November 3, 2025 - 1 Thessalonians 1-5

Paul was very encouraged with the church in Thessalonica.  The gospel had come to them in power, and they had acknowledged it as the word of God.  Following Paul’s example, they had become an example to believers throughout the region.  They were eagerly awaiting the return of Jesus.  They had suffered and faced opposition with faithfulness.  Timothy had brought back to Paul this good report and he was greatly encouraged.  As they await the Lord, Paul encourages them to continue in faithful living and to “encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing” (5:11).  Final instructions tell them to honor one another, to admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the week, to be patient, rejoicing always and giving thanks, and so on.  Life in the church!  That's life abundant!

Let saints on earth in concert sing

with those whose work is done;

for all the servants of our King

in heaven and earth are one.

Jesus, be thou our constant guide;

then, when the word is given,

bid Jordan's narrow stream divide,

and bring us safe to heaven.   -- Charles Wesley (1759)