1 Thessalonians 5

1 Thessalonians 5:1

People often ask why we spend so much time studying prophecy. There are two reasons. First, one-third of the Bible is prophetic, so we will inevitably encounter a great deal of prophecy as we journey through the Word. Second, we study prophecy because the present times and seasons point to the coming of Christ.

1 Thessalonians 5:2

“Wait a minute,” you say. “Doesn’t verse 1Th_5:2which says the Lord’s return will come as stealthily as a thief in the nightcontradict verse 1Th_5:1, which says the time of His return is predictable?” Read on.

1 Thessalonians 5:3

It is only the unbelievers who are in the dark concerning the Lord’s return. Believers, on the other hand, know what’s really happening. Comfort one another, says Paul, with the reminder that the Lord’s coming is near. At the same time, realize the dark times and the seasons before the Rapture will become increasingly treacherous.

1 Thessalonians 5:7

Where do we get faith? Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God (Rom_10:17). The only way we will be strong in faith is to stay in the Word. If you put on the breastplate of faith and love and the helmet of hope and salvation, you will constantly live in the hope that the Lord is coming soon.

1 Thessalonians 5:9

Paul says, “God has not appointed us to wrath.” Why? Is it because we’re so cool? Is it because we’re so good? No. The wrath that should come down on us was poured out on Jesus Christ when He took our place on the Cross. Consequently, we are not ordained for the wrath of the Lamb, but for His marvelous, glorious work of salvation.

1 Thessalonians 5:11

As Paul begins to close his first letter to the Thessalonians, he does so with a series of practical exhortations intended to refine their walk.

1 Thessalonians 5:12

We are to think highly of those who are called to instruct, admonish, or challenge us in the Name of the Lordnot because of their personalities, but because of their position; not because of who they are, but because of the invaluable work they do.

1 Thessalonians 5:14

The four injunctions Paul gives provide a wonderful picture of true ministry: Clearly warn those whose behavior is out of line with the way of the Lord. Comfort those who have a hard time understanding the will of the Lord. Support those who are weak in the Lord. Show patience to alleven to those who don’t know the Lord.

1 Thessalonians 5:15

Don’t be evil. Follow that which is good, both to those within the Christian community, and those without.

1 Thessalonians 5:16

What is God’s will? Paul succinctly defines it as praying without ceasing, giving thanks in everything and rejoicing forevermore.

1 Thessalonians 5:19

Some scoff at the gift of tongues or words of wisdom. They do so to their own spiritual poverty because those who fail to acknowledge the manifestations of the Spirit actually quench His presence in their own lives.

1 Thessalonians 5:21

If you want to be used by the Lord, you must deal with the issue of appearances. You might be innocent, but if anything you’re doing even appears evil, it can compromise your usefulness.

1 Thessalonians 5:23

“I pray for you,” writes Paul, “and I know God will see you through because He is faithful.”