1 Thessalonians

Michael and Latrease Standback

12.5.2020

1 Thessalonians

Along with Silas and Timothy, Paul sends a tender admonishment to the disciples in Thessalonica. He informs them of the resounding impact of their efforts in exemplary repentance and surrender to Christ. He reminds them of  the nature of their relationship in the family of believers, commanding them on their unity with their fellow churches, sharing the suffering of Christ. In the spirit of a loving father, Paul urges the disciples to let their lives shine all the more as to increase their impact on those noticing their example. Paul closes with assuring the believers with hope of salvation through our Lord Jesus, pushing them to continuously love one another with the full grace of God our father. 

What is one key verse? Why?

1 Thessalonians 3:12-13 These verses capture the heart of Paul and the fellow leadership’s message to the disciples in Thessalonica. In love and admiration as fathers in faith, the brothers use these words to steer the church to fan the flames of their love and faithfulness. 

How does what you read change your vision of God?

What I have read enhances my vision and faith of how mighty and faithful God is.

How does what you read change your vision of yourself or others?

Through reading this letter, I can better see that as a faithful disciple, I become a true ambassador of the kingdom of Christ. Though others may notice the differences between us, through us faithfully holding to Christ’s example, our lives will have an impact on those around us. 

How will you Go With God because of this reading? (What is an action step?)

What I have read has encouraged me to dive more into the Bible consistently. To stop procrastinating with my walk with God, and truly study out areas in my life that I need to improve in. 

Where did you see Jesus in these chapters (What made you think about Jesus?)

In chapter 2 the nurturing  love of Jesus permeated throughout the words of Paul as he reminds the disciples of the shared experience they had when their leadership was physically present. He shares how Jesus manifests himself through their own lives through following the pattern of self-sacrificial love set before them to witness.