This Sunday, we’ll continue our journey through 1 Thessalonians, taking a look at 2:13-3:5 and seeing what it means to be faithful to Jesus even in the midst of suffering. Then on Sunday night, we’ll be in our video series: Scripture and Authority in the Age of Skepticism. Also remember to “fall back” by setting your clocks back one hour before bed! We hope to see you on Sunday!
Schedule
@945 Small Groups / Sunday School for all ages
@1045 Worship Gathering
@6pm “Scripture and Authority” study
Sermon Notes
Faithful in Suffering ~ 1 Thessalonians 2:13-3:5
- When we receive God’s word in faith, it changes us (2:13-14)
- Faith receives God’s word as God’s word (2:13)
- Receiving God’s word in faith leads us to imitate Jesus and imitate other faithful Christians (2:14, 1:6)
- But this change can bring about suffering (2:14)
- Therefore:
- Be ready when suffering comes (2:14-20)
- We all face various forms of suffering (James 1:2), including:
- Persecution (2:14-16)
- Separation from those we love and care about (2:17-20)
- Satanic attacks (2:18)
- Other forms such as health issues, depression and anxiety, issues with family, work, school, etc.
- When suffering comes, face it with faith (3:1-5)
- When faced with the darkness of suffering, we need to be reminded of the light of hope in the gospel (3:1-3)
- When faced with the darkness of suffering, we need to remember that suffering is not out of the ordinary (3:3-4)
- When faced with the darkness of suffering, we need to find encouragement through others (3:5, in light of 2:19-20 & 3:6)
Songs for Worship
He Leadeth Me (what a version on YouTube here)
We Are Called to be God’s People
Ancient Words (watch a version on YouTube here)
By Faith (watch a version on YouTube here)
In Times Like These
Image taken and modified with permission from pixabay.com
First Baptist Church 