1 THESSALONIANS 1:9–10
9For they themselves report concerning us the kind of reception we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, 10and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.
Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy wrote a letter to encourage the young church in Thessalonica. This church-planting team had preached the gospel and planted a thriving church there, but were then persecuted for the gospel and had to leave the new believers. As expected, they were troubled and anxious to know how the church was doing, so they sent Timothy to check. They were finally at peace when they heard Timothy’s good report of their faith and passion for God. One of the concerns this letter addresses is how believers should live in light of Christ’s second coming, the full establishment of His kingdom, and the coming judgment and rewards for believers. Paul and his fellow church planters wanted to guide and teach the new believers, especially because they couldn’t be together. For the next few weeks, we can learn from Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, as well as the Thessalonian church. In this lesson, we will look at how the gospel transforms our lives.
APPLICATION
• Has the gospel changed your life direction? In two minutes, share what your life was like before Christ, how you encountered Him, and how He changed you. To whom can you share your testimony this week? (Or provide an opportunity for everyone to respond to the gospel today.)
• Where would you say your affections lie? If there are areas in your life where you or something else has been taking God’s rightful place, are you willing to surrender these to God and give Him your whole heart today?
• How do you think you should live in light of Christ’s second coming? Who can you encourage to do the same this week?