We are writing to the church in Thessalonica, to you who belong to God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. May

God give you grace and peace. 1 Thessalonians 1:1

a. Our identity comes from our relationship with Christ

This message was kept secret for centuries and generations past, but now it has been revealed to God’s people. For

God wanted them to know that the riches and glory of Christ are for you Gentiles, too. And this is the secret: Christ

lives in you. This gives you assurance of sharing his glory. Colossians 1:29-27

For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God. And when Christ, who is your life, is revealed

to the whole world, you will share in all his glory. Colossians 3:3-4

b. Our union with Christ changes the way we live

We always thank God for all of you and pray for you constantly. 1 Thessalonians 1:2

As we pray to our God and Father about you, we think of your faithful work . . . 1 Thessalonians 1:3

God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not

a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. Ephesians 2:8–9.

For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us

long ago. Ephesians 2:10

a. Salvation produces good works

So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless. James 2:17

Wherever we go we find people telling us about your faith in God. We don’t need to tell them about it, for they keep

talking about the wonderful welcome you gave us and how you turned away from idols to serve the living and true God.

1 Thessalonians 1:8-9

b. Faith turns us away from the things competing with God

For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people. And we are instructed to turn from godless

living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God, Titus

2:11–12

As we pray to our God and Father about you, we think of your . . . loving deeds 1 Thessalonians 1:3

a. Biblical love does somethingb. Love serves without demanding something in return

And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were

doing it to me! Matthew 25:40

a. Everyone has a part in the labor of love

As we pray to our God and Father about you, we think of your . . . enduring hope you have because of our Lord Jesus

Christ. 1 Thessalonians 1:3

a. Hope keeps going when life gets difficult

Let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who

initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he

is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. Hebrews 12:1–2

b. Endurance keeps its eyes on Jesus

We give great honor to those who endure under suffering. For instance, you know about Job, a man of great

endurance. You can see how the Lord was kind to him at the end, for the Lord is full of tenderness and mercy. James

5:11

c. Hope knows the story isn't over