Thriving in Chaotic Times: Walk the Walk Part 2: I Thess. 4:9-12

I. Walk in Love vs. 9-10

A. The word love here is philadephia. It of course means brotherly love. We are to love each other as brothers and sisters.

B. They already know this, as do we. Jesus has taught us this.

John 13:35 NASB95

“By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

C. The Thessalonians were practicing this brotherly love well, even to other churches in their region, but they needed to keep growing in because they were not perfect, and because they would be tempted to be in competition with one another (both inside Macedonia and inside the Thessalonians church).

Galatians 6:9 NASB95

Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.

II. Walk Quietly vs. 11a

A. When Paul says that they should lead a quiet life, he means that they should not be the ones causing a fuss. Be noble minded. Live a life that isn’t self righteous, but is real. Don’t make a fuss over being a “Christian” be a real Christian. (Tony Hutson’s “prayer” at the Japanese restaurant ex).

B. Attend or mind your own business. Don’t be a gossip, quit being nosey!!! (Connie Lewis ex)

C. Those who do the least talk the most! Don’t be that person.

III. Walk Faithfully vs 11b-12

A. There are several beliefs as to why people weren’t working Thessalonica:

Lazy people saw the church taking care of one another, took advantage of the church.

They took the Greek philosophers’ disdain for physical labor.

Because of confusion about the second coming they quit their jobs, sold their possessions, and the church had to keep them up, when the date was wrong. This third option is most likely considering Paul moves directly to the second coming.

B. If they will live quiet, peaceable lives, treat others well, they will be a great witness for Jesus! (Contrast it with those who are terrible witness for Jesus ex).