2 Thessalonians Week 15

We will pick up where we left off a few weeks ago in 2 Thessalonians. Our discussion will be based on the third and final chapter, after this week we will begin a new Bible Study.  Chapter 3 is about Christian Discipline. This can be a very difficult topic as we ask how can we love our brothers, but still apply discipline. Yet, Paul offers us some guidance on this topic. 

1) Read 2 Thessalonians 3:6-10 

Why did Paul work so hard to provide for himself when he was with the Thessalonians? 

How can your quality of work and attitude be a witness toward others? 

Paul tells warns us to avoid the brothers who ingore his teaching. Why should we avoid those in the church who ingore the Word of God? 

2) Read 2 Thessalonians 3:11-13 

Giving glory to God does not always come in the form of formal worship with preaching, and hymns on Sunday mornings. (While formal worship where the means of grace are given is necessary for every believer.)   We can glorify our God by providing for our families, and waking up every morning and going to work.  So while you have been grinding out day after day, you have served others and have not wasted your time being idle. Did you know that you were glorifying God all along?  

3) Read 2 Thessalonians chapter 3:14-15 

Consider this scenario: What if a member of this church had a drinking problem, but they attended church faithfully?  This person has been confronted by some members of the church, and he has confessed his sins. He seemed sincere in trying to stop drinking, but he continues to go out. He is struggling with a severe addiction. He is in a position of responsibility, and his family has attended for generations.  

How would you apply church discipline in this  situation? 

How would you treat this person as a brother in Christ? The truth is church discipline is hardly ever a cut and dry issue. We need to approach our brothers and sisters in Christ knowing that we are all vulnerable to sin.  However, we need to remind them that Christ would not have us continue in our old ways. We should repent and recieve his abundant forgiveness, but seek help and put all other responsibilities in the church on hold. The sin of one person can do great damage to the rest of the church. That brother should adress his problems, and then return giving glory to God for his healing and forgiveness. 

4) Read 2 Thessalonians 3:16-18 

After dealing with many disturbing issues: persecution, the Anti-Christ, and church discipline; Paul blesses the congregation with peace. What disturbs you? What has you unnerved? It is in those areas that Christ has come to give you peace. 

We have come to the end! 

Thank you for following this blog on 1 and 2 Thessalonians. 

"Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you." 2 Thessalonians 3:16