COMFORTING HOPE. 1st Thessalonians 4 The Book of 1st Thessalonians is filled with hope regarding the Coming of the Lord. In chapter 1, it provides motivating hope for new believers to stay engaged in the work of the Lord until He comes. The Coming of the Lord is an encouraging hope for faithful servants working for Him in difficult circumstances in chapter 2. Chapter 3 challenges all believers with a purifying hope, and chapter 4 teaches us the comforting hope that the Lord’s Coming brings for those who have lost loved ones through death. Complacent believers are stirred to take action in the things of the Lord because of the hope of the Lord’s Coming in chapter 5.
This chapter challenges us to pursue a sanctified life and walk in anticipation of our Lord Jesus Christ's promised return for believers who make up the church. The event known as “the rapture of the church,” where believers are caught up to meet the Lord in the air, is a key element of this hope. The Gospel must be shared with everyone, and it is through faith in the preached Word that convicted sinners are moved to accept Christ personally. When a person comes to Christ and is saved by His grace, they are crucified with Christ and raised as a new creation to live for Him in His likeness. The lives of born-again Christians are transformed by His mercy, love, and grace. We not only gain a new life but also a new hope—the coming of the Lord.
Living a holy, righteous, and godly life is a fundamental requirement in this present evil world. We are not here just to casually pass from earth to heaven. The true Christian lifestyle isn't about pleasing ourselves but about walking by faith in God every day. We are not called to live like everyone else but to walk worthy of God in every way, aiming to please Him. We should walk according to His revealed will, guided by His word and in fellowship with Him in the light, so that we reflect His light to those around us.
Our direction in life is guided by the commandment of our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, the highest authority in the universe. Believers have unique and specific characteristics in their walk with Him. We are to live with purity of character, show brotherly love toward others in practical and meaningful ways, and offer concern and comfort to those who are mourning the loss of loved ones. Like all human beings, Christians have strong personal bonds with their families and with the family of God. They need to hold onto the truth that the Lord is coming, which is a sure and comforting hope.