In matters of mystery, speculation thrives. The fact of Jesus' return is no mystery, but the timing of it is; so some speculate with wild theories. Paul cautions the Thessalonians (and us) to not get carried away with false claims. We rest in the certainty and hope of His return. We live ready.
The return of Jesus is the goosebump hope of all believers. But it is more. It is also the assured accountability of this world. Jesus returns to administer justice. Dr. John reminds us of what that justice is. It is a fearsome warning to all unbelievers.
Our expectations for justice in society will be disappointed. Our ideal is not wrong, just premature. Today's message carries a reminder from Paul, that while injustice is evident in our day, there will be a day when wrongs are made right.
We can endure through hardship if there is a reason. That applies to diets, long night shifts, exam week or cancer treatment. Purpose gives rise to perseverence. That is true of our faith as well. Dr. John teaches from 2 Thessaloninans on the reason for endurance of believers. The future return of our Lord is cause for joy and endurance today.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-28 Some think of perseverence as an expression of their own strength - a white knuckle grip to hang on. As Paul concludes this call to perseverence, he gives commands to be obeyed, but ends with this hope, "God is faithful, He will surely do it!" Our confidence is in God's faithfulness above our own.
1 Thessalonians 5:12-15 Authentic means "the real thing." For believers to live authentic lives means that we are genuinely becoming what God intends. Listen as Dr. John reminds us that this "becoming" is shaped and nurtured in the local church.
1 Thessalonians 5:5-10 The present is not simply a prelude to the future, but preparation for it. So our todays are tied to our tomorrows. Listen as Dr. John teaches how to be prepared for Christ's return. It is not enough to simply know He is coming. We are called to be ready.
1 Thessalonians 5:1-5 You have seen charts with coloured lines and boxes attempting to predict the timing of Jesus' return. Ignore them for two reasons. First, we can't know the unknowable. Second, the date is not our issue, but preparedness is. Listen as Dr. John calls us to be ready for the return of our Lord.
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 Tears at a funeral are expected, normal. But for the believer, those tears are comforted by the hope of Jesus' return! Listen as Dr. John teaches about the events of that day, but more so, about the joy and comfort for every grieving believer.
1 Thessalonians 4:9-12 Christians are known by their beliefs but by their conduct as well. In fact, there are times when conduct speaks louder than convictions. Dr. John points to three lifestyle qualities Paul commanded and commneded for the Thessalonians - and for us as well.
1 Thessalonians 4:1-8 It is the nature of love to please the beloved. That's true of marriage, family and friendships. We want to bring joy to the one we love. Dr. John speaks of Paul's command to the Thessalonians, that they live to please the Lord. The question of what does please the Lord is spelled out for all of us - our sanctification.
1 Thessalonians 3:6-13 Affirmation is not flattery. Rather it is the genuine celebration of the qualitites we see in others.Paul celebrates what he sees in the Thessalonians and he is not shy to speak it. Dr. John reminds us of the value of affirmation and prayers for those we love and serve.
1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:5 In WW2 some English parents were separated from their children in the midst of conflcit. Imagine their distress and concern for the well being of their children! Dr. John reminds us that Paul felt the same way about the Thessalonians. Satan was at war with the church. Paul's confidence was in the sure victory of Jesus Christ.
1 Thessalonians 2:13-16 Grace is the expression of God's favour. While it flows upon creation in countless ways, there are specific pathways of grace for every believer who wants to mature. Today Dr. John speaks of three means of grace, not only for the Thessalonicans, but for all who want to grow spiritually.
1 Thessalonians 2:7-12 Rumours have destructive power; so when rumours against Paul began circulating in Thessalonica, he had to put a stop to it, for the health of the church. In today’s message, Dr. John walks us through 2 of the 3 illustrations Paul uses to remind the Thessalonians of the man and leader they saw. Paul’s leadership shows us the image of love we all, leaders and followers, ought to commit to one another.
1 Thessalonians 2:1-7 The importance of Christian leadership cannot be understated. It paves the way for a church that is reflective of Christ and His glory. In today’s message, Dr. John unpacks 5 important qualifications of effective godly leadership from Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians. Let these not only set our expectations for an effective leader, but also for ourselves, to be faithful and obedient followers of Christ.
1 Thessalonians 1:5-10 We live in distressing times. There is a thin veil that has been placed over our eyes most of the time, causing us to forget that death and destruction are right around the corner. And then there are seasons when that veil is torn from our eyes, and suddenly, fear surrounds us. We are no longer blinded to the dangers of sickness, wars, death, and so many other things. On this side of eternity, our reality seems dreary. But even in difficult times, there is hope to be found! Join Dr. John Neufeld in this 15-message series called Remaining Steadfast in Distressing Times that will dive into 1 Thessalonians, as we study the early Church and learn what they did to remain steadfast through hardship.
1 Thessalonians 1:1-5 Hope propels us forward through difficult times. Believers who place their trust in the promises of God are given the greatest and most enduring hope of all! In today’s message, Dr. John walks us through Paul’s reasons for gratitude for the Thessalonians, who despite opposition, are persevering in their faith. Let them be an example for us all to keep our eyes and hearts on our eternal hope, no matter the circumstances we face.
1 Thessalonians Sometimes we are given hints that trouble is coming, but other times we find ourselves suddenly in the face of it, without any warning. In this introductory message, Dr. John walks us through Paul’s brief journey through Thessalonica and the adversities the Thessalonians are suddenly faced with upon his arrival and ministry. Their response teaches us how to remain steadfast, unmoved and confident in our faith, even in the most distressing of times.
The life of faith that every beleiver walks, is not easy. Jesus told us that we would have troubles in this world. Today Dr. John reminds us from Hebrews that we must hold on. Jesus is the power of our perseverence. He is the High Priest who understands our need and extends both mercy and grace.
In a text that is familiar to many, Dr. John presents the power and effect of the Scriptures. The Bible we read, is alive as the Voice of God, accomplishing His purpose, shaping and exposing the souls of all who read it. As we listen and obey His Word in faith, we enter into His rest.
A workaholic may intend to take a day off or to enjoy some respite, but often rest eludes them. They never get around to it. Dr. John reminds us that there is rest for the believer - a rest in the completed work of Jesus. We are cautioned to not harden our hearts but to strive to enter into the rest God has for us.
Rest can mean many things. A nap. Retirement. Silence. What does it mean for a beleiver? Dr. John teaches on the promise of rest from Hebrews 4. We'll find that rest for beleivers is a sharing of God's rest. It is the fruit of faith.
People are practiced at ignoring warnings. Speed limits. A doctor's counsel. Cautions at a cliff. We seem to think that we can take the risk and all will be fine. Dr. John points us to the warning from Hebrews regarding our soul. We are to "take care" of our hearts. God's warning comes from love and is meant for our eternal life.
A generation in Israel saw the glory of God on Mt Sinai, but they still refused God's Voice. In Jesus we see the greater glory; so we ought to take heed. Today Dr. John repeats the warning of Hebrews, "Do not harden your hearts." May we have sensitive souls to the commanding presence of God.
It seems that we have more celebrities than we do heroes. Fame and popularity seem larger in society than purpose and deliverance. Dr. John reminds us today that Moses was seen as Israel's hero - the law giver. But Jesus is the perfect lawkeeper and in doing so, He is more than famous. He is our hero.
We may die differently, but we all die. It is inevitable for each one of us. That truth can generate fear for many. Dr. John points us to Jesus, who took upon Himself our humanity, even to the point of death. While Jesus has not excused us from death, He has removed the sting and fear of it.
Families share common traits of appearance or personality. Today Dr. John teaches that as Jesus is called our "Brother", we share a family trait with Him. What do you and I have in common with Jesus? Let this message offer an encouraging answer.
The world is not as it should be, but neither what it will be. We live with the reality of sin, pain and death. Dr. John points to the hope of Hebrews that Jesus has not only conquered death, but He will elevate His followers to reign in the world to come.
We live in a generation of data overload. We have so much information at our fingertips, that we ignore or neglect much of it. Dr. John reminds us today of the warning in Hebrews. We must pay attention to the Bible teaching about Jesus. We must not drift by disinterest or deception. We neglect the truth to our loss.
At times, we speak of the deity of Jesus as a way to make a point. We bear witness to others that Jesus is God, so we point to the Scriptures. Dr. John reminds us today from Hebrews that the deity of Jesus is more than an apologetic. It is the hope and comfort for us all in the midst of trial and persecutions.
Our society makes much of angels. They populate our greeting cards, entertainment and even some prayers. Angels seem powerful and wondrous. That they are, but Jesus more. Today Dr. John offers from Hebrews five ways in which Jesus is superior to the angels. The Creator is greater than the creation.
Today Dr. John speaks from the opening verses of Hebrews, demonstrating that Jesus has no rival. Jesus exceeds all other comparisons. We will hear of seven ways in which Jesus rises above all. There is both encouragement and comfort knowing that our God who speaks, has spoken fully and truthfully through His Son.
The book of Hebrews is unique in the New Testament. We can't be certain of its author or audience; but we can relate to its theme. Listen as Dr. John describes the temptation to abandon the truth of God when pressured by society. Jesus is priceless. Any drift from Him turns us towards what is less.
This prophetic book has one of the strangest endings in the whole of Scripture. It closes with a question but no answer. Dr. John reminds us that we are the ones who must respond to the question. "Can we celebrate and worship our God who is boundless in compassion?"
Imagine a preacher who is angered by the success of his ministry. That's exactly what happens with Jonah. Dr. John points to Jonah's blind spot. The prophet knew God was merciful, but was upset over those who received it!
Can a nation change? We may see individuals change the course of their life, but what of a whole society? Today Dr. John speaks of the mercy of God which reaches evey corner of Assyria, even to the palace of the king.
To repent is to change. It is a turning from our sins. Dr. John reminds us that repentance is also an expression of hope. It is a turning towards God in the hope of mercy. Today we see a pagan nation like Assyria turn in God's direction.
We expect our spiritual leaders to excel in morals, character and actions. But every leader carries a measure of frailty. Today Dr. John reminds us of Jonah's flaws. That reminder doesn't excuse Jonah's sins, but it points to a central truth. Even flawed prophets cannot halt God's plans.
Prayer is a language of life. It is the common expression of every culture and religion. Today Dr. John focuses on the prayer of Jonah. From watery billows and the depth of a fishy belly, Jonah calls out to God for the first time in this book. Like Jonah, the crisis we experience may be the call we need.
The Old Testament makes it clear - God's heart is for the deliverance of all people, Jew and Gentile. Today Dr. John reminds us that while Jonah kept Assyrians at a distance, God extended His mercy. It would take a watery rescue to make Jonah understand.
Christians are prone to thinking that we hold a monopoly on God's goodness. But God's compassion is infinite. Dr. John points to the contrast of a rebellious prophet and pagan sailors. The sailors recognized God's Hand even before Jonah. Those with no faith foundation made vows and prayer to the one true God.
We read in the news or see on TV, criminals who run or race from the police. Since they rarely escape, why do it? The offenders are moved by guilt. Today Dr. John speaks of Jonah who runs from an omnipresent God. Did he expect to hide? It seems that guilt can move God's prophet as well. We are no different.
We are all in need of God's mercy and are glad to receive it! Today Dr. John reminds us through Jonah, that it is possible to debate with God when He extends mercy to those we consider unworthy of it. Listen as God begins to unfold His boundless compassion for a sinful city and a rebellious prophet.
Faith in God does not reach just to the probable or possible. We do that when exercising trust in one another: but with God, our faith reaches to the impossible. Today Dr. John teaches on the impossible wonder God performed for Abraham. Abraham believed that God would do what He promised. So when we trust God for more than the possible in our lives, we exercise faith like Abraham.
Very early in church history, believers had to recognize what the mark of Christianity was. As the gospel spread beyond the country and culture of israel, the church debated what the identification of God promise was. Dr. John teaches that the mark of the gospel was faith. Faith was and is the sign of God's covenant.
It is one thing to change your own name out of preference. It is another thing to have someone else change our name. Now the change has meaning. God changed Abram's name ro Abraham. Dr. John teaches us today that the new name was a reference point for Abraham. It would always remind him of God's promise.
Bestowing a name upon an infant is an act of promise. It becomes their identity we trust they will grow in to. We want “Faith” to become faithful or “Hunter” to explore the fullness of life. Dr. John teaches today on the names of God revealed to Abraham. The names are promises, not of what God will become, but of who God is.
We rarely have trouble with God's grace. In fact, it is our hope and prayer. God's grace only becomes a problem when it extends to people we think don’t deserve it. Today Dr. John teaches on the favour of God towards Hagar and Ishmael. We expect the blessing of God upon Sarah and Isaac, but God's favour flows beyond our expectations.
All human actions have consequences. We assume that we can predict and control what those will be. But any action outside of the will of God prodiuces effects beyond our control and our wishes. Sin reaps judgement and death.
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