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Open your Bibles this evening to Acts 17.

We are going to be different tonight. You will find that this evening will be more like a lecture than like a sermon. This is purposeful. I would like to visit 1st Thessalonians one last time.

A few weeks ago, after I preached my last message on 1 Thessalonians, I was asked, "Do you feel like you have 1 Thessalonians." I said, "Yes, I do." And I want to do everything that I can do to see to it that you might have 1 Thessalonians also. So, tonight, we will come back to 1 Thessalonians for one last time in an effort to review the entire letter. You will certainly find it helpful to refer to the outline I handed out to you this evening. (The outline is included at the end of this sermon).

Recently, I have heard John MacArthur on the radio give his "Jet tours" through books of the Bible. He takes one minute to go through each book of the Bible. Our tour tonight will take approximately 45 minutes.

When we finish the tour, I would like to obey the apostle Paul, who said, "I adjure you by the Lord to have this letter read to all the brethren" (1 Thess. 5:27). I will conclude our series on 1 Thessalonians by reading the entire letter. If the apostle Paul believed that this epistle was profitable to be read in the assembly of the church of the Thessalonians it is certainly profitable for us this morning.

Historical Background: Acts 17:1-9

Let us begin with where Paul began. Paul arrives in Thessalonica around 51 or 52 AD. He is on his 2nd missionary journey. His desire is to preach the gospel to the Thessalonians, and establish a church there. His strategy was always the same: "To the Jew first and also to the Greek." This has been called "Primitive Evangelistic Policy." His pattern was often the same:

1. Synagogue (i.e. the Jews)
2. Gentiles
3. Persecution

We saw this pattern in Psidian Antioch (Acts 13), Antioch (Acts 14), Philippi (Acts 16), and in Thessalonica (Acts 17). For the sake of completeness, let's read Acts 17:1-9.

Acts 17:1-9
1. Now when they had traveled through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue of the Jews.
2 And according to Paul's custom, he went to them, and for three Sabbaths reasoned with them from the Scriptures,
3 explaining and giving evidence that the Christ had to suffer and rise again from the dead, and [saying,] "This Jesus whom I am proclaiming to you is the Christ."
4 And some of them were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, along with a great multitude of the God-fearing Greeks and a number of the leading women.
5 But the Jews, becoming jealous and taking along some wicked men from the market place, formed a mob and set the city in an uproar; and coming upon the house of Jason, they were seeking to bring them out to the people.
6 And when they did not find them, they [began] dragging Jason and some brethren before the city authorities, shouting, "These men who have upset the world have come here also;
7 and Jason has welcomed them, and they all act contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying that there is another king, Jesus."
8 And they stirred up the crowd and the city authorities who heard these things.
9 And when they had received a pledge from Jason and the others, they released them.

We see the same pattern of Paul's experiences in every city in which he went.

1. Synagogue (17:1-2)
2. Gentiles (17:4)
3. Persecution (17:5-9)

With respect to application for us, let me simply say a few things. Paul's desire was about establishing and strengthening churches. Our ministry (here in Rockford) is about establishing and strengthening churches.

With respect to strategy, when Paul entered cities, he went where people were interested in hearing spiritual things. When he was rejected, he went elsewhere. In Paul's day, those who were interested in spiritual things were the Jews. When they rejected his message, he turned to the Gentiles.

Our ministry here in Rockford is about speaking forth the gospel of Christ. We want to find those who are interested in the message of repentance and forgiveness found in Jesus Christ. We need to find "the interested." When people reject the message, we simply carry on elsewhere to other people.

Back to Thessalonica. When the persecution came, Paul and Silas were forced to leave town. Luke records for us, "The brethren immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea" (Acts 17:10). This verse sheds light on the key to understanding 1st Thessalonians: Paul was forced to leave the city. He couldn't say goodbye. He couldn't explain why he left. He couldn't give anybody last parting advice. He was "expelled" from the city.

This produced in Paul a great concern for how the Thessalonians were doing. He didn't know if their faith would stand. He was worried that they were stony-ground hearers of whom Jesus spoke, "who received the word with joy, but has no firm root in himself ... when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he falls away" (Matt. 13:20-21). Paul was so concerned for their faith that he tried to return, but was thwarted by Satan from doing so (1 Thess. 2:18). When all of his efforts to return failed, he sent Timothy to find out about their faith. In Acts 18:5, we see Paul and Timothy reunited after Timothy's visit to Thessalonica (Acts 18:5). Timothy comes back with the good news that their faith has endured (1 Thess. 3:6).

Turn now to 1 Thessalonians.

I believe that any study of 1 Thessalonians must begin with 3:6, because it gives the entire context of the reason why Paul wrote this letter. When Timothy returned and related to Paul the good news from Thessalonica, Paul's immediate response is to write this letter to the church of the Thessalonians. This letter was probably within only a few months of his departure from them.

Furthermore, we must remember that Paul's expulsion from Thessalonica created two concerns in his mind. ...

1. Paul was concerned for the authenticity of their faith. He writes chapter 1 in response to Timothy's report.
2. Paul was concerned for his reputation, because of what implications his reputation had on his message. Thus, he writes chapter 2 to defend his ministry among them to explain how he lived among them and how his message was true.

In chapter 3, Paul explains the context for his concerns. Finally, in chapters 4 and 5, Paul exhorts the Thessalonians to holy living in light of some of the particulars that he heard from Timothy concerning their faith and love.

Expressions of Thanksgiving: 1:1-10

Paul begins with an expression of thanksgiving to God for all that He had done in the lives of the Thessalonians. Paul repeatedly expresses his thanks to God for the Thessalonians in response to the news Timothy brought back (see 2:13; 3:9). But chapter 1 is entirely dedicated to this theme of thanksgiving.

Paul tells the Thessalonians what exactly he is thankful for in verse 3. He is thankful for their work produced by faith. Their labor produced by love and their steadfastness produced by hope. In verse 4, Paul explains why he is thankful, "knowing ... His choice of you."

These Christians were good soil Christians. God had chosen them before the foundation of the world. Their response to the gospel has made evident their election by God. When we say that we are saved by grace, it must be solely because God chose to save us. You cannot be saved by grace when you think that it is your choice to believe that saved you. "By grace you have been saved through faith, and that (grace and faith) not of yourselves, it is a gift of God; not as a result of works, that no one should boast" (Eph. 2:8,9).

Paul grounds his knowledge of their election on two facts:

1. How the gospel came (1:5)
2. How they responded (1:6-10)

The gospel came in word, in power, and in the Holy Spirit (1:5). Often in the scripture, we see this sort of language used to describe miraculous acts of God (tongues, healings, casting out demons, ...). Luke is silent in giving the details of what happened there. However, the language of Paul seems to indicate the great, miraculous things happened there - a great outpouring of the Holy Spirit to convict the Thessalonians of sin and granting repentance.

D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones once said, "What was it that turned the ancient world upside down? [A reference to Paul's visit to Thessalonica in Acts 17:6] Was it just theological teaching? Was it enunciation of correct doctrine? Over and above that there was this mighty 'demonstration of the Spirit and of power' How did those people turn the world upside down? The answer is that in the book of Acts we have an account of a great revival, of the Spirit outpoured."

Perhaps in our day we don't see tongues and healings and might demonstrations of the Spirit and of power today. However, may I remind you that conversions are miraculous. We must depend upon the Lord for them. He initiates, regenerates, grants faith, and grants repentance. A conversion of a sinner from his wicked ways to become a follower of God is a great miracle, for which we ought to stand in awe at the mighty workings of God.

At any rate, the Thessalonians were truly converted people. In 1:8-10, Paul uses 4 words to describe their conversion.

1. Faith - "Your faith toward God has gone forth" (1:8).
2. Repentance - "You turned to God from idols" (1:9).
3. Service - "to serve a living and a true God" (1:9).
4. Waiting - "to wait for His Son from heaven" (1:10).

Salvation always involves these elements. These Thessalonians believed the gospel, repented of their sins and became servants of the Lord. Their service was so well know that their reputation carried to the surrounding regions of Macedonia and Achaia (1:6-7).

Characteristics of a "Successful" Ministry: 2:1-12

When Timothy brought back his report from Thessalonica, he brought back news that his ministry among the Thessalonians was being slandered. So, in chapter 2, he begins a defense of his ministry by describing the characteristics of his ministry. As he did this, he constantly reminded the Thessalonians that this wasn't news to them. Notice the emphasis in the following verses ...

1 Thessalonians 2
2:1. For you yourselves know brethren, that our coming to you was not in vain,
2:2 but after we had already suffered and been mistreated in Philippi, as you know, we had the boldness in our God to speak to you the gospel of God amid much opposition.

2:5 For we never came with flattering speech, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed -- God is witness

2:9 For you recall, brethren, our labor and hardship, [how] working night and day so as not to be a burden to any of you, we proclaimed to you the gospel of God.
2:10 You are witnesses, and [so is] God, how devoutly and uprightly and blamelessly we behaved toward you believers;
2:11 just as you know how we [were] exhorting and encouraging and imploring each one of you as a father [would] his own children,

Paul affirmed that his ministry among them wasn't "in vain." It wasn't "empty and meaningless," but rather, it was "successful." He gives 3 characteristics of his ministry, which ought to be characteristic of Rock Valley Bible Church, if we seek "success" in our ministry.

1. Bold speech (2:2)

This was the evangelistic methodology of the early church. They prayed for boldness and God granted them boldness to proclaim "the gospel of God."

James MacDonald, pastor of Harvest Bible Church, writes, "Boldness is the Spirit directed conviction that one must share the good news of Jesus Christ and not fear the response or reproach of the listener. ... Who are we to think that we can share the Gospel in a way that makes people feel comfortable, when Steven, James, Paul and Jesus Christ Himself were beaten ridiculed and ultimately killed for boldly proclaiming the truth. Modern proponents of the "subtle gospel" must consider Peter a fool for saying "we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard" (Acts 4.13). Would to God that the unsaved in our day could see our boldness and marvel realizing that we have "been with Jesus" (Acts 4.13)."

Oh that God would give us the grace to be bold witnesses for His name.

2. Pleasing-to-God speech (2:3-6)

Paul affirmed that when the gospel was preached, it was preached with great integrity. Pleasing God, not man.

The application to us is that there is great emphasis today on preaching a palatable message. We must ever fear the drifting of the church away from "evangelism" to "recruitment". I fear that people today often see themselves as a recruiter, trying to recruit people into the church (and if you get them into the church, you have accomplished your task). This will result in trying to persuade people of the nice things of Christianity and using whatever works to get them to "sign on the dotted line."

But, beloved, we are not recruiters, recruiting people into God's kingdom. We are evangelists - proclaiming the gospel of God. Only with that understanding before us will we speak truth without any deceit or flattery or greed or glory for ourselves.

3. Fond Affection (2:7-12).

Paul says that he was like a nursing mother (2:7) and like a father (2:11) to the Thessalonians.

Think about the affection of a mother. She takes an infant, who is totally helpless and dependant and denies herself for the good of the child. She sacrifices sleep and nourishment. She provides what goes into the child, out of her own nourishment. She endures what comes out of the child - from both sides! She cares, cuddles, and protects here child. John Calvin, says, "The mother spares no labor and trouble, shuns no anxiety, is not wearied out by constant attention, and even with cheerfulness of spirit gives her own blood to be sucked" (John Calvin, Commentary on 1 Thessalonians).

Likewise, a father, teaches his children according to the need of the moment. He "exhorts" like a coach urging an athlete on. He "encourages" with compassion and love. He "implores" like one in authority.

Paul brings up his genuine affection for the Thessalonians because he wanted to emphasize his integrity while among them. "You are witnesses, and so is God, how devoutly and uprightly and blamelessly we behaved toward you believers" (2:10). He had an authentic love for the people. So ought the pastor to have the same love and affection for the people of his church.

More Expressions of Thanksgiving: 2:13-16

We come to the next section of chapter 2, verses 13-16. We see Paul again revisiting his expressing of thanks (like in chapter 1). In chapter 1, Paul focuses mostly on the fruit they bore. In this section, Paul focuses mostly on the sufferings they experienced.

Lightfoot summarizes this last section for us as well: "Paul repeats his thanksgiving for their conversion, dwelling especially on the persecutions which they had endured (2:13-16)."

"You endured the same sufferings at the hands of your own countrymen, even as they did from the Jews" (2:14). Yet, despite the persecution, they remained true to the faith, for which Paul was most thankful to the Lord.

More Expressions of Affection (2:17-3:13)

From chapter 2, verse 17, through the end of chapter 3, Paul picks up on what he said in 2:7-12, where he was defending his ministry by addressing his genuine affection for the people. He expresses to the Thessalonians, over and over, the constant theme that he has a genuine affection for them and desires to be with them.

1. Eagerness to be with them (2:17-20)

Thomas Lye, was a pastor in Oxford, who ejected from his church on August 24, in 1662, for refusing to conform to the church of England. In the last sermon he ever preached to his people in that congregation, before he was to be prohibited from preaching to them ever again, he spoke from his own heart's experience, when he said, "A pastor ought ... to bear a most tender, vehement, ardent, melting affection towards that flock or people that God has committed to their charge. ... Do not blame them if their hearts be almost broken, when they are to part with such people. ... It is true, it lies in the power of man to separate pastor and people, but not to separate their hearts" (Farewell Sermons, pp. 225,226).

Like this Puritan pastor, Paul was separated from the Thessalonian believers. Though the jealous Jews in Thessalonica were able to prohibit Paul from being with the Thessalonians, whom he loved, they were unable to "separate" their hearts Notice how often Paul communicates this to them:

2:17 - "We were all the more eager with great desire to see your face."
2:18 - "We wanted to come to you."
3:1 - "We could endure [our separation] no longer."
3:5 - "We could endure [our separation] no longer."

Notice how sincere Paul was in his desire to be with them. In 2:17, he uses two superlative phrases, "all the more eager" and "with great desire." In effect, Paul was communicating that he really, really, really, really, wanted to see them.

The biggest reason for Paul's desire to return was because there was danger in Thessalonica, for which Paul was seeking to return. Paul said that they were in danger of being disturbed in their afflictions (3:3-4). Furthermore, there was also the danger of being tempted by Satan (3:5c).

This situation is somewhat similar to our son's activities. He recently picked up a love for skateboarding and loves to skateboard down our driveway, because it has a nice slope to it. However, at five years old, we aren't quite comfortable with him going down the driveway without supervision, because he hasn't quite understood the danger of the street. So, we have told him that he can skateboard down our driveway when we are there, because we can protect him from the danger of oncoming cars by giving him the appropriate warnings when the cars are coming.

Though trying to return to Thessalonica, he was thwarted in doing so. So, Paul did the next best thing: he sent Timothy.

2. Efforts to strengthen them (3:1-5)

We need to be careful not to miss the sacrifice on Paul's part. Sending Timothy was at great cost to himself. Paul wrote to the Philippians that he has "no one else of kindred spirit" (Phil. 2:21). Paul often sent Timothy on missions to churches, but also urged him to return quickly to Paul. As one commentator said, "It was at great personal sacrifice that the writer sent Timothy leaving himself alone. But he felt that the ministry to the Thessalonians was more pressing."

Timothy was sent with a purpose. First, his mission was to find out about their faith (3:5b). If their faith was genuine, it was his next task to strengthen and encourage the Thessalonians in their faith (3:2). In recent days, we have heard our president speak much about faith-based initiatives. This was definitely a "faith-based initiative."

Response in hearing about their well-being (3:6-10)

We find that Timothy comes back and brings the good news. He returned and told Paul that their faith was strong and that their love was strong. Furthermore, they had an affection for Paul (i.e. a desire to see Paul just as Paul desired to see the Thessalonians) (3:6).

In hearing this news, Paul was elated. Those issues that concerned Paul about the Thessalonians were found to be not existent. He was very exited and thankful to the Lord for these things (thus chapters 1 and 2).

In verse 7, Paul says he was comforted.
In verse 8, Paul says he really lived now that the Thessalonians are doing well.
In verse 9, Paul says that he is rejoicing.
In verse 10, Paul says that he is responding in prayer.

Prayer for them (3:11-13)

All of Paul's joy in hearing the report from Timothy culminated in a prayer for them, which he wrote down for them. He essentially has three requests:

3:11 - May we see you.
3:12 - May you increase and abound in love.
3:13 - May your holiness be unblamable.

The first request, "may we see you," has been the theme of this entire section (2:17-3:13). The second request, "may you increase and about in love," has been mentioned before also (2:6) and will continue an emphasis in 4:9-10. However, the third request, "may your holiness be unblamable," introduces a new theme, which will continue on through the remaining two chapters.

Exhortations to Excel in Holiness: 4:1-12

This theme of holiness was introduced in 3:13. The Greek word for "holiness" here in 3:13 is hagiazo, which is often translated, sanctification or holiness. It means, "pure, clean, set-apart." In our home, we have a good picture of the meaning of this word. We recently purchased a new couch, which has a slip-cover (which can be removed for easy washing). However, when we purchased the couch, the slip-cover was not in stock. So, right now, the couch has no cover and is completely white and spotless. We have prohibited anybody from sitting on it, because it is so pure. That is the picture of this word. That which is "holy" is pure and clean. It is "set apart" or "sanctified." It is not defiled in any way, but is perfectly white.

This word alone is repeated no less than 4 times in the next 8 verses.

4:3 - "This is the will of God, your sanctification."
4:4 - "that each of you know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor."
4:7 - "For God has not called us for the purpose of impurity, but in sanctification."
4:8 - "Consequently, he who rejects this is not rejecting man but the God who gives His Holy Spirit to you."

The remaining two chapters of this epistle are all about the sanctification of God's people. Up to this point, Paul has yet to instruct the Thessalonians to do anything. He hasn't issued any directions to them concerning their behavior. However, in chapter 4, he will give 10 commands and in chapter 5, he will issue forth 25 commands.

Paul gives these instructions because sanctification is necessary for the people of God. There are three reasons why.

a. Sanctification is necessary because obedience follows conversion (4:1-2)

Paul writes, "you received from us instruction as to how you ought [literally, it is necessary] for you to walk and please God" (4:1). Sanctification necessarily follow salvation. As J. C. Ryle once wrote, "The faith which has not a sanctifying influence on the character is no better than the faith of devils. It is a 'dead faith, because it is alone.'" As theologians often put it, "You are saved by faith alone, but saving faith is never alone."

b. Sanctification is necessary because sanctification is God's will (4:3a)
c. Sanctification is necessary because God has called us to purity (4:7)

In chapter 4, Paul calls the Thessalonians to holiness in three areas: sexual purity (verses 3-8), love for the brethren (verses 9-10), and personal discipline. He urges them to "excel still more" in their holiness (4:2,10b).

With respect to sexual purity, let me simply call you to abstinence. Paul writes, "abstain from sexual immorality." In other words, don't come near it. Don't ask how close you can come and still abstain, but rather, ask how far can you stay away!

Recently a friend of mine was burning some brush with gasoline at his farm. He wasn't being extremely careful with it and ended up getting severe burns on the front of his body. Apparently, the fire found a trail of gasoline from the main fire up to the gasoline container he was holding. Only a few days later, my wife wanted me to start the coals of the barbecue. Well, we had run out of lighter fluid. The only combustible material we had in our home was some gasoline. Well, needless to say, when I started the barbecue with this gasoline, I stayed plenty away from the fire. I was extra careful and kept my distance. With sexual purity, we need to stay away from it as if we were cooking with gas!

With respect to love for the brethren, let me simply urge you to excel still more. As a church, we are doing very well in this area. Many of this has come from necessity. We have had sick people in our congregation as well as many who have gone through tremendous difficulty. I have been much encouraged by the example that you have set with offering meals for one of our sick families. We have formulated no formal schedule for providing meals, and yet, they have testified that meals upon meals have arrived at their home.

With respect to personal disciple, let me simply urge you to work hard. For the reputation of Rock Valley Bible Church, work hard (4:12a). Also, work hard so that you can give to help those who have need (4:13b).

Exhortations in Light of the Return of Jesus Christ: 4:13-5:11

In chapter 4:13, Paul begins to focus his attention upon matters concerning the return of Jesus Christ to earth. At the end of chapter 4, the Thessalonians were concerned about the fate of those who had "fallen asleep" in Jesus (i.e. died). Apparently, there was concern among the Thessalonians that those who had passed away before the return of Jesus will miss the return of Jesus.

1. Concerning Those who have already Fallen Asleep (i.e. died) (4:13-18)

Paul wasn't so much concerned that they were grieving -- only that they were grieving like unbelievers, who have no hope or expectation for life beyond the grave. Perhaps Paul simply didn't have the opportunity to fully expand upon the implications of the Lord's return.

His comfort to the Thessalonians comes from the fact of the resurrection. "If we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep in Jesus" (4:14). We need to be convinced that those who have fallen asleep in Jesus are in a better state than we are. As Paul says elsewhere, "absent from the body is presence with the Lord." Jonathan Edwards described the "departed souls of saints [as being] with Christ, [enjoying] a glorious and immediate intercourse and converse with him." (The Works of Jonathan Edwards, Vol. 2, pp. 28,29).

Furthermore, Paul sought to comfort the Thessalonians comes from the sequence of future events. Paul didn't focus on "when" as much as he focussed on the "order" of event. Those who have fallen asleep will rise first! Paul writes that ...

1) The Lord will descend from heaven (4:16a)
2) The dead in Christ shall rise first (4:16b)
3) The living will be snatched away (4:17a)
4) We shall always be with the Lord! (4:17b)

This should have been a comfort to them (4:18) - "Therefore comfort one another with these words." This ought to comfort us as well. Funerals for those who fall asleep in Jesus ought to be different than those of the world. Sure there is grieving, but there ought to be a rejoicing all the more. As one man said at his mother's funeral, "I have never been so happy and so sad in all my life."

2. Concerning Those who are Alive (i.e. Times and Epochs) (5:1-11)

Paul begins chapter 5 by writing, "now as to the time and epochs, ..." In other words, Paul will answer the inquiries concerning "when these things will take place." Is this not the question that all students of eschatology inevitably ask. "When will these things be?" The encouraging news in this section is that Paul will tell us everything that we need to know concerning the return of our Lord.

These questions must have been given to Timothy, who visited them. The Thessalonian believers were no different than the disciples of Jesus, who asked Jesus, "Tell us, when will these things be?" (Matt. 24:3). On another occasion, they asked Him, "Is it at this time You are restoring the kingdom to Israel?" (Acts 1:6).

Paul says, that Christ's return will come like a "Thief in the night" (5:2,4) and catch many unprepared. Christ's return will come when "all is well" (5:3) and thus, will be unexpected. Christ's will return suddenly, like birth pangs (5:3) and none will escape. But we need to be ready for His return!

The very last hymn James Montgomery Boice ever wrote had the following stanzas,

We do not know if Christ will come when life is rough or steady;
we only know that Jesus said, "Keep watching, and be ready."

So watch with care; in grace abound, get ready soon to greet him,
that when you hear the trumpet's sound you'll be prepared to meet him.

In other words, we need to be ready. We are in the light, not the darkness (5:4,5). We are of the day, not of the night (5:5,7). We are to be alert, not sleepy (5:6,7). We are to be sober, not drunk (5:6,7,8). This is everything that we need to know concerning when these things will take place.

Thus, when you hear the question asked, "When will Christ return?" remember that the proper biblical answer is, "Be ready!" When someone says, "What is the date of His return?" reply, "Be ready!" Most won't be satisfied with this answer, but it is the predominant answer given in the scripture. This answer is like Paul's answer to the inquiry, "Why does God still find fault, [if all salvation is dependent upon His mercy in the first place]?" (Rom. 9:19). Paul says, "Who are you, O man, who answers back to God?" (Rom. 9:20). Most won't be satisfied with the answer, but it is what the Bible instructs us.

Exhortations for the People in the Church: 5:12-28

Paul finishes his epistle with a series of exhortations to the people in the church.

In verses 12-13, he concerns himself with how the people respond to the spiritual leaders. The key to responding to spiritual leaders is found in verse 13, "because of their work." Because of their work, you are to appreciate them. Because of their work, you are to esteem them. Because of their work, you are to love them. It is the work of spiritual leaders which drives the respect.

A properly qualified and properly functioning leader ought to be appreciated, esteemed, and loved. They will be a joy for all to follow. On the other hand, a disqualified leader or a leader who is functioning improperly will bring torment and trouble to himself and to the people God has allotted to his charge.

In verses 14-15, Paul describes different relationships within the church. He describes how people ought to respond to each other. Let me simply point out a few things concerning these commands. (1) These are commands of interaction between people. (2) Some of these commands are universal and some are specific. (3) These are general commands of Christian living.

In verses 16-18, the focus turns to our attitude toward God. Paul gives three perpetual practices of the Christian: joy, prayer, and giving. These are to be practiced always, unceasingingly and in everything. In some sense, these are hyperbole, because we cannot give thanks while we are sleeping. But when we wake up, we ought to have these attitudes. They ought to be the "flavor" about us.

In verses 19-22, Paul addresses spiritual issues of truth and living. In these commands, he basically says, "allow the Spirit to work, but never at the expense of truth."

Of the final directives given in verses 23-28, the most notable is his prayer that "the God of peace Himself might sanctify you entirely." Have you prayed this prayer for yourself? I know that I have begun to do so.

Whew! There is the epistle....

Paul's expulsion from Thessalonica created two concerns ...
1. For the authenticity of their faith (chapter 1).
2. For his reputation, and thus, his message (chapter 2).
Paul explains the context for his concerns in chapter 3.
Paul exhorts the Thessalonians in chapters 4&5 in light of Timothy's report.

Please allow me to obey Paul's injunction in chapter 5, verse 27: "I adjure you by the Lord to have this letter read to all the brethren." Then, we will be dismissed. It will take us about 11 minutes, so please be patient....

 

This sermon was delivered to Rock Valley Bible Church on August 19, 2001 by Steve Brandon.
For more information see www.rvbc.cc.

Historical background: Acts 17:1-9
	1. Coming to Thessalonica (17:1a)
	2. Activity in Thessalonica (17:1b-4)
		a. Synagogue (17:1-4a)
		b. Gentiles (17:4b)
		c. Persecution (17:5-9)
	3. Expulsion from Thessalonica (17:5-9)
		a. Artificial agitation (17:5)
		b. Railing accusation (17:6-9)
Paul's expulsion from Thessalonica created two concerns ...
	1. For the authenticity of their faith (chapter 1).
	2. For his reputation, and thus, his message (chapter 2).
Paul explains the context for his concerns in chapter 3.
Paul exhorts the Thessalonians in chapters 4&5 in light of Timothy's report.
Expressions of Thanksgiving: 1:1-10
	1. How Paul Expresses His Thankfulness (1:2)
	2. When Paul Expresses His Thankfulness (1:3)
	3. Why Paul Expresses His Thankfulness (1:4-10)
		a. Because of how our gospel came (1:5)
			1) In word
			2) In power
			3) In the Holy Spirit
			4) With full conviction
			5) With example
		b. Because of how you responded (1:6-10)
			1) They received with joy, despite the hardship (1:6)
			2) They became imitators and examples (1:6-7)
			3) They sounded forth the word (1:8)
			4) They were truly converted (1:9-10)
				a) The elements of true conversion (Faith and Repentance)
				b) The results of true conversion (Service and Waiting)
Characteristics of a "Successful" Ministry: 2:1-12
	1. Bold speech (2:2)
	2. Pleasing-to-God speech (2:3-6)
		a. Not from error (2:3)
		b. Not from impurity (2:3)
		c. Not from deceit (2:3)
		d. Not as pleasing men (2:4)
		e. Not with flattering speech (2:5)
		f. Not with a pretext for greed (2:5)
		g. Not seeking glory from men (2:6)
	3. Fond Affection (2:7-12) demonstrated in ...
		a. His care for them (2:7)
		b. His sacrifice to them (2:8-9)
		c. His integrity with them (2:10)
		d. His instruction of them (2:11-12)
More Expressions of Thanksgiving: 2:13-16
	1. The Reception of the Word (2:13)
	2. The Suffering of the Saints (2:14-16)
		a. The comparison (2:14)
		b. The deeds (2:15)
			1) They killed the Lord Jesus and the prophets
			2) They drove us out
			3) They are not pleasing to God
			4) They are hostile to all men
			5) They are hindering the gospel from being preached
	3. The Result (2:16)
More Expressions of Affection: 2:17-3:13
	1. Eagerness to be with them (2:17-20)
		a. Desire to return (2:17)
			1) The type of separation - orphanhood
			2) The duration of the separation - a little time
			3) The attitude within separation - as if he never left
		b. Difficulty in returning (2:18)
		c. Delight in the Thessalonians (2:19-20)
	2. Efforts to strengthen them (3:1-5)
		a. The Sending of Timothy (3:1-2a,5a)
		b. The Purpose of Timothy's Visit (3:2b,5b)
			1) To find out about their faith (3:5b)
			2) To strengthen them in their faith (3:2b)
			3) To encourage them in their faith (3:2b)
		c. The Danger in Thessalonica (3:3-4,5c)
			1) The danger of being disturbed (3:3-4)
			2) The danger of being tempted (3:5c)
	3. Response in hearing about their well-being (3:6-10)
		a. Timothy's report (3:6)
			1) Faith
			2) Love
			3) Affection
		b. Paul's response (3:7-10)
			1) Comfort (3:7)
			2) Life (3:8)
			3) Rejoicing (3:9)
			4) Prayer (3:10)
	4. Prayer for them (3:11-13).
		a. Paul's habitual prayers (3:10)
			1) With frequency
			2) With fervency
			3) For seeing them
			4) For completing their faith
		b. Paul's actual prayer (3:11-13)
			1) For seeing them (3:11)
			2) For their love for one another (3:12)
			3) For unblamable holiness (3:13)
Exhortations to Excel in Holiness: 4:1-12
	1. The Necessity of Sanctification (4:1-3a,7)
		a. Because obedience follows conversion .... (4:1-2)
		b. Because sanctification is God's will (4:3a)
		c. Because God has called us to purity (4:7)
	2. Excel in Sexual Purity (4:3-8)
		a. What is sexual immorality?
		b. What does it mean to abstain?
		c. How can you abstain from sexual immorality? (4:4-6a)
			1) Positively - Possess your own vessel (4:4)
				a) In sanctification
				b) In honor
			2) Negatively (4:5-6a)
				a) Not in lustful passion (4:5)
				b) Don't transgress (4:6a)
				c) Don't defraud (4:6a)
		d. Why should you abstain from sexual immorality? (:4:6b-8)
			1) The Lord is the avenger (4:6b)
			2) God has not called us for the purpose of impurity (4:7)
			3) To reject this is to reject God (4:8)
	3. Excel in Love for the Brethren (4:9-10)
	4. Excel in your Personal Discipline (4:11-12)
		a. What is your ambition? (4:11)
			1) "to lead a quiet life." (solves restlessness)
			2) "to attend to your own business." (solves meddlesomeness)
			3) "to work with your hands." (solves idleness)
		b. What is your motivation? (4:12)
			1) Because the reputation of the church is at stake
			2) Because of your own needs
Exhortations in Light of the Return of Jesus Christ: 4:13-5:11
	1. Concerning Those who have already Fallen Asleep (i.e. died) (4:13-18)
		a. Pastoral concern (4:13)
		b. Comfort from Jesus' resurrection (4:14)
		c. Comfort from sequence of future events (4:15-17)
			1) The Lord descending from heaven (4:16a)
			2) The dead in Christ shall rise first (4:16b)
			3) The living will be snatched away (4:17a)
			4) We shall always be with the Lord! (4:17b)
		d. Comfort of one another (4:18)
	2. Concerning Those who are Alive (i.e. Times and Epochs) (5:1-11)
		a. Illustrations of Christ's return (5:2-3,4b)
			1) Thief in the night (5:2,4b)
			2) When "All is well" (5:3)
			3) Birth pangs (5:3)
		b. Illustrations of our response (5:4a,5-8)
			1) Light/Darkness (5:4,5)
			2) Day/Night (5:5,7)
			3) Alert/Sleepy (5:6,7)
			4) Sober/Drunk (5:6,7,8)
		c. Final results (5:9-10)
			1) Wrath for some (5:9a)
			2) Salvation for others (5:9b-10)
		d. Final application (5:11)
Exhortations for the People in the Church: 5:12-28
	1. Relationships with Spiritual Leaders (5:12-13)
		a. Their work (5:12b)
			1) They labor (5:12b)
			2) They oversee (5:12b)
			3) They instruct (5:12b)
		b. Your response to spiritual leaders (:12a, 13)
			1) Appreciate them (5:12a) because of their work (5:13b)
			2) Esteem them (5:13a) because of their work (5:13b)
			3) Love them (5:13a) because of their work (5:13b)
	2. Relationships with All should be Characterized by All of These ... (5:13b-15)
		a. Peace (:13b)
		b. Patience (:14d)
		c. Kindness (:15a)
		d. Goodness (:15b)
	3. Relationships with Some should be Characterized by One of These ... (5:14)
		a. Admonish if unruly (5:14a)
		b. Encourage if fainthearted (5:14b)
		c. Help if weak (5:14c)
	4. Relationship with God (5:16-18)
		a. Perpetual Practice #1: Joy (5:16)
		b. Perpetual Practice #2: Prayer (5:17)
		c. Perpetual Practice #3: Giving Thanks (5:18a)
		d. One abiding motivator: God's will (5:18b)
	5. Final directives relating to truth and living (5:19-22)
		a. Permissive directives (5:19-20)
			1) Do not quench the Spirit (5:19)
			2) Do not despise prophetic utterances (5:20)
		b. Restrictive directives (5:21-22)
			1) But examine everything carefully (5:21a)
			2) Hold fast to that which is good (5:21b)
			3) Abstain from every form of evil (5:22)
	6. Final requests
		a. Prayer (:23)
		b. Promise (:24)
		c. Request (:25)
		d. Greeting (:26)
		e. Mandate (:27)
		f. Benediction (:28)