1 Thessalonians by Mike Sullivan (2018)

Once we've heard the good news about Jesus' sacrifice and God's grace, what comes next? It's tempting to change the gospel in order to make it more appealing to people (such as salvation through works, not faith). But when the gospel is used properly, it can be a powerful tool for serving in difficult circumstances and encouraging others to grow.

Paul encourages the Thessalonians to accept and obey the Bible as the Word of God. But is it really from God, or merely written by men? Evidence for the authenticity of the New Testament as the inspired Word of God is examined.

Paul rejoices after hearing news that the church he planted in Thessalonica is doing well. Christians can examine the characteristics of his successful ministry team to form a model for our teams today.

God has a high view of sex. God designed sex for the purposes of reproduction, oneness between a husband and wife, and for pleasure. He calls us to turn from anything outside of that (porneia.) To do that we must: 1) trust God; 2) realize hope; 3) build healthy relationships with other Christians; 4) take the first step.

The winsome Christian life as seen through three aspects: (1) leading a quiet life, (2) attending to your own, and (3) your work.

Christians grieve death in a different way, with hope. Mike discusses our basis for this hope, how we will be reunited with Christ and other believers in heaven, and how we should respond to this hope.

Paul continues his discussion of what will happen at the end of history. He describes "the Day of the Lord," when Christ will return to judge and eradicate evil. Though the Bible makes clear no one can know when that time will come, we can prepare for it by receiving Jesus' salvation and being watchfully alert and sober.

Paul encourages believers to have a personal relationship with God--one that involves both talking and listening to God as a friend. Our talking to God should be characterized by joy and gratitude (in addition to sharing struggles), and when we listen to God, we should be careful not to quench the Spirit, but instead, to be in tune with and carefully evaluate prophetic utterances from other Christians.

Paul ends his letter to the Thessalonians by praying for them--asking God to sanctify them, and reminding them that God is faithful to do what He has promised. God has also promised to sanctify us, and while He is the one who does the work, we have an active role to play as well.

What led the people of Thessalonica to become followers of Jesus? The messengers (Paul, Timothy, Silas and others) were dedicated, worked as a team and used evidence when they talked about God and Jesus. God pursued them and provided power and conviction. And the recipients were open to hearing the message and making their own decision. They were then motivated to share the gospel with others.