Paul now concludes his first letter to the Thessalonians which he wrote from Corinth around A.D. 51, at the conclusion of his second missionary journey through the region.
Paul’s concern for the Thessalonians was warranted in that the church was made of young, new believers who were under constant attack by the enemy nested within Greek philosophers, Roman gnostics and Jewish pharisees.
“23 Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thessalonians 5:23)
By “sanctify” the apostle’s wish for the Thessalonians is that they would be made holy in everything as they continue to offer themselves as living sacrifices to God almighty. Sanctification is indeed a process by which believers rely on faith and works to glorify God on earth and store up rewards in heaven. This ongoing race leads Christians to eternal life as we reach toward the finish line or await Christ’s return.
“24 He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.” (1 Thessalonians 5:24)
Paul calls God faithful and reliable in His promise that He will deliver all believers from the price of sin which is death and eternal life in hell, where all men and women belong since all are conceived in sin.
“25 Brethren, pray for us.” (1 Thessalonians 5:25)
The apostle constantly prayed for the Thessalonians and also relied on prayer for himself and his fellow laborers in Christ as they encountered persecution and challenges brought on by the enemy.
“26 Greet all the brethren with a holy kiss.” (1 Thessalonians 5:26)
Greeting each other with a kiss on the cheek was customary in the early church and continues to be common in many countries around the world. This kiss, comparable to a modern day handshake was also how Judas identified Jesus the night He was captured by the Roman soldiers which eventually led to His execution on the cross.
“27 I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read to all the holy brethren. 28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.” (1 Thessalonians 5:27)
Paul’s command for his audience was that his letter would be read by all believers within the Thessalonian church in an effort to encourage them on their walk along the narrow path that leads to eternal life, where God’s promises are fulfilled.
This epistle should be used to empower new believers as they struggle in the world. Paul would follow this letter with another collection of exhortations and commands for the Thessalonians a few months later when he realized he would not be visiting them again in a timely manner. Let us pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Paul,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
