"‘ELECTION’ DAY: Forecast calls for Sunniest Day & Darkest Night!"

Sunday Sermon: October 7th, 2018

1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:5 provides us with some helpful context clues for our passage (1 Thessalonians 5:1-11):

17 But since we were torn away from you, brothers, for a short time, in person not in heart, we endeavored the more eagerly and with great desire to see you face to face, 18 because we wanted to come to you--I, Paul, again and again--but Satan hindered us. 19 For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you? 20 For you are our glory and joy.
3:1 Therefore when we could bear it no longer, we were willing to be left behind at Athens alone, 2 and we sent Timothy, our brother and God's coworker in the gospel of Christ, to establish and exhort you in your faith, 3 that no one be moved by these afflictions. For you yourselves know that we are destined for this. 4 For when we were with you, we kept telling you beforehand that we were to suffer affliction, just as it has come to pass, and just as you know. 5 For this reason, when I could bear it no longer, I sent to learn about your faith, for fear that somehow the tempter had tempted you and our labor would be in vain. (ESV)

Today’s Major Claim:
“The Lord is coming: control yourself & console others!”

3 Key Aspects of the Day of the Lord
I. Day of the Lord: Darkest Night for Doubters (5:1-3)
On the day of the Lord those who do not follow Christ will not escape His judgment.
Application/Implication: Take comfort in knowing the Lord sees our trials & persecutors.

II. Day of the Lord: Sunniest Day for Believers (5:4-7)
Paul is spurring the faithful on to godly living in light of the certainty of the Lord’s return.
Application/Implication: Live in self-control to nurture the spiritual sensitivity to be alert.

III. Day of the Lord: Encouraging Forecast for ‘Election’ Day (5:8-11)
The Thessalonians are in God’s elect so they should keep consoling each till that day.
Application/Implication: We should be actively seeking ways to console other believers.