Walking With Jesus VII.
“Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.” 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24
Introduction and Context
Welcome to Part VII of our Walking With Jesus conversations. In the remaining two chapters of 1 Thessalonians 4 and 5, Paul continues to write about how the believer should live individually and as a congregation doing life together. He talks about an orderly life, encouraging a way of life toward unbelievers (those outside) so that “you may lack nothing.”
A good portion of the letter in Chapter 4 and 5 focus on how things will end (eschatology), and Paul puts this out clearly and concisely stating that he did not want them to be ignorant about those who have died. The same goes for us today. In his own words:
“But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.”
1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 NKJV
Furthermore he delves into teaching on “The Day of The Lord” about how this day would come like a thief in the night, urging us to prepare. This is very helpful, considering that the after life and end-time theology can be confusing, scary, and prone to abuse by charlatans. Ignorance of the balanced teaching of scripture is robbing many Christians of their peace as false teachers and doctrines of demons have increased with the use of high speed internet tools and mass engagement on social media apps. In 1 Thess. 2:16, Paul talks about these types who oppose the truth, and that the wrath of God is on them to the uttermost. The wrath begins here and now, not just for some time later in the future.
A direct instruction is given to specially honour church workers in 5:12-13.
Guided Conversations
Scripture Text: Read 1 Thessalonians Chapter 4:11-18 and Chapter 5:1-28. Discuss your findings using the questions in this sub-section:
- What came to mind as you were reading both passages? Did any verse or sets of verses stick out to you? What do you feel the Holy Spirit pointing out to you?
- What is God’s doctrine regarding those who died as believers? Read 1 Thess. 4:13-18.
- Discuss the Day of the Lord as described in 1 Thess 5:1-11. What are we to be doing in anticipation of this day?
- How is the congregation to relate with those who labor (church workers and leaders) among them? Please dentify the key words used. 1 Thess. 5:12-13
Summary and Conclusion
Paul begins his closing of the letter by praying a blessing on the fledgling congregation asking the God of peace for some specifics:
“Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.“
1 Thess. 5:23 NKJV
We should be praying like that for ourselves. Amen!
Among other exhortations he also asks for prayer for himself and his team in Vs. 25. Friends, what a way to close for someone with such great grace on his life. Let us also make it a habit to ask for prayer for ourselves and loved ones.
Prayer Time
- Are there any Praise Reports or Prayer Requests to share?
- Give thanks for the year 2025 and prophesy amazing things over this year for the Church and yourself.
- Pray using 1 Thessalonians 5:23 that the Lord sanctify our spirit, soul, and body and preserve us blameless for His glory.
- Pray for revival in Joy Fountain Church in our City, Winnipeg, and Manitoba. Habbakuk 3:2
Announcements
- Prayer Summit March 1, 2025, from 12 to 2 pm.
- Next Small Group Meeting February 25, 2025. We continue our conversations, “Walking With Jesus VIII” with a deep dive into 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28.