1 Thessalonians 5:26 – 28
I charge you before the Lord to have this letter read to all the brothers and sisters (1 Thessalonians 5:27, NIV).

In his usual pattern, Paul and his team completed the letter with an admonition of love and greetings to God’s people. He

never hides his feelings and love for the flock of Christ.

He encouraged them to make sure that every believer in the region hears the message. He said, “I charge you before the Lord to have this letter read to all the brothers and sisters” (1 Thessalonians 5:27, NIV). Why? It is so that they can believe the same thing and take same actions based on mutual understanding of Paul’s admonition to them.

Imagine if one brother was told he needs to get a job to make a living for himself or he is advised to stop deceiving the sisters and make up his mind on whom he wants to go out with, he may be offended.  But if he hears it directly from the letter he would know that this is not a gang up of a few members or the leadership against him. His disruptive behavior and lack of focus may come to an end!

Finally, Paul released the grace of God upon them so that they can continue to serve the Lord Jesus. Friend, may the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you too. May the Lord grant you the grace to live for Him in this adulterous and treacherous generation. Shalom.

Your Turn

• Praise God for the privilege to study His word.
• Pray for the grace to love the Lord and His people more.

Hymn:  Holy word long preserved  (Ancient words ever true).

Further Reading: Psalm 116.