1 Thessalonians
“Our Good News came to you not in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit, and with much assurance.” (1 Thessalonians 1:5) One of the problems Christians and churches have is lack of power. The Lord Jesus would preach but He would also heal and set people free from the devil. Why have we lost our power? Lack of prayer, unbelief, or worldliness? May the Lord restore the power of God to His church again!
“So that you became an example to all who believe in Macedonia and in Achaia.” (1 Thessalonians 1:7) We need to be good examples. We should exert a positive influence upon unbelievers and our fellow Christians. By our words, actions, and attitudes we must show true Christianity!
“But even as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the Good News, so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, who tests our hearts.” (1 Thessalonians 2:4) The motivating factor of our lives should be that we want to please God. If we live to please people we will fail God. The Lord will test our hearts, so live to please the Lord.
“When you received from us the word of the message of God, you accepted it not as the word of men, but, as it is in truth, the word of God, which also works in you who believe. (1 Thessalonians 2:13) The Bible is different than any other book in the world. All other books are merely the words of men. The Bible is the word of God. Are you seeing it work in your life? You must believe and open your life to receive it. The Bible works powerfully in the lives of those who truly believe.
“And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we also do toward you, (1 Thessalonians 3:12) Our love should be growing. It should increase and oveflow to each other and to all people. Of course, loving others doesn’t mean that we compromise on the truth. We must speak the truth in love. Jesus rebuked the religious leaders because He loved them and they were headed for Hell. If we love someone we must tell them the truth. But always remember God is love and the love of Jesus transformed our world. So, keep growing in love and let your love overflow!
“Because it is God’s purpose that our way of life may be not unclean but holy.” (1 Thessalonians 4:7) God saves us so we can be in Heaven someday but He also wants us to live for Him now. He has called us to be clean and separated from the wickedness in this world. Jesus broke the power of sin to save us from evil so that we might serve Him in purity today!
“But we don’t want you to be ignorant, brothers, concerning those who have fallen asleep, so that you don’t grieve like the rest, who have no hope.” (1 Thessalonians 4:13) Without Christ there is no hope. Death only holds fear, sorrow, and hopelessness. But with Christ there is hope! Jesus Christ has overcome death, hell, and the grave! He has promised eternal life to those who love and serve Him. Jesus fills our hearts with hope through the trials of this life and the hope of Heaven to come.
“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.” (1 Thessalonians 4:17) This is called the Rapture. It is when the Lord Jesus Christ will return and take all of His true followers to be with Him forever. It is our great hope and expectation. What a day that will be. Are you ready to go? Don’t miss it! Repent of all sin and serve Christ with all your heart!
“Respect and honor them in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves.” (1 Thessalonians 5:13) It is a shame the way some ministers are treated by their church people. They are only human and not to be idolized, but because of their position they deserve love, honor, and respect. Don’t be an unruly rebel or a mudslinging slanderer. Pray for your spiritual leaders and give them your honor and love.
“Pray without ceasing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17) What an encouragement to pray! Our goal should be to remain in constant communication with our Lord. Our lives should be lives of prayer. Our world is in desperate need of God’s help. So, strive to pray at all times and for all situations.
“In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus toward you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) A thankful person is so refreshing. Often people are negative and depressing. We have much to be thankful for. So, rejoice for everything the Lord has done for you and in all circumstances be thankful to God.
“Abstain from every appearance of evil.” (1 Thessalonians 5:22) There is so much evil in the world. It comes at us from every side. As a Christian, we must be careful to not be corrupted by the sin that surrounds us. We must keep our minds and hearts focused on Jesus, constantly renewing ourselves in God’s word and prayer, and being with believers in church and fellowship. We should strive to get as close to Jesus as we can and stay away from every form of evil.
“May the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely. May your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thessalonians 5:23) The Lord wants us to live clean lives. He wants to sanctify us and set us apart from evil. Jesus is coming again. Will we be found pure and holy? Make it your prayer. May God purify every part of our soul, spirit,and body. Then we will be blameless at the coming of our Lord!
“He who calls you is faithful, who will also do it.” (1 Thessalonians 5:24) Has the Lord called you to do something. The you can be sure He will help you do it. Spend time in prayer and encourage yourself in the Lord. God is faithful.He will bring it to pass. Jesus will never fail you!
“Brothers, pray for us.” (1 Thessalonians 5:25) Don’t forget to pray for your spiritual leaders. It’s easy to see their faults and just complain. But, they need God’s strength and wisdom. They need your prayers!