Episode Details

Big Idea: The hope of Jesus' return doesn't pull us out of everyday life. It sends us back into it. While we wait, God's Spirit teaches us to love one another more and more, and to live quiet, hardworking, honest lives so the world can see that the gospel is real.

1. THE WAY YOU LOVE EACH OTHER MATTERS (9-10)

2. THE WAY YOU LIVE BEFORE OTHERS MATTERS (11-12)

CONCLUSION: AND WHAT YOU BELIEVE MATTERS 

Reflection Questions

START: Read through 1 Thessalonians 4:9-18

• Paul tells a church that's already loving well to "do this more and more" (v. 10). What's one practical way you could love someone in our church family more this week?

• What does "aspire to live quietly" (v. 11) look like in your daily life? What tends to make your life feel loud, anxious, or hurried? What can we learn from Jesus’ life/style on this? 

• Does your faith go to work (or school) with you? Where can we be most tempted to cut corners, and what would it look like to live with "no question marks” next to our work?” 

• Read 1 Thess. 4:13-14 together a few times, it’s a the memory verse for this week. How does believing that Jesus died, rose again, and is coming back change the way you live, work, and grieve right now?

Close your time in prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for teaching us to love by Your Spirit. Help us love one another more and more. Give us a quiet confidence in You, hands that work hard, and lives of integrity that point others to You. While we wait for Your return, fill us with hope. Amen.