Message: “A Church to Imitate” from Matt Chapin
Matt Chapin - May 26, 2024
The Priority of the Christian Life
In 1 Thessalonians, the priority of the Christian life is a transformed existence marked by holy living, diligent work, and hopeful waiting for Christ's return, moving from idol worship to serving God, embracing sanctification, and practicing love, quiet industriousness, and prayer, all while being models of faith for others in a hostile world.
Scripture References: 1 Thessalonians 4:1-2
From Series: "1 Thessalonians: The Expectant Church"
1 Thessalonians portrays the "Expectant Church" as a community defined by active faith, patient endurance, and fervent hope for Jesus' imminent return, even amidst persecution, characterized by their "work of faith, labor of love, and steadfastness of hope". They live holy, counter-cultural lives, motivated by the resurrection of Christ, learning to handle grief and conflict with grace, and preparing for the Kingdom by living alertly, encouraging one another, honoring leaders, and praying constantly until Christ comes to gather them in a glorious, decisive event.
