Thessalonians - Part 4

Discussion Questions:

1. Please God (1 Thessalonians 4:1)

    •    What do you think it practically means to “please God”? How is that different from trying to earn His love?

    •    Paul commends the Thessalonians for what they were already doing. How can celebrating growth in others encourage us to keep going in our faith?

    •    Husbands: What are some ways you can seek to please God in your marriage rather than just yourself or others?

    •    What keeps us from pursuing obedience with joy instead of seeing it as a burden?

2. With a Holy Life (1 Thessalonians 4:2–8)

    •    Paul says God’s will is our sanctification. How does this truth simplify some of the “big life questions” Christians wrestle with?

    •    The illustration of the Hank Aaron bat and ball showed what it means to be “set apart.” What is an everyday object you’ve seen that reminds you of holiness?

    •    In today’s culture, what makes pursuing sexual holiness so difficult? What helps us pursue it with hope instead of despair?

    •    What does it mean that “the Lord is an avenger” in these matters? How should that shape our view of sin and accountability?

3. Rooted in Love (1 Thessalonians 4:9–12)

    •    How can we “increase more and more” in love, especially when we already feel stretched thin?

    •    Paul calls believers to live quietly, mind their own affairs, and work with their hands. Which of those three is most challenging for you right now, and why?

Wrap-Up / Reflection

    •    Where do you most need to repent and realign your life to please God this week?

    •        •    How can this group pray for you as you seek to pursue holiness and love more and more?