Chapter 5:
Yesterday in chapter 4 Paul talked about the rapture, today in chapter 5 he addresses when Jesus will return. “Now, about times & dates…” refers to the fact that no one knows exactly when Jesus will come back and suggests the bigger idea of being ready.
“The Day of the Lord” is a phrase used 19 times in the OT and 4 times in the NT. Every time it is used it conveys the idea of judgment & wrath – specifically toward sin. Jesus came the first time as a humble baby and offered Himself to all for the forgiveness of their sins. The second time He comes will be as a warrior and king to judge the world for sin. And the idea of this day coming like a thief reminds us that many will be surprised.
But believers should not be surprised because we belong to the “Light” (Jesus) and will not face this dreadful day (yes, I am “pre-trib untill further notice”). As a result, we should live like we belong to Jesus and so Paul gives us a list of exhortations to do so:
- Be alert & self-controlled
- Put on faith & love & hope
- Encourage one another
- Build each other up
- Respect & hold high your pastor & Bible teachers
- Live in peace with each other
- Warn the idle
- Encourage the timid
- Help the weak
- Be patient with everyone
- Don’t pay back evil
- Be kind & joyful
- Pray continuously
- Give thanks in everything
SO WHAT?!
*Regardless of your end times position, we can all agree that Jesus IS coming back and we should live a life of readiness! Are you & I prepared to meet our Lord? We can do that by choosing each day to give & live that day for Him and not ourselves!
*Ok – so pick one of the exhortations above that you need work on. Start today and ask God to help you to live it. Maybe memorize a verse that is related to it. As we seek these things, God can daily conform us to His image!
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