Principles of Peace: Not Left Behind

As you heard the title of the message this morning, maybe your mind immediately recalled the internationally famous book series, Left Behind. Maybe you have a visual from one of the several movies that were created around the same topic between 2000-2016.

The books and the move focus upon the mass chaos and confusion associated with the rapture event and those who have been left behind.

We derive our understanding of this event from the passage in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

1 Thessalonians 4:13–18 KJV 1900

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. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. 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. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

What a glorious day that will be for the saints of God:

On that day, there will be no more Hibbard’s or Bright’s we will need to bury.

On that day, there will be no more questions of what to do in the midst of a panic.

On that day, there will be no more elections that cost innocent servicemen and women their lives.

But, what a terror it will be for those who are left behind!

Peace is found in only One, and He requires your faith! (v. 1)

Peace is lost when the outward conflict overcomes your inward convictions. (καρδια v. ταρασσω)

Jesus requires and demands for His followers to be active in their faith no matter the situation!

Peace is found in His promise to Return! (vs. 2-3)

The familial description of heaven

The promised family reunion

Peace is found in the certainty He provides! (vs. 4-6)

Notice, the certainty in Jesus’ words

You know exactly where I am going.

You know the way I am going like the back of your hand.

Hear the worry in Thomas’ question:

We do not know at all where you are going.

Since we do not know the where, we cannot know the way.

Recognize the exactness of Jesus’ response!