SERIES: THE AWESOME POWER OF ENCOURAGEMENT (2 OF 3)

NOTE: This sermon is part 3 and 4 of a 7 part sermon series. Three sermons outlines are included in this download.

PREVIEWS:

Part 3: Encouraging People to Stand Firm
Series: The Awesome Power Of Encouragement
Stuart Briscoe
1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:13

Paul was so concerned about the Thessalonian believers that he sent Timothy to "strengthen and encourage (them) in (their) faith" (3:2). When he received word that they were indeed "standing firm in the Lord" he was greatly encouraged himself (3:7).

I. The Importance of Standing Firm.

A. Why is standing firm in the faith important?
1. Because faith has an eternal orientation.
a. The return of the Lord Jesus. 2:19

b. The faithful in His presence. Note: Luke 18:8

2. Because faith has a faithful component.
a. Paul's fears about the Thessalonians' faith. 3:5; Colossians 1:23; 2:5 7

b. Christ's teaching about faith's reality. Matthew 13:18 32
"Continuance is the test of reality." F. F. Bruce

3. Because faith has a progressive side.
a. What is lacking is supplied. 3:10

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Part 4: Encouraging People to Please God
Series: The Awesome Power Of Encouragement
Stuart Briscoe
1 Thessalonians 4:1-12

In the brief period that they had been in Thessalonica the missionaries had been careful to teach the believers "how to live in order to please God." The fact that they also emphasized this in their letter shows that they attached great importance to encouraging this objective.

I. Pleasing God in Spiritual Matters. vv. 1 3a

A. A matter of spiritual practice-"to please God."

B. A matter of spiritual position-"in the Lord Jesus."

C. A matter of spiritual progress.
1. "How to walk."

2. "Do this more and more."

D. A matter of spiritual purpose-"it is God's will." v. 3
1. "That you should be holy"-"Hagiasmos." also v. 7

2. "That you will be holy"-"Hagiosune." 3:13

3. "Who gives you His Holy Spirit." v. 8

E. A matter of spiritual perspective.