5.6.2018 Sermon Notes & Slides

Sermon Notes

Encouragement in Distressing Times
1 Thessalonians 3
Pastor Scott Williams

Introduction: A piece of Paul’s heart was left with the church in Thessalonica. You can see this in how much he longs to see them again and to be an encouragement to them as they face harsh persecution. Since he can’t be there, he is going to send the next best thing: Timothy. Once there, Timothy is able to encourage them and to establish them in their faith to better withstand distressing times.

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Questions For Discussion & Discovery

1. Read Acts 17:1-15. What do these verses reveal about the situation this church was facing?

2. What are some common ways that we can be tempted when we face life’s trials?

3. In 1 Thessalonians 1:3, Paul affirms three attributes of this church. What are they? In verse 6, he only mentions two of those attributes. Which is missing, and do you think it’s absence is significant?

4. Throughout these verses, Paul continually affirms his love for the Thessalonians and his desire to see them. Why?

5. In the final verse of this chapter, Paul states the divine goal of “establishing your hearts blameless in holiness.” What does it mean to be blameless in holiness? And what does it not mean?

Sermon Slides

1.  Read 1 Thessalonians 3:1-5.
2. 01. Distressing times bring greater opportunity for temptation. 
3. Read 1 Thessalonians 3:6-10.
4. 02. Among Christian friends, there is a mutual encouragement that brings needed strength in times of trial. 
5. Read 1 Thessalonians 3:11-13.
6. 03. Growth in holiness is to be our ongoing pursuit as we look to the coming of our Lord.