1 Thessalonians

From the earliest churches in the Roman Empire, who cared for the poor and diseased, through innumerable charitable works today, the church has always cared for the disadvantaged.  But what of those who seek relief but aren’t in need? 

If God first so loved you to call you to be his own, then whatever may occur, God will always not only be there – even in persecution and death – but will always be working to restore his image in you.

Paul tells us the end result of the final judgment is not a rapture or an entrance into heaven.  Rather, our purposeful end is 1) when God makes us worthy of his calling, 2) when every good work is resolved and fulfilled, and 3) when Jesus Christ is glorified within you.

Paul begins this letter with the three theological virtues of Faith, Hope, and Love.  He concludes his letter with a similar triad of Rejoicing, Prayer, and Thanksgiving.  For that is our response to the Gospel.

As you read about Timothy in tonight’s readings, think about how your personal ministry looks like Timothy’s. Think through those circumstances where you have been called upon to support someone else in their endeavors or to encourage a congregation or a particular Christian ministry.

Although the rules set forth by Paul are from the philosophers, the motivation for Paul is wholly Christian.  The philosophers were concerned with the rational life so giving in to sexual desire was irrational and thus prohibited.  On the contrary, Paul’s motivation was attaining a sanctified life in the Spirit.

For tonight, think through how we in the church today are like the Jewish persecutors of the church in Thessalonica. How do we judge who does and does not belong in the Kingdom of God?  Who are the Gentiles whom we are certain are not citizens of God’s Kingdom because our reading of the Scriptures says so?