Paul begins this chapter with much of the same focus on his thankfulness in the Thessalonian church. We see that the Thessalonians are still enduring trials and persecutions, but that they are enduring (1:4). Paul also reminds the church of Christ’s return, and the judgment to come.
These are a reminder for us to pray for
LOVE & HOLINESS.
We’re excited about what God is doing!
When Jason was in college he interned for a small business and by God’s grace had a Christian boss. Other non-believing co-workers, with long tenure, instantly noticed a connection between Jason and the boss. Not as a point of jealousy, but that because they were Christians, even though they knew each other a short time, they quickly had relationship. We all serve one God and fellowship comes freely between believers even when you first meet them.
In this chapter Paul presents a defense of his ministry to the Thessalonians (v. 1-12). This section may seem a little odd at first glance, which is why we must dive into the context. As we remember from Pastor Erich’s sermon two weeks ago, Paul initially visited the Thessalonians in Acts 17 and is now writing a letter after some time. In Acts 17:5-6 we see that Paul had many accusers in the city:
SERIES BEGINS JANUARY 15
What are you looking forward to?
What are you worried about?
Both have to do with the FUTURE. We are future-oriented people… and how we think about the future shapes how we live now. In this series in 1 & 2 Thessalonians, we’ll see what God says about Later and what it means for how we live Now.
Let’s explore Now and Later together.