Christ died for us so that, whether we are dead or alive when he returns, we can live with him forever. So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:9-10
We have been greatly encouraged in our study of the end times this week. We have discovered that Jesus is, indeed, returning and that when He returns, He is coming for His followers, including you and me. This is the kind of news that can bring peace in the darkest times. In light of this truth, Scripture teaches that we must tell others this good news and encourage them with this truth from God’s word.
Paul instructed His readers to encourage each other in light of the news of Jesus’ return multiple times in 1 Thessalonians. As He talked about Jesus’ return and the promise of eternal life for followers of Jesus, he said, “so encourage each other with these words” (1 Thessalonians 4:18). He continued this conversation in 1 Thessalonians 5. He wrote, “Christ died for us so that, whether we are dead or alive when He returns, we can live with Him forever” (verse 9). Once again, he emphasized that Jesus is returning one day so that we can have eternal life with Him forever. In light of all of these things, Paul wrote, “So, encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing” (verse 10). Once again, Paul gave a command to encourage each other. This repetition is something to pay attention to because what gets repeated is important. Clearly, Paul wanted readers to grasp the value of encouragement.
In light of all of the difficulties and hard times we face in this world, we need encouragement. We need the reminder that one day Jesus is returning for us. Because of this, we can set our sights on Him and eternity with Him. This is the hope that we can hold on to on our best and worst days. Jesus is returning one day, and that is good news. May we be people who remind each other of this hope.
Make plans this week to celebrate this incredible news that Jesus is coming back for His people. Come join us at one of our services. Invite a friend who needs to be reminded of this good news. Friends, Jesus is coming back for us, and because of that, we can celebrate!
1 Thessalonians 5:1-10 (NLT)
"Now, brothers and sisters, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, 2 for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 3 While people are saying, “Peace and safety,” destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.
4 But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. 5 You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. 6 So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober. 7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night. 8 But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet. 9 For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. 10 He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him."
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