{"id":842,"date":"2014-11-05T06:16:39","date_gmt":"2014-11-05T06:16:39","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.biblestudies4you.com\/?page_id=842"},"modified":"2014-11-23T23:16:47","modified_gmt":"2014-11-23T23:16:47","slug":"54-and-55-first-and-second-timothy","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.biblestudies4you.com\/?page_id=842","title":{"rendered":"52 and 53&#8230;First and Second Thessalonians"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><b><i>Book of 1<sup>st<\/sup> Thessalonians.<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b><i><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">1<sup>st<\/sup> Thessalonians\u00a0 One\u2026.(verses 1-10)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">1.\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 1-10\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>a.\u00a0\u00a0 Read the whole chapter through\u2026.what sort of people were the Thessalonian believers?\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>They had turned to God from worshipping idols, and were now great is works of faith and love, having a patient hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. were great in works of faith and love. They followed the Lord in spite of affliction with joy, and were a cheerful people. They were a good example to all who knew them.<\/p>\n<p><b>b.\u00a0 What was Paul\u2019s reaction whenever he thought of them?\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verses 2-3)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>He gave thanks to God for them and prayed for them.<\/p>\n<p><b>c.\u00a0\u00a0 How did Paul\u2019s preaching go over to them?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 5)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>Not just as words, but in the power of the Holy Spirit with conviction.<\/p>\n<p><b>d.\u00a0\u00a0 What did they do when they heard the message?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 6a)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>They turned to the Lord from idol worship and followed Paul\u2019s message.<\/p>\n<p><b>e.\u00a0 How do people feel when they follow the Lord wholeheartedly?\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 6b)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>They feel joyful, contented, fulfilled and happy.<\/p>\n<p><b>f.\u00a0\u00a0 What was the result of these people following the Lord?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 8)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>They started preaching to people everywhere and people could tell that they had great faith in God.<\/p>\n<p><b>g.\u00a0\u00a0 What did Paul remind them about Jesus, the Son of God?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 10)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>That He is risen from the dead and is coming again; that they were delivered from God\u2019s wrath to come, by Him.<\/p>\n<p><b><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">2.\u00a0\u00a0 Challenge\u2026..<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>a.\u00a0\u00a0 What is the challenge for you in this chapter?\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>There are several challenges for me here\u2026..<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>How much do I thank God for fellow-believers when I think of them?<\/li>\n<li>How much is my work of faith and labour of love centred on the Lord? In other words, do I do it because there is a need or because I love the Lord?<\/li>\n<li>What is my testimony like before others? Am I a good example for others to follow?<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><b><i><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">1<sup>st<\/sup> Thessalonians\u00a0 Two\u2026.(verses 1-20)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">1.\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 1-13 <\/span><\/b><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>a.\u00a0\u00a0 Where had Paul come from before he arrived at Thessalonica? What had happened to him at that place?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (<i>verse 2a; Acts 16:12; 17:1)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>He had been in Philippi where he had been put in jail, and then let go. Thessalonica was their next stopover.<\/p>\n<p><b>b.\u00a0 What does Paul mean when he says he preached with \u201cmuch contention\u201d?\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 2; Acts 17:5)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>The local Jews of the synagogue caused a riot because of Paul\u2019s preaching.<\/p>\n<p><b>c.\u00a0 \u00a0How did Paul regard the preaching of the Gospel?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 4)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>As being \u201callowed\u201d by God to do it\u2026.God trusted him to do it in its entirety and not to leave out bits that didn\u2019t please the people\u2019s ears.<\/p>\n<p><b>d.\u00a0\u00a0 What was Paul\u2019s attitude to the people when he preached?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 5-8)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>He presented the truth without any thought of payment or trying to impress anyone\u2026.he was gentle with them and loved them with a godly love\u2026.he gave himself wholly to them.<\/p>\n<p><b>e.\u00a0 How did Paul get money to travel around the place?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 9;\u00a0 Acts 18:3; 2 Thessalonians 3:7-8)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>He worked at making tents when he could and the rest of the time Christians sent him gifts of money and things to keep him going. He made a point of preaching the gospel freely and not having collections where he was preaching.<\/p>\n<p><b>f. What sort of testimony did Paul have among the people he was preaching to?\u00a0 <i>(verses \u00a010-11)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>They could all see that he lived a holy life and did his best for everyone\u2026..there was never any hint of scandal or immorality in connection with Paul.<\/p>\n<p><b>g.\u00a0\u00a0 What was Paul\u2019s main concern?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verses 12-13)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>That the believers would walk worthy of God and take his preaching as the Word of God (which it was) and act on it.<\/p>\n<p><b><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">2.\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0\u00a0 14-20<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>a.\u00a0\u00a0 What did the people find when they became believers?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 14<\/i>)\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>That they were persecuted for their faith.<\/p>\n<p><b>b.\u00a0 What did Paul find that his fellow Jews did to him?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verses 15-16;\u00a0 Acts18:12-13)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>They persecuted him, put him in jail and tried to stop him preaching the Gospel to the Gentiles.<\/p>\n<p><b>c.\u00a0\u00a0 What do we hear unbelievers say today about missionaries going overseas to preach the Gospel?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0<i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>Why not leave them as they are\u2026.they are happy with their own pagan ways!<\/p>\n<p><b>d.\u00a0 Who did Paul say hindered him from preaching?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 18)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>It was Satan who hindered Paul\u2019s visit.<\/p>\n<p><b>e.\u00a0 How did Paul regard the Thessalonian believers?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 19)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>As his joy and crown of rejoicing to see them going on for the Lord.<\/p>\n<p><b>f.\u00a0 What is one of the greatest joys a preacher or teacher\u00a0 can have?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 20; 3 John 1:3-4)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>To see and hear those who made a profession of faith are continuing on and growing many years later.<\/p>\n<p><b><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">3. \u00a0\u00a0Challenge\u2026.\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>a.\u00a0\u00a0 What is the challenge in this chapter for teachers and preachers?\u00a0 (<i>Verses 5, 7, 11)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>To teach the Word simply and wholly. To not try to impress the listeners or you will fall flat on your face. Love the people you are talking to\u2026.don\u2019t talk down to them or harangue them.<\/p>\n<p><b>b.\u00a0\u00a0 What is the challenge in this chapter for the listeners?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 (<i>Verses 12, 13)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>To walk worthy of the Lord, and live in a way that is pleasing to God remembering we are part of His kingdom. Also to accept Paul\u2019s teaching as the Word of God.<\/p>\n<p><b><i><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">1<sup>st<\/sup> Thessalonians\u00a0 Three\u2026.(verses 1-13)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">1.\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 1-13\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>a.\u00a0\u00a0 What was Paul concerned about in verses 1-2?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<p>He was worried in case the Thessalonian believers had fallen away\u00a0 because of their trials.<\/p>\n<p><b>b.\u00a0 What did he do about it?\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<i>(verse 2)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>He sent Timothy off to see how they were doing while he stayed alone at Athens.<\/p>\n<p><b>c.\u00a0\u00a0 Is the Christian life easy\u00a0 with no troubles any more?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(John 16:33)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>No! Jesus Christ told His disciples that they would have troubles and tribulations.<\/p>\n<p><b>d.\u00a0\u00a0 What comfort is there in what the Lord Jesus said in the above verse ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>The fact that He has overcome the world, and will be with us in our troubles.<\/p>\n<p><b>e.\u00a0 What was said at Paul\u2019s conversion about this sort of thing?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>( Acts 9:16)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>Paul was told that he would suffer many things for the sake of Christ.<\/p>\n<p><b>f.\u00a0\u00a0 What did Paul say in verses 3-5?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>He had told these people that they would suffer for their faith; they were under no illusions about that.<\/p>\n<p><b>g.\u00a0 What comfort can we have in the midst of trouble?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(Psalm 37:39-40)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>God is our strength in these times and will help and deliver us as we trust in Him.<\/p>\n<p><b>h.\u00a0\u00a0 What set Paul\u2019s mind at rest in this matter?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verses 6-8)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>Timothy arrived back with the good news that they were still going on for the Lord.<\/p>\n<p><b>i. What lesson can we learn from Paul about praying for fellow believers? <i>(chapter \u00a01:2<\/i>)\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>He always thanked God for them BEFORE making his requests.<\/p>\n<p><b>j.\u00a0 What does Philippians 4:6 teach us about praying?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>It tells us to ask with thanksgiving for the answer before it comes.<\/p>\n<p><b>k.\u00a0\u00a0 How does this contrast with normal requests?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>We ask, expecting our requests to be granted in OUR way, and are disappointed if we don&#8217;t get what we ask for!<\/p>\n<p><b>l.\u00a0 What was Paul\u2019s great desire in verses 10-11?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>That he would be able to visit them again to encourage them in their faith.<\/p>\n<p><b>m.\u00a0 What did he want them to do? What about us today?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 12)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>He wanted them to increase in their love for each other; in the same way, we are to love other believers.<\/p>\n<p><b>n.\u00a0 What will this do for each of us in the end?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 13; 1 John 2:28)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>It will help us to establish our hearts in holiness so we will not be ashamed before Christ at His coming.<\/p>\n<p><b><i><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">1<sup>st<\/sup> Thessalonians\u00a0 Four\u2026.(verses 1-18)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>Read this chapter in a modern translation\u2026\u2026\u2026..\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n<p><b><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">1.\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 1-12 <\/span><\/b><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>a.\u00a0\u00a0 What is Paul saying\u00a0 in verses 1-2?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>You know how I\u2019ve told you to live in a way that is pleasing to God, keep doing this more and more.<\/p>\n<p><b>b.\u00a0 Can a Christian ever afford to relax in his way of living for the Lord?\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(1 Timothy 4:14-16)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>No, we must be on guard all the time and continue in the way of the Lord.<\/p>\n<p><b>c.\u00a0\u00a0 Where did Paul get all his teaching\u00a0 from? Did he attend a Bible college of any sort? <i>(Acts 22:3; Galatians 1:11-12,\u00a0 15-17)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>Paul had attended the best teaching place he could, learning to be a Pharisee and steeped in the Old Testament Scriptures, with Gamaliel as his teacher. But when he started to follow Jesus Christ, he went off to a quiet place where he learned direct from the Lord Himself how the teachings he had received all those years tied in with the other Scriptures.<\/p>\n<p><b>d.\u00a0\u00a0 Do you think it is possible for a person today to learn in this way without going to a Bible College?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(2 Timothy 2:15)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0<i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>Yes, if a person is very self disciplined and spends time every day on their knees before God and learning what the Bible teaches, it is possible, and in fact it is the best way. By using other books as background material (equivalent of teachers) and relying on the Lord Himself through the Word, one can be taught as much as one who earns an earthly diploma. Those people often come out of college with merely a head full of knowledge, whereas one who had been taught by the Holy Spirit and life\u2019s experiences has a true heart knowledge. Living in a BibleCollege environment is an unnatural existence like a plant in a hot house. We have to prove God\u2019s strength and help in the storms of life.<\/p>\n<p><b>e.\u00a0\u00a0 People often get hung up on what God\u2019s will is for their lives\u2026..here is one plain statement of God\u2019s will for each of us\u2026..what is it?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verses 3-5<\/i>)\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>That they live free of any sort of immorality\u2026.that they marry and live pure lives free from sexual sin, not jumping in and out of other people\u2019s beds.<\/p>\n<p><b>f.\u00a0 What other things are we specifically told are God\u2019s will for us?\u00a0 <i>(chapter 5:18; Romans 12:2; 1 Peter 2:13-15)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>To have our minds transformed from the world\u2019s way of thinking to God\u2019s ways; to be thankful in every circumstance; to obey all the laws and by-laws of our country.<\/p>\n<p><b>g.\u00a0\u00a0 What clear statements does Paul\u00a0 make in verses 7-8?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>God has called us to live a holy life\u2026.if anyone despises this, they are despising God Himself, not just those who teach His way.<\/p>\n<p><b>h.\u00a0\u00a0 What is Paul telling the Thessalonians here?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verses 9-11)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>To increase in their love for one another and to be quietly minding their own business and to work for a living.<\/p>\n<p><b>i.\u00a0 Do you think that this still applies for today?<i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>Yes! Any job is better than\u00a0 expecting the government to keep you!<\/p>\n<p><b>j.\u00a0\u00a0 What does work do for a person?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 12)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0<i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>It keeps one\u2019s self respect; it enables one to have what they need and also be able to give to others; it keeps one busy and stops a tendency to gossip.<\/p>\n<p><b><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">2.\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 13-18\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>a.\u00a0\u00a0 Read this passage right through first\u2026..what is it all about?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verses 13-18)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>It is about the Lord\u2019s return for His people.<\/p>\n<p><b>b.\u00a0 Where did Paul get this idea of Christ\u2019s return from?\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 15a)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>He was told by the Word of the Lord Himself.<\/p>\n<p><b>c.\u00a0\u00a0 Why was Paul telling the believers this? <i>(verse 13)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>So they wouldn\u2019t sorrow like the pagans did when a Christians died, and that it would be a comfort to them.<\/p>\n<p><b>d.\u00a0\u00a0 What will happen to believers who have died when Christ comes back?\u00a0 <i>(verses 14-17)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>Their bodies will rise first from the grave to be re-united with their spirits which are coming with Him BEFORE the living believers are caught up to meet Him.<\/p>\n<p><b>e.\u00a0\u00a0 How long will it take for all this to happen?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(1 Corinthians 15:51-52<\/i>)\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>In the blink of an eyelid! 1\/25 of a second!<\/p>\n<p><b>f.\u00a0 What historical evidence do we have that this is possible?\u00a0 <i>(Matthew 27:50-53)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>The fact that graves were opened when Christ died on the cross and the people rose from the dead, and appeared to many.<\/p>\n<p><b>g.\u00a0\u00a0 What does verse 17 tell us?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>That living believers will be caught up in the\u00a0 clouds to meet the Lord and the resurrected dead, in the air.<\/p>\n<p><b>h.\u00a0\u00a0 What is the question that everyone would like to ask\u00a0 and get an answer for?\u00a0 What ARE we to know?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(Acts 1:6-7)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>WHEN is this going to happen?\u00a0 We are not told when\u2026.we ARE told it is not for us to know the times or seasons\u2026..all we know is that it is going to happen and we are to be ready and waiting for it.<\/p>\n<p><b>i.\u00a0 What does this sure and certain hope do for the believer?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(Titus 2:12-13)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>It should keep us looking up a d waiting for it, living our lives to the best of our ability so we won\u2019t be ashamed before Him at His coming.<\/p>\n<p><b>j.\u00a0\u00a0 What is the challenge in this for us today?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(1 Peter 1:4-11)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>How much do I think of Christ\u2019s return as a personal thing that affects ME? Am I living\u00a0 a fruitful life for the Lord?<\/p>\n<p><b><i><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">1<sup>st<\/sup> Thessalonians\u00a0 Five\u2026.(verses 1-28)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">1.\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 1-11\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>a.\u00a0\u00a0 What is the one question that everyone has always wanted to know the answer to?\u00a0 <i>(Acts 1:6)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<p>Is the world going to have an end and if so, when?<\/p>\n<p><b>b. What did Jesus answer when His disciples asked this?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(Acts 1:7-8)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b><\/p>\n<p>It isn&#8217;t for you to know that\u2026.your job is to get on with telling the Good News.<\/p>\n<p><b>c.\u00a0 What is Paul saying in verses 1-2?\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>You know perfectly well that no-one knows for sure when the Lord will return, so I won\u2019t waste time speculating! It will be like a burglar break-in\u2026.it will happen when one least expects it.<\/p>\n<p><b>d.\u00a0\u00a0 What did Christ say about this coming \u201cday of the Lord\u201d?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(Mark 13:32)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>He said the no person, angel or even Himself as the son knows when it will take place, only God the Father. When He saws \u201cGo\u201d, it will happen.<\/p>\n<p><b>e.\u00a0\u00a0 What are some of the signs that it is near?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(Matthew 24:6-8)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>Wars and rumours of wars; great earthquakes and natural disasters; signs in the sun, moon and stars; the fact that peace treaties have been signed and man thinks he has solved all the problems.<\/p>\n<p><b>f.\u00a0\u00a0 Is there any chance that this might not happen? How inevitable is it?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 3)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>It is as inevitable as a pregnant woman giving birth!<\/p>\n<p><b>g.\u00a0 What are the contrasts mentioned between verses 4-10?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>Night and day; light and dark; sleep and wake; sober and drunk.<\/p>\n<p><b>h.\u00a0\u00a0 What is the picture of the non-believer here?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 4)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>One who belongs to the night and to the darkness; one who is drunk and asleep; one who buries his head in the sand and won\u2019t face facts!<\/p>\n<p><b>i.\u00a0 What is the believer to do as the time draws nearer?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verses 8-10)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>To face the facts, to arm ourselves with faith and love, and to remember that we have been saved by the Lord Jesus Christ whether we live or die.<\/p>\n<p><b>j.\u00a0\u00a0 What are we\u00a0 to\u00a0 do and be towards the other believers?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 11)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>We are to be an encouragement, and comfort and edify each other.<\/p>\n<p><b><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">2.\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0\u00a0 12-22\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>a.\u00a0\u00a0 What sort of people are spoken of in verse 12?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>The leaders of the church and those who work in and for the church.<\/p>\n<p><b>b.\u00a0 How is the congregation to regard these ones?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 13)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>With respect and listen to them, to love them and not to squabble amongst themselves about them.<\/p>\n<p><b>c.\u00a0\u00a0 What is to be done with those who\u00a0 aren\u2019t very committed Christians?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 14)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>Those who are misbehaving are\u00a0 to be warned; those who are weak are to be supported and those who are feeble are to be comforted and encouraged; and patience is to be shown to all.<\/p>\n<p><b>d.\u00a0 What is verse 15 saying?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>Believers are not to pay anyone back for doing them wrong\u2026.they are to be good to all, both believers and non believers.<\/p>\n<p><b>e.\u00a0 What sort of attitudes are believers to cultivate?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verses 16-20)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>They are to be happy and joyful always cheerful, in a constant attitude of prayer and thankful to God for all things and circumstances.<\/p>\n<p><b>f.\u00a0 Why are we to be like this?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 18)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>This is how God intends His people to be\u2026..it is His will that they be joyful, cheerful, content, thankful and prayerful.<\/p>\n<p><b>g.\u00a0 What is the believer in danger of doing if he doesn\u2019t cultivate these ways?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 19)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>He is in danger of putting out the work of God\u2019s Holy Spirit\u00a0\u00a0 in his life.<\/p>\n<p><b>h.\u00a0 What other sorts of behaviour grieves God\u2019s Holy Spirit?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(Ephesians 4:30-31)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>Bitterness, anger, bad temper and quarrelling.<\/p>\n<p><b>i.\u00a0 What is the Biblical way to treat a preacher\u2019s teaching?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 21; Acts 17:11)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>To check it out by the Scriptures; to test what has been said by what the Bible says.<\/p>\n<p><b>j.\u00a0 Why is it wise to do this?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>Because the Scriptures\u00a0 give us God\u2019s Word on matters and there are some preachers who twist the Word to suit themselves. We are to discard what doesn\u2019t line up with Bible verses<\/p>\n<p><b><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">3.\u00a0\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 23-28\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>a.\u00a0 What is Paul\u2019s prayer for these people?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 23)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>That they will be kept clean and holy\u2026.set apart for God in their way of life.<\/p>\n<p><b>b.\u00a0\u00a0 What do we notice about the make-up of a human being?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 23b)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>Every person has three parts\u2026. a spirit, a soul, and a body.<\/p>\n<p><b>c.\u00a0 How do we know that there is a soul and spirit in each person?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 23b; Hebrews 4:12)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>They are mentioned in this verse as being different.<\/p>\n<p><b>d.\u00a0 What do you think the difference is between a person\u2019s soul and spirit?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(Genesis 2:7b; Romans 8:16)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>Man\u2019s soul is the centre of his being, the part that thinks, feels and knows things and responds to other people, and animals have a soul that responds to their masters, owners and offspring. Man\u2019s spirit is the part of man that can respond to God, and an animal doesn\u2019t have this. The body is merely the case that houses both spirit and soul.<\/p>\n<p><b>e.\u00a0\u00a0 What should the Christian be looking forwards to?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 23c)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>The return of the Lord Jesus Christ for His people.<\/p>\n<p><b>f.\u00a0 Who gives the believer the strength to live as he should?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 24)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>God who calls us, equips us to live for Him.<\/p>\n<p><b>g.\u00a0\u00a0 What does Paul feel the need of?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 25)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>Prayer\u2026..he doesn\u2019t just need to pray for others, he needs their prayers too\u2026..we are to surround each other with prayer.<\/p>\n<p><b>h. \u00a0How does Paul describe the Christians there?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verses 25-26)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>As holy brothers of his.<\/p>\n<p><b>i.\u00a0 What can each of us carry with us at all times?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verses 28)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>God\u2019s grace.\u00a0 If we think of ourselves carrying a bag full of\u00a0 God\u2019s grace with us, it will give us the strength to cope with difficult situations, it will give us more patience and cheerfulness\u2026..let\u2019s think of it like that!<\/p>\n<p><b><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">4.\u00a0\u00a0 The\u00a0 Challenge\u2026.<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>a.\u00a0\u00a0 What is the challenge in this book for you?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(1:10; 2:12)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>that everything we say and do should be centred around the coming again of Jesus Christ.<\/p>\n<p><b>b.\u00a0 What are we told to do in the light of this fact?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>i.\u00a0\u00a0 1:10<\/b>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To wait for His coming<\/p>\n<p><b>ii.\u00a0 2:19<\/b> \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To live remembering that we will be with Him<\/p>\n<p><b>iii. 3:13<\/b>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To be found established in Him, living holy lives<\/p>\n<p><b>iv.\u00a0 4:15-17<\/b> \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To\u00a0 remember the second coming as told us here.<\/p>\n<p><b>v.\u00a0\u00a0 5:2<\/b>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 That it will come unexpectedly, when least expected.<\/p>\n<p><b>c.\u00a0\u00a0 What sort of people were the Thessalonian Christians ?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(chapter 1:3, 6)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>They were full of works of faith, labours of love and patient in hope of Christ\u2019s return\u2026..they were good examples to all the believers in the surrounding areas, and they preached the Gospel faithfully.<\/p>\n<p><b>d.\u00a0 Finally, are WE like this?<\/b><\/p>\n<p><b><i><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Book of 2<sup>nd<\/sup> Thessalonians<\/span><\/i><\/b><b><i>.<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b><i><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">2<sup>nd<\/sup>\u00a0 Thessalonians\u00a0 One \u2026.(verses 1-12)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">1.\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 1-12\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>a.\u00a0 Who was associated with Paul as he was writing this letter?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 1)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>Silvanus and Timothy (Timotheus)<\/p>\n<p><b>b.\u00a0\u00a0 What was Paul thanking God for in verse 3? What was happening to the believers at Thessalonica?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>The believers were growing in faith, their love for each other was great and Paul was thanking God for this aspect of their growth.<\/p>\n<p><b>c. What did this knowledge do for Paul?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 4a)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>It encouraged him, and in turn he was using them as an example to other groups of believers.<\/p>\n<p><b>d.\u00a0 What else does Paul mention about these believers?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 4b)\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>That they were having to go through persecution and troubles.<\/p>\n<p><b>e.\u00a0\u00a0 What did these trials prove?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 5)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>That the general climate of the land which was under God&#8217;s judgment, was affecting the believers as well as everyone else; their reactions to their circumstances proved they really were followers of Christ.<\/p>\n<p><b>f.\u00a0\u00a0 What did Jesus Christ tell His followers would happen to them?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(John 15:20-21;<\/i><\/b><i>\u00a0 <b>16:33)<\/b><\/i><\/p>\n<p>That just as He was being persecuted and having troubles, so they would too.<\/p>\n<p><b>g.\u00a0\u00a0 What different aspect of the second coming of Christ do we see in this passage?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verses 7-9<\/i>)\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>It is that His coming will be one of judgement and vengeance on those who do not know God and who do not obey the Gospel of God.<\/p>\n<p><b>h.\u00a0 What is the physical aspect of Christ\u2019s return in verse 8?\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>He will have His mighty angels with Him and appear in flaming fire.<\/p>\n<p><b>i.\u00a0\u00a0 How will the men of the world feel then?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(Revelation 6:15-17)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>They will be terrified, and try to hide from Him<\/p>\n<p><b>j.\u00a0\u00a0 How will the believers view Christ at His return?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 10; Revelation 5:9-10)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>They will admire Him greatly and exalt, glorify and praise Him.<\/p>\n<p><b>k.\u00a0\u00a0 What is God\u2019s purpose for His people?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 11)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>That they may reflect His goodness and be faithful to Him and glorify the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.<\/p>\n<p><b>l.\u00a0 How does Paul refer to Jesus? How many times is this title used in this chapter?\u00a0 \u00a0<i>(verses 1, 2, 8, 12)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>He refers to Him as the Lord Jesus Christ\u2026.it is used four times in this chapter.<\/p>\n<p><b>m.\u00a0\u00a0 What do you think this is telling us?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 James and Jude were His earthly brothers\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0who grew up with Him\u2026.how do they refer to Him?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(James 1:1; Jude 1:21)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>We should never talk glibly about \u201cJesus\u201d but give Him His full title always\u2026.this reminds us of Who He\u00a0 was on earth (Jesus), the work He came to do (Christ) and the reverence that we hold Him in now (Lord)\u2026..what He means to us. Both James and Jude give Him His full title of Lord Jesus Christ.<\/p>\n<p><b>n.\u00a0\u00a0 What is verse 12 saying?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>That not only do we glorify our Lord Jesus Christ when we live for Him, but somehow He glorifies us in doing this.<\/p>\n<p><b><i><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">2<sup>nd<\/sup>\u00a0 Thessalonians\u00a0 Two \u2026.(verses 1-17)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">1.\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 1-17\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>a.\u00a0\u00a0 What was Paul afraid the Thessalonians might have heard?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verses 1-5)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>That other people were telling them that\u00a0 Christ was about to return immediately.<\/p>\n<p><b>b.\u00a0 What did Paul say must happen before Christ does come back?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verses 3-4)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>That a wicked man (or system) puts itself in the place of God, demanding to be worshipped and obeyed.<\/p>\n<p><b>c.\u00a0\u00a0 What is already going on in the world today?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 7a)<\/i>\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>This system is already being put into place.<\/p>\n<p><b>d.\u00a0\u00a0 What does John say about this system?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(1 John 2:18, 22;\u00a0 4:3)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>He calls it anti Christ and says this spirit of antichrist has always been in the world\u2026.anything that denies that Jesus Christ is the Son of God is antichrist and refuses to acknowledge God is antichrist.<\/p>\n<p><b>e.\u00a0 \u00a0What is preventing (or holding back) this time from happening right now?\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 7b; John 16:7-13; 2 Peter 3:9)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>It is because God is using His Spirit to convince and convict men of the truth so that more will come to know Him while there is still time.<\/p>\n<p><b>f.\u00a0\u00a0 What will people choose to believe when faced with the truth?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verses 8-11)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>They will believe a lie and will revel in their unrighteousness.<\/p>\n<p><b>g.\u00a0\u00a0 What will the end result of this be?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 12)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>They will be damned and judged for it all.<\/p>\n<p><b>h.\u00a0\u00a0 What fact does Paul turn this chapter around on in verse 13?<i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>The fact that God has chosen a people for Himself.<\/p>\n<p><b>i.\u00a0 When did God choose his people?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(Ephesians 1:4)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>Before He even began creation\u2026..it was all part of His plan to prove that He IS LOVE!<\/p>\n<p><b>j.\u00a0\u00a0 What does Paul tell the believers to do?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 15)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>To not deviate from what they have been taught, and to stand fast for the Lord.<\/p>\n<p><b>k.\u00a0\u00a0 What does Paul tell us that God has given us?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verses 16-17)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>An everlasting consolation and good hope; comfort and establishment in every good thing\u2026.there is no need to worry and stew about ANYTHING!<\/p>\n<p><b><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Review this chapter in the light of today\u2026\u2026..\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>Verse 2.<\/b>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Don\u2019t worry about what you see and hear going on round about you.<\/p>\n<p><b>Verse 6<\/b>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 God has everything under control and in His time it will al work out.<\/p>\n<p><b>Verse 15<\/b>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Our job is to stand firm in the things of God\u2019s Word.<\/p>\n<p><b>Verse 16<\/b>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Remember that God loves His people and has given us this hope<\/p>\n<p>and promise to hang onto.<\/p>\n<p><b><i><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">2<sup>nd<\/sup>\u00a0 Thessalonians\u00a0 Three \u2026.(verses 1-18)<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">1.\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 1-18\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>a.\u00a0\u00a0 What does Paul ask prayer for?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verses 1-2)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>That God\u2019s Word will spread and be glorified and that he would be protected from trouble makers.<\/p>\n<p><b>b.\u00a0 What does he tell us about the Lord in verses 3-5?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>That the Lord is faithful and will establish His people, keeping them from evil.<\/li>\n<li>Paul had confidence that the Lord would touch the Thessalonians to be obedient to Him.<\/li>\n<li>That the Lord would direct His people\u2019s hearts into His love and to wait patiently for Christ\u2019s return.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><b>c.\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cTradition\u201d in the church today seems almost to have become a dirty word\u2026..is tradition a good or a bad thing?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 6c; Colossians 2:8)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>It depends what the tradition is based on\u2026.the traditions of men mean nothing to God, but the traditions based on His Word and commands are most important.<\/p>\n<p><b>d.\u00a0 How importantly does Paul view the traditions that he taught? <i>(verse 6; 1 Corinthians 14:37)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>Paul knew that what he taught was God\u2019s Word to the church, and as such, these new traditions were to be upheld\u2026.they were not to be despised in the future.<\/p>\n<p><b>e.\u00a0\u00a0 What about today?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 1; Hebrews 13:8)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>God\u2019s Word is still the same today, and traditions built on His word still stand. Remember, the changes of today, become the \u201ctraditions\u201d of tomorrow.<\/p>\n<p><b>f.\u00a0\u00a0 What was Paul\u2019s aim as he went around preaching?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 8; Acts 20:33-35)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>To be a self supporting missionary\/preacher as much as he could.<\/p>\n<p><b>e.\u00a0\u00a0 Why was this?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(1 Thessalonians 2:9)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>As an example to the believers to get out and work for their keep.<\/p>\n<p><b>f.\u00a0\u00a0 What every day saying backs up verse 11?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>Satan finds mischief for idle hands to do!<\/p>\n<p><b>g. What were they to do if one of their number refused to work when he could?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verses 14-15)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>They weren\u2019t to socialise with him or give him meals, but were to encourage him to find work.<\/p>\n<p><b>h. What indicated that all Paul\u2019s letters were indeed dictated by him personally?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <i>(verse 17)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p>He put his signature on each of them.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Book of 1st Thessalonians. 1st Thessalonians\u00a0 One\u2026.(verses 1-10) 1.\u00a0 Verses\u00a0 1-10\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 a.\u00a0\u00a0 Read the whole chapter through\u2026.what sort of people were the Thessalonian believers?\u00a0 They had turned to God from worshipping idols, and were now great is works of faith and love, having a patient hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. were great in works &hellip; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.biblestudies4you.com\/?page_id=842\" class=\"more-link\">Continue reading <span class=\"screen-reader-text\">52 and 53&#8230;First and Second Thessalonians<\/span> <span class=\"meta-nav\">&rarr;<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":917,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","template":"","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-842","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/P69z0J-dA","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.biblestudies4you.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/842","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.biblestudies4you.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.biblestudies4you.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.biblestudies4you.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.biblestudies4you.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=842"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.biblestudies4you.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/842\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":926,"href":"https:\/\/www.biblestudies4you.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/842\/revisions\/926"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.biblestudies4you.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/917"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.biblestudies4you.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=842"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}