1 Thessalonians 4:1-12: A Life That Pleases God
ALL OF US want to please the people we love the most. That is why a wife will surprise her husband with his favorite meal, a husband will plan a special evening at a concert he knows will excite his wife, or a child will pick a bouquet of dandelions to present to Mom and Dad. What can Christians do to please God, whom they love so dearly?
Warming Up to God
If a Christian brother or sister asked you for advice on how to make their life more pleasing to God, what is the first thing you would say?
Read 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12. »
Discovering the Word
- Why would Paul give these instructions on holy living to people whom he says are already living a life which pleases God (vv. 1,10)?
- What clues does this passage give as to how Paul would define sexual immorality (vv. 3-6)?
- How does sexual immorality "wrong" or "take advantage of" a brother (v. 6)?
- Scholars agree that verses 11 and 12 were directed toward members of the church who had quit working and were relying on the kindness of their fellow Christians to provide them with necessities. Why would Paul have been concerned about the effect this attitude was having on outsiders?
Applying the Word
- What work habits detract from your Christian witness?
- How can this passage help you to resist sexual temptation?
- Paul has given commands in this passage concerning sexual immorality, love for fellow Christians and work. What can you do this week to become more obedient in one of these areas?
Responding in Prayer
Give your life to the Lord, praying that it will be made pleasing to him.
For Further Study
1 & 2 Thessalonians (LifeGuide Bible Study) by Donald Baker