Living a Life Pleasing to God 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12
Obedience (4:1-2)
“Ask and Urge”
This is not just simply asking a questions and awaiting a response - it carries a degree of urgency
“As you received from us”
This implies some personal involvement in their lives - discipleship and fellowship
What did they receive?
Instructions - How you ought to walk? (Live) and to please God
Just as you are doing - Encouragement
That you do more and more
Sanctification (4:3-8)
For this is the Will of God
Your sanctification - your complete devotion
All In - no half way with God
Why an exhortation to sexual purity?
Much behavior that was tolerated among the Gentiles was considered immoral in the church
Living sanctified lives still means living counterculturally in many instances. Believers live by God’s standards regardless of how they compare to societal norms.
The challenge to be sexually pure has not changed in over 2000 years.
Self-control coupled with holiness and honor
That no one transgress and wrong his brother
Romans 12:19 (ESV)
Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.”
