Thessalonians - Part 8

Discussion Questions:

    1.    Identity in Affliction

Paul reminds the Thessalonians that they are “in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” (v.1). How does remembering your identity in Christ bring stability when the world feels shaken?

    2.    Faith That Grows

Paul gives thanks for their “growing faith” and “increasing love” (vv.3–4). What are some ways you’ve seen your faith or the faith of others grow in the midst of hardship? Where do you want to see your faith strengthened?

    3.    Resilient in a Hostile World

Jesus said, “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you” (John 15:18). How can we prepare our hearts to be resilient when speaking biblical truth is unpopular or even opposed?

    4.    Responding to Evil

2 Thessalonians 1:6–8 says that God Himself will repay with justice those who afflict His people. How does this truth keep us from bitterness or revenge? What does it look like to live “a more excellent way” (1 Cor. 16:31) in the face of hostility?

    5.    Worthy & Fulfilled

Paul prays that God would “make you worthy of his calling” and “fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by his power” (v.11). What desires for “good” has God put in your heart? How can you align those desires with His purposes?

    6.    Hope in the Second Coming

Paul keeps pointing the Thessalonians back to Jesus’ return (vv.7,10,12). Why is the return of Christ such a vital source of encouragement when we face tragedy? How can we cultivate a lifestyle that looks forward to His coming with worship and hope?