1 Timothy Bible Study Notes- Chapter 3

1 Timothy 3

 

-The instructions for overseers and deacons in the church offices are given in this informative chapter of Scripture for Godly leadership. It is a noble task to aspire to oversight and supervision in the church of the Living God, which is the pillar and buttress of the truth (1 Timothy 3:1, 15). The list for elders (episkopa) in the church include: being above reproach, husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable hospitable, able to teach, not a drunkard, not violent, being gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money ($), good manager of his home (wife and children), keep children submissive with dignity, not be a recent convert (new Christian), not conceited or puffed up in arrogance, and well thought of by outsiders (1 Timothy 3:2-7). Having pride will bring the condemnation of the devil and disgrace will bring the snare of the devil Paul expresses (1 Timothy 3:6-7). Deacons are given similar qualifications, which include: being dignified, not double-tongued (talking out of both sides of your mouth one way to someone and changing your tune or tone to someone else), not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain, having a clear conscience, tested, blameless, having wives that are dignified, not slanderers, sober-minded, faithful in all things, the husband of one wife, good household manager of wife and children (1 Timothy 3:8-12). “Those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus (1 Timothy 3:13).” *Application* The main ingredient in all of these qualifications is being filled with the Holy Spirit of the Living God. Apart from His presence in one, the task of leadership in the body of Christ is impossible. We must have Christ’s righteousness in us if we are to live up to these standards that the apostle describes. In the natural this is impossible, but with God all things are possible (Matthew 19:26, Mark 10:27). Walk blamelessly!

-Here is the mystery of Godliness: “He (Jesus Christ, the Messiah, the Anointed One) was manifested in the flesh, vindicated (justified) by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory (1 Timothy 3:16).” *Application* Jesus Christ was a real person. He was filled with the Spirit of God in perfection and He was a fully human manifestation as the incarnate God on earth. He is to be proclaimed for who He truly is among the nations of the world and believed in by faith. He is now in glory at the right Hand of the Father making intercession and awaiting His return to earth (Romans 8:34, Hebrews 7:25). He is our Savior! He is reality! Accept Him!

 

Verse to Memorize- 1 Timothy 3:1

1 Timothy Bible Study Notes- Chapter 2

1 Timothy 2

 

-Paul’s instruction for the young pastor here in chapter two begins with prayer. Supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings should be made for all people, not just church folks, not just people we like, but ALL people saved and lost. Pray for king and rulers in authority that they may lead quiet and peaceful lives, Godly and dignified in every way (1 Timothy 2:1-3). Praying like is good in the sight of the Lord who desires ALL people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth (a proof against double predestination, God has a general call on everyone’s life, 1 Timothy 2:4). Paul gets theological for a moment and announces the oneness of the Godhead with the mediator Jesus Christ who gave Himself for ALL as a testimony at the proper time (1 Timothy 2:5-6). For this Paul was made an apostle and preacher to the Gentiles in faith and truth (1 Timothy 2:7). *Application* God’s will for us is that we be inclusive rather than exclusive. He personally welcomes ALL His creation into relationship and desperately wants us to be joined to Him. This recognition of His great and awesome love should not only inspire our devotion to Him because of His mercy and gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ on the basis of faith, but it should motivate our attitude and witness towards others, even those we don’t naturally care for or think could ever become a part of His Kingdom. Have complete love for your neighbor and lift them up to the Father for a better existence in Him.

-Paul desires unity in prayer as evidenced by verse eight of chapter two. We should pray lifting holy (not profane) hands without anger, dissension, or quarreling. The women are to adorn themselves properly in modesty and with respect using self-control. He lists braided hair, gold, pearls, and costly attire as considerations to avoid when coming to worship the Lord corporately. This is Paul’s desire, which should be taken not as regulations, but as sensible and practical advice for coming before the Lord publically. *Application* The issue here is on who we want to draw attention to. Is it the Lord or ourselves? Lest we think this is just an issue of thousands of years ago, let me offer a modern day example. Led Zeppelin, the classic rock band, writes this in a song called “Hey, Hey, What Can I Do” concerning a woman who can’t stay true.

 

“Sunday morning when we go down to church
See the menfolk standin' in line
Said they come to pray to the Lord
But my little girl, looks so fine”

 

The eyes of men are still fleshly and women need to adorn themselves properly in the Lord’s House with modesty and discreetness, not drawing attention to themselves.

-Paul then goes into what is proper for a woman in the church. She is to profess godliness with good works (1 Timothy 2:10). She is to learn quietly with all submissiveness, not teaching or exercising biblical authority over a man (1 Timothy 2:11-12). Paul has reservations about this issue because of Eve’s deception in the garden, and promotes the woman’s salvation through childbearing, continuing in faith, love, holiness, and self-control, which are all fruits of the Holy Spirit (1 Timothy 2:13-15). *Application* Obviously we have to interpret Scripture with Scripture here and see what the apostle means in totality. In other places Paul has expectations that women will pray, prophesy, and communicate in the public arena of corporate worship (1 Corinthians 11:4). What I believe Paul is getting at here is the issue of headship and submission to authority. This should be clearly evident from the text. This prevents the Jezebel spirit of control from coming in and destroying the order of God’s House with idolatry and pagan forms of worship that are seductive taking the focus off of the LORD. The context seems to indicate that this is the main issue. Women tend to talk more naturally than men and this can become a problem in the church when they want to take over and take control of the order of service or run the program. As long as they are submissive to the God ordained authorities in the church which are male as we will see as the letter continues (1 Timothy 3:2, 12), they should have no problems or issues with communication in the corporate setting. In short, we can see that it is the will of God that He be the center of attention rather than any human form.

 

Verses to Memorize- 1 Timothy 2:3-4

1 Timothy Bible Study Notes- Chapter 1

1 Timothy 1

 

Overview of 1 & 2 Timothy for New Testament Reading

 

            We can all look back to mentors and teachers in our lives and the impact that they had on our values and world-view. Timothy was a young man who had the benefit of a believing mom and grandmother, plus he was discipled by the Apostle Paul in the Christian faith. These two letters, along with Titus, are known as the pastoral epistles because of their instruction for young men in the ministry of Jesus Christ. It gives us a look into the intense training system in the 1^st century as the fledging church of the Living Savior got under way. Paul’s tone changes between the first and second letter as he become acutely aware of his impending earthly death for the cause of Christ. He writes the first letter probably around AD 64 right before his final imprisonment in Rome. The second letter was written from a Roman prison somewhere around AD 67, shortly before his martyrdom. These letters provide much valuable information for leaders in the church and the qualifications of being a man of God in management. As you read 2 Timothy remember that you are reading the final earthly words of a great man of God who sacrificed everything to promote the Kingdom of the Lord. Remember that you, just like Timothy, have a responsibility to commit yourself to stand courageously for the truth, knowing the Word and being empowered by His Holy Spirit to do what He has gifted you to do.

 

Major Themes:

 

Mentors- Paul provided instruction to this young leader of the church as an example for us today. We are to train up the next generation in the truths of Christian leadership so that the work will continue to grow and prosper in Christ Jesus.

 

Sound Doctrine, Faith and Teaching- Paul was not writing this text strictly on church administration; instead, he was primarily preparing young Timothy to deal wisely with false teachers who were threatening the vitality and accomplishments of the true body of Christ in the Ephesian church.

 

Godliness and Personal Discipline- (1 Tim. 2:2) There is much practical instruction about how leaders in the church of the Living God are to act and demonstrate their walk with Christ. Holy living as examples to the brothers and sisters in the Lord is a main point in Paul’s writing in these pastoral letters. This implies a deep reverence for God and the things of God. It stresses a disciplined life that will persevere through difficulty.

 

Handling Controversies- We are not to devote ourselves to myths or endless genealogies, which produce controversies (1 Tim. 1:4). Controversies and quarrels about words result only in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions, and constant friction between men of corrupt minds (1 Tim. 6:4, 2 Tim. 2:23-24). The way we handle conflict is important to the Lord and to His church. 1 & 2 Timothy focus on this theme.

 

Trustworthy Sayings- This phrase is used five times in the pastoral epistles, but found nowhere else in the New Testament (1 Tim. 1:15; 3:1; 4:9, 2 Tim. 2:11, Titus 3:8). These are words we can count on from the Lord, which necessitates our obedience in practical ways as we go through life. Research these “trustworthy sayings” and make them a part of who you are.

 

Boldness- In the face of opposition and persecution, Timothy was to carry out his ministry without fear or shame. Paul urged him to utilize to his fullest the gifts of preaching and teaching that the Holy Spirit had given him. We, through the power of God, can be wise and strong. God honors our confident testimony even when we suffer. We must get over our fear of what people might say or do, keep your eyes on Jesus Christ.

 

Structure:

 

1 Timothy- Paul affirms his relationship with the young Timothy (1:2). Paul begins his fatherly advice, warning Timothy about false teachers (1:3-11) and urging him to hold on to his faith in Christ (1:12-20). Next, Paul considers public worship, emphasizing the importance of prayer (2:1-7) and order in church meetings (2:8-15). This leads to a discussion of the qualifications of church leaders—elders and deacons. Here Paul lists specific criteria for each office (3:1-16).

Paul speaks again about false teachers, telling Timothy how to recognize them and respond to them (4:1-16). Next, he gives practical advice on pastoral care to the young and old (5:1-2), widows (5:3-16), elders (5:17-25), and slaves (6:1-2). Paul concludes by exhorting Timothy to guard his motives (6:3-10), to stand firm in his faith (6:11-12), to live above reproach (6:13-16), and to minister faithfully (6:17-21).

 

2 Timothy-Paul provides expressions of love and tenderness for Timothy (1:1-5). Then Timothy is reminded of the qualifications and qualities necessary for a faithful minister of Jesus Christ (1:6-2:12). Timothy should remember his call and use his gifts with boldness (1:6-12), keep to the truth (1:13-18), prepare others to follow him in the ministry (2:1-2), be disciplined and ready to endure suffering (2:3-7), and keep his eyes and mind focused on Christ (2:8-13). Paul challenges Timothy to hold to sound doctrine, reject error and avoid godless chatter, correctly handle the word of truth (2:14-19), and keep his life pure (2:20-26).

Next, Paul warns Timothy of the opposition that he and other believers would face in the last days from self-centered people who use the church for their own gain and teach false doctrines (3:1-9). Paul warns Timothy that there will be unfaithful people, and that he is to follow Paul’s example (3:10-11), understanding the real source of the opposition (3:12-13), and finding strength and power in the Word of God (3:14-17). Then Paul gives Timothy a stirring charge: to preach the Word (4:1-4) and to fulfill his ministry until the end (4:5-8).

Paul concludes with personal requests and items of information. In these final words, he reveals his loneliness and his strong love for his brothers and sisters in Christ (4:9-22).

 

Key Verses:

1 Timothy 4:12- “Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe.”

 

2 Timothy 2:15- “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.”

 

*Notes from this overview were aided by:

New American Standard Bible: Life Application Study Bible, Zondervan, Grand Rapids, Mich.: 1995, pgs. 2126-2127, 2138-2139.

 

-There is much that the Apostle Paul wants to share with his young spiritual son in the faith as he sees his time on earth is growing short and the Kingdom must be advanced through the younger generation in the body of Christ. Paul calls Timothy his “true child in the faith (1 Timothy 1:2).” He pronounces not just the useful grace and peace upon him, but also adds mercy in this letter. There is a constant thread of God’s mercy as Paul writes recognizing the gift God has given him to humbly serve the King after being truly converted from his old ways which he calls himself, the foremost sinner (1 Timothy 1:15). The new life is different by the mercies of Christ Jesus given through His work on the cross and appropriated by our faith in Him. Out of this “rule of faith” comes correct doctrine for the church, which Paul wants to impart to young Timothy in this pastoral epistle. No longer is the church to be guided by false doctrines as traditions of men, myths, or endless genealogies, which promote speculations, intrigue, vain discussions, and pride in confident man-made assertions rather than stewardship from God (1 Timothy 1:3-4, 6-7). The aim of the genuine charge in the faith is love that comes from a pure heart, a good conscience, and a sincere faith with great understanding spiritually from the Holy Spirit of God. *Application* Our ministry in the Lord Jesus Christ should be characterized by these three traits continually. A pure heart is wholly God’s and without deceit. This is the heart that will see God in His Spirit and His Truth (Psalm 73:1, Matthew 5:8, John 4:23-24, Hebrews 10:22). A good conscience means that you have taken the righteousness of Christ and desire nothing else but His best for your life not turning to the right or to the left. It is the straight and narrow way to life (Deuteronomy 5:32; 17:11, 20; 28:14, Joshua 1:7; 23:6, 2 Kings 22:2, 2 Chronicles 34:2, Isaiah 30:21, Matthew 7:13-19). A sincere faith is one that lasts in truth and does not turn away to falsehood at any point. It is genuine without reproach (Philippians 2:15, 1 Timothy 3:2; 5:7, Titus 1:6-7).

-Paul recounts what he was saved from as he reminisces to the young Timothy concerning the mercies of God in his life. God entrusts His stewardship to the faithful and obedient. God is patient and waits for us to come to Him for deliverance and eternal life. He is the King of the ages, immortal, invisible, the only God deserving of honor and glory forever truly (1 Timothy 1:8-17). *Application* It is good practice for us all to recount the grace and mercy of God often in our lives. He is worthy of all our praise every single day and every moment of those days. This is what life in His Presence is all about. His goodness is astounding!

-Paul now charges Timothy with great encouragement and exhortation as he entrusts Timothy to the work of the Lord according to the prophecies previously made about him (1 Timothy 1:18). Timothy is charged to wage the good warfare holding faith and a good conscience avoiding the destruction of some like Hymenaeus and Alexander, who rejected the right way and made shipwreck of their faith being handed over to Satan so that they may learn not to blaspheme. *Application* Here we see the perseverance of the believer extended as one of the greatest virtues in the Christian faith. Shrinking back draws no pleasure from the Lord (Hebrews 10:38-39). A steadfast spirit is what the Lord requires (Psalm 51:10). This is only attained by having His Holy Spirit within you and complete life change as a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). People like Hymenaeus and Alexander here in the text can pretend for a while tasting and partaking of the Holy Spirit, but until you completely receive Him and His permanent salvation you are blaspheming God because of unbelief and waywardness off the path of truth (Hebrews 6:1-6). I don’t believe in this particular situation Paul is totally giving up on these two men. I believe he is still hopeful they will recognize their error and turn back to Christ. Whatever the case with these two, the situation is not good and they need a cleansing and regenerating by the Lord.

 

Verse to Memorize- 1 Timothy 1:5

2 Thessalonians Bible Study Notes- Chapter 3

2 Thessalonians 3

 

-Paul completes this short letter with this chapter focused on the DOING of the Christian life. This action verb is used over and over during the passage denoting an active and productive Spirit-filled life that is not lazy and busy with insignificant things. The apostle asks for prayer that the Word of the Lord would speed (strive to advance, make progress) ahead and be honored (doxazo, glorified) so that they may be delivered from evil men that don’t have faith (2 Thessalonians 3:1-2). The writer’s contrast to the unfaithful unbelievers is the all-faithful God who establishes and guards against the evil one (i.e. the devil). This gives complete confidence (no worries!) by the apostles that the Thessalonians will continue in the things they were taught and commanded to DO as the Lord directs them (Spirit-filled life) from the heart to the love of God and the steadfastness of Christ (2 Thessalonians 3:3-5).

-Paul chastises those who were known to be walking in idleness. He exhorted them to walk as the apostles’ demonstrated in not taking advantage of anyone so as to not be a burden even when it could have been their right as leaders. The pinnacle of this teaching is this: “If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat (2 Thessalonians 3:10).” The command is to work quietly, steadily, and earnestly to provide for their families and their ministry in Christ earning their own living, not with extravagance, but with generosity. Paul implores them to not grow weary in DOING good (2 Thessalonians 3:13). He stresses obedience in what he is telling them to DO in this letter and imitate his example, which he follows in Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1, 2 Thessalonians 3:7,9,14). The teaching is to disassociate with the lazy, not regarding them as an enemy, but as a brother making them ashamed enough to turn in repentance to the way of the Lord and become a DOER of the Word (James 1:22-25). *Application* We can see the redemptive purpose in Paul the Apostle’s hard stand on those who refuse to DO their work properly in the body of Christ. We should have high expectations for our brothers and sisters in the Lord and hold them to a standard of excellence in love. Discipline does come into play here, but notice that it is as a brother or sister, not an enemy and not in hatred. Often the most loving thing we can DO is take a hard stand on laziness and complacency so that those we love will not become idle and good for nothing. If you as parents have ever insisted on making your children clean up their room, you can certainly identify with this Godly mentality J ! It’s just like the military (2 Timothy 2:3-4). It’s tough but would you really want it any other way? It is preparation and training for the more difficult days ahead where we will need discipline and hard labor without compliant or questioning.

-When we are busy DOING the work of the Lord in His strength through the Holy Spirit, the God of peace will give us His perfect peace at all times and in all ways as He is always with us (2 Thessalonians 3:16). *Application* This goes against the fleshly-naturalistic way of trying to achieve peace by doing nothing. The exact opposite is true. The hardest working people are generally the ones who don’t have time to worry and as a result they live with an immense amount of peace, especially if they are in Christ. Get active for the LORD! Abound exceedingly! Don’t waste even a moment of time that God graciously gives you to further His Kingdom in our generation (Genesis 6:9, Joshua 24:15, Acts 13:36).

 

Verses to Memorize- 2 Thessalonians 3:10, 16

2 Thessalonians Bible Study Notes- Chapter 2

2 Thessalonians 2

 

-Paul answers questions about the return, or coming (parousia, presence) of Jesus Christ, again here in chapter 2. We will be gathered together with Him, so do not be shaken in mind or alarmed either by a spirit (demonic), a spoken word, or any letter concerning a false proclamation of the Lord’s return. The rebellion will come first, and the man of lawlessness will be revealed, the son of destruction, who opposes God and exalts himself against every so-called god or object of worship. This anti-christ will take his seat in the temple of God and make himself out to be God, and his spirit is already at work (2 Thessalonians 2:1-7). The restrainer (the Holy Spirit) will at some time be taken out of the way (this may indicate a gathering of the saints in what theologically has become labeled “the rapture” of the church). The lawless one will be fully revealed at that point and then shortly after destroyed by the breath (pnuema, same word as Spirit) of Jesus Christ at His coming bringing the anti-christ to nothing (2 Thessalonians 2:8). The lawless one’s “coming is by the activity of Satan with all power and false signs and wonders, and with all wicked deception for those who are perishing because they refused to love THE TRUTH and so be saved (2 Thessalonians 2:9-10).” God sends a strong delusion at this point so that these unbelievers only gravitate towards what is false in order that all of them may be condemned who did not believe THE TRUTH, but had pleasure in unrighteousness (2 Thessalonians 2:11-12). *Application* Notice that THE TRUTH is what God is after here. Will you hold on to the truth of Scripture in the evil days that we are living in, or will you fall for the spirit of the anti-christ that pervades the landscape before the return (coming) of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ? Don’t be deluded or deceived. Stay rooted and grounded in the Word of God so that you will not be shaken or alarmed. Stay cool under pressure, His Spirit reigns in the true believer!

-The firm stand is expounded upon in the last few verses of this chapter as Paul gave thanks to God for the Thessalonian believers in the truth who are beloved by the Lord as firstfruits to be saved through the sanctification (setting apart, growing) by the Holy Spirit. These steadfast brothers and sisters in Christ hold to the teachings given them by the apostles spoken to them either by word or by letter with all faith and perseverance to obtain the inheritance. Paul blesses them with the loving kindness of their God and pronounces eternal comfort and good hope through grace to the establishment of every good word and work (2 Thessalonians 2:13-17). *Application* What stands out to me here is the abiding relationship these believers enjoyed with both their Lord and with their teachers. There was complete and utter trust, which benefited these true worshipers of God in troubling times. We also live in desperate times and must stay true in our faith unto the Lord, listening and obeying good-biblical teaching from His true prophets and denouncing any false way. Be of good courage!

 

Verse to Memorize- 2 Thessalonians 2:7

2 Thessalonians Bible Study Notes- Chapter 1

2 Thessalonians 1

 

-Overview of 2 Thessalonians

 

Paul gives a further exhortation to the people of Thessalonica to help them live out their faith and not grow complacent. They expected the “Day of the LORD” to the degree that they had stopped working and were just waiting around for Christ’s return. This was definitely not the point in Paul’s first letter with his encouraging words of comfort in a distressing time of persecution. The persecution the believers were experiencing no doubt helped to lend to the expectation of an imminent ending of the world, but Paul must correct this erroneous view. So that he does under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.

 

AUTHOR:  The apostle Paul, joined in his salutation by Silvanus and

Timothy (1:1), and with a reference to his own signature at the end of

the epistle (3:17).  Early sources in church history that attribute

this letter to Paul include:  Clement of Alexandria (200 A.D.),

Tertullian (200 A.D.), and Irenaeus (200 A.D.).

 

THE CITY OF THESSALONICA:  It was the capital and largest city of the

Roman province of Macedonia.  Located on the Egnatian Way, a major road

from Rome to the eastern provinces, the city served as center of trade

and commerce.  Today, it is known as Thessaloniki, or Salonica.

 

THE CHURCH AT THESSALONICA:  The establishment of the church is

recorded in Acts 17:1-9.  On his second missionary journey, Paul and his

companions (Silas and Timothy) had just left Philippi and passed

through Amphipolis and Apollonia to arrive at Thessalonica.  As was his

custom, Paul immediately located the synagogue and reasoned with the

Jews for three Sabbaths concerning Jesus Christ.  While some of them

were persuaded, including a great number of devout Greeks and leading

women, the unbelieving Jews became jealous and created an uproar in the

city.  Therefore it became necessary to send Paul and Silas away

secretly by night to Berea.

 

Despite such ominous beginnings, a strong church was established in

Thessalonica (cf. 1:2-10).  Mostly Gentile (cf. 1:9), its members

included Jason (Acts 17:9), Aristarchus, and Secundus (Acts 20:4).  It had

already been the recipient of an earlier letter (First Thessalonians).

 

TIME AND PLACE OF WRITING:  Second Thessalonians appears to have been

written just a few months, possibly a year, after First Thessalonians.

This would place the writing of the epistle during Paul's extended stay

at Corinth on his second missionary journey (cf. Acts 18:1-11), sometime

around 53 A.D.

 

PURPOSE OF THE EPISTLE:  The first epistle to the Thessalonians had

been written in response to news brought back by Timothy who had made a

quick trip there while Paul was in Athens (cf. 1Thess 3:1-3,6).

Encouraged by their steadfastness in the face of persecution, Paul had

exhorted them to holiness in view of the Lord's coming (cf. 1Thess 3:12-13; 5:23).

 

From the second letter, it appears that they remained strong in the

Lord despite persecution (cf. 1:3-4).  But it is apparent from this

letter that misunderstanding about the Lord's coming was present in the

church.  Some of the members were being troubled by false reports (cf.

2:1-2); others had stopped working, perhaps assuming that the Lord's

imminent return meant one did not need to work anymore (cf. 3:11-12).

 

Paul's purpose in writing this epistle, therefore, is three-fold:

 

   * To encourage them in their steadfastness under persecution

 

   * To correct their misunderstanding about the imminence of the

     Lord's return

 

   * To instruct the congregation on what disciplinary action to take

     toward those who refused to work

 

THEMES OF THE EPISTLE:  In correcting their misunderstanding about the

return of Christ, Paul explains that the Lord will not come right away

(cf. 2:1-3).  Therefore they need to continue with steadfastness and

patience for which they had been commended.  A suggested theme of this

epistle might therefore be:

 

         "STEADFASTNESS WHILE WAITING FOR THE COMING OF CHRIST"

 

Also, the theme of rebellion before the coming of the King of Glory is evident personified by the “man of lawlessness” (the antichrist). God will remove all restraints on evil before He brings judgment on the rebels. The antichrist will attempt and succeed in deceiving many. This means that we should not be afraid when we see evil increase. God is in total control, no matter how bad the world becomes. We can have victory over evil by remaining faithful to God.

 

Finally, persistence is a key virtue extolled in the letter. The church must not quit working under any circumstance. They must show courage and true Christian conduct. We must never get so tired of doing right that we give up. We can be persistent by making the most of our time and talents. Our endurance will be rewarded.

Sources:

 

http://www.ccel.org/contrib/exec_outlines/2th/2th_00.htm

 

New American Standard Bible: Life Application Study Bible, Zondervan, Grand Rapids, Mich.: 1995, pgs. 2096-2097.

 

-Paul’s second known letter the Thessalonians begins with giving of thanks for them because of their growth in the faith and love of Christ and one another. They had become the object of the apostle’s boasting because of their steadfastness and faith in all their persecutions and afflictions that they were enduring (2 Thessalonians 1:3-4). *Application* Your faith and love shine brightest in the darkest places of your life. This is your opportunity to grow in the Lord and experience a new level of closeness with Him as He takes you through the tough times. Shine as lights in this world because of the hope you have in Christ to endure difficulties just as these blessed Thessalonians.

-Now Paul goes into a section on the judgment from God that is coming when Christ appears at His return. God considers it just to repay with affliction those who do afflicting and sinful works on this earth. God will grant relief for the oppressed in their suffering and that is a promise. Jesus will come with His mighty angels in flaming fire inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God and are in disobedience to the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. “They will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His might (2 Thessalonians 1:5-9).” Christ will be glorified as complete and sovereign ruler over this world in that day and will be revered by all the believers who trusted in the testimony given to them by the eyewitness saints such as Paul and others. Paul’s prayer for them was that they would be made worthy of their calling by God and resolve to complete every good work of faith by His power according to His grace given them (2 Thessalonians 1:10-12). *Application* This is not the nice and kind Jesus that is often portrayed by our society as a benevolent and tolerant Deity who doesn’t really care about sin or injustice excusing every evil thing without penalty. The Old Testament is not the only place where we can find the wrath of God on unbelief and wickedness that is unrepentant. Only a turning to God in faith can excuse the sinner, and although God is patient (2 Peter 3:9), He will in no way leave the guilty unpunished (Exodus 34:7, Numbers 14:18, Nahum 1:3). Turn to Him while you can so that you can receive His grace and mercy!

 

Verse to Memorize- 2 Thessalonians 1:9

1 Thessalonians Bible Study Notes- Chapter 5

1 Thessalonians 5

 

-Paul drives home his constant running theme of the Lord Jesus Christ’s return in His coming (parousia) here in the last chapter. His indication is that they have been taught well already on this doctrine and should be fully aware, awake, and sober for His appearance. Christ will come like a thief in the night (by stealth, unannounced), while people of the world are saying peace and security. All of a sudden destruction will come upon them much like labor pains in childbirth, which are inescapable. The children of God are in the Light and will not be taken by surprise at these events of His coming. They will be on guard, waiting, watching, expecting His return in all soberness and anticipation with the breastplate of faith and love and the helmet of the hope of salvation, for God has not destined His people for wrath, but salvation through Jesus Christ the Lord (1 Thessalonians 5:1-9). The author says that whether we are awake (living) or asleep (passed from this physical world) we will live with Him (Jesus Christ) and this should be an encouragement and building up concept to be disseminated among all (1 Thessalonians 5:10-11). Paul acknowledges that these believers are doing a good job of this. *Application* The coming of the Messiah is closer than ever and we should be ever vigilant as His prized possession for the Lord’s return. We see all the prophetic words of Scripture taking place and the birth pangs are ever increasing. We don’t know the day or hour, but the fig trees are getting more and more ripe (Song of Solomon 2:13, Matthew 24:32, Mark 13:28, Luke 21:29-31). Stay true in faith, hope, and love as we look forward to our great salvation and the return of the King!

-He then exhorts them to respect and honor those in authority over them who labor in Christ and admonish (instruct, reprove, caution, rebuke, reprimand, give a warning, reproach) them for their own good. These leaders are to be esteem highly in love because of their work, which lends to peace in the body of Christ and complete Christian unity with the same Spirit. *Application* Too often we are critical of those who work in the Lord’s Name day in and day out. Being in the ministry is a tough spiritual business and it is easy to get discouraged by people, people who should be supportive and on the same side as believers. We too often wound our own, especially those in leadership. Satan is attacking the churches of America with this assault. Unless the leaders are in sin (which would necessitate biblical correction, this is why the “in the Lord” phrase is key in this passage, 1 Thessalonians 5:12), we should always honor those in authority and speak well of them to others for the building up of the body of Christ in peace.

-Paul now gives some general admonitions, which include correction for the idle (lazy, irresponsible, and disorderly ones), encouragement (cheer up) for the fainthearted (discouraged, timid, cowardly, fearful), help with the weak (poor, physically hurting, orphans, widows, those who cannot care for themselves), and being patient with all with kindness (1 Thessalonians 5:12-14). He gives imperatives on doing good to one another (never repaying evil for evil), rejoicing always, praying without ceasing, giving thanks in all circumstances (this is God’s will in everything), not quenching the Holy Spirit, not despising prophetic utterances, testing everything, holding fast to what is good, and abstaining from every form of evil (1 Thessalonians 5:15-22). *Application* This is a power packed list of essentials for the Christian life. Routinely go down this checklist of exhortations with a pure heart and you will be well on your way to pleasing God in your walk. We can see from this list that the Spirit filled life is proactive and awake, which is Paul’s primary point here in the pericope.

-Paul’s final prayer is for complete sanctification in peace and grace for these beloved children of God so that their whole spirit, soul, and body be kept blameless at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. Christ is faithful and He will surely do it (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24). Paul exhorts them to pray for his team, greet all with a holy kiss, and he puts them under an oath to read his letter to all the brother for their edification before his final good bye in this particular letter (1 Thessalonians 5:25-28).

 

Verses to Memorize- 1 Thessalonians 5:2, 14, 16-22