Main Idea - Paul closes his letter with some final instructions for us to “keep the faith.” Three things from these verses that I want us to take note of. Responding to Evil, Rejoicing in all things, Receiving what is true and Rejecting what is Evil. And finally, Paul reminds us that all our efforts to “keep faith” are ultimately grounded and empowered by God himself who will himself keep us, spirit, soul, and body.
Listen to the sermon audio here.
You can also check out more resources for this series HERE.
Read through the following passages: 1 Thessalonians 5:15-28
Discuss the questions below with your MC or DNA group.
- What strikes you when you read this passage? What questions come to mind?
- Responding to Evil: What is your typical response to people who wrong you? How does the way of Jesus challenge us to respond to evil done to us?
- Rejoicing in all things: Why is it important to cultivate regular prayer with God and especially to have an attitude of thanksgiving? Is it possible to have a joy that transcends your circumstances?
- Receiving what is true and Rejecting what is Evil - Why is it important that we neither blindly accept all spiritual teaching or prophecy nor that we immediately reject it? What is our guide in this? How might prophecy be a needed gift for us to “keep the faith?”
- Read 1 Thess. 5:23-24. Throughout the entire series, these two verses have been our benediction. How does this verse encourage you and empower us to keep the faith? ———————————-
Kids Worship Questions
- What was one thing you learned during the sermon that you could discuss with your parents?
- How should we respond when other people treat us poorly? What might this look like when your brother or sister wrongs you?
- Did you know you can talk with God wherever you go? Draw a picture of some of the places you like to go and imagine what it might look like to talk with God there.
- Not everything we hear is true. We need to test what we learn with God’s word. Make a list of 3 things you believe to be true. Ask your parents to help you see if the bible agrees with those things or if it teaches something different.