Blessings Of The Blessed Hope

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

We as God’s people can enjoy the BLESSINGS of

the blessed hope.

I. It Is A Clear Message. vs.13-15

One that has answers. v.13

But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.

One that has assurance. v.14

For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.

One that has authority. v.15

For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.

II. It Is A Christian Message. v.16

Personal return. v.16a

For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout,

An audible return. v.16b

with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God:

A joyful return. v.16c

and the dead in Christ shall rise first:

III. It Is A Comforting Message. vs.17-18

We have a Saviour. v.17a

Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air:

We have salvation. v.17b

and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

We have security. v.18

Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

Conclusion:

In a recent (1998) poll people all across America was asked, “Where were you at when Elvis died?” 90% of the ones polled knew where they were when they first heard the news of Elvis’ demise.