1 Thessalonians
Paul’s letter to the Thessalonian church portrayed a healthy church that he hoped could even get healthier. In light of Christ’s return and the promise of heaven, this church could stand strong in the culture and make a difference in every context in which God placed them. At this critical time in our church’s life, it is important for us to become even more heavenly-minded for earthly good.
Thanking God for This Church
Paul planted a church in Thessalonica, and, years later, he wrote them to express his genuine gratitude and persistent prayer for the congregation. As we look around our church family, we can also stand in awe of what Christ has done and anticipate what He will do.
Imitation Is the Sincerest Form of Discipleship
More than lessons to learn, we need examples to follow. The most accurate form of discipleship is when we are intentional about life-on-life imitation.
The Church That Won’t Stay Inside
If God is doing work inside a church, those who are outside should truly feel the effects of it. As we wait for the return of Christ, we should be the type of disciples unwilling to keep Kingdom activity within the walls of a church building.
The Only Approval Required (Nick Jefson)
When we live our lives for Jesus, He is the only affirmation we need to receive. If we can maintain the perspective that we live for an audience of one, we can seek to please Him in every aspect of our lives.
The Only Approval Required (Ben Johnson)
When we live our lives for Jesus, He is the only affirmation we need to receive. If we can maintain the perspective that we live for an audience of one, we can seek to please Him in every aspect of our lives.
The Only Approval Required (Travis Agnew)
When we live our lives for Jesus, He is the only affirmation we need to receive. If we can maintain the perspective that we live for an audience of one, we can seek to please Him in every aspect of our lives.
Everyone Discipling Someone
If we genuinely care for others, we will prioritize their spiritual development. It is hard to fathom the impact we could see if everyone took the responsibility to disciple at least one other person.
Scriptural Standard
In every culture, people’s opinions are rampant and varied, but we need the consistent, reliable source of truth found in the Word of God. Scripture is our sole standard as we seek to live for Jesus.
Spiritual Warfare and Kingdom Advancement
When we engage in ministry, we encounter opposition potentially originating from Satan and his forces. We must open our eyes to the conflict hindering us from knowing how to push forward.
Beware the Temptation that Accompanies Affliction
With great affliction comes numerous opportunities to give in to temptation. As believers, we must be careful not to surrender to the flesh when we become overwhelmed.
We All Need Somebody
Within the Body of Christ, we experience the gift of mutual encouragement. Through the challenges of this life, we need to support each other and seek to support each other.
Keep Making Progress
The Christian life is more of a journey than a destination. For all the progress you have made, keep going forward as you follow after Jesus and make adjustments to your life.
God’s Will Regarding Your Purity
All of us want to know God’s will for our lives, and God graciously defines it in many ways – including our purity. God desires that we would grow in Christ and not be sidetracked by lust and immorality.
Disregarding the Holy Spirit
When we succumb to temptation, we surrender to our desires and reject the will of the Holy Spirit. God’s presence in our lives helps us fight back wandering ways.
Your 9 to 5 for the Kingdom of God
Even in light of Christ’s imminent return, we should not quit our jobs and cease providing value to our communities. God expects us to remain productive and ensure that our jobs are an outlet for ministry rather than an obstruction.
We Grieve with Hope
As we deal with the pain of losing others to death, our mourning should be different from that of the world. While we grieve, we must always maintain hope because we know the promises of God.
When Jesus Comes Back
While we don’t know exactly when Jesus will return, we are confident that He will. The reality of Jesus’ second coming helps keep us in the light amid all the darkness of this world.
Jesus Died So We Can Live
Jesus absorbed the wrath of God so that we need not fear its consequences for our lives. Through the death and resurrection of Jesus, we can truly come to life.
Embracing Your Church as Family
If we learn to embrace a church as a family, we can navigate all relationships and situations within. Jesus did not leave us on our own to follow Him, so we need to learn how to encourage one another to continue.
Three Decisions That Will Change Your Life
God’s Word encourages us to make decisions that change us even if they cannot change our situation. We must learn to rejoice, pray, and give thanks in all circumstances
Practicing Spiritual Discernment
We live in a time where we have plentiful access to spiritual direction, but not all of it is from God. A disciple of Jesus needs to practice spiritual discernment in confusing religious times.
God Hasn’t Given Up on You
While we haven’t arrived at God’s destination for our lives, we should watch for signs to determine if we are getting there. God hasn’t given up on us, and He will continue to work on us until He finishes what He started.
How to Be a Great Church Member
To be a part of a local church means that we give and we receive for the mutual benefit of all members. Discover what differentiates between a stagnate and supportive disciple within this church.