Pastor’s Notes
Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words.”
1 Thessalonians gives us a wonderful formula on how to stay faithful in our daily walks. From the transformation of God’s word to the great impact of good examples in our life, 1 Thessalonians shows us how to remain faithful. Remember, that’s what this book is all about, how to stand fast no matter what circumstances you might be in.
However, even though other believers were encouraged by their faith and the world was amazed by how they persevered in the midst of hardship, Paul knew that they would need more than godly community and good behavior. Most importantly, the people would need to know that one day Jesus would return.
The truth is, we can follow the directives given in 1 Thessalonians and all the other books of the Bible in our best efforts and still lose here on Earth. There will be times when persecution invades and feels like the enemy has won. There will be times when good examples fall and become poor ones. Then there is the simple reality of death that we will all experience that always feels like great loss.
Simply put, there is not a “formula” to follow that promises to claim victory over a broken world and in that truth, we must hold tight to the promise that Jesus is coming back! The reminder that Jesus is coming is the greatest fuel of faith and comfort in the midst of hardship. This truth applies to all of us as well.
Stand Fast, Jesus is coming! All will be ok!
Scripture to go along with the message
Read Revelation 1:7 on the topic of Jesus’s return.
Highlight in your Bible
This week’s message will focus mainly on the encouraged shared in verses 13-18 so highlight all of these verses.