I Thessalonians 5
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I Thessalonians 5:1-3, 8-10, Now concerning how and when all this will happen, dear brothers and sisters, we don’t really need to write you. For you know quite well that the day of the Lord’s return will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night. When people are saying, “Everything is peaceful and secure,” then disaster will fall on them as suddenly as a pregnant woman’s labor pains begin. And there will be no escape...But let us who live in the light be clearheaded, protected by the armor of faith and love, and wearing as our helmet the confidence of our salvation. For God chose to save us through our Lord Jesus Christ, not to pour out his anger on us. Christ died for us so that, whether we are dead or alive when he returns, we can live with him forever.
Possibly because they were experiencing so much persecution, the Thessalonians were very interested in knowing when Jesus' second coming would occur. Paul tells them two things they needed to hear: their persecutors will be judged AND in the meantime, living in faith, hope, and love, is the best way to prepare for the next step of their Christian journey. Jesus will come suddenly, like a thief in the night. But they have nothing to fear as God's children. Those who reject the Gospel will face God's wrath but the believers will be protected and get to live with Jesus for eternity.
Paul isn't trying to prophecy here or provide some kind of timeline for the Thessalonians. This is purely pastoral encouragement for them. Jesus was pretty clear - no one knows the time, only the Father. In Matthew 24:36, Jesus says, “However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows." Despite these words, people have tried making predictions for thousands of years. I hear people today say, "Well, these must be end times because of this or that." My personal opinion is that isn't for us to know or say. Our responsibility is to take Paul's advice to the Thessalonians and live in faith, hope, and love, pointing others to Jesus and living like people with Good News.
Let's pray...Almighty God, We don't know what we don't know. Help us not worry about the future but simply live the way you have called us to live. Give us the motivation and courage to share your Good News with others. We know that you love and care about all people and want them to be part of your fold. Help us see people through your eyes. More of you, less of me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.