1 Thessalonians Chapter 5:12-28 Respect for Leaders, Love Among Peers, A Life of Gratitude and Joy, Seeking God’s Protection Until Christ’s Return
A Church is not a building but a community of believers in Christ.
John 13:35 "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
A. Respecting Leaders:
Verses 12-13
Brothers and sisters, we urge you to honor those who work hard among you, who lead you in the Lord and instruct you.
Because of their work, you should show them extra respect and love.
You should live in peace with one another, as peace brings joy to leaders.
Question 1: What is our attitude toward church leaders?
B. Helping Peers:
Verse 14
Brothers and sisters, we urge you:
- Warn those who are idle.
- Encourage those who are disheartened.
- Help those who are weak.
- Be patient with everyone.
Verse 15 - Do not repay evil for evil to anyone.
- Always strive for what is good for each other and for everyone else.
Question 2: How do we show love to our brothers and sisters?
Answer: Follow steps #1-#6 above.
C. Personal Conduct: Joy & Gratitude
Verses 16-22
16. Rejoice always, regardless of circumstances.
17. Pray continually—when worried, turn to prayer.
18. Give thanks in all things—gratitude brings joy.
This is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
- Do not quench the Spirit—follow the Spirit’s lead, discerning between your own thoughts and the Spirit’s guidance.
- Do not treat prophecies with contempt—prophecies encourage and warn us, but be cautious of false prophets.
- Test everything—do not accept things blindly; verify right from wrong.
- Avoid every kind of evil.
Question 3: What attitudes and behaviors lead us to victory?
D. Blessing:
Verse 23
May the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely—sanctification is a process of continual improvement.
May your entire being—spirit, soul, and body—be kept blameless until the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
---We are spirits with a soul (mind, emotions, and will) that resides in a body.
Verse 24
The One who calls you is faithful, and He will bring it to pass.
--- It is Jesus who purifies us. Trusting Jesus to cause us to change.
(Ephesians 5:26-27) He cleanses the Church with the washing of water by the Word to make it holy and without blemish, a glorious Church.
Jesus is coming for a purified church --- His bride.
E. Prayer:
Verses 25-28
Brothers and sisters, please pray for us.
Greet all the brothers and sisters with a holy kiss, building a relationship of holiness.
I charge you by the Lord to read this letter to all brothers and sisters.
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
---
Prayer:
Thank You, Heavenly Father. You will keep us holy and prepare us to meet Christ at His return. We respect our leaders, love our peers, and live a life of gratitude and joy—a testimony that draws others to faith in You. To You be the glory. Amen.
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