Watching Consistently
1 Thessalonians 5
Last week in chapter 4, Paul gave us great comforting words about the "Rapture" of the Church and our reuniting with our loved ones who have gone on before us.
Paul described the never ending day when we will see Jesus.
So what are we to do up until that time?
We are to concentrate on our walk with the Lord!
The saints of God are to live by a certain standard that is laid out before us in the Word of God.
We are to study to be quiet and keep to our own affairs.
We are to study the Word of God and be ready to give anyone an answer from the word of truth, God's Word.
We are to be busy about the things that Jesus Christ commanded us to do.
And we are to watch!
We are to watch for the return of Christ Jesus to get His Church!
But that word watch means more than to keep a keen eye for the return of Christ.
**We are to watch what comes out of our mouths.
**We are to watch how we walk as Christians.
**We are to be on watch, as a guard would, for the things of the Church and the things of the Word of God, as protectors.
**We are to watch, or be alert to the evil of this world we live in.
**We are to watch because we are commanded to do so!
Mar 13:37 And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.
**Watch also means to be prepared!
We must be prepared because we do not know the time of Christ's return.
Let's Begin:
*****1Th 5:1 But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.
1Th 5:2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.
The Apostle Paul ended last weeks lesson telling us that we should find great comfort knowing that when the Lord returns to get His Church, we would be reunited with our loved ones who have gone on before us and also that our souls would be reunited with a glorified body that would allow us to be known in person as we were known while we lived in our flesh, but in perfection.
What is called death in this world is only sleep to the Christian because when the Lord Jesus arose from His own grave He robbed death of it's terror.
1Co 15:54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.
1Co 15:55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?
That loved one in Jesus that has gone on before us is as full of vitality right now on that side as we are on this side and can never die again. They already live in eternity while we still live day by day.
But whether here or there with our love ones, true life is only in the Lord Jesus Christ.
The closer we live to Him the closer we are to them!
That phrase "times and seasons" is only seen one other time and in the Book of Acts.
Act 1:7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.
These are words that Jesus used to answer the disciples who asked this question.
The "times" are periods and points in the future.
Act 17:26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;
Act 17:27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:
The "seasons" are specific points in those time periods.
So when, will these things take place?
The Apostle Paul said there was no need for him to add to what the Lord Jesus had already said about these things.
These things will happen suddenly!
Suddenly means in an unexpected manner. The Lord Jesus already knows exactly what He will do.
The Lord Jesus does not have to prepare for His own coming, He knows exactly when He will return!
Jesus does not have to meditate on His coming.
For those that do not know the Lord their calamity will come suddenly!
Pro 6:15 Therefore shall his calamity come suddenly; suddenly shall he be broken without remedy.
The world truly spends it's days in carelessness and drunkenness.
But the theme of our lesson is "watching"!
We as believers are to spend our days "watching" and Not in carelessness and drunkenness.
The "Day of the Lord" is not just one day.
The "Day of the Lord" can be said to be that period of time after the Rapture of the Church, just described to us in Chapter 4, when God again begins to deal with Israel, beginning with the Tribulation Period and extending through the Second Coming of Christ Jesus to this Earth and His Millennial Reign and even on unto the creation of the New Heaven and the New Earth.
Joe 2:18 Then will the LORD be jealous for his land, and pity his people.
Joe 2:32 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD shall be delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as the LORD hath said, and in the remnant whom the LORD shall call.
Joe 3:1 For, behold, in those days, and in that time, when I shall bring again the captivity of Judah and Jerusalem,
Joe 3:2 I will also gather all nations, and will bring them down into the valley of Jehoshaphat, and will plead with them there for my people and for my heritage Israel, whom they have scattered among the nations, and parted my land.
Joe 3:16 The LORD also shall roar out of Zion, and utter his voice from Jerusalem; and the heavens and the earth shall shake: but the LORD will be the hope of his people, and the strength of the children of Israel.
Joe 3:20 But Judah shall dwell for ever, and Jerusalem from generation to generation.
Joe 3:21 For I will cleanse their blood that I have not cleansed: for the LORD dwelleth in Zion.
How suddenly will this take place?
Jesus said.
Mat 24:38 For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark,
Mat 24:39 And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.
Mat 24:43 But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up.
Luk 17:29 But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all.
Luk 17:30 Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed.
The day of Israel's blessing is also the same day of destruction of Israel's enemies!
We already know that a thief does not announce when he will come but actually takes great precaution to keep that day a secret that only he knows.
The Lord will do the same!
Rev 16:15 Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.
There are no signs to watch for the Rapture of the Church but there are many signs that will be observed before the Lord comes as a thief.
Mat 24:32 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh:
Mat 24:33 So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors.
Mat 24:34 Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled.
Mat 24:35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.
Mat 24:36 But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.
Luk 21:25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;
Luk 21:26 Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.
Luk 21:27 And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.
Luk 21:28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.
Luk 21:29 And he spake to them a parable; Behold the fig tree, and all the trees;
Luk 21:30 When they now shoot forth, ye see and know of your own selves that summer is now nigh at hand.
Luk 21:31 So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand.
Luk 21:32 Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled.
Peter said this:
2Pe 3:10 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.
We already know that many in the world strive for peace.
*****1Th 5:3 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.
"Safety" means "security".
The "Day of the Lord" will burst suddenly on an unsuspecting world at the very time when there is great worldwide concern for peace and security.
We live in such a time right now!
We can see much turmoil in our world today as we approach this time period.
The Bible says there will come "one" who will bring the look of peace but not real peace.
Psa 55:21 The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet were they drawn swords.
This man may even be on the scenes today.
Though the world will be fooled, the Lord will not be fooled.
This is the developing plan promoted by the many New Age cults and movements pushing toward a New World order.
This not a sign for the Rapture of the Church because the Church could be removed at any moment!
This is a sign of the coming "Day of the Lord"!
Paul uses the phrase "for when they shall say" meaning it is not the Word of God, nor the Church that says these things but "those of this lost world".
The phrase "travail upon a woman" means the "day of the Lord" will be as an unexpected thief, but once it begins, it's destruction is as inevitable as the birth of a child is to that woman in travail.
Not one unbeliever will escape the wrath of God!
*****1Th 5:4 But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.
This darkness is "Spiritual Ignorance" and the state of living in sin!
How do we avoid living in the darkness of this world?
Heb 10:25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
This is the command we have of God as we see the "Day of the Lord " approaching.
We need more of the Word of God and not less of it.
We need more comfort and fellowship with all believers and not less of it!
Our hope is in the Lord!
It is the Word of God that will bring us comfort in these last days!
*****1Th 5:5 Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.
1Th 5:6 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.
Children of the light are those "Born Again" children of God and then filled with the Holy Spirit.
Eph 5:8 For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:
Eph 5:9 (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;)
Eph 5:10 Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.
There are times that we all know that we become careless in this world and be asleep to the things of this world when we should be watching for the return of Christ Jesus to get His church.
Paul exhorts us all to watch and be sober that we not be ashamed at His coming!
We should all keep in mind, whay will the Lord find us doing when He returns suddenly.
We must abide in the Lord at all times!
1Jn 2:28 And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.
*****1Th 5:7 For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night.
If we take this verse literal and we should, we will understand that night is the time when sleepers sleep.
Night is also the time when drinking men are usually found to be drunk.
To sleep in the day time would be idle, lazy, and searching for the easy life.
To be drunken by day usually brings with it great shame.
To the Christian, who are to be people of the day, therefore our work should be done openly in daytime time and not secretly in the nighttime.
We cannot be witnesses for Jesus unless we can be seen!
Our conduct and our lifestyle must be open for the world to see!
We must not be ashamed of the "Gospel of Jesus Christ"!
*****1Th 5:8 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.
What are the signs of the true Christian?
Faith and Love!
Col 1:4 Since we heard of your "faith" in Christ Jesus, and of the "love" which ye have to all the saints,
Col 1:5 For the "hope" which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel;
There should be no doubt in our minds that we are in a "spiritual warfare"!
The breastplate and the helmet are the clothing of the soldier in the army of God!
Rom 13:12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.
2Co 6:7 By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,
The breastplate and the helmet defend the two most vital parts of the Christian. The head and the heart.
When our head and heart are right with God then our entire body can be right with God and we can become a weapon in the army of God.
Why?
*****1Th 5:9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,
1Th 5:10 Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.
The Apostle Paul has been discussing the "Day of the Lord" throughout this passage.
The "Day of the Lord" will also be the great "Day of God's Wrath".
Rev 6:17 For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?
Paul has told us about the Rapture which will take place "before this day of wrath".
In the Book of Revelation, this verse in Chapter 6 was only written after the Church was in Heaven.
Rev 4:1 After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.
The "day of wrath" will be upon the ungodly world that is left behind "after" the Rapture of the Church and has been rejected.
The world rejects the standards of God.
The world rejects the Word of God.
The world rejects the work of the Lord Jesus on Calvary's Cross.
The world rejects the forgiveness of God!
To reject God, is then ungodly.
This "Wrath" will not be a time of chastisement and purification of believers!
This "Wrath" will be a judgment and a great tribulation on the ungodly, non-believers!
These are those who remain in bondage to Satan.
2Co 4:4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
God will reclaim His creation but all those that follow Satan must be purged from it!
God has not appointed His Church to wrath but to "deliverance".
The Church will be "Raptured" out of this world before the wrath of God begins!
Previous generations of Christians were also delivered just as stated in last weeks lesson.
Jesus Christ died for believers and "all" believers from the past up until the day of the Rapture will not be appointed to this day of wrath!
We are to find comfort in knowing that we will be reunited with our loved ones and also with Jesus.
But we are also to find comfort in knowing that we will miss out on this time of the wrath of God!
*****1Th 5:11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.
We would not find much comfort if we were watching for the coming wrath and tribulation rather than watching for Christ to come get His Church!
We cannot allow others to twist all these things around to mean something else.
The Lord will return to get His Church before He returns in His wrath to restore His Kingdom.
John wrote:
1Jn 5:13 These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; "that ye may know" that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.
God tells us all these things that we may know!
We may not know the exact day, nor the exact time but we do know that the Lord is coming and we will be going with Him.
We must be thankful to all those that teach the truth of the Word of God and who do not yield to the things of this world!
*****1Th 5:12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;
1Th 5:13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves.
To "beseech" is to implore or to exhort.
These Thessalonians had come to love the Apostle Paul and to beseech would like saying, "as a personal favor".
To "know" is to recognize them for what they are. To have regard for and respect.
Paul was asking these Thessalonians to respect their pastor and their teachers "as a personal favor to him".
After all this was a newly formed church and these men would also be "Babes in Christ".
Jesus said:
Mar 6:4 But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house.
The Apostle Paul ordained elders in every Church soon after it was established and this still seems to be the best method of evangelism even today.
After all Jesus also did this as He sent that "Born Again" demoniac back home to witness to his old friends and family.
Mar 5:19 Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, "Go home to thy friends", and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee.
It is that "change in the way we live" that is our best witnessing tool and those that know us the best will notice that change the most.
We should remember "those that labor" were not called of Paul to do so, they were called of God!
What are the gifts of the Holy Spirit?
Eph 4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
Eph 4:12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
Notice these called of God, were to labor for this new church but also "to be over" and "to admonish", which means to warn, instruct and direct.
These were the God called shepherds "who were appointed and ordained of God", to watch over the flock of God!
These are the God called ministers "who labor in the work of the Lord".
What is the work of the Lord?
1Ti 2:3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
1Ti 2:4 Who will have all men to be saved, and "to come unto the knowledge of the truth".
We must keep the main thing, the main thing and "salvation" of the lost is the main thing!
Since Christ is the head of the Church then those called to do His work are to treated with respect and as the head of the Church until Christ returns to His rightful place.
We should look at this as the command of God and not a suggestion!
But we must not be fooled. Unless that person is teaching the ways of Jesus Christ and His Gospel, then that person has not been called and should not be followed!
Some men have disgraced the office of Pastor and teacher in the Church.
How must the true Pastor labor?
There is physical labor in preaching the "Gospel".
There is intellectual labor in studying God's Word.
There is moral labor in keeping himself right with God.
That man called of God that does these things and fulfills the office of Pastor, should be over the people and esteemed in love.
Why?
Not for their own sake but for the "work's sake".
What else is the church to do?
We are to be at peace among ourselves!
Col 3:12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;
Col 3:13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
Col 3:14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.
Col 3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
Col 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
When the flock of God does what it is supposed to do, then that group of believers will also be involved in the work of God!
It is so easy to allow little things to set one Christian against another and bring strife into the Church where Satan will take advantage of it and the work of the Church will always suffer.
The work of the Church is the same work of Jesus Christ!
*****1Th 5:14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.
Here again Paul is speaking to the Church, the assembly and not the Pastor.
It is the Church, the Body of Christ, that is to police itself.
There are always those in the Church who will want to run things to suit themselves. Some people are wonderful as long as they can have things their own way but when crossed their old nature seems to always return to them.
These people are to be warned by the Body of Christ because they will hinder the work of the Church.
Those that are feebleminded or "faint-hearted" are not courageous and will not want to act quickly but strife simply cannot be allowed to fester into more problems.
And we must always be supportive of all those who lack confidence and boldness and who are weak in the Word of God.
We are to be patient toward all men especially God's babes!
*****1Th 5:15 See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.
A Christian will never retaliate for an evil that has been done to him!
What did Jesus do?
Jesus did nothing but good and suffered because of the good He did.
Rom 12:17 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
Rom 12:18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
It should be a rare thing for this to be impossible to do.
*****1Th 5:16 Rejoice evermore.
How can we rejoice evermore?
We have been saved!
We are Born Again into a new life and into the family of God.
We are saved from eternal damnation.
There are great benefits in serving the Lord, including our home in Heaven.
We will meet Jesus, face to face.
We have hope when we had no hope.
We will be reunited with all our loved ones who also knew Jesus.
We can rejoice in the faith, the hope and the love of God.
But our joy can only begin with our prayers.
*****1Th 5:17 Pray without ceasing.
1Th 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
We can only have joy when we realize that all things that happen to us are for the best.
Rom 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
When did the Apostles rejoice the most?
Act 5:41 And they departed from the presence of the council, "rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name".
We cannot always be on our knees but we should always be in a state of prayer. We must have a daily prayer life. To be honest we should begin each day with prayer.
How can we face this world if we have not put on our armour.
A soldier puts on his armour before he enters the war zone.
A football player puts on his protective equipment before he enters the game.
Remember God already knows what we need, prayer is more about having a conversation with our Father in Heaven than anything else.
Prayer shows the Lord that we know it is only He who can meet our needs!
Prayer says to God, "I love you"!
And there is something else we must not do.
*****1Th 5:19 Quench not the Spirit.
The Greek word used in this verse for the English word "quench" is used 8 times in the New Testament and it every case it refers to fire.
When the Holy Spirit is clearly using a Christian in a ministry to which he is called, he should be encouraged and assisted, not criticized and hindered.
We know this when they speak according to God's Word.
Isa 8:20 To the law and to the testimony: "if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them".
The lost can resist the Holy Spirit but only the saved can "quench" the Holy Spirit who can also be "grieved" by those who are saved.
Eph 4:30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
We "grieve" the Holy Spirit when we are careless in our walk with the Lord!
We "quench" the Holy Spirit when we water down the Word of God by adding to or taking away it's true meaning.
Rev 22:18 For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book:
Rev 22:19 And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.
*****1Th 5:20 Despise not prophesyings.
What is the job of the Pastor?
To exhort, to instruct and to warn.
Col 1:28 Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:
Col 1:29 Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.
To despise is to have a low opinion of the Word of God or to hate the Word of God.
The world is filled with those that hate the Word of God because God has set standards that do never change!
When we as Christians say we love God and then despise His Word, then we do not love the God we say we do!
At the time Paul wrote this epistle there was no New Testament, the early Church only had the Old Testament and those that God had called to preach the "Gospel of Jesus Christ".
To despise the "prophesyings" was to despise the "Gospel" and this is still what the world does today!
But we must insist on the truth of the scriptures.
*****1Th 5:21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.
What is the first test of any man of God?
1Jn 4:1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.
1Jn 4:2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:
1Jn 4:3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.
The Lord Jesus Christ was truly the Messiah to deny this is to deny the true living God!
What else did Paul write?
Gal 1:8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.
Gal 1:9 As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.
Gal 1:10 For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.
How do we hold fast that which is good?
*****1Th 5:22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.
Our testimonies maybe our greatest asset for it may well affect the eternal destiny of those around us!
When we behave like the world or even have the appearance that we are behaving like the world, "we are in the wrong" and living in sin!
Heb 2:1 Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip.
Why are these things so important as we walk the Christian life?
*****1Th 5:23 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.
Every believer is sanctified by the Holy Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit of God working within us that has shown us our need for a Savior.
It is that need of a Savior that led us to Jesus Christ.
Then the Holy Spirit comes to dwell in us and continues the work of sanctification.
We are sanctified.
We are being sanctified.
We will be sanctified to perfection.
Heb 10:14 For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.
Christ Jesus is our sanctification and we are complete in Him!
We are sanctified by the truth!
Joh 17:17 Sanctify them through thy truth: "thy word is truth".
The Word of God will open up the the truth of God!
It is God that forms us to be like Jesus.
It is God who created us in His image!
Man is a trinity within himself.
The spirit is the highest part of man.
The soul is the seat of all emotions.
Our bodies will be glorified the day we meet Jesus.
1Jn 3:2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.
It is God who causes these things to happen and our God is faithful to continue in every work that He starts until it is complete!
*****1Th 5:24 Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.
God is faithful to all His promises but especially to each individual believer!
Php 1:6 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:
To love God is to have that close personal relationship with Him!
Once we answered the call of God to salvation, God will not fall short of completing His design for each of us!
Rom 8:30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.
Our God is faithful!
1Co 1:9 God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.
What else should we all do?
*****1Th 5:25 Brethren, pray for us.
1Th 5:26 Greet all the brethren with an holy kiss.
1Th 5:27 I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read unto all the holy brethren.
1Th 5:28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.
We must pray for all those that serve God.
We should be able to greet each and every child of God with the joy of seeing family. After all, we are all brothers and sisters in Christ because we have the same Father in Heaven.
Our attitudes toward each other must be a holy attitude!
We must all read and study the Word of God.
Without the "Grace" of God we would have all perished in a fiery Hell.
God's Grace bring with it God's peace!
Questions?
Let's Pray!
1 Thessalonians 5
Last week in chapter 4, Paul gave us great comforting words about the "Rapture" of the Church and our reuniting with our loved ones who have gone on before us.
Paul described the never ending day when we will see Jesus.
So what are we to do up until that time?
We are to concentrate on our walk with the Lord!
The saints of God are to live by a certain standard that is laid out before us in the Word of God.
We are to study to be quiet and keep to our own affairs.
We are to study the Word of God and be ready to give anyone an answer from the word of truth, God's Word.
We are to be busy about the things that Jesus Christ commanded us to do.
And we are to watch!
We are to watch for the return of Christ Jesus to get His Church!
But that word watch means more than to keep a keen eye for the return of Christ.
**We are to watch what comes out of our mouths.
**We are to watch how we walk as Christians.
**We are to be on watch, as a guard would, for the things of the Church and the things of the Word of God, as protectors.
**We are to watch, or be alert to the evil of this world we live in.
**We are to watch because we are commanded to do so!
Mar 13:37 And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.
**Watch also means to be prepared!
We must be prepared because we do not know the time of Christ's return.
Let's Begin:
*****1Th 5:1 But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.
1Th 5:2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.
The Apostle Paul ended last weeks lesson telling us that we should find great comfort knowing that when the Lord returns to get His Church, we would be reunited with our loved ones who have gone on before us and also that our souls would be reunited with a glorified body that would allow us to be known in person as we were known while we lived in our flesh, but in perfection.
What is called death in this world is only sleep to the Christian because when the Lord Jesus arose from His own grave He robbed death of it's terror.
1Co 15:54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.
1Co 15:55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?
That loved one in Jesus that has gone on before us is as full of vitality right now on that side as we are on this side and can never die again. They already live in eternity while we still live day by day.
But whether here or there with our love ones, true life is only in the Lord Jesus Christ.
The closer we live to Him the closer we are to them!
That phrase "times and seasons" is only seen one other time and in the Book of Acts.
Act 1:7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.
These are words that Jesus used to answer the disciples who asked this question.
The "times" are periods and points in the future.
Act 17:26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;
Act 17:27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:
The "seasons" are specific points in those time periods.
So when, will these things take place?
The Apostle Paul said there was no need for him to add to what the Lord Jesus had already said about these things.
These things will happen suddenly!
Suddenly means in an unexpected manner. The Lord Jesus already knows exactly what He will do.
The Lord Jesus does not have to prepare for His own coming, He knows exactly when He will return!
Jesus does not have to meditate on His coming.
For those that do not know the Lord their calamity will come suddenly!
Pro 6:15 Therefore shall his calamity come suddenly; suddenly shall he be broken without remedy.
The world truly spends it's days in carelessness and drunkenness.
But the theme of our lesson is "watching"!
We as believers are to spend our days "watching" and Not in carelessness and drunkenness.
The "Day of the Lord" is not just one day.
The "Day of the Lord" can be said to be that period of time after the Rapture of the Church, just described to us in Chapter 4, when God again begins to deal with Israel, beginning with the Tribulation Period and extending through the Second Coming of Christ Jesus to this Earth and His Millennial Reign and even on unto the creation of the New Heaven and the New Earth.
Joe 2:18 Then will the LORD be jealous for his land, and pity his people.
Joe 2:32 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD shall be delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as the LORD hath said, and in the remnant whom the LORD shall call.
Joe 3:1 For, behold, in those days, and in that time, when I shall bring again the captivity of Judah and Jerusalem,
Joe 3:2 I will also gather all nations, and will bring them down into the valley of Jehoshaphat, and will plead with them there for my people and for my heritage Israel, whom they have scattered among the nations, and parted my land.
Joe 3:16 The LORD also shall roar out of Zion, and utter his voice from Jerusalem; and the heavens and the earth shall shake: but the LORD will be the hope of his people, and the strength of the children of Israel.
Joe 3:20 But Judah shall dwell for ever, and Jerusalem from generation to generation.
Joe 3:21 For I will cleanse their blood that I have not cleansed: for the LORD dwelleth in Zion.
How suddenly will this take place?
Jesus said.
Mat 24:38 For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark,
Mat 24:39 And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.
Mat 24:43 But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up.
Luk 17:29 But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all.
Luk 17:30 Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed.
The day of Israel's blessing is also the same day of destruction of Israel's enemies!
We already know that a thief does not announce when he will come but actually takes great precaution to keep that day a secret that only he knows.
The Lord will do the same!
Rev 16:15 Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.
There are no signs to watch for the Rapture of the Church but there are many signs that will be observed before the Lord comes as a thief.
Mat 24:32 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh:
Mat 24:33 So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors.
Mat 24:34 Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled.
Mat 24:35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.
Mat 24:36 But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.
Luk 21:25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;
Luk 21:26 Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.
Luk 21:27 And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.
Luk 21:28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.
Luk 21:29 And he spake to them a parable; Behold the fig tree, and all the trees;
Luk 21:30 When they now shoot forth, ye see and know of your own selves that summer is now nigh at hand.
Luk 21:31 So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand.
Luk 21:32 Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled.
Peter said this:
2Pe 3:10 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.
We already know that many in the world strive for peace.
*****1Th 5:3 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.
"Safety" means "security".
The "Day of the Lord" will burst suddenly on an unsuspecting world at the very time when there is great worldwide concern for peace and security.
We live in such a time right now!
We can see much turmoil in our world today as we approach this time period.
The Bible says there will come "one" who will bring the look of peace but not real peace.
Psa 55:21 The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet were they drawn swords.
This man may even be on the scenes today.
Though the world will be fooled, the Lord will not be fooled.
This is the developing plan promoted by the many New Age cults and movements pushing toward a New World order.
This not a sign for the Rapture of the Church because the Church could be removed at any moment!
This is a sign of the coming "Day of the Lord"!
Paul uses the phrase "for when they shall say" meaning it is not the Word of God, nor the Church that says these things but "those of this lost world".
The phrase "travail upon a woman" means the "day of the Lord" will be as an unexpected thief, but once it begins, it's destruction is as inevitable as the birth of a child is to that woman in travail.
Not one unbeliever will escape the wrath of God!
*****1Th 5:4 But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.
This darkness is "Spiritual Ignorance" and the state of living in sin!
How do we avoid living in the darkness of this world?
Heb 10:25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
This is the command we have of God as we see the "Day of the Lord " approaching.
We need more of the Word of God and not less of it.
We need more comfort and fellowship with all believers and not less of it!
Our hope is in the Lord!
It is the Word of God that will bring us comfort in these last days!
*****1Th 5:5 Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.
1Th 5:6 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.
Children of the light are those "Born Again" children of God and then filled with the Holy Spirit.
Eph 5:8 For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:
Eph 5:9 (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;)
Eph 5:10 Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.
There are times that we all know that we become careless in this world and be asleep to the things of this world when we should be watching for the return of Christ Jesus to get His church.
Paul exhorts us all to watch and be sober that we not be ashamed at His coming!
We should all keep in mind, whay will the Lord find us doing when He returns suddenly.
We must abide in the Lord at all times!
1Jn 2:28 And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.
*****1Th 5:7 For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night.
If we take this verse literal and we should, we will understand that night is the time when sleepers sleep.
Night is also the time when drinking men are usually found to be drunk.
To sleep in the day time would be idle, lazy, and searching for the easy life.
To be drunken by day usually brings with it great shame.
To the Christian, who are to be people of the day, therefore our work should be done openly in daytime time and not secretly in the nighttime.
We cannot be witnesses for Jesus unless we can be seen!
Our conduct and our lifestyle must be open for the world to see!
We must not be ashamed of the "Gospel of Jesus Christ"!
*****1Th 5:8 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.
What are the signs of the true Christian?
Faith and Love!
Col 1:4 Since we heard of your "faith" in Christ Jesus, and of the "love" which ye have to all the saints,
Col 1:5 For the "hope" which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel;
There should be no doubt in our minds that we are in a "spiritual warfare"!
The breastplate and the helmet are the clothing of the soldier in the army of God!
Rom 13:12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.
2Co 6:7 By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,
The breastplate and the helmet defend the two most vital parts of the Christian. The head and the heart.
When our head and heart are right with God then our entire body can be right with God and we can become a weapon in the army of God.
Why?
*****1Th 5:9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,
1Th 5:10 Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.
The Apostle Paul has been discussing the "Day of the Lord" throughout this passage.
The "Day of the Lord" will also be the great "Day of God's Wrath".
Rev 6:17 For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?
Paul has told us about the Rapture which will take place "before this day of wrath".
In the Book of Revelation, this verse in Chapter 6 was only written after the Church was in Heaven.
Rev 4:1 After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.
The "day of wrath" will be upon the ungodly world that is left behind "after" the Rapture of the Church and has been rejected.
The world rejects the standards of God.
The world rejects the Word of God.
The world rejects the work of the Lord Jesus on Calvary's Cross.
The world rejects the forgiveness of God!
To reject God, is then ungodly.
This "Wrath" will not be a time of chastisement and purification of believers!
This "Wrath" will be a judgment and a great tribulation on the ungodly, non-believers!
These are those who remain in bondage to Satan.
2Co 4:4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
God will reclaim His creation but all those that follow Satan must be purged from it!
God has not appointed His Church to wrath but to "deliverance".
The Church will be "Raptured" out of this world before the wrath of God begins!
Previous generations of Christians were also delivered just as stated in last weeks lesson.
Jesus Christ died for believers and "all" believers from the past up until the day of the Rapture will not be appointed to this day of wrath!
We are to find comfort in knowing that we will be reunited with our loved ones and also with Jesus.
But we are also to find comfort in knowing that we will miss out on this time of the wrath of God!
*****1Th 5:11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.
We would not find much comfort if we were watching for the coming wrath and tribulation rather than watching for Christ to come get His Church!
We cannot allow others to twist all these things around to mean something else.
The Lord will return to get His Church before He returns in His wrath to restore His Kingdom.
John wrote:
1Jn 5:13 These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; "that ye may know" that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.
God tells us all these things that we may know!
We may not know the exact day, nor the exact time but we do know that the Lord is coming and we will be going with Him.
We must be thankful to all those that teach the truth of the Word of God and who do not yield to the things of this world!
*****1Th 5:12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;
1Th 5:13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves.
To "beseech" is to implore or to exhort.
These Thessalonians had come to love the Apostle Paul and to beseech would like saying, "as a personal favor".
To "know" is to recognize them for what they are. To have regard for and respect.
Paul was asking these Thessalonians to respect their pastor and their teachers "as a personal favor to him".
After all this was a newly formed church and these men would also be "Babes in Christ".
Jesus said:
Mar 6:4 But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house.
The Apostle Paul ordained elders in every Church soon after it was established and this still seems to be the best method of evangelism even today.
After all Jesus also did this as He sent that "Born Again" demoniac back home to witness to his old friends and family.
Mar 5:19 Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, "Go home to thy friends", and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee.
It is that "change in the way we live" that is our best witnessing tool and those that know us the best will notice that change the most.
We should remember "those that labor" were not called of Paul to do so, they were called of God!
What are the gifts of the Holy Spirit?
Eph 4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
Eph 4:12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
Notice these called of God, were to labor for this new church but also "to be over" and "to admonish", which means to warn, instruct and direct.
These were the God called shepherds "who were appointed and ordained of God", to watch over the flock of God!
These are the God called ministers "who labor in the work of the Lord".
What is the work of the Lord?
1Ti 2:3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
1Ti 2:4 Who will have all men to be saved, and "to come unto the knowledge of the truth".
We must keep the main thing, the main thing and "salvation" of the lost is the main thing!
Since Christ is the head of the Church then those called to do His work are to treated with respect and as the head of the Church until Christ returns to His rightful place.
We should look at this as the command of God and not a suggestion!
But we must not be fooled. Unless that person is teaching the ways of Jesus Christ and His Gospel, then that person has not been called and should not be followed!
Some men have disgraced the office of Pastor and teacher in the Church.
How must the true Pastor labor?
There is physical labor in preaching the "Gospel".
There is intellectual labor in studying God's Word.
There is moral labor in keeping himself right with God.
That man called of God that does these things and fulfills the office of Pastor, should be over the people and esteemed in love.
Why?
Not for their own sake but for the "work's sake".
What else is the church to do?
We are to be at peace among ourselves!
Col 3:12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;
Col 3:13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
Col 3:14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.
Col 3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
Col 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
When the flock of God does what it is supposed to do, then that group of believers will also be involved in the work of God!
It is so easy to allow little things to set one Christian against another and bring strife into the Church where Satan will take advantage of it and the work of the Church will always suffer.
The work of the Church is the same work of Jesus Christ!
*****1Th 5:14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.
Here again Paul is speaking to the Church, the assembly and not the Pastor.
It is the Church, the Body of Christ, that is to police itself.
There are always those in the Church who will want to run things to suit themselves. Some people are wonderful as long as they can have things their own way but when crossed their old nature seems to always return to them.
These people are to be warned by the Body of Christ because they will hinder the work of the Church.
Those that are feebleminded or "faint-hearted" are not courageous and will not want to act quickly but strife simply cannot be allowed to fester into more problems.
And we must always be supportive of all those who lack confidence and boldness and who are weak in the Word of God.
We are to be patient toward all men especially God's babes!
*****1Th 5:15 See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.
A Christian will never retaliate for an evil that has been done to him!
What did Jesus do?
Jesus did nothing but good and suffered because of the good He did.
Rom 12:17 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
Rom 12:18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
It should be a rare thing for this to be impossible to do.
*****1Th 5:16 Rejoice evermore.
How can we rejoice evermore?
We have been saved!
We are Born Again into a new life and into the family of God.
We are saved from eternal damnation.
There are great benefits in serving the Lord, including our home in Heaven.
We will meet Jesus, face to face.
We have hope when we had no hope.
We will be reunited with all our loved ones who also knew Jesus.
We can rejoice in the faith, the hope and the love of God.
But our joy can only begin with our prayers.
*****1Th 5:17 Pray without ceasing.
1Th 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
We can only have joy when we realize that all things that happen to us are for the best.
Rom 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
When did the Apostles rejoice the most?
Act 5:41 And they departed from the presence of the council, "rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name".
We cannot always be on our knees but we should always be in a state of prayer. We must have a daily prayer life. To be honest we should begin each day with prayer.
How can we face this world if we have not put on our armour.
A soldier puts on his armour before he enters the war zone.
A football player puts on his protective equipment before he enters the game.
Remember God already knows what we need, prayer is more about having a conversation with our Father in Heaven than anything else.
Prayer shows the Lord that we know it is only He who can meet our needs!
Prayer says to God, "I love you"!
And there is something else we must not do.
*****1Th 5:19 Quench not the Spirit.
The Greek word used in this verse for the English word "quench" is used 8 times in the New Testament and it every case it refers to fire.
When the Holy Spirit is clearly using a Christian in a ministry to which he is called, he should be encouraged and assisted, not criticized and hindered.
We know this when they speak according to God's Word.
Isa 8:20 To the law and to the testimony: "if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them".
The lost can resist the Holy Spirit but only the saved can "quench" the Holy Spirit who can also be "grieved" by those who are saved.
Eph 4:30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
We "grieve" the Holy Spirit when we are careless in our walk with the Lord!
We "quench" the Holy Spirit when we water down the Word of God by adding to or taking away it's true meaning.
Rev 22:18 For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book:
Rev 22:19 And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.
*****1Th 5:20 Despise not prophesyings.
What is the job of the Pastor?
To exhort, to instruct and to warn.
Col 1:28 Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:
Col 1:29 Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.
To despise is to have a low opinion of the Word of God or to hate the Word of God.
The world is filled with those that hate the Word of God because God has set standards that do never change!
When we as Christians say we love God and then despise His Word, then we do not love the God we say we do!
At the time Paul wrote this epistle there was no New Testament, the early Church only had the Old Testament and those that God had called to preach the "Gospel of Jesus Christ".
To despise the "prophesyings" was to despise the "Gospel" and this is still what the world does today!
But we must insist on the truth of the scriptures.
*****1Th 5:21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.
What is the first test of any man of God?
1Jn 4:1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.
1Jn 4:2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:
1Jn 4:3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.
The Lord Jesus Christ was truly the Messiah to deny this is to deny the true living God!
What else did Paul write?
Gal 1:8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.
Gal 1:9 As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.
Gal 1:10 For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.
How do we hold fast that which is good?
*****1Th 5:22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.
Our testimonies maybe our greatest asset for it may well affect the eternal destiny of those around us!
When we behave like the world or even have the appearance that we are behaving like the world, "we are in the wrong" and living in sin!
Heb 2:1 Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip.
Why are these things so important as we walk the Christian life?
*****1Th 5:23 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.
Every believer is sanctified by the Holy Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit of God working within us that has shown us our need for a Savior.
It is that need of a Savior that led us to Jesus Christ.
Then the Holy Spirit comes to dwell in us and continues the work of sanctification.
We are sanctified.
We are being sanctified.
We will be sanctified to perfection.
Heb 10:14 For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.
Christ Jesus is our sanctification and we are complete in Him!
We are sanctified by the truth!
Joh 17:17 Sanctify them through thy truth: "thy word is truth".
The Word of God will open up the the truth of God!
It is God that forms us to be like Jesus.
It is God who created us in His image!
Man is a trinity within himself.
The spirit is the highest part of man.
The soul is the seat of all emotions.
Our bodies will be glorified the day we meet Jesus.
1Jn 3:2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.
It is God who causes these things to happen and our God is faithful to continue in every work that He starts until it is complete!
*****1Th 5:24 Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.
God is faithful to all His promises but especially to each individual believer!
Php 1:6 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:
To love God is to have that close personal relationship with Him!
Once we answered the call of God to salvation, God will not fall short of completing His design for each of us!
Rom 8:30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.
Our God is faithful!
1Co 1:9 God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.
What else should we all do?
*****1Th 5:25 Brethren, pray for us.
1Th 5:26 Greet all the brethren with an holy kiss.
1Th 5:27 I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read unto all the holy brethren.
1Th 5:28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.
We must pray for all those that serve God.
We should be able to greet each and every child of God with the joy of seeing family. After all, we are all brothers and sisters in Christ because we have the same Father in Heaven.
Our attitudes toward each other must be a holy attitude!
We must all read and study the Word of God.
Without the "Grace" of God we would have all perished in a fiery Hell.
God's Grace bring with it God's peace!
Questions?
Let's Pray!
