Sunday, 13 August 2017

Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. 1 Thessalonians 4:17

The substance of what these words mean is highly debated. The word “Then” signifies “afterwards.” In essence, what precedes is an essential precursor to what then occurs.… Read the rest

Saturday, 12 August 2017

For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. 1 Thessalonians 4:16

In this verse, Paul explains the dead in Christ rising first by beginning with “For.” After this word, he will give details about what will occur which are parenthetical in nature.… Read the rest

Friday, 11 August 2017

For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. 1 Thessalonians 4:15

“For this we say to you” is given to build upon the words of verses 13 and 14.… Read the rest

Thursday, 10 August 2017

For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 4:14

The words “For if” are stressed in the Greek, “If indeed…” In other words, this is not a question which asks, “If we can just believe.” Rather it is an emphatic statement containing no doubt as in, “For we certainly believe.” This is what the gospel hinges on.… Read the rest

Wednesday, 9 August 2017

But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. 1 Thessalonians 4:13

This verse begins the third major section of the chapter. He gave his “Finally then” in verse 1. Then he introduced what is “the will of God” in verse 3.… Read the rest