22 JEWELS OF CHRISTIAN LIVING

1 THESSALONIANS CHAPTER 5:11-28

By Michael K. Farrar, O.D.

© God’s Breath Publications

 

Historical Information Concerning Thessalonica

 

The city of Thessalonica was originally called Therma in the 5th century B.C. and was named after its hot springs. It was located at the head of the Thermaic Gulf with the open sea at its front and a very rich fertile countryside behind it. Thessalonica was also located on a major Roman road, Via Ignatia (the way of nations) which ran eastward from Rome. It was named Thessalonica in 315 B.C. by Cassander after his wife, the half-sister of Alexander the Great. In 169 B.C. it became part of the Roman Empire, and in 42 B.C. it was made a free city. Thessalonica was the capital of Macedonia and the largest city in that province. Thessalonica was a great metropolis, ranking with the cities of Corinth and Ephesus. Thessalonica was a cosmopolitan metropolis of a population of 200,000 and similar to Corinth, inhabited by peoples from all over the known world. Barbaric Germanic peoples from the north were living there, bringing with them their pagan religion and culture. Greeks living there came from Achaia to the south and from the islands of the Aegean Sea, bringing their refinement and philosophy. Romans from the west also settled there. They were mostly retired soldiers and they brought their strength of will, wealth and political power. Thessalonica had a large Jewish population which caused some trouble for Christians living there after Paul established the church in the city. Paul started this church on his second missionary journey after leaving Philippi (Acts 17:1-9). A large multitude of Greeks formed this early church. Because of Jewish opposition, Paul had to leave the city. The books of Thessalonians were written by Paul while he was in Corinth. It is postulated that 1 Thessalonians was written around 52 A.D. Paul wrote 1 Thessalonians to express joy of hearing how the church was growing and of how Disciples of Christ were ministering. He wished to clarify some doctrinal issues that the Christians were concerned about, specifically related to the second coming of Christ. Some Christians had passed away and some felt that they may have missed the second coming of Christ. Paul wanted to reassure the Christians at Thessalonica that they had not missed the rapture, nor had those who had died. He indicated that while the date of Christ’s return was not known, it was imminent and certain to take place. Because of this, Paul exhorts them to live according to Christian principles as taught and lived by Jesus Christ and as communicated to them by Paul. This relates closely to the instructions in his list of Christian attributes to pursue in 1 Thessalonians chapter 5, the 22 jewels of Christian living. The theme of 1 Thessalonians is “The Need for Holy Living in the Light of the Second Coming.

 

When studying a portion of God’s Word it is always wise to investigate the passages of scripture around the portion you are studying. This gives you information as to the context of what is being said, to whom it is being written and the intent of the writer as he communicates what God has inspired him to write.

 

With this said, before we study 1 Thessalonians 5:11-28, let’s see what chapter 5:1-10 have to say.

 

1 Thessalonians 5:1-10

 

“Now as to the times and the epochs, brethren, you have no need of anything to be written to you. For you yourselves know full well that the day of the Lord will come just like a thief in the night. While they are saying, “Peace and safety!” then destruction will come upon them suddenly like labor pains upon a woman with child, and they will not escape. But you, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day would overtake you like a thief; for you are all sons of light and sons of day. We are not of night nor of darkness; so then let us not sleep as others do, but let us be alert and sober. For those who sleep do their sleeping at night, and those who get drunk get drunk at night. But since we are of the day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope of salvation. For God has not destined us for wrath, but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, so that whether we are awake or asleep, we will live together with Him. 

 

We see that Paul begins with informing the Disciples of Christ at Thessalonica that they do not need anything written to them or explained about “times and epochs” because the coming of the “day of the Lord” will be sudden and without warning. The “day of the Lord” refers to the second coming of Christ. Many people down through history have attempted to predict when Christ would return. They have set dates, changed them, updated them and guessed many, many times to no avail. The reason these predictors can never be correct in their guesses as to when Christ is to return is that we are not meant to know when this is. If we knew, very likely we would relax and become lazy in our spiritual growth and wait for the last minute to get our act together before Christ returned.

 

Paul here refers to Disciples of Christ as people not in the dark, but as sons of light or daughters of the day. He encourages them to “not sleep” or take for granted Christ’s return, because it has been so long since He said He would return. Paul challenges them to be alert and sober; this implies that Paul is telling them to be expectant about the return of Christ. Be anxious that it could be in the next few minutes that He might come back to claim His followers and take them to their Heavenly home. I would say what Paul is attempting to communicate as the Holy Spirit compels him to write 1 Thessalonians is that we as Disciples of Christ are to live each day as if; THIS IS THE DAY OF CHRIST’S Return!

 

Paul is challenging Christians in Thessalonica as well as us today to be sober, attentive, and active in how we lead our lives. We are to put on our armor which he explained in great detail in Ephesians 6. Here he mentions only a few pieces of armor; the “breastplate of faith and love” (our righteousness which we have in Christ) and the “helmet of faith (also described as the shield of faith) which establishes our hope of salvation (the helmet of salvation).

 

Paul encourages and comforts the Disciples of Christ in Thessalonica and us today that God has not destined us for wrath, but for salvation through Jesus Christ. He comforts and encourages us that whether we are physically awake or asleep we are spiritually alive due to our new life in Christ and will live with Him forever.

 

1 Thessalonians 5:11 

“Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing.”

 

After saying all of this in verses 1-10, Paul in verse 11 gives a statement which begins with the word “therefore.” It is often said, when you see a “therefore” in scripture you need to ask, why is it “there for.” The therefore here is tied to what Paul has said in the previous chapters and verses of 1 Thessalonians, especially the first 10 verses of chapter 5. Since we don’t have to be concerned that we have missed Christ’s return to earth, as many of the Thessalonians were thinking because of false teachers, we don’t have to worry that we will miss the return of Christ in the future. We simply, as Paul states in verse 11, need to “encourage and build up one another.” Paul implies that the Thessalonians were encouraging each other in this fashion and for us today in the 21^st century, we are to do the same.

 

Then what Paul does in verses 12 through 28 is to give the Thessalonians as well as us; what you might call our orders to carry out as soldiers for Christ. These commands are not suggestions. These instructions are not to be casually listened to and debated about to see if we should observe them. They are holy commands that are to be obeyed not because we will lose our salvation if we don’t, but because they will bring glory to our Heavenly Father as we encourage each other to grow in grace, knowledge, love and holiness. They will cause us to love God and others more deeply. They will fulfill our purpose in life to glorify God. They will prepare us for living in Heaven with the Lord. They will enable us to endure the hardships, struggles and temptations we face. They will enable us to battle the world, the flesh and the devil. They will bring others into God’s Kingdom. I could go on and on. What I believe Paul is trying to convey in this chapter of 1 Thessalonians is we can experience some of what Heaven is like here on earth by following through in living out what I call the 22 jewels of Christian living that Paul speaks of in 1 Thessalonians 5:10-28.

 

Billy Graham states regarding the Christian lifestyle; 

“We Christians should stand out like a sparkling diamond against a rough and dark background. We should be more wholesome than anyone else. We should be poised, cultured, courteous, gracious, but firm in the things we do or do not do. We should laugh and be radiant; but we should refuse to allow the world to pull us down to its level. The greatest need today in Christendom is a revival within the church of dedicated, separated, disciplined living…We are to be the cleanest, the most holy, the kindest, the most unselfish, the friendliest, the most courteous, the most industrious, the most thoughtful, the truest, and the most loving people on earth.”

 

Charles Swindoll says it this way; “Knowledge apart from application falls short of God’s desire for His children. He wants us to apply what we learn so that we will change and grow.”

 

John Stott called this section of 1 Thessalonians “Christian Community” or “How to Be a Gospel Church.”

 

Kent Hughes in his commentary on 1 Thessalonians states concerning these verses in 1 Thessalonians 5:11-28; “The church is described as a family in the New Testament, and we are to treat each other as brothers and sisters.”

 

CHRISTIAN CONDUCT

1 Thessalonians 5:12-28

 

“But we request of you, brethren, that you appreciate those who diligently labor among you, and have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction,  and that you esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Live in peace with one another. We urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone. See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people. Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the Spirit; do not despise prophetic utterances. But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil. Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass. Brethren, pray for us. Greet all the brethren with a holy kiss. I adjure you by the Lord to have this letter read to all the brethren. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.”

 

While the Holy Spirit’s ministry is to grow us spiritually, we also have a responsibility in the growth of our spiritual life. One of the first steps we can take in the process of spiritual growth is to know more of the Word of God (2 Timothy 2:15). Our spiritual faith can mature and grow in depth when our knowledge of the Word increases. This can give us a greater confidence in our Heavenly Father and empower us to live our life modeled after our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. But with greater knowledge of the Word comes a greater responsibility, that of applying ourselves to living what we know and trusting God in our decisions and behavior. To assist us in this challenge God has given us the Holy Spirit who lives within us to guide, encourage and convict us.

 

Scriptural knowledge must not just be accumulated, it must be applied to how we think, act and live. As we seek to apply what we know of God’s Word we will see an increase in our obedience to the Holy Spirit’s instruction which demonstrates our love for God (John 14:15). As we continue to apply what we learn, we walk as Jesus walked (1 John 2:6) and keep in step with the Holy Spirit more consistently (Galatians 5:25). Out of this right thinking and correct application we experience a godly joy that is present, even in trials and tribulations (1 Thessalonians 1:6).

 

It is important for all of us as Disciples of Christ to remember that we not only have a personal responsibility to grow in spiritual maturity, we are also to express it by caring for and encouraging others in their faith as well. If we remember these holy directives from Paul, we’ll not only protect ourselves from wandering off the holy path, we’ll also be able to guide other fellow believers to stay on the straight and narrow “highway of holiness.”

 

In this sermon transcript I hope to both encourage you in your relationship with God, but also challenge you to apply what you learn from God’s Word. The New Testament book of James commands us to be doers of the word (James 1:22-25). In other words, we MUST APPLY what we read and learn if we are to fulfill our calling, to think, act and walk as our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ.

James 1:22-25

“Prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in a mirror; for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was. But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does.”

 

Before we look at this passage where Paul instructs us how to live as Disciples of Christ, I would like to make sure that we understand this list of spiritual actions, activities and attitudes is not a group of qualities we ever really fully achieve in this life. It also must not be looked upon as a “to do” list to acquire a better spiritual standing with our Heavenly Father. These are holy habits which portray a lifestyle of living like our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

 

Peter wrote his letters of 1 and 2 Peter for the same reason Paul wrote his letters that make up the New Testament;  not only instruct Disciples of Christ in their faith, but to remind them of what they had already been taught.

 

2 Peter 1:12-15

“Therefore, I will always be ready to remind you of these things, even though you already know them, and have been established in the truth which is present with you. I consider it right, as long as I am in this earthly dwelling, to stir you up by way of reminder, knowing that the laying aside of my earthly dwelling is imminent, as also our Lord Jesus Christ has made clear to me. And I will also be diligent that at any time after my departure you will be able to call these things to mind.”

 

As we begin to look at this passage of scripture the words of Charles Swindoll should challenge and encourage us that we can apply this portion of scripture to our lives and not only grow closer to our God, but also closer to our fellow Disciples of Christ.

 

“First, remember that we have in God’s Word all the truth we need. Scripture builds our faith, focuses our hope, and empowers our love. So read it, study it, and live it.

 

Second, remember that we have in God’s Spirit all the power we need. Rely on Him for the strength to believe in the face of doubts, to look up with hope in the face of despair, and to choose to love in face of hatred and anger.

 

Third, remember that we have in God’s family all the help we need to overcome the challenges we face. In the church, the family of God, we have those we can help and those who can help us as we strive to be a people known for our faith, hope and love.”

 

One last point I want to make. These 22 jewels of Christian living is not a list through which you can earn salvation. It is simply a reflection of God who lives in you as a Disciple of Christ.

 

Now, let’s proceed with learning about the 22 Jewels of Christian living that Paul lists in 1 Thessalonians chapter 5.

 

I’ve divided 1 Thessalonians 5:11-28 into three categories. This structure comes from combining the commentaries on 1 Thessalonians of J. Vernon McGee, William Barclay and Charles Swindoll. I think it will prove helpful to understand what Paul desires to communicate as we work through his traits of godly living.

 

The divisions are;

“Things Kindly Requested (1 Thessalonians 5:11-13)

(How Appreciate Each Other and Our Elders)

5 Actions and Attitudes to Manifest

 

Things Urgently Needed (1 Thessalonians 5:14-15)

(How We Treat Each Other)

6 Actions and Attitudes to Express

 

Things Continually Appropriate (1 Thessalonians 5:16-28)

(How We Worship God As A Community of Disciples of Christ)

11 Actions and Attitudes to Practice Continually

 

THINGS KINDLY REQUESTED (How Appreciate Each Other and Our Elders)

 

1 Thessalonians 5:11-13

 

“11a Therefore encourage one another”

 

1. “Encourage” one another. THINGS KINDLY REQUESTED

 

Here we begin this holy list of 22 Jewels of Christian living. Paul first shares that we are to “encourage one another.”

The Greek word for “encourage” is “parakaleo” which means to “call near, comfort, exhort, entreat, beseech or pray.”

 

We can see from the meaning of this word that there is a balance spoken of here in how we are to encourage each other as fellow Christians.

 

We could say that as we draw near to each other to give support, we comfort and pray for all each other; but at the same time we also exhort and beseech one another. In other words, while we want to help all Christians to cope with difficulties or challenges in life through love and concern, we don’t want to coddle or baby one another either. We want to exhort or challenge one another to understand that God is working in each situation to mature us in our faith in the midst of trouble and trial. We encourage all Christians in the fact that God is totally aware of what is happening and will be active in a godly resolution and that we need to rely upon His trustworthy actions and love.

 

Donald Grey Barnhouse states that this encouragement and comfort that is to be given here is not like a soft, downy quilt to snuggle up it and go to sleep. It is like a ramrod that can be placed in your backbone to strengthen you. He states rather bluntly in his commentary on 1 Thessalonians; “Now, some of you may know that you are like jellyfish in character. So you need to be “comforted.” You need to have that wet spaghetti taken out of your spinal cord and a ramrod put there.” He is implying that what Paul is stating here is not that we don’t sympathize with the Christian going through a hard time, but we don’t pamper them either. People going through a time of struggle, pain, temptation or hardship should be shown love and support, but they also need to seek the strength of God and the power of the Holy Spirit to endure this storm of life. We know this from our own experiences with pain, suffering and trauma in life.

 

We also must remember that we are to emulate the ministry of the Holy Spirit as we minister to our fellow Christians. The Holy Spirit is given to us as Disciples of Christ to encourage, instruct, comfort, enable, teach, challenge, empower, console and convict. (John 14:26, Romans 5:5, 14:17, 15:13)

 

Another scripture which uses this same Greek word for “encourage” is Hebrews 3:13-14

 

Hebrews 3:13-14

“But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is still called “Today,” so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.  For we have become partakers of Christ, if we hold fast the beginning of our assurance firm until the end,”

 

Encouragement spoken of here in this verse as well as others; seeks to support Disciples of Christ in their daily lives in a balanced manner. This may be in helping them endure hardships. This might be in expressing appreciation for their skills and abilities that they have developed with God’s help. It could also be expressing thanks to them for how they are using their spiritual gift, whatever that might be, and how this god-given gift brings glory to God as they minister to others with it. It may also be in challenging them to trust God and move out in faith to overcome the current trial or hardship. As Christians we show sympathy for the pain and suffering of each other and express love with God-given words. We tell each other how much we appreciate one another and how each of us can express our spiritual gifts to the benefit of the Body of Christ. We share that we thank God that we know each other as brothers and sisters of the faith and value our friendship and especially our fellowship.

 

“11b and build up one another, just as you also are doing.”

 

2. “Build up” one another. THINGS KINDLY REQUESTED

 

The verb “build up” was usually applied to building houses but Paul frequently used it for Christians being edified through the ministry of others. You could say that when we build up others in their faith it sets the foundation for them being able to continue to build on their faith, to seek to glorify God in their lives, to grow in spiritual maturity to prepare a godly foundation for future tests and trials. When we “build up” someone, we are calling attention to their continued faithfulness and expression of godliness as well as their spiritual and emotional growth.  

 

We build someone up, in many ways; while it is similar to how we encourage them, it can be slightly different. When we build up someone we are showing appreciation for them continuing to be reliable, faithful, holy, loving, kind and discerning. We compliment their continued lifestyle of living like Jesus Christ and of expressing their spiritual gifts as God desires.

 

1 Thessalonians 5:12-13

 

“12 But we request of you, brethren, that you appreciate those who diligently labor among you, and have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction,

 

3. “Appreciate” those who diligently labor among you. THINGS KINDLY REQUESTED

 

Here Paul requests that the followers of Christ in Thessalonica show appreciation for those who are responsibly laboring among them as Christian leaders and who instruct them in Christian living. These individuals are the elders of the local body. The labor of the elders and pastors is threefold;

 

First they “labor” indicating that their ministry is true work. The Greek word for “labor” is a word for “toil,” a word used for farming in other scripture passages. Elders and pastors teach the Word, prepare sermons, visit the sick, counsel people in need, instruct, baptize, marry and bury dear loved ones.

 

Secondly they shepherd the people of God implying they protect, comfort, and guide those under their care in the proper way to live, make decisions and grow in their spiritual lives.

 

Thirdly, elders and pastors also at times must admonish and correct those who make sinful choices, chose to wander away from the Lord or do harm to others.

 

These are all rather difficult tasks that require the ability and willingness to confront people in love for the sake of those involved and especially for the sake of the Body of Christ. These actions also include discipline if the effort to admonish is not responded to in a godly fashion. (2 Thessalonians 3:14)

 

The Greek word for “appreciate” in this verse is from the root verb “oida,” which means “to know.” But in this case it means more than merely knowing who they are. It means “to acknowledge” them for the service and oversight they have over you as a member of Christ’s church. It can also imply that you are to “take an interest in” them or “recognize their authority over” you. An elder is placed in his position because he has evidenced Christian character, their Christ-likeness, their knowledge of the Word of God, their care and compassion for other people, and their ability to rule well in their own homes.

 

These leaders are the elders who serve the local church body. Paul describes the position of these leaders as one of being in “charge” over the congregation; in the Lord.” The Greek word for charge here is “proistemi” which does not imply a harsh authoritarian dominion, but instead means someone who stands before, presides over or rules people in a responsible loving manner. Since we know we are all called to love each other in Christ, both the leaders who rule and those that they lead are to love and respect each other in their actions towards one another.

 

Biblically, the elders who rule over a church body are first and foremost responsible to God Himself for their actions and behaviors in leading, ruling, preaching, teaching and ministering. They also are responsible to each other for all of the aspects of their ministry as overseers of the church body. This is a great responsibility and those who rule in such a manner must understand and commit to this awesome responsibility that they have been given. They will be held to a higher standard because of this position when they stand before the Lord on judgment day.

 

Members of the local church are not only to show appreciation for their leaders they are also to pray for them as well and this includes the elders, deacons, pastors and lay leaders.

 

If you wish to read scripture passages which discuss the qualifications and responsibilities of elders and deacons they are as follows: Acts 20:28-30, 1 Timothy 3:1-7, 5:17-19, Titus 1:5-16 and 1 Peter 5:1-4.

 

“13a and that you esteem them very highly in love because of their work.

 

4.” Esteem” them very highly in love because of their work. THINGS KINDLY REQUESTED

 

Here we are instructed not only that we are to appreciate those who rule over us in the local church (v.12) we are also called to esteem them highly because of the ministry that is placed upon their shoulders in looking out for our spiritual needs and growth. Notice we are not to esteem them because of their personality, looks or fine speaking skills. It is the “work” they are called to that is the reason we are to esteem and respect them. The Greek verb for “esteem” here means just that: to “regard” or “think well of.” But Paul goes even further and modifies the verb with an adverb that means “quite beyond all measure” or “highest form of comparison imaginable.” You could say that Paul is telling us to “Esteem elders and pastors way beyond what you could imagine.” Paul is not suggesting we place leaders of the church on a pedestal or fail to recognize their faults. But simply that we are not to withhold our encouragement and support for them as they fulfill their godly responsibility. In 1 Timothy 5:17 Paul states that “The elders who rule well are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching.”

 

Think about how leaders of the church watch over your soul. Have you thought about the fact that they will have to give account of how they have fulfilled their godly responsibility? How would it be unprofitable for you to cause them grief as they attempt to oversee your spiritual needs?

 

Hebrews 13:17 supports Paul’s instruction in 1 Thessalonians 5:13.

 

Hebrews 13:17

“Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you.”

 

Do you see that by obeying the leaders of your church and by submitting to their authority you are encouraging them to rule over you with joy and peace?

 

But Pastor Alistair Begg reminds us; “The existence of pastors and elders does not relieve the members of the Body of Christ of their responsibility to care for one another.”

 

Thus, we see the importance of observing all of the jewels of Christian living covered by Paul in this passage of 1 Thessalonians 5.

 

“13b Live in peace with one another.”

 

5. Live in “peace” with one another. THINGS KINDLY REQUESTED

 

The Greek word for “peace” here is “eireneuo” (i-rane-yoo’-o) and means to be and/or act peaceful. It infers that we are to have peace in ourselves and to live peaceably with others. It is tied to the primary verb “eiro” which means to join in peace and implies prosperity which can result from being at peace with oneself and with others.

 

Paul’s instruction here is for the fellowship of Disciples of Christ in the local body. The peace of God should be demonstrated by all of us as we live with one another as Christians. Since we have peace with God because of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, we should have peace with other Christians as well for we are to reflect the love and forgiveness that our Heavenly Father demonstrates towards us on a continual basis.

 

On May 19-22nd in 1915 Mt. Lassen in Northern California erupted, spewing hot lava rock and boulders all over the nearby landscape as well as dense ash cloud up to 30,000 feet into the atmosphere. A high-speed avalanche of hot ash, pumice, rock fragments, and gas, a pyroclastic flow, swept down the side of the volcano, devastating a 3 square miles of lush forest and vegetation. You could say that this event symbolizes the volcanoes, some active, some dormant, that mark the landscape of the human spirit. These interior human volcanoes can erupt when one least expects it and sometimes with very little provocation. In such moments at this point we have a choice to make. To continue in our selfish fuming anger, stifling godly peace, or; we can repent and forgive, re-establish our relationship with the Spirit we have wounded, and anyone who may have been on the receiving end of our uncontrolled fleshly nature.

 

Romans 12:18-19 gives us another aspect of living at peace with others, especially when we have been wronged.

 

Romans 12:18-19

“If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY,” says the Lord.”

 

This passage in Romans gives us an important perspective. Paul is telling us here in this passage that as far as it depends on us, we are to be peaceful individuals. We are never to take our own revenge on others who have wronged us, be they Disciples of Christ or those who are not. We are to let God deal with judgment and justice in regards to others. This does not mean we do not seek legal means for justice when we have been injured or wronged; for God has established governments and laws to regulate fairness and honesty. But it does mean we are not to be vindictive and should always strive to be at peace with those we come in contact with.

 

George E. Ladd in his book “The Blessed Hope” states, “Non-retaliation for personal wrongs is perhaps the best evidence of personal Christian maturity.”

 

Another portion of scripture in Romans speaks of the peace we are to manifest as Christians.

 

Romans 14:19, “So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another.”

 

Yet another scripture encouraging us to live in peace with one another is found in Ephesians 4:1-3; “Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love, being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

 

Colin Smith in an article called; “5 Ways to Pursue Peace” gives us a list of godly ways we can pursue peace in difficult situations with others.

 

First: You should deal with the conflict early to resolve it (Proverbs 17:14).

 

Secondly, that you practice restraint, especially with your tongue (James 1:19).

 

Thirdly, prepare for a long journey, because often peace must be pursued, it doesn’t just happen naturally (1 Peter 3:11).

 

Fourthly, you must often take the first step towards the peace process, so let God guide you in this pursuit (Romans 12:20).

 

Lastly, trust God if there has been an injustice done to you and allow God to deal with the injustice rather than trying to vindicate yourself (1 Peter 2:19-23).

 

Hebrews 12:14 tells us to “Pursue peace with all men…”

 

Having the peace of God that is provided by Jesus Christ through salvation and expressing peace towards others will guard your heart and mind as Philippians 4:7 states;

 

Philippians 4:7

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

 

We must also realize that “peace” is a fruit of the Spirit manifested in our lives when we are led by the Holy Spirit who lives within us as Disciples of Christ.

 

Galatians 5:22-25

“…the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit.”

 

THINGS URGENTLY NEEDED (How We Treat Each Other)

 

1 Thessalonians 5:14-15

 

“14a We urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly,”

 

6. “Admonish” the unruly. THINGS URGENTLY NEEDED (Those out of step, loners who do their own thing)

 

Paul continues with his list of positive spiritual traits by urging Disciples of Christ to “admonish the unruly.” The Greek word he uses for admonish is “ataktos” and it means “to caution, confront, reprove or gently warn.” You would expect a follower of Christ to behave in an orderly polite fashion, but there are times that the sin nature raises its ugly head, even in Christians. This is when it is necessary for a loving brother or sister to come alongside such an “unruly” or “undisciplined” person and “admonish” them in a loving manner.

 

H.R. Ironside states regarding this portion of verse 14, “Some of the people found in local churches or assemblies of saints are naturally rebellious. They always want to run things to suit themselves. They have splendid dispositions as long as they can have everything their own way, but if anyone crosses them, the old nature soon shows itself. Such people are to be warned because they are hindrances to blessings.”

 

This Greek word that Paul uses for “admonish” does not mean we are to be harsh and judgmental seeking to wound them emotionally or crush their spirit. This word means to caution them in a loving manner, to gently warn them with tender concern. Often we can soften the blow of correction by being reasonable, kind and tactful. Like medicine combined with honey, a soft reproof goes a long way to help people accept correction and instruction. It is always advisable to seek wise counsel and pray before confronting someone that is unruly. It is also true that this task of admonishing must often come from someone close to the person or a church leader with authority. This helps the person who needs confronting accept the advice and correction. But we must never pass off to a leader or person of authority n the church that which God wishes us to personally address. Many times because we know the person who is unruly in some manner, we have the responsibility to confront in love and to help them cease with their ungodly inappropriate behavior.

 

We must also remember that we are to avoid gossiping about such a situation. It takes loving discernment to distinguish between a significant issue of unruliness and a simple weak moment in a Christian’s life. Either way, prayer, caution and love should be the foundation for consideration of admonishing someone.

 

“14b encourage the fainthearted,”

 

7. “Encourage” the fainthearted. THINGS URGENTLY NEEDED (The faint hearted, fearful, need support)

 

Paul also urges the Christians to “encourage the fainthearted.” He uses the Greek word, “paramutheomai” for “encourage” which means to “console or comfort.” His descriptive word for the “fainthearted” is the Greek word “oligopsuchos” which means “weak.” The person that is fainthearted very likely is someone who is young in the faith or has not grown spiritually enough to endure with courage the trials, toils and temptations of life. It can be discouraging to face trials, hardships and storms of life if you haven’t matured spiritually. During such times we need encouragement from others to not only maintain a Christ-like attitude, but also to cope with the trauma that is taking place. Such encouragement or comfort can come in the form of a word, a gift or a hug. We see Jesus often comforting those facing hardship and He is our role model for spiritual ministry to those who need to grow in their spiritual maturity, faith and love for their Heavenly Father.

 

Charles Ryrie suggests that the symptoms of spiritual weakness include “instability, inability to face persecution, or yielding to the attacks of Satan.”

 

We develop our skill at encouraging others by emulating our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ as well as seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit within us. Romans tells us that God gives us both perseverance and encouragement so that we might be of the same mind. It states;

 

Romans 15:5-6

“Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus, so that with one accord you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

 

“14c help the weak,”

 

8. “Help” the weak. THINGS URGENTLY NEEDED (Weak in faith, babes in Christ, spiritually immature)

 

Next Paul commands the Christians at Thessalonica to help those who are weak. He uses the Greek word “antechomai” for “help” which means “to support faithfully, keep close by, care for or hold onto.” For “weak” he uses the Greek word “asthenes” which means “without strength.”

 

We all experience times of weakness at one time or another. Life is hard and whether it is an illness, the loss of a job, a financial hardship, some emotional distress or trauma we need help when we feel weak and hopeless during the storms of life. One of Christianity’s main doctrines of ministry is to show grace and compassion for those who are weak, dealing with infirmities of age and disease, coping with handicaps, have  been disenfranchised, are sick, or who have been treated with contempt.

 

Bible Commentator Gary Demarest shares in his book on 1 Thessalonians that when he was first learning to swim at a summer camp he was assigned a “buddy” who was a very strong swimmer. This encouraged Gary Demarest to feel safe as he learned how to stroke and stay afloat. There was always a feeling of security for him. This is how we are to help those who are weak spiritually and as they grow in their spiritual lives, they too can one day help someone who weak as well. This is how our Christian community is to function – helping each other in love; those who are stronger, wiser and mature; assisting those who are young in the faith as they face doubts and fears.

 

It is very clear why this loving action should be included in the category of “Things Urgently Needed.” In the perilous times we face, we need support and encouragement. When assistance is provided the relief and comfort you feel is almost beyond words. While God is always watching over us and Jesus is always praying in Heaven for us and the Holy Spirit is ever ready to assist us with His power and love; you need the love from a fellow Christian to cope with the traumas of life.

 

Let me ask you some questions.

 

Have you ever felt weak physically, mentally, emotionally or spiritually?

Did someone come alongside of you to care for and hold you up through the trial?

In what ways did you sense God working through them to minister to you?

How did your bond with this person change?

How was your relationship with God affected by those who came alongside you and helped and comforted you?

 

It’s obvious to all of us that helping those who are weak with the love of Christ flowing through us is a critical part of how we minister to each other in the Body of Christ.

 

“14d be patient with everyone.”

 

9. Be “patient” toward all men. THINGS URGENTLY NEEDED (Don’t lose your temper, love others)

 

Paul calls upon us as Disciples of Christ to express a most critical attitude and behavior. We are to be “patient with everyone.” This does not mean just Christians, nor does it mean just people we like or who are easy to get along with. It means EVERYONE! The Greek word for “patient” here is “makrothumeo” which means “long-spirited, long-tempered or forbearing.” Paul purposely stresses here that we as followers of Christ are to be patient with everyone! You could also say that it implies we need to be patient with anyone who is different than we are in any way. Someone has said, “Patience is that quality of endurance that can reach the breaking point and not break.”

 

It can be difficult to be patient with people at times. The reason is the sin nature that we were all born with and inherited from Adam and Eve manifests itself in numerous ways, whether you are a Follower of Christ or not. We have weak moments, we are impatient, demanding, selfish, unloving and sometimes even cruel because we don’t have something we want, think we need or can’t obtain. But Paul calls us to be patient with each other. We must bear with each other in the way that our Heavenly Father is patient with us. Have you thought of how patient God is with you and I. We must have the patience of Christ which the Holy Spirit can empower us to manifest towards others. We can also help one another as Disciples of Christ develop this Christ-like trait through prayer and loving support.

 

Pastor Craig Groeschel offers some advice on how to live in peace with others:

 

 “One time I was praying during worship, a few moments before preaching. Eyes closed, focusing on God, I felt someone slip a note into my hand. I never saw who it was, but the note was marked “Personal.” I thought to myself, “Someone probably wrote a nice note to encourage me before I preach.” A warm, loving feeling settled over me as I unfolded the paper.

 

 A moment later, I lost that loving feeling.

 

 Evidently, the note was from a woman who had tried to see me on Friday, my day off. She took offense at my absence and blasted me with hateful accusations. This happened literally seconds before I was to stand up to preach. In that moment, I had a choice. I could internalize the offense and become demoralized and discouraged. Or I could ask myself, I wonder what she’s experiencing that caused her to lash out?

 

 I chose compassion over depression. My heart hurt for her. I knew that such a disproportionate reaction must indicate deep pain, so I didn’t take her note personally.

 

 Consider the source. And consider the possibility that the jab may have come from an injured heart. Dismiss it and move on. If you don’t, you may become the very thing you despise.”

 

James tells us how long we are to seek to be patient with our fellow men and women.

 

James 5:7

“Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord.”

 

“Patience” is another fruit of the Spirit manifested in our lives when we are led by the Holy Spirit who lives within us as Disciples of Christ.

 

Galatians 5:22-24

“…the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

 

 “15a See that no one repays another with evil for evil,

 

10. “Do not repay evil for evil.” THINGS URGENTLY NEEDED (Don’t seek revenge or fight with others)

 

It is appropriate that Paul shares this particular jewel of holy living “do not repay evil for evil” in verse 15 right after his instruction to be patient. Often we lose our patient quickly when evil is done against us. Thus Paul is challenging us first to “be patient with everyone” and now tells us not to seek revenge or “do not repay evil for evil.”

 

There are several standards for behavior towards others in our world;

 

First, The standard of the heathen wicked which is to do evil to those who do good.

 

Second, The standard of the vengeful person which is to do evil to those who do evil to them.

 

Third, The standard of the so-called cultured world which is to do good towards those who do good to them.

 

Fourth, The standard of the Christian which is to do good to all people even those who do evil to them.

 

This attitude of refusing to take revenge through evil acts is drastically needed in the world today. All of us have experienced evil done to us in numerous ways by many different individuals. One option presented to us by our flesh and Satan is to respond against evil with evil. We want justice done and to us justice is often seeking to get even by retaliating in a vengeful and evil manner. This is not holy living. This is not living as Jesus would. This is not keeping in step with the Holy Spirit. Several other scriptures emphasize this as well.

 

Romans 12:17

“Never pay back evil for evil to anyone.”

 

1 Peter 3:8-10

“To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing.”

 

Matthew 5:43-45

You have heard that it was said, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR and hate your enemy.’  “But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven;

 

The second half of verse 15 commands us to always seek good for not only each other as Disciples of Christ but for everyone meet.

 

“15b but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people.”

 

11. “Seek after that which is good for one another and for all people THINGS URGENTLY NEEDED

 

Paul’s progression of instruction as to how to respond to evil done against us continues in verse 15. The second half of this verse raises the bar of God’s expectations for us in situation of conflict or when we have evil done to us. It’s one thing to avoid paying back evil which has been done to us, it’s quite another to seek to do good to such a person. I don’t think Paul is implying that when someone hits us for no reason we are to offer to take them out to dinner or when they insult our wife we are to chime in with them and agree. Godly wisdom is always prudent in such situations.

 

Seeking what is good after evil is done to us begins with some degree of forgiveness and efforts at reconciliation. It may also involve some tactful and loving confrontation. Such a situation took place with Jesus at one of the trials where he was abused and interrogated.

 

 John 18:19-24

“The high priest then questioned Jesus about His disciples, and about His teaching. Jesus answered him, “I have spoken openly to the world; I always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where all the Jews come together; and I spoke nothing in secret.  “Why do you question Me? Question those who have heard what I spoke to them; they know what I said.”  When He had said this, one of the officers standing nearby struck Jesus, saying, “Is that the way You answer the high priest?” Jesus answered him, “If I have spoken wrongly, testify of the wrong; but if rightly, why do you strike Me?”  So Annas sent Him bound to Caiaphas the high priest.”

 

Notice that Jesus did not strike back at the officer, but neither did he let the officer’s violent behavior go unchallenged. Jesus spoke truth back to Him in a loving but firm statement. This probably humbled the officer for we see no further abuse of Jesus by the officer.

 

Another important point is that there is a peace that comes when you let God take over the process of justice of evil done to you. This does not mean you become a doormat for abuse and evil actions from another. It simply means you do not seek to retaliate. You let God deal with the justice that is needed to be done. If you are dealing currently with evil that has been done to you, I would recommend reading the following passages and seek to turn the situation as well as your struggles in this hardship over to the Lord in prayer. He is the one who will establish justice and work on your behalf.

 

Matthew 6:14-15

“For if you forgive others for their transgressions, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.

”But if you do not forgive others, then your Father will not forgive your transgressions.

 

Romans 12:19-21

“Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY,” says the Lord.”BUT IF YOUR ENEMY IS HUNGRY, FEED HIM, AND IF HE IS THIRSTY, GIVE HIM A DRINK; FOR IN SO DOING YOU WILL HEAP BURNING COALS ON HIS HEAD.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

 

THINGS CONTINUALLY APPROPRIATE (How We Worship God as A Community of Disciples of Christ)

 

Paul in this section of 1 Thessalonians 5:16-28 addresses how we worship God as a corporate church, a loving fellowship, a body of Believers. All the verbs in this section are plural indicating that these actions while done individually are also expressed corporately in public to God and to each other. When we read these admonitions of Paul to rejoice, pray and give thanks, we see the corporate church in loving action towards each other and a witness to the world. Many have said that these are the ultimate standing orders of the church which reflect their commitment to God as well as each other.

 

1 Thessalonians 5:16-28

 

Following in verses 16-18 we have a triune statement whose three parts, in the Greek, are linked together. We are to “rejoice always,” “pray without ceasing” and “in everything give thanks.” You might say that within this portion of the passage we are studying, that there is what might be called a “core element for the Christian’s holy attitude in life.”

 

“16 Rejoice always;”

 

12. “Rejoice always.” THINGS CONTINUALLY APPROPRIATE

 

Dr. Thomas L. Constable states that, “This is just one of approximately 70 New Testament commands to rejoice. This volitional choice is extremely important for the Christian. We can always rejoice if we remember what God has given us in Christ.”

 

This verse 12 is also the shortest verse in the Bible. I know, I know; we’ve all been taught that the shortest verse in the Bible is John 11:35, “Jesus wept.” But that’s in English. In the original Greek John 11:35 has three words where 1 Thessalonians 5:12 has only two and this is reflected in our English translation of verse 12.

 

Here Paul shares the next jewel of holy living which is “rejoicing.” The Greek word Paul uses for “rejoicing” is “chairo” and means “to be cheerful, calmly happy.” This doesn’t seem to be a hard task to accomplish for often we rejoice over life or experiences, but it is the qualifying word “always” that makes us wonder: How can I do this ALWAYS! This qualifying word Paul uses here holds us accountable to a higher calling. He uses the Greek word “pantote” to instruct the Thessalonian believers and us today as to when this “rejoicing” should take place.

 

“Pantote” means “at all times, always, evermore.” This means we are to be continually and at all times rejoice in the Lord. This does not mean we are to rejoice that bad things happen to us or happy that we have serious problems arise in our life. It means we rejoice in the midst of them. We are to rejoice in the fact that God is with us in the storm of life. We are to rejoice in the fact that Jesus Christ is praying on our behalf in Heaven. We are to rejoice that the Holy Spirit that lives within us will give us to power to overcome the trial. We are to rejoice that the trial will make us stronger in our faith or God will use it to minister to someone else in the future.

 

Pastor Mark Batterson tells a story of how to rejoice even in tough times. It’s about a student he was teaching at the Urban Bible Training Center in Washington D.C.

 

“I had a Nigerian student who was in his mid-sixties. He could hardly talk or walk because of several strokes that affected his motor skills and speech. I still remember climbing the stairs with him. Each step was an achievement. Sometimes I would give him a ride home from class and because his right leg was so atrophied from disuse, I had to physically lift it into the car for him. Nothing came easy.

One day I picked him up from the public housing tenement where he was living, and I’ll never forget the hat he was wearing…He could barely walk. He could barely talk. And he was living on welfare. But he was wearing a hat that said “God is Good.” And he didn’t just wear the hat. He walked the talk. I haven’t met many people as upbeat or optimistic about life. I actually had to choke back tears…What right do I have to complain about anything?”

 

How can such an attitude of continual rejoicing be acquired or developed? I would suggest the answer can be found in several ways;

 

By deepening in our relationship with our Heavenly Father.

By growing in our spiritual maturity.

By maturing in our trust in God.

By increasing in our persistent dependence on the Holy Spirit.

By encouraging each other in our faith in Christ.

 

The following scriptures communicate that “rejoicing always” is possible for the follower of Christ. Matthew 5:11-12, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, 9, Philippians 1:18, 4:4-8, 1 Peter 1:3-9.

 

Matthew 5:11-12

“Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. “Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”

 

 Philippians 4:4-8 is especially appropriate

 

Philippians 4:4-8

“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.”

 

This scripture instructs to do several things in order to rejoice always;

 

By developing a gentle spirit.

Being aware of how close the Lord is to you at all times.

Seeking to be avoid being anxious by letting your requests be made known to God through prayer.

Being thankful for who God is and what He has done for you.

Know that God will grant you His peace that passes all comprehension.

This will guard your heart and your mind in the power of Christ Jesus.

Seek to dwell on things that are true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, and good.

 

1 Thessalonians 5:17

 

“17 pray without ceasing;”

 

13. “Pray without ceasing.” THINGS CONTINUALLY APPROPRIATE

 

We all understand the concept of prayer; that it is communicating on a personal level with our Heavenly Father. But when we read this short verse here in 1 Thessalonians we sense it is packed with a deep meaning and challenge. What does it mean to pray, “without ceasing?” This does not mean we must always be mumbling prayers. The Greek adverb here, “adialeiptos” tells us that our prayers should go on “without omitting any concern or thought, to be constantly occurring.” This does not mean they should be continuously occurring verbally or under our breath. Greek writers used this adverb meaning “without ceasing” to describe a hacking cough that doesn’t go away. So in essence we are to perpetually be aware of our freedom and ability to pray at a moment’s notice, no matter the time of day or whatever we are doing. Paul is not implying we are to be mumbling prayers all day long without mentally and emotionally taking ownership of what we pray and how we pray. He is suggesting we are to have a continual awareness of the closeness of the Holy Spirit within us, the constant blessing of Jesus’ Lordship over our lives and the perpetual relationship we have with our Heavenly Father. In a sense we are to keep the “receiver of the prayer phone” off the hook at all times so that we can continue our daily communication with our Heavenly Father at a moment’s notice. This is a constant awareness of God’s presence that permeates our life as a follower of Christ. If we grasp this concept properly, it means we are “without ceasing” always aware that the Holy Spirit is within us, that our Heavenly Father God is with us is all we do and that Jesus Christ is constantly interceding for us as we live out our lives. J.B. Lightfoot clarifies this point when he states, “It is not in the moving of the lips, but in the elevation of the heart to God, that the essence of prayer consists.” Henri Nouwen also suggests that we, “live with a growing awareness that God is always present. It is to grow in our openness to God – to bring consciously all of our words and deeds into His presence.

 

Mark Batterson in his book “In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day” states; “Too often our prayers revolve around asking God to reduce the odds in our lives. We want everything in our favor. But maybe God wants to stack the odds against us so we can experience a miracle of divine proportions. Maybe faith is trusting God no matter how impossible the odds are. Maybe our impossible situations are opportunities to experience a new dimension of God’s glory.”

 

This concept challenges us not to simply pray for the removal of hardships and difficulties, but to pray for wisdom in how to respond to such trials and use them to glorify God, to grow spiritually in our trust and faith in God or to endure them to bring glory to God.

 

Billy Graham, “How much do you pray? If someone were to examine your prayer life, would “they” find that you are more excited about watching football or visiting a friend than talking to God?”

 

And H.A. Ironside encourages us in our prayer life with the following words, “We are to go through life with our hearts looking up to God no matter how much we may be occupied with other matters.”

 

1 Thessalonians 5:18

 

“18 in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

 

14. In everything “give thanks.” THINGS CONTINUALLY APPROPRIATE

 

Another jewel in the chain of holy living Paul covers is the practice of “giving thanks in everything.” This is closely related to “rejoicing always” as a follower of Christ. This does not mean that we are to give thanks “for” everything, but “in everything.” As I mentioned earlier regarding verse 16, we are not to seek hardships and struggles in order to rejoice and give thanks for them. We are to give thanks for the spiritual strength and blessings God gives us in the midst of the storms of life so that we can not only bring glory to Him but also grow in faith and spiritual maturity. Romans 8:28 is often quoted in such times of stress and difficulty to help us cope with the hardship, but possibly we should make sure that God is the subject in this verse. He is the one working in such a trial for a good outcome for us. Possibly we should translate this verse as Gary Demarest suggests, “…in everything, God is at work for good.” The ability to give thanks in every situation, manifests when we are in a close relationship with God and have grown in our faith so that we can see the blessings God grants us in the good times and perceive the opportunities for spiritual growth as we are tested in the hard times.

 

It is important we remember that thankfulness and holiness go together. When we are able to give thanks in everything we have come to the realization that all our circumstances and events we experience come from our loving Heavenly Father. While sin in this world causes many horrible events to take place and often Satan attacks us, it is our Heavenly Father who is permitting such events to take place according to His holy plan for us and the world. God does not cause evil, He does not direct Satan to do his dirty deeds, but God allows these things to take place to test us, to grow us and to work out His eternal plan for mankind as well as His creation. Our holy calling is to fix our hope on Jesus Christ, obey the Word and seek to be holy as we live out these 22 jewels of Christian living.

 

1 Peter 1:13-16

“Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts which were yours in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; because it is written, “YOU SHALL BE HOLY, FOR I AM HOLY.”

 

The Psalms are full of not only how to give thanks but why we can give thanks, even in desperate times and difficult situations. They illustrate for us that despite struggles involving suffering, we can rest our hope in God to sustain and protect us.

 

The following verse in Hebrews is also an encouragement for us to give thanks to our Heavenly Father.

 

Hebrews13:15

“Through Him then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name.”

 

To summarize verses 16-18 we might say that “to rejoice always, to pray without ceasing, and to give thanks in everything is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” This is often a difficult task, but Christ calls us to a life of joy, prayer, and gratitude and the rewards of obedience to His commands are rich and full of great peaceful content.

 

1 Thessalonians 5:19

 

“19 Do not quench the Spirit;”

 

15. Do not “quench not the Spirit.” THINGS CONTINUALLY APPROPRIATE

 

Paul shares in verse 19 a most critical jewel in the chain of holy living; to not “quench the Spirit.”

 

Dr. Thomas L. Constable states about this verse that, “Quenching the Spirit is a figurative expression used to illustrate the possibility of hindering he Spirit’s work in and through the believer. The image is that of water thrown on a fire. The proper response is to follow the Spirit’s direction and control without resistance.”

 

Warren Wiersbe explains it as follows; “Fire speaks of purity, power, light, warmth, and if necessary destruction. When the Holy Spirit is at work in our lives and churches, we have a warmth of love in our hearts, light for our minds, and energy for our wills. He ‘melts us together’ so that there is harmony and cooperation, and He purifies us so that we put away sin.”

 

Paul encouraged Timothy in his walk with God and his ministry in 2 Timothy 1:6-7 by stating, “For this reason I remind you to kindle afresh the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline.” Paul used a Greek verb in this verse to Timothy that means to “stir the fire again into life.” Apparently the intensity of Timothy’s commitment was fading to some degree and he needed encouraging to stop “quenching” the Spirit’s influence on his life and ministry.

 

The Holy Spirit is a member of the Holy Trinity. He is not a force or a power, though He does possess the power of God, because He is just as much a member of the Holy Trinity as the Father and the Son. When Paul commands us not to “quench” the Spirit; he is telling us not to wound Him by ignoring His advice or His leading in our lives.

 

Paul wrote something similar in Ephesians 4:30 “Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.”

 

The Holy Spirit’s ministry in your life is to magnify Christ in your life by convicting you of sin so you might spiritually walk more holy, encouraging you in your walk with the Lord and facilitating your relationship with your Heavenly Father. The Holy Spirit is sensitive to how you think, act and feel. Thinking wrongly, acting sinfully or feeling rebellious towards your Heavenly Father will grieve the Holy Spirit. Such sinful actions are also serious for your own spiritual life for it can callous your heart, mind and soul to the things of God.

 

The Holy Spirit also inspired men to write the Bible and He will also enable you to interpret the Bible.

 

2 Timothy 3:16-17

“All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.”

 

Let me ask you some questions.

 

Can you think of constructive ways you can improve in your ability to avoid quenching the Holy Spirit?

 

What would result in your life if you listened more to the Spirit’s wishes and influence over your life and avoided quenching His instruction and presence?

 

I would encourage you to read Colossians 3:16 and Ephesians 5:18. These are parallel passages that connect two Biblical mandates for the Christian. As we let the Word of God dwell richly in our hearts, we will be filled with the Spirit.

 

How might this concept of dwelling on Scripture and being filled with the Spirit help you avoid quenching the Spirit of God?

 

1 Thessalonians 5:20 – 21

 

“20 do not despise prophetic utterances.”

 

16. Do not “despise” prophetic utterances. THINGS CONTINUALLY APPROPRIATE (Don’t ignore teaching.)

 

“21a But examine everything carefully;”

 

17. “Examine everything carefully,” THINGS CONTINUALLY APPROPRIATE

 

In verse 20 and 21 Paul gives three more jewels of Christian living that are closely associated with one another. First he states “do not despise prophetic utterances.” The clearest definition of prophesying is found in 1 Corinthians 14:3, “But one who prophesies speaks to men for edification and exhortation and consolation.” At this time in history there was no canonized New Testament for believers to reference and rely upon. God at this time spoke through specially gifted individuals to communicate the thoughts and mind of God. This teaching and preaching was done in the form of prophetic revelations given by the Holy Spirit to the local congregation in Thessalonica. Prophecy is not just “for-telling the future” it is also “forth-telling” or “explaining and teaching the Word of God.” This is what Paul is speaking of here in this passage. We see the first two jewels in this verse closely tied together. On the one hand Christians were not to despise or reject teaching in the local churches or small group gatherings; but they were also to examine everything closely and carefully to see that they match up with what as contained in what Paul had taught them earlier. Luke had mentioned how astute and discerning the Bereans had been in evaluating preaching and teaching that was done in their local fellowships. This is stated in Acts 17:11-12, “Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.”

 

The same applies to us today. We have a completed Bible that we can use to test what is being taught to us. So we are to be careful not to judge what is being taught to us until we see if it lines up with the Holy Scriptures. In the same vein, we are not to be too quick at accepting everything we hear in a teaching until we see that it is in agreement with the Bible.

 

Wherever there is God’s Truth, Satan is on the scene with counterfeits. One thing that plagued the early church was false teachers and they are still with us today. Today we have an easier task of testing prophesy or the preaching of God’s Word because we have the written scripture as a holy standard and this enables us to make an informed spiritual decision. Several scriptures speak of being aware of people teaching wrong doctrine.

 

Matthew 7:15

“Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves.”

 

2 Peter 2:1-3

“But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will also be false teachers among you, who will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing swift destruction upon themselves. Many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of the truth will be maligned; and in their greed they will exploit you with false words; their judgment from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep.”

 

1 John 4:1-2

“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”

 

Charles Swindoll states that prophecy or prophetic utterances are, “The declaration of God’s mind, spoken forthrightly in the power of the Spirit, at just the right time.” He goes on to say that prophetic utterances (sermons that are preached), “if they are truly from God, should be consistent with Holy Scripture, are obedient to the Lordship of Christ and will be in agreement with your inner spirit.”

 

I would suggest his implication is in that significant order.

 

First you test a teaching or sermon by how it lines up with the Holy Bible.

 

Secondly, is the content of the teaching or sermon taught by Christ, lived out by Christ and supported by Christ as a valid teaching.

 

Lastly, does the Holy Spirit assist you in verifying it is true by a conviction you perceive in your heart, mind and soul? Your inner spirit can be misleading at times unless it is deeply grounded in the Word of God and fertilized by a dedication to the leading of the Holy Spirit.

 

Stating it in another way, here are some benchmarks in evaluating preaching and teaching you are exposed to:

 

First, we are to rely on God’s Word as the first benchmark for evaluating truth from error. Is what we are hearing as it is preached in agreement with solid Biblical interpretation?

 

Secondly comes, the Lordship of Christ. Any concept, idea or teaching should reflect a respect for the Lord Jesus, line up with the example of His life and respect His Lordship over our life.

 

Thirdly, does what we hear reflect the grace of God that he offers to us as communicated through the Bible.

 

Lastly, what is the character of the speaker? Does he or she practice what he preaches and do they live like Christ in their personal life. This doesn’t mean that the speaker, pastor, elder or small group leader must be perfect, but they must exhibit and reflect that they “walk the talk” and seek to live like Christ empowered by the Holy Spirit, demonstrating humbleness as they fail as we all do at times.

 

Any deviation from these benchmarks should cause us to be suspicious of what is taught or preached.

 

“21b hold fast to that which is good;”

 

18. “Hold fast to that which is good.” THINGS CONTINUALLY APPROPRIATE

 

Paul shares another jewel in the chain of holy living that is related to the last two mentioned. He commands that we “hold fast to what is good.” The Greek word for “good” here is “kalos” and means “better, fair, honest, well, worthy, valuable or virtuous.” Hold fast is the Greek word “katecho” and means “to possess, retain, seize onto, take or hold down.” As follower of Christ we are always to seek that which is good, pure, honest, fair and best. This reflects the character of God, the love and person of Christ and the tenderness and power of the Holy Spirit.

 

So concerning these three jewels, we are not to despise Biblical preaching and teaching, but we are to examine what is preached and taught carefully and make sure it is in alignment with proper Biblical interpretation and established doctrine. Once this is done, we are to hold steadfastly to the good that we learn from reliable spiritual instruction and preaching.

 

1 Thessalonians 5:22

 

“22 abstain from every form of evil.”

 

19. “Abstain from every form of evil.” THINGS CONTINUALLY APPROPRIATE

  

In verse 15 we were told by Paul that we were “not to repay evil for evil.” Now here in verse 22 Paul shares a related jewel of Christian living, “abstain from every form of evil.” The Greek word Paul uses here for “abstain” is “apecho.” The immediate context would communicate that this is a directive to “hold oneself back from false teaching, but the word actually is more comprehensive and includes avoiding any kind of wrong behavior. In 1 Thessalonians 4:3 Paul used this word to warn the Thessalonians to “abstain from fornication.” The Apostle Peter also used the same word in a similar way in 1 Peter 2:11.

 

The Greek word for “every form” or “appearance” is “eidos.” And the Greek word for “evil” is “poneros” and is used in other scriptures to describe Satan and/or his demons. We also must remember that our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ taught us to pray, “Deliver us from evil,” (Luke 11:4). Scripture teaches us that we must never allow ourselves to be placed in a situation that would taint or tarnish our witness or cause our testimony to be compromised; even accidently. Paul’s rule is to steer clear of evil at all costs.

 

Paul in verse 15 told us not to respond in evil towards anyone who does evil to us, here a greater calling is required. We are told to avoid doing any evil at all. While before we were told to not respond in any outward evil form of external action, here we are to abstain from every form of evil, both internal and external. The intent here for the follower of Christ is to avoid even having the appearance of any evil behavior or action and this especially includes your personal thought life. Out of our heart and thoughts come actions and behaviors. We must submit not just our outward actions and behaviors to God, but first our inward heart, mind and soul.

 

This next week seek to focus on this teaching from Paul Let the Holy Spirit and God’s Word guide you as you make it a priority to do no evil. Think about how Christ would respond to a temptation to do evil and model your actions and thoughts after what you think Christ would do. Pray without ceasing and listen for the Holy Spirit to use God’s Word to guide you.

 

“23 Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. “24 Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass.”

 

Paul takes a break from his list of 22 jewels of Christian living and shares a short blessing of encouragement.

 

Bible commentator F. F. Bruce calls this blessing of 5:23-24 a “wish-prayer” indicating that this is both a prayer and a blessing at the same time.”

 

In his commentary on 1 Thessalonians John Phillips states regarding this passage the “Jesus is coming! We need to keep ourselves in “spotless integrity” in view of our meeting with Him in the air. Who would want to meet the Lord, caught in the act of some shameful sin or involved in some mean squabble?”

 

Paul is attempting to say that God is in the process of sanctifying you each and every day. He uses the Holy Spirit who lives within you as a follower of Christ to facilitate this. But, you are also responsible in this process as well. God won’t force you to do what He calls you to do, He requires your cooperation.

 

Charles Swindoll states regarding these verses, “…Paul points out that sanctification is ultimately God’s work in us, not our work for Him. Yes, we are active in yielding to the power of the Spirit and depending on His gracious and powerful provision, but it is ultimately God who is working in us ‘both to will and to work for His good pleasure’ (Philippians 2:12-13)…It’s not a surprise, then, that Paul prays that the ‘God of peace’ would sanctify them ‘entirely’ . He wants a complete setting-apart and consecration of every dimension of their lives – physical, spiritual, mental, emotional. This is probably why he mentions spirit, soul and body.”

 

This prayer for the Thessalonian Christians can be applied to us living in the 21st century as well. Paul is asking our Heavenly Father to sanctify the Thessalonian believers completely and that their spirit, soul and body be preserved, pure and holy for the second coming of Jesus Christ. We should take this scripture to heart because God used Paul to write this letter to the Thessalonica Christians, but also to all Christians down through the centuries.

 

Sanctification is the process of becoming perfectly holy like Jesus Christ. While this is not possible for us while we are on earth, still, we are called to continue in this process all the days of our life. It will be completed when we reach our Heavenly home. Despite the evil influences of the world, God will preserve us (John 17:15) as we cooperate with Him in obedience to His Word and seek to keep in step with the Holy Spirit. We are not to be isolated from the world, but insulated from its sinful influences.

 

Are you ready for the Lord’s return if He were to return today? This is a major theme in 1 and 2 Thessalonians. If you sense you are not ready for the Lord’s second coming, confess any sins that the Holy Spirit convicts you of, pray that you will seek to grow in faith, rely upon the Holy Spirit for guidance more consistently and praise your Heavenly Father for the daily grace and mercy He pours over your life as His child He so dearly loves. Now, read verse 24 and feel at ease. While you have a responsibility to live as Christ, God is the one who will “bring it to pass.”

 

We might be rather burdened and frustrated in the process of sanctification if it were all up to us. Here Paul tells us that your Heavenly Father is faithful. Since He called you to Himself, He will bring your sanctification and completed salvation to fruition. It will be done and finished because it is done in His power through His grace and mercy. Yes, we have the responsibility to respond and use the resources He provides, but He will have His will in your salvation and sanctification. Consider the following verse.

 

Philippians 2:12-13

“ So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.”

 

This verse explains to us that our salvation and sanctification is a cooperative effort. We are to work out our salvation with fear and trembling, which might be stated as with respect for God and humility before Him. But this verse also states that God is work within us.

 

1 Thessalonians 5:25

“25 Brethren, pray for us.”

 

20. “Pray” for others. THINGS CONTINUALLY APPROPRIATE

 

While Paul here in this verse is asking the Thessalonian believers to pray for him as well as Silas and Timothy, it actually is also another jewel in the chain of holy living. Paul is communicating to us here that we are to consistently pray for our leaders, pastors and elders and also our fellow Christians. Paul believed that intercessory prayer would move God to do things that He would not do otherwise until asked to do so. Dr. Thomas L. Constable believes that “the ministry of prayer is the most important service that the Church of Christ can engage in.”

 

If we are honest with ourselves, we probably pray more for ourselves than anyone else. While this is necessary holy habit in our relationship with God, we must never forget what Paul is verifying here that we pray for others. This short verse reminds us of this much needed ministry, the ministry of praying for others.

 

Many, many scriptures instruct us to pray for others. Examples are; Matthew 5:44, 6:9-13, Luke 6:28, 18:10-14, Luke 22:40, Ephesians 1:18-21, 6:18, Philippians 1:9-11, 2 Thessalonians 3:1, 1 Timothy 2:8, and James 5:13,16.

 

I would encourage every Disciple of Christ to seek to pray at the drop of a hat for whomever we can, whenever we can and for whatever we can. If someone mentions a need, pray right there on the spot. Prayer for others can build bridges to friendships that can last forever. Prayers offered up at a moment’s notice for anyone, even strangers can be a great ministry and can lead to sharing the Gospel of Christ. In Matthew 5:44 we read that Jesus commanded for us to even love our enemies and to pray for those who persecute us!

 

1 Thessalonians 5:26

 

“26 Greet all the brethren with a holy kiss.”

 

21. “Greet one another.” THINGS CONTINUALLY APPROPRIATE (A warm, spiritually pure kiss or handshake)

 

Reading this verse could make you blush or question Holy Scripture. We might ask the question; does this apply to us today? In the first century, in much of the known world, it was a custom by both men and women to great one another with a kiss on the cheek as a greeting.

 

In the Biblical world kissing was not always erotic, but also non-erotic. Relatives often kissed one another as a greeting, especially after a long absence. Kissing could also be a sign of farewell before a long journey. It was also common for unrelated friends to greet each other with a kiss, such as David and Jonathan (1 Samuel 20:41). It was not uncommon to kiss a guest as a sign of hospitality. Such actions could also be a way of demonstrating homage or submission. The custom of kissing without sexual connotations continued with the Jews through the New Testament Period. Early Jewish sources suggest that there were three kinds of acceptable public kisses: those for greeting, for farewell or for expressing, devotion. Paul regularly called upon Christians to greet one another with a “holy kiss” (Romans 16:16, 1 Corinthians 16:20, 2 Corinthians 13:12, 1 Thessalonians 5:16).

 

You will notice this action in this verse in 1 Thessalonians 5 is qualified by the word “holy” and therefore does not imply a passionate erotic type of kiss. I once discipled a man in the faith. He knew very little of Christian teaching but was eager to learn. One Sunday we were standing side by side in a church service and an elder up front after the opening song directed the church body to greet one another…smiling and in a joking manner he said “with a holy kiss.” While he was just kidding, this man I was discipling, being so new in the faith, took it as a command and kissed me on the neck. Startled, I turned to look at him with as much calm as I could muster. He said, “Was that okay to do? He told us to do it.” I said it was okay and explained the context of the instruction from the elder and the scripture verse to him. While I was embarrassed, I did not let on that I was. This young Disciple of Christ was just innocently trying to be responsive to the instruction from the elder. I also know of another situation where an elderly deacon in a church liked to live out this verse as a greeter, but only to women. He was taken aside by the elders and asked to refrain from such repetitive actions. Needless to say, we must be careful what New Testament or first century customs might be inappropriate for us to apply today without discretion. Most commentators recommend today that a warm friendly handshake might suffice. Some Christians still kiss on the cheek as a greeting if it is a cultural norm, some men even do so. Whatever the case, we should always be careful to be honorable and appropriate in how we show our warm affection for other followers of Christ. This is another jewel in the chain of holy living commands.

 

Do you in a friendly and loving manner greet other believers when meeting them at church or any other place? We have an eternal bond with each other as Christians and wherever we meet one another this bond should be precious to us. We should seek to demonstrate our Christian love for fellow brothers and sisters in a warm and appropriate manner whenever possible.

 

1 Thessalonians 5:27

 

“27 I adjure you by the Lord to have this letter read to all the brethren. 28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.”

 

22. This epistle “be read” unto all the holy brethren. THINGS CONTINUALLY APPROPRIATE (Read Bible)

 

The final and 22^nd jewel in the chain of holy commands for the Christian is to read scripture. Here Paul is commanding that this letter he wrote to the church at Thessalonica be read to all the Christians there. There is always a blessing when Holy Scripture is read. It brings comfort to the afflicted. It encourages those who are downtrodden. It convicts those who are with sin. It offers answers to hard questions. It informs us of who we serve; the Father, Son and Spirit. We gain wisdom, insight and courage from its pages of Holy Scriptures. It comes from the heart and mind of God and should always be consulted when we need a word from the Lord.

 

How are you doing with your Bible reading? But here’s a harder question. How are you doing with your Bible study? AND…Here’s an even harder question. How are you doing with applying the Bible to your life? Do you read your Bible consistently? If not, consider setting down at a consistent time each day and reading from God’s Word. If you struggle with finding time consider asking a close Christian friend to hold you accountable, or better yet, read the Word together. Seek to be involved in a small group where you can learn God’s Word in the company of other Christians as well as how you can apply it to your life as well.

 

You will be amazed at how God will grow your faith and work in your life if you participate in this holy habit of reading His divine Word. 

 

“28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.”

Paul ends this chapter with these loving words to both encourage and remind fellow Disciples of Christ that the grace of God is what has made our lives what it was always meant to be, god-centered and god-glorified.

 

It has been said of the wonder of God’s grace; “It is wonderful that an infinite creator and Ruler of the world and a fallen, sinful human being can be in fellowship—the Creator showing Himself to the creature, and the creature leaning, as it were, upon the arm of the Creator. It is a wonder of grace. It comes about through One who is fittingly called Wonderful. Why should we not say hourly, “Lord, what will you have me to do?”

 

This portion of 1 Thessalonians is not meant to overwhelm us with a list of almost two dozen actions, attitudes and behaviors to express, demonstrate and live out. It is an effort by Paul through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit to recognize the high calling we have as Disciples of Christ and the powerful Divine Helper who will assist us in living out in thought and deed the Truth contained in Holy Scripture.

 

All of these “Jewels of Christian Living” summarize the way we worship God as we live out the Gospel of Christ. The true purpose of any godly worship is that we might become more like our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in character and conduct. One of the best definitions of worship would be a quote from William Temple, a late Archbishop of Canterbury:

 

“For to worship is to quicken the conscience by the holiness of God, to feed the mind with the truth of God, to purge the imagination by the beauty of God, to open up the heart to the love of God, to devote the will to the purpose of God.”

 

Closing comments and quotations…

 

This passage in 1 Thessalonians was written by the Apostle Paul inspired by the Holy Spirit to inform, challenge and convict Christians to live according to the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, their Lord and Savior. It was a challenge for Christians to live in Thessalonica in the first century and it has always been a struggle since the first century for Christians to live in this world where sin runs rampant, temptation sits at every door and the trials of life plague our lives. It is good for us to hear what Paul writes in this letter and it is critical that we respond to it with obedience as we live out our faith by practicing these precepts. Hearing or reading these words is good, but they must be lived out in each of our lives. Following are some encouragements to apply these truths.

 

Charles Swindoll tells us, “What follows a true spiritual birth? A changed life, an altered course, an obedient way.”

 

Gene Getz in his book on the Apostle Paul states, “No matter what our status and position as Christians, we need to continue to become more and more like Jesus Christ, not only in what we believe doctrinally, but in the way we live out what we believe in our relationship with others.”

 

The famous preacher John Wesley gives us a goal for living out these 22 Jewels of Christian attitudes and actions,

 

“Do all the good you can,

By all the means you can,

In all the ways you can,

In all the places you can,

At all the times you can,

To all the people you can,

As long as ever you can.”

 

There are times in our lives that we can experience spiritual discouragement when God allows us to see all that we could have done, should have done, and would have done, but did not do. We must seize the opportunities that God presents to us to carry out these 22 jewels of Christian living.

 

The Apostle Paul was tenacious at living out his faith in Christ. In 1 Corinthians Paul speaks of how he dedicated himself to serving God each and every day. Read his words that show the tenacity with which he lived his Christian life.

 

1 Corinthians 9:24-27

“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.”

 

We should respond to our faith like Paul as he lived like Jesus Christ, putting our entire commitment and energy into living according to our calling as Disciples of Christ. I would suggest you imagine what it would be like to walk beside Jesus as He encourages you to walk like Him in Faith. Possibly He might say, “Your Heavenly Father wants you to walk like I did and His Spirit will give you the power to accomplish it.”

 

The book of Revelation speaks of how we will receive a crown which symbolizes the holy life we have lived, the servant attitude we have possessed, the love we have expressed to others and the dedication we have shown to our Savior, Jesus Christ.

 

Revelation 3:11-13

“I am coming quickly; hold fast what you have, so that no one will take your crown. ‘He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he will not go out from it anymore; and I will write on him the name of My God, and the name of the city of My God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God, and My new name. ‘He, who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’”

 

There are several crowns mentioned in scripture that relate to our eternal life in Christ.

 

The Crown of Righteousness        2 Timothy 4:7-8

The Incorruptible Crown                1 Corinthians 9:24-27

The Crown of Life                           Revelation 2:10

The Crown of Rejoicing                 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20

The Crown of Glory                        1 Peter 5:1-4

 

You might say that such crowns are reflections of our dedication and commitment to Christ and to living out what Paul instructs us to do in 1 Thessalonians; living out the 22 Jewels of Christian Living.

 

In Revelation we see the twenty-four elders cast their crowns before the throne of God demonstrating their humble service to Him as well as their worship. We may have the same privilege to cast our crowns before Him as well.

 

Revelation 4:9-11

“And when the living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to Him who sits on the throne, to Him who lives forever and ever, the twenty-four elders will fall down before Him who sits on the throne, and will worship Him who lives forever and ever, and will cast their crowns before the throne, saying, “Worthy are You, our Lord and our God, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and because of Your will they existed, and were created.”

 

Ephesians 3:20-21         

“Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.” 

 

Here are some suggestions to help you live out the 22 Jewels of Christian Living.

 

THINGS KINDLY REQUESTED – 1 THESSALONIANS 5:11-13

 

Encourage One Another

Seek to think of how you can develop a regular habit of complementing others in their positive traits and encouraging them when they are facing trials and hardships.

Build Up One Another

Seek to strengthen others through love and support in any way possible.

 

Appreciate Those Who Labor

Demonstrate appreciation for pastors, elders, deacons and spiritual leaders by expressing encouragement to them and praying for them.

 

Esteem Those Who Labor

Develop and express to pastors, elders, deacons and spiritual leaders that you respect them for their sacrificial service to the body. Seek to demonstrate a respectful attitude toward them.

 

Live In Peace with Each Other

Seek to live in peace with all members of the body of Christ. Let the love of God be your standard in how you treat others. Seek the Spirit’s power to enable you to be peaceful and respectful toward everyone just as Jesus Christ Himself would.

 

THINGS URGENTLY NEEDED – 1 THESSALONIANS 5:14-15

 

Admonish the Unruly

In a loving, truthful, appropriate manner, confront and correct those who are causing disturbances in the body of Christ or who are behaving in an ungodly manner.

 

Encourage the Faint-hearted

Seek to develop a sensitive spirit so that the Holy Spirit can use you to encourage those who are struggling either with a life trauma or an overwhelming difficulty in their life.

 

Help the Weak

Allow the Holy Spirit to develop a tender attitude to those who are weak in the faith, who are dealing with tremendous struggles in life, or who appear to be overwhelmed by life. Demonstrate Christ’s love and empathy to them.

Be Patient toward Everyone

Be known for your patience as it increases as a godly trait in your life. Seek to be especially patient with those whom you have had little patience.

 

Do Not Repay Evil for Evil

When evil is done against you, respond with forgiveness and love at all times allowing God to work in the situation according to how Jesus Christ would respond. Trust God for justice, if not in this life, then in the next.

 

Seek After That Which Is Good

Always seek for good in your behaviors, attitudes and actions, as well as in your decisions, especially as it relates to others.

 

THINGS CONTINUALLY APPROPRIATE – 1 THESSALONIANS 5:16-27

 

Rejoice Always

Grow in your ability to rejoice in all situations, especially in relationships with others, even in difficult situations.

 

Pray Without Ceasing

Expand your prayer life to involve spontaneous as well as planned prayer times with God.

 

Give Thanks in Everything

Submit to the Holy Spirit in all things so you can give thanks in all circumstances and situations no matter how difficult.

 

Don’t Quench the Spirit

Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s presence in your life and seek to avoid wounding Him by straying from His continual guidance.

 

Do Not Despise Preaching and Teaching

Avoid being critical of Biblical spiritual instruction. God works in many ways through those He gifts in this area.

 

Examine Everything Carefully

Do not accept everything you are taught, but examine and verify its truthfulness and accuracy by testing it with God’s Holy Word.

 

Hold Fast to What Is Good

Cling to all that is good, excellent, holy and pure in God’s Word.

 

Abstain From Every Form of Evil

Avoid and refuse to be associated with any form of evil or impurity.

 

Pray For Others

Pray continually for others and issues that God places on your heart.

Seek to listen to the Holy Spirit as He increases your sensitivity.

 

Greet One Another

Develop hospitality and greet others with friendly affection.

 

Read the Bible

Be persistent and regular in reading or listening to Holy Script