Sabbath, June 14 – 1 Thessalonians 3, 4 – Additional reading: The Acts of the Apostles, chapter 25

1. How was Paul comforted during his time of need and affliction? (1 Thessalonians 3:6–8)

2. How should marriage be conducted? (1 Thessalonians 4:4–5)

3. What comfort does Paul provide to the church? (1 Thessalonians 4:13–18)

In chapter 3, Paul shares his deep concern for the spiritual well-being of the believers in Thessalonica. Due to their trials, he feared their faith might waver. Thus, he sent Timothy “to establish you and encourage you concerning your faith” (1 Thessalonians 3:2, NKJV). Paul recognized that persecution could dishearten them, and he wanted them to understand that these afflictions were part of God’s plan for their spiritual growth.

Paul had previously warned them about tribulations and shared his own suffering in Philippi. This added authority to his message and strengthened their trust in his teaching. Although he expected they would suffer, Paul did not take it lightly. His pastoral love compelled him to seek news about their condition.

He feared that “the tempter” (v. 5) might have swayed them and that his labor could have been in vain. But when Timothy returned with good news, Paul rejoiced: “For now we live, if you stand fast in the Lord.” (1 Thessalonians 3:8, NKJV)

And he exclaimed: “For what thanks can we render to God for you, for all the joy with which we rejoice for your sake before our God?” (1 Thessalonians 3:9, NKJV)

Unable to return in person, Paul writes this Spirit-inspired letter, a letter that, despite stemming from separation, has become a source of blessing to the church throughout the ages.

Paul’s great desire was for his converts to be found “blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (3:13, NKJV). He longed for them to be spiritually mature and prepared for Christ’s return. Are we also getting our hearts ready for that glorious day?

In chapter 4, Paul transitions from prayer to exhortation. Instead of commanding with apostolic authority, he appeals “as brethren” (4:1). What he teaches is not personal opinion but divine instruction.

He addresses the theme of sanctification with clarity: “For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality” (1 Thessalonians 4:3, NKJV).

In a pagan society where immorality was widespread and even celebrated, Paul calls believers to a higher standard, holiness. That message is just as urgent today.

Paul teaches that marriage is a divine institution designed to preserve purity: “That each of you should know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor, not in passion of lust, like the Gentiles who do not know God” (1 Thessalonians 4:4–5, NKJV).

He warns that “the Lord is the avenger of all such” (v. 6), affirming that no sin, especially sexual immorality, will escape divine judgment.

Paul encourages believers to grow in brotherly love and live responsibly. Some, possibly influenced by extremist ideas, have stopped working and depend on others. Paul reminds them to lead quiet, dignified lives.

Paul then addresses the topic of Christian hope in the face of death. The Thessalonians were concerned about their loved ones who had passed away. Paul writes: “I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope” (1 Thessalonians 4:13, NKJV).

He reassures them: “For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus” (v. 14, NKJV).

Then he describes the Lord’s return in majestic detail: “For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord.” (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17, NKJV)

This is the blessed hope that sustains the Christian. Paul concludes: “Therefore comfort one another with these words.” (1 Thessalonians 4:18, NKJV)

This is not merely a suggestion; it is a divine charge to encourage each other with the promise of Christ’s return. In a world marked by sorrow, sin, and uncertainty, this hope is our anchor.

May the God of peace empower us to live in holiness, love, and hope as we await our Savior.