Paul’s Desire

Northwest Bible Church – May 14, 2023 – 1 Thess. – Alan Conner
1 Thessalonians 2:17-20
Paul’s Desire

Intro

A. PAUL’S LONGING (1 Thess. 2:17-18a).

1. They are “brethren”.

2. Taken away in person, not in spirit.

3. “all the more eager with great desire to see your face”.

4. Repeated desire to return.

B. SATAN’S HINDRANCE (1 Thess. 2:18b).

1. Satan hindered their return.

2. How did Satan hinder their return?

C. PAUL’S JOY (1 Thess. 2:19-20).

1. Hope, joy, crown of exultation (19).

2. Realized at the coming of the Lord Jesus (19).

3. “You are our glory and joy” (1 Thess. 2:20).

Conclusion

Discussion questions: Paul had a tremendous love for the church. Do we share that love for other believers in this church? Are personal relationships important to us? How does Satan hinder our fellowship today? Paul rejoiced in their faith as evidence of God’s blessing on the ministry given to him by Christ. He looked forward to the reward given by God’s grace on the last day. Do we also long to be faithful to our ministries at home, work, church, knowing that we too shall stand before Christ and be rewarded on that day (2 Cor. 5:10)?