Study From the Book of the First Thessalonians,6

                Study From the Book of the First Thessalonians,6

Today we come to the final part of this series where we study the last chapter of this epistle, chapter 5.  As usual we get the best of Paul in writing his letters in the last chapters. And as  usual we pick up a couple of biblical principles and lessons that can be useful in biblical counselling.

In chapter 5, the apostle Paul talks again about the day of the Lord (the rupture of the church which is the main topic of this epistle), and how we need to be prepared for it. Then he comes to various exhortations to every members of the church according to his/her need and then ends his letter with blessings and admonition.

The structure of the chapter is as follows:

1. Verse 1 to 11: the Day of the Lord.
2. Verse 12: 22 :various exhortation
3. Verse 23:28: blessing and admonition.

Principle 9: 5:6: “- therefore let us not sleep , as others do, but let us watch and be sober.”

Lesson 9: Paul here talks about what we need to do now anticipating the Day of the Lord. He merely elaborated in the same message of the Lord Jesus. Jesus told us to watch for Him and keep at His business until He comes. The prospect of Jesus’ return should inspires us to keep working, not to get lazy.

Principle 10: 5:14: “ Now we exhort you brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted , uphold the weak, be patient for all.”

Lesson 10: this is the whole idea in counselling others. Grace ministers to different people in different ways, depending upon what they need at the time. Some need stem warnings, others need comfort, and some need help. But everyone needs patience, for we all fall short in many ways. 6/10/2019