had, as any man of God does, is that the people be strong in the faith. There were and are temptations which lure God’s children off the path of living the Christian life. It is especially so in the time of Paul’s letters, and in our time as the time of Christ’s return draws ever nearer.

What joy there is for a mother and father who raise their children in the precepts, statutes, judgments, and commandments of the Lord when their child gives their life to Him. When a father teaches his son how to safely operate the farm tractor, and that boy takes it up like he was born on it, and almost may have been. The joy, the hope of the Christian is when he/she sees one they have taught living according to God’s Word. What joy Paul must have felt and received when word came to him how these had grown in the faith.

“For yourselves, brethren, know our entrance in unto you, that it was not in vain:  2  But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention.”

There is great assurance in these verses. The work of God is never in vain. If one person comes to Christ as a result of our presence it is not in vain. This church was a very active church, and very much alive. They were not in the least way in danger of losing their candlestick.

Even though persecution arises we are to continue to be bold with the message of the gospel of Jesus Christ. When we are persecuted for our faith, and because of our boldness of speech we should approach it just like Peter and John, and all the apostles in acts chapter four. They were commanded not to speak in that name (the name of Jesus). They went and told the others, and they all just prayed for more boldness.

“For our exhortation was not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile:  4  But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.  5  For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness:  6  Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.”

The concern of a parent is noticed in these verses. Paul, having been gone for several days, maybe weeks or months, shows his concern for their growth. He reminds them of his work and faithful ness, and the things which the taught them the three weeks he was with them.

“A flatterer can use either truth or lies to achieve his unholy purpose, which is to control your decisions for his profit.” WARREN WIERSBE. Paul did not use flatterery, or manipulation. He was not in it to please Paul or other men. that should also be the heart and attitude of any man who is called by God into a position of leadership and service to God’s people.

If a Christian is to lead he must be sure of his/her motive. If it is to receive glory from man he can be bought off. The man of God does not seek to please anyone, but God and His Son Jesus.

 “But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children:  8  So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.  9  For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.”

Today there is much said about expectant mothers and their drinking of alcoholic beverages. It is because the alcohol gets into the bloodstream from which the baby is sustained and can cause awful deformities and even addiction to alcohol.

The loving caring mother will not eat or drink anything that would bring harm to her baby, either before or after it is born. She feeds, and cares for that child holding it close to her heart.

We are to be as a caring and nourishing to the unborn-again, and the new born-again as an expectant and nursing mother – just like Paul.

“Ye are witnesses, and God also , how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe:  11  As ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children,  12  That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory. ”

Servants of God see themselves not as dominant leaders, but as servants to the people, while remaining faithful to God. The witnesses of Paul’s service was the people which he served. He had faithfully ministered to them the Word of God, words of encouragement, hope, exhortation, and reminding them that they were God’s children in His kingdom.

That is our calling as Christian leaders. How do our people view our service?

This will be the beginning of a study through the Thessolonian letters by Paul. The series is titled LIVING AS CHRISTIANS IN OUR MODERN WORLD. I pray these articles will help and encourage you in your walk with the Lord.

I will try to keep them fairly short. If they seem to get a little long I will split them into two parts.

CHANGE, BY THE POWER OF GOD

1 Thessalonians 1:1-10

As the second coming of Jesus is drawing near, we as Christians must know how we are to live in the world. “In the world, but not of the world”.
In looking at the first Thessalonian letter it appears that some of the people in the church were being led to believe the return of Jesus being near, they should leave their jobs, sell their homes and lands, and just “Live by faith”. The Scripture, no where, encourages God’s people to be foolish, but wise concerning the times.
The two letters to the Thessalonians teach a complete opposite of the above practice. Jesus’s coming is definitely near. We are to keep on yielding our lives to Him, and going about the daily Christian life as though He might not come for another million years. We are to keep on trusting and believing that He is returning soon.
First Thessalonians mentions the second coming of Jesus at the end, or near the end of each chapter. Chapter four gives us an indepth look at the “Catching away” of the Saints which is commonly referred to as the ‘Rapture of the Church’.
In Thessalonica there was much heathen, pagan worship. The church was greatly persecuted because they were living their faith. They would probably be called radical by even many professing christians of this day.
We live in a society that is quite similar to theirs. People do not mind what god you worship, or if you worship anything, as long as you keep it to yourself. “Keep it in the church building. Don’t take it to your job. Don’t take it on vacation. Don’t take it to your friends”, because if you do you will be tagged as a trouble maker, a rabble rouser, and you will be shunned by your peers.
Our world, society is certainly unfamiliar with God and godliness, and godly things. As Christians we need to be what Christ called us to be, and that is the salt and light of our world.Looking at these first ten verses we see the church of Thessolonica commended for their faith, and the hope that is in their heart. They are challenged, as are we, to live exemplary lives to show forth the change that God has wrought in their [our] lives.
The study actually begins in Acts 17:1-10 which tells of Paul’s short ministry there. It was only about three weeks in duration, but three weeks there was an established church – a body of believers worshipping, praying, studying the Scriptures, and breaking bread together. The believers fearing for Paul’s and Silas’s safety sent them away (Acts 17:10).
Paul is man of God greatly concerned about this young church. He sends Timothy to them and Timothy sends word back to Paul of their growth and stedfastness of faith. Paul is thrilled, and fully knows that it is the work of God’s Spirit. He sends them a letter to assure them of his prayers, to encourage them, and to exhort them to continue strong in the Word and faith, no matter what comes their way.

“Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church of the Thessalonians which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.” v. 1
In looking at verse one Paul begins the letter in pretty much his normal way. Only he adds Silvanus [Silar] and Timothy. These are men the people at Thessalonica were familiar with. He also acknowledges that they are a church in God and the Lord Jesus Christ. That is what counts. It really does no matter if a board of men or a government recognizes a church; as long as it is in God and the Lord Jesus, it is a church.
Paul sends them a familiar greeting “Grace and peace”. True grace and peace can only come through God and His Son.

“We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers; 3 Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father;” vv. 2-3
There is thanksgiving in Paul’s heart for this church, and their faithfulness. He also assures them of his prayers for them.
Their faith that works; the love they show to others ministering to others and one another; their patience in God – knowing He always knows best in every situation; these were all known by Paul as their spiritual leader and he remembered them.

“Knowing, brethren beloved, your election of God.” v. 4
Paul knows these people as the “Elect of God” – chosen by God to be His representatives to others, and to live an exemplary life holy and pure. That is the life every child of God is to live. We have been chosen by God. We are the “Elect” of God. You have been chosen, and from the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4). That is one of the blessed things of the gifts of God, ie. knowing that God has chosen us, elected us as His own. As the “Elect of God” we are called to live lives which are holy and pure.

“For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.” v. 5
The gospel, when it is to be effective, is to be not only words, but there is also power [signs of change], and it is in the Holy Spirit – He who convicts of sin is also the One who comforts in Christ.
These messengers of the gospel lived exemplary lives. Paul, Silas, and Timothy kept themselves in the power of the Lord.
People who are messengers of God in the world today should live lives to glorify our Lord as well. There is no excuse for sin, and it should be especially so in the lives of the people of God, and the spiritual leaders whom God calls out. As Paul, Silas and Timothy were living lives that honored Christ and brought no shame on others who were serving Christ Jesus, so too should all God’s people in our modern world.

“And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost: 7 So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia.” vv. 6-7
Everyone needs an example to follow. Everyone [Believers in particular] needs to be an example to others. As Paul, Silas and Timothy were following the Lord, so was the people of the Thessalonian church. Even in the midst of affliction [persecution], they were living int he joy of God’s Spirit, and it had reached Paul that these people were having an impact on others lives.
Many in our modern world like to follow others. The sad thing about that is, many of these people are not people to follow for righteousness and holy living. There are sports figures who many follow, taking drugs, steroids, and indulging in immoral behaviors that would cause shame to the child of God who is right with God.
We as God’s people need to be sure we do not exalt figures in sports, or movies, etc., or even the pulpits of the world who are not living exemplary lives which do not glorify Jesus Christ.

“For from you sounded out the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith to God-ward is spread abroad; so that we need not to speak any thing.” v. 8
When people have a real faith in God it not only is spoken, but is acted on by others and themselves.
There was no rebuke needed here. Their faith had been heard about, even in other lands.
What have “other lands” heard of the faith of the Christians of the United States of America? It is my fear, that what others are hearing is not good. In looking it appears to me that there is a lack of dedication to Christ Jesus in living and more dedication to gaining the worlds things. There is a great lack of prayer in God’s people of the USA. There is a lack of burden for calling the condemned people of our nation to faith in Christ Jesus. There is more of a push for pleasure, leisure, for entertainment, than there is for the glory of the Lord.
O God, give us a heart for Jesus like those who are suffering for the cause of Christ in other parts of the world.

“For they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God; 10And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.” vv. 9-10
Jesus had so impacted their lives, that the idols they had previously worshipped had been destroyed. They repented [turned from idols, and turned to God], and decided to worship the living God. The One wo could, would, has and does answer prayer. The One who has promised to deliver from “The wrath to come”.
To wait is to continue living the life until He returns with great expectancy. This “Living God” raised His Son from the dead, and has promised He will return.
Being ready means living by the power of the Spirit of the Lord which is in you who know Jesus as Savior. We must always be ready. We do not know the day or the hour when our Lord will come in the clouds and call us away.
BE READY!!!!

Let’s look at a comparison of verses 3 and 10 –
In verse three Paul refers to “Your work of faith”. Verse 10 says, “You turned to God from idols”
Verse three, “Your labor of love”. Verse 10 “To serve the living and true God”.
Verse three, “And patience of hope”. Verse 10 “To wait for His Son from Heaven”.