For nation (ethnos) shall rise against nation (ethnos), and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. But all these things are merely the beginning of Birth Pains – Matthew 24:7-8 (KJV)
While they are saying, “Peace and safety!” then destruction will come upon them suddenly like birth pangs upon a woman with child – 1 Thessalonians 5:3 (NASB)
For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work; – 2 Thessalonians 2:7 (NASB)
Lawlessness: anomias – contempt and violation of law (Thayer’s)
…may the Lord cause you to increase and abound in love (agape) for one another, and for all people… – 1 Thessalonians 3:12 (NASB)
Some of the Jews were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, as did a large number of God-fearing Greeks and not a few prominent women. – Acts 17:4
…you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, – 1 Thessalonians 1:9 (NIV)
Chapter 3 Emphasis: “your faith” (vv.2,5,6,7,10)
Next Week: Our “Holiness, Sanctification” 3:13,4:3,4,7
Paul Reminds: (vv.3-5)
Thlipsis: pressure (KJV) – afflicted (-tion), anguish, burdened, persecution, tribulation, trouble (Strong’s)
(Jesus) “These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33 (NASB)
Paul’s concern is faith not faith (v.10)
…as we night and day keep praying most earnestly that we may see your face, and may complete what is lacking in your faith? – 1 Thessalonians 3:10 (NASB)
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. – Hebrews 11:1-2 (NASB)
Ask: What is ?
‘Our Father who is in heaven, Hallowed be Your name’ Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. – Matthew 6:9-10 (NASB)
What do I want ?
God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. – Genesis 1:27 (NASB)
Some things I never have to pray: “If it be Your Will”:
That people come to The Lord is…not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance. – 2 Peter 3:9 (NASB)
That God to provide for And they began to discuss with one another the fact that they had no bread. And Jesus, aware of this, said to them, “Why do you discuss the fact that you have no bread? …when I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many baskets full of broken pieces you picked up?” They said to Him, “Twelve” …And they said to Him, “Seven.” And He was saying to them, “Do you not yet understand?” – Mark 8:16-21 (NASB)
That God to me I am the Lord, who heals you.” – Exodus 15:26 (NIV)
… a leper came to Him, and bowed down to Him, saying, “Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean.” And He stretched out His hand and touched him, saying, “I am willing; be cleansed. – Matthew 8:2-3 (NASB)
Paul prayed but it didn’t (v.10)
…so that you will not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. – Hebrews 6:12 (NASB)