08 First Thess 2:17-3:13 (Surviving seasons of suffering)

Surviving Seasons of Suffering
1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:13
I. Review & Big Picture
II. The Lord’s Provision for Suffering
1. Preparation for affliction (3:3-4)
Revelation 7:14
***Christians must be prepared for persecution***
2 Timothy 3:12 / 1 Peter 4:12 / John 15:18, 20
2. Support (2:17, 3:1-2)
***Offer in-person support for those suffering***
• Know the enemy will work against you.
• Get into a small group for care.
• Practice the ministry of presence.
• Use basic hospital rules.
3. The goal of support (3:3, 5)
***The end goal is to encourage them in their faith***
4. Prayer and thanksgiving (3:9-10)
***Pray for them and give thanks for them earnestly***
5. Growth & maturity (3:11-12)
James 1:2-4
***The Lord uses our suffering to forge us into maturity and completeness***
6. The final end of suffering (3:13)
***The afflictions will soon end, and we will be with the Lord & His saints***