For the next two weeks I want us to look at tithing not merely as a duty (which it is) nor simply as a command (which it is). Rather, I want to look at tithing in terms of the blessings and benefits that God intends tithing to be to His people.   more...

Paul’s request exemplifies the mutual love shared by all believers. Notice then Paul begins this request with a term of shared affection. He calls them brethren. At the same time, Paul’s request underscores the mutual worth of all believers.   more...

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Notice at once that Paul tells the Thessalonians not to quench/suppress the work of the Holy Spirit in their congregation (literally: don’t put the fire out). Why? The Spirit is the one who equips, strengthens, and guides the church amid a fallen world. Therefore, our actions and attitudes are not to undermine the Spirit’s work. Rather, we are to encourage and foster spiritual growth in all that we do   more...

How are we to respond to the situations we encounter in the world around us? Listen.   more...

Finally, notice that Paul ends with conflict resolution. Its one thing when a brother struggles. It’s another thing when his struggle directly hurts you. Notice then Paul says that when sin hits close to home we are not to respond to it with our own sin. That is, we are not to be vindictive, wish them harm, or delight in the offender’s misfortune. Rather, we are to seek peace and pursue it. That is, we are to promote forgiveness and make reconciliation available.   more...

Next notice Paul tells us to encourage those who are discouraged. Importance: notice at once the sensitivity that Paul calls his people to have. Not every dereliction of duty or every instance of waywardness is caused by unruliness. Sometimes, it is due to discouragement, sorrow, and weariness. Therefore, Paul calls us to know the difference and to respond according to the person’s specific needs   more...

In our text this morning Paul turns to remind the Thessalonians of the kind of church community they need to be in order to withstand the assaults and temptations of the world. In other words, verses 12-22 provide us a snapshot of the internal workings of a healthy church. Here then is picture of a living church produced by the living faith of its members. Listen.   more...