Check Up On a Church Under Fire (Part Two): 1 Thessalonians 3 by Dr. Rod Mattoon

Scripture

• 1 Thessalonians 3

About this sermon

What can a Christian do if he or she is persecuted? The Lord did give us some principles to abide by if we are persecuted or harassed by others. He may not remove your storms, but He will help you to go through them. In this message we list five principles. Paul mentioned in this passage the certainty of trials which he warned these Christians about in previous times. They knew afflictions were coming. The apostle mentioned here that our trials are appointed. That is a profound thought. The word “appointed” is from the word keimai {ki'-mahee} which has the idea of something that cannot be changed or altered. It has been laid out for you for a reason. Trials are going to come your way. Trials are not accidents. They are on your horizon and mine. When they arrive, it does not mean you have done something wrong. Godly people suffer persecution and face trials. Peter was another apostle that offered comforting words about the trials and tribulations that we face in our lives. Notice 1 Peter 4:12 which says, “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you.” The phrase "think it not strange" is from the Greek word xenizo {xen-id'-zo} which means "don't be surprised, astonished, or shocked." * THINK IT NOT STRANGE.... * Think it not strange when Problems afflict you like burning embers that spark from a blazing campfire. * Think it not strange when your Prayers are answered by a faithful Savior who is as faithful as the hen that cares for her chicks, or the bear that cares for her cubs. * Think it not strange when in your trials, the Peace of God rules in your heart like a serene, steadfast, sentry that stands his post when facing the assault of an approaching army. * Think it not strange when the Provision of God graces your home like cool drops of rain on a hot summer day. * Think it not strange when Pride stalks your heart like a wolf that follows the scent of its prey through golden meadows or mountain forests. * Think it not strange when you feel the Pressure to yield to temptation like a parched, dehydrated man in a barren desert that gasps for water to quench the pressure to survive. * Like the torrent of a raging river, that moves large stones and majestic trees with its current, think it not strange when the Power to overcome sinful habits is available to you through the power of the Holy Spirit of God. Think it NOT strange! If you are facing trials in your life, think it not strange. Rely upon Christ to meet your need and direct your way. He will if you will let Him. This message was preached on Sunday night, January 31, 2021 at Lincoln Land Baptist Church.

Topics

• Church & Fellowship
• The Church