In this message, we’re going to consider a passage of Scripture that brought both clarity and comfort to the church at Thessalonica as it related to the events of the end times. Paul’s words in 2 Thessalonians 2:1-15, were a response to a forged letter or false prophecy that had been given by an unauthorized minister to the believers at Thessalonica. Paul wrote to correct and comfort those who’d been misled by this false prophecy.

In 2 Thessalonians 1, Paul begins by offering encouragement to the Thessalonian believers. He says he thanks God for this young church because their faith is flourishing and their love for one another is growing. What a powerful thing to tell any believer! This body of new converts is showing very positive signs and it hasn’t been easy. They have endured persecution, trials, and tribulations that could have broken them, but they have persevered.

This coming Sunday, we’ll focus on 1 Thessalonians 5:12-22 where Paul shares some Spirit-inspired advice to a young church family. Paul’s goal was to help that church function like a loving family and bring glory to Jesus Christ.

In 1 Thessalonians 4:17 Paul writes to the believers at Thessalonica, “Comfort one another with these words.” The comforting words Paul had written related to his reminder that Jesus is coming back! When I read Paul’s words in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17, I’m also prompted ask, “Am I excited about that truth?” and, “Am I ready for His return?”

In this first message of an 8-week series on Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians, Pastor Jamie focuses on how the Gospel works. First, the Gospel is RECEIVED in a person’s life. Once received, it REDIRECTS a person’s life. Then, it RINGS OUT from a person’s life. In other words, the Gospel comes in, the Gospel changes things, and then the Gospel goes out.

If someone asked, “How can I know if my faith is real?” What would you tell them? Could you help them with that question? When most people ask that question, they’re wondering if they’re really saved or not.

If someone asked, “How can I know if my faith is real?” What would you tell them? Could you help them with that question? When most people ask that question, they’re wondering if they’re really saved or not. In this message, Pastor Jamie identifies the biblical evidence for one’s assurance of salvation. Going farther, he also recognizes three evidences that always accompany genuine salvation.

What the Enemy Wants: To better prepare us for the familiar tactics of Satan, Pastor Jamie identifies four things the enemy wants according to Genesis 3:1-5. He wants us to doubt God’s Word, question God’s goodness, resist God’s authority, and reject God’s purposes.