10 Ways to Keep Your Church Thriving (Part 1) Andy Nagahara
Preface: Why Paul felt so strongly about the last portion of his letter (23-28)
23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
24 The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.
25 Brothers, pray for us.
26 Greet all the brothers with a holy kiss.
27 I charge you before the Lord to have this letter read to all the brothers.
28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
1. Appreciate those in leadership (12,13)
Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.
2. Extend patient love to everyone (14)
And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone.
3. Be kind to all instead of repaying evil for evil (15)
Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else.
4. Be joyful always (16)
Be joyful always;
5. Pray continually (17)
pray continually;
Summary
What does God expect from us? Paul's list describes how the Thessalonians can build their church into one that is worthy to be part of the Body of Christ. His advice applies to all churches across time, space, and culture. It is our desire to build up Your Church so that it can be a holy church with the help of the Holy Spirit.
For Discussion
1) Which part of this passage stands out to you the most?
2) How can we practice Paul's advice in our church?