The Christian's Things to Do List (Part 2): 1 Thessalonians 5 by Dr. Rod Mattoon

Scripture

• 1 Thessalonians 5

About this sermon

The book of 1 Thessalonians is so encouraging because it constantly reminds us of the second coming of the Lord. At the end of every chapter, Paul reminds us of the return of the Lord Jesus Christ. Until that day arrives, God provides for us in His Word, a “Things to Do List” for the believer. If we will implement the list into our lives, implant them in our hearts, and make them important to follow each day, we will improve our character and effectiveness for Christ and impress the Savior by our love and obedience to Him. So what’s on this list? That is what this message begins to address. Are you familiar with the Peanuts comics with Charlie Brown? Most folks are familiar with little Charlie. Bless his little heart. In one story, Lucy and Charlie Brown were talking, and Lucy was the philosopher. She said, “You know, life is really like a cruise. Some people on the deck of the cruise ship put their chair facing forward so they can see where they're going. Other people put their chair looking backward so they can see where they've been.” Charlie Brown replied, "I can't even get my deck chair unfolded." Bless his heart. There are a lot of people like that. They are having a hard time in life. Paul speaks about them here, referring to them as feebleminded. The feebleminded person is one who has lost heart and given up on following the Lord and relying upon Him. They are easily discouraged and give up when the going gets rough. They have not learned to stand up on their spiritual feet because they have not learned to encourage themselves when they are having a hard time. They need someone to stand with them. This message talks about comforting and encouraging others that need encouragement. The issue of being patient with other people and NOT becoming angry and bitter toward others to the point where we want to take revenge is also covered in this message. We are to forsake an attitude of revenge or vengeance. * Vengeance is the venom that poisons a heart with hate. * Revenge seeks an eye for an eye, yet, leaves you blind and walking in the dark. * Revenge cannot satisfy the hole in your soul. It only makes the hole deeper. * Revenge says, "I will pay them back!" That's right, you pay and you lose. You lose your joy and compassion. * You may give people a taste of their own medicine, yet, the one who is sickened or weakened is you. * Vengeance belongs to the Lord. Taking revenge is to steal that which is not yours. It belongs to God. God gives an IOU to you and your offender. He deals with injustice. This message was preached on Sunday morning, June 6,2021, at Lincoln Land Baptist Church.