1Thessalonians 1, 2,and 3
This is one of the shortest of Paul’s letters. But if 2 Thessalonians was all you had, you would have all you need. The theological summary here is more than sufficient to ground an individual and a church in Christian principles for life.
Paul reminds the church that Christ is coming again. In the words of the Nicene Creed, “He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead and his kingdom will have no end.” Paul assures the church that those who are in a right relationship with God through faith in Jesus will have no fear on that glorious day.
Paul also reminds the church that God knows of their persecution and he knows of those who refuse to obey His truth. On the glorious day of Christ’s return God’s justice will prevail and the faithful will be vindicated. For those who chose to go their own way and not be reconciled with God, they will get their wish for all eternity as they will be forever separated from Christ and His mighty power.
Paul reminds the church that to be in Christ is to live as a part of the Welcoming Committee for Jesus. We will get to greet Him on His glorious return and lead His procession. To be a part of the Welcoming Committee is to be working now to make ready our world and prepare for the arrival of our King. How do you do that? I have two answers to that question.
First, I remember that all God requires of me is to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with my God. (Micah 6:8)
Second: Dear brothers and sisters, stand firm and keep a strong grip on the teaching we passed on to you and dear brothers and sisters, never get tired of doing good. (2 Thess. 2:15 & 3:13)
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.
