Always Ready, Never Surprised

Scott Beyer
02/22/23 - Bulletin

“But you, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day would overtake you like a thief, for you are all sons of light and sons of day.” (1 Thessalonians 5:4-5)

            Theft is predominantly done at night.  Thieves take advantage of the shadows and the darkness to better conceal their timing and intentions.  One of the first things that a city will do to reduce burglaries is to install streetlights.  By illuminating roads and homes, the element of surprise is removed.

            The return of Jesus is coming.  The day and the hour are unknown to us, but when we live a life of faith, we turn the lights on and are protected from the judgment aspect of His return.  A righteous life is like turning the porch light on – Jesus may come at any hour of the night, but He comes as a friend, and we are prepared for His arrival.  If we follow Him every day, we need not be worried about what day He comes back.  An everyday servant of Christ isn’t concerned about a surprise inspection.

Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites

Today’s Reading: 1 Thessalonians 5:1-7

Questions to ask:

1. How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
2. What are the central themes in Paul’s preaching and teaching which are being emphasized, or how are the central themes in this epistle being emphasized in today’s reading?
3. How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
4. What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
5. How does this show the “good news” of the gospel? How can I share that with someone else?

This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul.  If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision

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