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1 Thessalonians-4

The Hope of Christ's Return: A Devotional Study on 1 Thessalonians 4​

Introduction​

The letter of 1 Thessalonians was written by the Apostle Paul to a group of faithful believers in the city of Thessalonica. The letter presents a guide for living the Christian life. In chapter four, Paul discusses the hope of Christ's return. In this study, we explore this hope and its impact on our daily lives.

Section 1: The Believer's Hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18)​

Devotional Thought: The hope of Christ's return is the promise that believers will one day be reunited with their loved ones who have died in Christ. Paul affirms, "With a loud command, with the voice of an archangel and with the trumpet call of God, the dead will be raised. And the dead in Christ will be the first to rise." This hope should instill in us an eagerness to share the Gospel and to lead people to faith in Christ so that they may have the hope of being with Him in eternity.

Reflection Questions:

  • Who have you lost in Christ that gives you hope for their resurrection?
  • How can you share the hope of Christ's return with others to lead them to faith in Christ?

Section 2: The Believer's Holiness (1 Thessalonians 4:3-12)​

Devotional Thought: In our anticipation of Christ's return, we must grow in personal holiness. "It is God's will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the heathen, who do not know God; and that in this matter you should be the masters of your own bodies." (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5) As we confess God's sovereignty over our bodies and avoid immoral behaviors, we strengthen our relationship with Him and reflect His holiness.

Reflection Questions:

  • What are some practical ways you can cultivate a spirit of holiness in your daily life?
  • How can you support others in their pursuit of holiness?

Section 3: The Believer's Love (1 Thessalonians 4:9-12)​

Devotional Thought: As the return of Christ draws near, we must not grow weary in doing good. Instead, we must persevere in loving one another. "Now about brotherly love we do not need to write to you, for you have already been taught it. And you have overcome it, since you have obeyed God's message from the beginning, as the saying goes." (1 Thessalonians 4:9-10) Let us continue to love one another and to obey God's commands, anticipating the day when Christ returns and we will be united with Him and all our loved ones in Christ.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can you be more intentional in loving those around you, even in difficult circumstances or during long waits for Christ's return?
  • How can you support others in their love for God and others, particularly during times of doubt and separation?

Conclusion:​

Chapter four of 1 Thessalonians offers us a glimpse of the hope that Christ's return brings. It challenges us to live holy and loving lives, to be ready for the Master's return, and to demonstrate His love to others. As we anticipate the day of Christ's coming, let us seek the Lord's direction in feeling that energy and encouragement to share His hope in God's promises with others so they too, may confidently wait for the Master's return.