1 Thess 4
Scripture:
[13]But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. [14]For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. [15]For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. [16]For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. [17]Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. [18]Therefore encourage one another with these words.
Observation:
I think the Thessalonian Christians at this time were wondering about what would happen to all of the others who fell asleep. And, they were hearing that Jesus would return soon, so they worried about what would happen to them if they died in this life prior to the Jesus’ return. Would they get to enjoy God’s majesty?
Paul encourages them with a summary of the Rapture as backed up by plenty of other scripture. Whether living or asleep when the Lord returns, they will all go together to His glory.
Application:
My application is simple and obvious. Maybe we all just need to hear it sometimes and be encouraged as the Thessalonians were. I know I do.
As true believers, we know that when our body dies on this earth, we are simply passing through to eternity with the Lord. Asleep, as it is mentioned in the bible. Whether we are asleep or alive on earth, we will rise together with the other saints when our Lord returns. When the last trumpet sounds and the angels gather us (Matt 24:31). When the we hear the command “Come up here!”(Rev 11:12). Then we will be blessed with being face to face with our Father. Eternally in His glory!
Prayer:
Lord thank you for choosing me. Thank you for salvation and for setting me apart. While I’m on this earth, use me to glorify your name. I look forward to your return and to your command to come here. In Jesus’ holy name, amen.