The Coming of the Lord - 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11
Understand It
- What was the source of Paul’s teaching about what happens to those who die? (4:15)
- What sequence of events will signal the Lord’s return? (4:16-17)
- When will the Lord return? (5:1-2)
Apply It
- What hope can you share with someone who is convinced that death is the end of our existence?
Final Instructions - 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28
Understand It
- How does God want us to treat each other? (5:13-15)
- What attitudes represent God’s will for us? (5:16-18)
- What kind of affection did Paul have for the Thessalonian Christians? (5:26)
Apply It
- Which of Paul’s short, direct commands in this passage do you most need to remember this week?
There is a short introduction available for the book of 2 Thessalonians. You can read it here.
Thanksgiving and Prayer - 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12
Understand It
- What difficulties was the church at Thessalonica experiencing? (1:4)
- What do persecution and trials prove about God’s work in the church and the world? (1:5)
- How did Paul describe the punishment of those who reject Christ? (1:9)
Apply It
- In what trials and difficulties do you need patience and perseverance this week to see God’s eventual good results?
The Man of Lawlessness - 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12
Understand It
- What kind of person will the man of lawlessness be? (2:4)
- What will happen to allow the man of lawlessness to be revealed? (2:7)
- How will Satan’s power be evident during the time of the man of lawlessness? (2:9-10)
Apply It
- How can you strengthen your faith today so that you are ready to face any evil days that will come?
Stand Firm - 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17
Understand It
- What forces work for our salvation? (2:13)
- What encouragement did Paul give to the church? (2:15)
- What did Paul want God to encourage and strengthen in the Thessalonian believers? (2:17)
Apply It
- When can you make time in your schedule this week to encourage another believer?
