‘May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones” (1st Thessalonians 3:13).
Continuing our study of the life of Paul let’s expand the point that the books he wrote provide the long term legacy of his life.
The two books he wrote to the Thessalonian church were written during his 2nd missionary trip. Questions about the 2nd coming of Christ arose and the letters were primarily written to affirm the believers and answer the questions they raised.
A godly old man was asked by a young Christian, “What would you do if you knew that Jesus Christ was returning tomorrow?” Expecting to be told that the old man would feverishly go out into the streets and warn everyone to get ready, he was surprised to hear him say, “I would go on living as I have been living. I always live as though Christ were coming today!”
In 1st Thessalonians you discover that such a life of security is encouraged, because such preparedness for the future will always inspire and involve service for the Lord and sanctity of life in the present. You should walk worthily and work watchfully while you wait for your Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
In his 2nd letter to the Thessalonian church he addresses another issue that will become more prevalent in the days prior to Christ’s return. Lawlessness will increase in preparation for the lawless one’s appearance, the antichrist. We need to be aware that till the end God is permitting lawlessness within limits. We have a responsibility to be involved until that day in opposing any practice of lawlessness. All the while, be assured that in the end God will punish lawlessness.
As a Christian, are you anticipating Christ’s return with great joy?
