Be Ready

I Thessalonians 1

Paul had established this church, but due to persecution had to leave abruptly. He had sent Timothy back to encourage people and bring back a report to Paul. The encouraging report prompted Paul to write these two letters around 50 or 51 A.D.

• Greeting (I Thessalonians 1:1-2)
  • This was a common greeting from Paul in his letters
• Commendations (I Thessalonians 1:3)
  • Faith resulting in action
    • They turned to God from idols
  • Labor of love
  • Steadfast hope
• The Calling (I Thessalonians 1:4-10)
  • We are chosen of God (I Thessalonians 1:4)
    • “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit.” (John 15:16)
  • This is the work of the Holy Spirit (I Thessalonians 1:5)
  • A new lifestyle (I Thessalonians 1:6)
    • Imitators of these men
    • Imitators of the Lord
    • Following the Word
  • An example (I Thessalonians 1:7)
  • Witnesses (I Thessalonians 1:8-9)
  • Expectation (I Thessalonians 1:10)