1 ThessaloniansChapter 5

Let Us Not Sleep! (vs. 1-7)

• This passage is a continuation of the previous verses.

• Why would there be no need for Him to write about the times and the seasons? See Vs. 2 – no one knew! (cf. Matt. 24:36, Mark 13:32)

• Vs. 3-4: It will be sudden, so be ready! (2 Peter 3:10; Luke 12:37-40)

• Vs. 5-7: You are “sons of the day” – thus, you should be awake! – 1 Peter 2:9, Eph. 5:14

Let Us Not Sleep! (vs. 8-11)

• Vs. 8: Put on some armor – cf. Eph 6:13– Breastplate – protect our hearts/minds with

our strong faith/love of God.– Helmet – protected from a blow to the head –

to live – spiritually speaking, eternally!

• Vs. 9-10: We have not been appointed to be partakers of God’s wrath, but to live with Him – live our lives with that in mind!

• Vs. 11 – Words of comfort, but also a command – to comfort and edify each other!

Questions

• How does Paul combat the false doctrine of Pre-millenialism in this passage? (see verse 3)

• What is the modern day man’s view of darkness and light (grey areas)?

• How is the promise of Christ’s second coming of comfort?

• How can we better comfort and edify each other? Why is this important?

Exhortations for Brethren (vs. 12-22)

• Vs. 12-13: Pay proper respect to the elders – Heb. 13:17 – this is profitable!

• Vs. 14: Our responsibility to others.• Vs. 15: See Matthew 5:44; Rom. 12:21• Vs. 16: Rejoice! Phil. 4:4• Vs. 17: Persistence in Prayer (Luke 18:1)• Vs. 18: Give Thanks! Phil 4:6• Vs. 19-20: Don’t reject or despise God’s

teaching!• Vs. 21-22: If only those in the denominational

world would do this! See also Acts 17:11 – stay away from the form of evil!

Paul’s Closing (vs. 23-28)

• Vs. 23: This sanctification is not done miraculously, but through growth – that the whole man be found blameless.

• Vs. 24: God backs up His promises – see Hebrews 11:11

• Vs. 25: Paul’s desire was that they pray for him, just as he had them (cf. 1:2ff).

• Vs. 27: Make sure everyone hears!