Bible Text: 1 Thessalonians 2:18-3:13 | “Stand Strong” 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:13

Introduction:  James 1:2-4, yeah, yeah, yeah.  It still hurts and it’s still dangerous.

I.        Affliction

A.     (v13) “We wanted to come to you…but Satan hindered us.”

1.      Isn’t God supposed to be in charge?  Are we really up to taking Satan on?

2.      (v19) Something, or someone, worth fighting for—(v20) “You are our glory and joy.”

B.     (v3) “No one should be unsettled by these trials.  You know…that we were destined for them.”

1.      Our destiny—John 15:18-20, 2 Timothy 3:12, 1 Peter 4:12-19.

2.      (v5) “For this reason…I sent to learn about your faith.”

C.     “…for fear that somehow the tempter had tempted you and our labor would be in vain.”

1.      Giving up may mean joining in the actions and voice of the majority.  It’s easy.

2.      Giving up may mean keeping silent.  Silence isolates all who share your view.

3.      Giving up might mean adopting non-Christian attack methods to retaliate.

II.       Comfort

A.     (v7) “In all our distress and persecution we were encouraged about you because of your faith.”

1.      (v8) “Now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord.”

2.      Standing strong the VBS way: God’s love, family and friends; prayer; the Bible; trusting God

B.     (v10) “We pray most earnestly night and day…”

1.      “…that we may see you face to face…”

2.      “…and supply what is lacking in your faith.”

C.     Benediction of verses 11-13: Affliction’s antidote

1.      (v11) “May our God and Father…clear the way for us to come to you.”

2.      (v12) “May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other.”

3.      (v13) “May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in his presence.”

4.      “…our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones.”

Conclusion:   What we could learn having Jesus wash our feet.  Communion