1 Thessalonians 3:13 18
Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope (1 Thessalonians 3:13).

Paul and his friends continue to admonish their readers as they touched on different topics of concern. It is possible that some of the issues being addressed were product of Timothy’s report to them following his visits to this church community. It is also possible that these are issues that the church needed clarifications.

Today, our attention is drawn to the topic of resurrection of those who died as believers. Paul said, “We do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope” (1 Thessalonians 3:13).

It is possible to be ignorant of God’s will and grieve like the rest. From our passage we understand that:

1. There is hope of resurrection for believers. It is part of the salvation package. Jesus told his disciples to be at rest  because resurrection is assured.  See John 14:2.
2. Christ will return with those who died in Him. See verse 14 -15. Those who are alive during the second coming will also be caught off with Him. See verse 17.
3. We are to encourage ourselves with this truth.

From the above we know that Christ’s followers will resurrect with Him not as animals or stones. Let us believe what God and His word says not what men want us to believe. Shalom.

Your Turn

•    Pray as you have been challenged by the word.

Hymn: Sing the wondrous love of Jesus (When we all get to heaven).

Further Reading:  1  Corinthians  15: 12-26.