The work of a pastor is difficult. However, much that is considered as the pastor’s work is actually the work of the entire congregation. A healthy church member is a disciple making church member who takes seriously his/her responsibility to shepherd other members. Listen as Pastor Matt explains from I Thessalonians 5:14 how to help […]
I Thessalonians 5:12-13 The Shepherds and the Sheep (Part 2 of 2)
This text is an awkward text for a pastor to preach. Why? Just read it: 1 Thes. 5:12–13 But we request of you, brethren, that you appreciate those who diligently labor among you, & have charge over you in the Lord & give you instruction, 13 & that you esteem them very highly in love […]
I Thessalonians 5:1-3 What About the Second Coming?
The Bible gives us everything we need for life and godliness. Therefore, the Bible’s relative silence concerning the timing of Christ’s second coming is telling. Listen as Pastor Matt shows from I Thessalonians 5:1-3 that knowing the timing of Christ second coming would be unprofitable, that because of this fact God has made such knowledge […]
I Thessalonians 4:9-10 Now as to Love of the Brethren
Christian love just won’t quit. Christian love is counter-intuitive. It is not based on the desirability of it’s object. It can seem reckless and dangerous. It is vulnerable. In the world’s estimation it is foolish; because it gives even when it doesn’t get. Listen as Pastor Matt shows four aspects of Christian love from I […]
I Thessalonians 4:3-8 Sex and the Gospel
Have you ever wondered why Christians make such a big deal over sex? Shouldn’t we just preach the Gospel? God designed sex as part of His good purpose in creation. God doesn’t hate sex… Satan does. Therefore, Satan has tried to pervert God’s design since the fall. Sex, as ordained and intended by God, is beautiful […]
I Thessalonians 4:1-2 Obedience and the Gospel
Far too many in the church today think that there is a contradiction between the law and the Gospel. They seem to believe that any demand on the life of a believer is legalism. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Obeying the commands of Christ while trusting in the completed work of Christ is […]
I Thessalonians 3:10-13 An (Almost) Ever Raising Bar
Last week we saw Paul thanking God for the faith, love, and perseverance of the Thessalonians. Our next text is Paul praying that the Thessalonians will grow in faith, love, and steadfastness. What gives? How can Paul be thankful when growth is needed? Listen as Pastor Matt explains the beautiful paradox of rejoicing with thanksgiving […]
I Thessalonians 3:9 An Occasion for Thanksgiving and Rejoicing
The Greek word for grace is ‘charis.’ The Greek word for thanksgiving is ‘eucharistia.’ Notice that the two words are related. That’s because any grace necessitates thanksgiving. We should not take one single gracious gift from our loving Heavenly Father for granted. Listen as Pastor Matt shows from I Thessalonians 3:9 a few often overlooked […]
I Thessalonians 3:6-8 A Father’s Delight in His Children
If you sometimes worry don’t worry about it; worry is part of loving people. When Paul was forced to leave the Thessalonians he was worried; deeply worried. However, his worry led him to take his cares to God in prayer, and they led him to spring to action on behalf of those he loved. Listen […]
I Thessalonians 3:1-5_ A Father’s Love Displayed
Love must not be in word only, but in deed and in truth (I John 3:18). Paul has told the Thessalonians how much he loves them, but now he points to concrete evidence. I Thessalonians 3:1-5 shows the kind of actions that flow from love. Listen as Pastor Matt shows three signs of genuine love […]
