1 Thessalonians 5:24 (“The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.”) comes at the conclusion of Paul’s first letter to the church in Thessalonica. This verse is part of a series of final exhortations and blessings, emphasizing God’s faithfulness in sanctifying and preserving His people.
Context:
1 Thessalonians is a letter written by Paul, Silas, and Timothy to encourage and instruct the young Thessalonian church, which was facing persecution and needed guidance on how to live in light of Christ’s return. In chapter 5, Paul provides practical instructions for holy living, such as rejoicing always, praying continually, and giving thanks in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).
Leading up to verse 24, Paul assures the believers that God Himself will sanctify them completely—spirit, soul, and body—and keep them blameless until the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ (1 Thessalonians 5:23). The emphasis is on God’s role in completing the work He started in them.
Key Themes:
- God’s Faithfulness: Verse 24 emphasizes that God, who initiated the believers’ calling and sanctification, is faithful to complete His work. This reassures the church that their spiritual growth and ultimate preservation do not depend solely on their efforts but on God’s unwavering commitment.
- God’s Call: The “call” refers to God’s invitation to salvation and holy living. It is a reminder that God’s plans and purposes for His people are secure because of His character.
- Dependence on God: While Paul encourages the church to live righteously, this verse reinforces the truth that it is God who empowers and guarantees the fulfillment of His promises.
Application for Our Church Anniversary:
This verse is a profound reminder that the same God who called the church into existence is faithful to sustain and use it for His glory. It shifts the focus from human efforts to God’s sovereignty and faithfulness. IT is an excellent foundation for reflecting on 32 years of ministry and looking ahead with confidence in His continued work.
The Message Hebrews 10:23–25 (NIV)
Hebrews 10:23
“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.“
- Analysis:
- This verse is a call to steadfast faith, encouraging believers to cling tightly to their hope in God without wavering.
- The “hope we profess” refers to the confident expectation of eternal life and the fulfillment of God’s promises through Christ.
- The assurance for this unwavering hope lies in the character of God, who is consistently faithful to His promises.
- Whatever station or vocation we hold in life, our significance is not in the appreciation of man, but rather to the glory of God.
- Cross-References:
- Numbers 23:19: “God is not human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind.”
- Lamentations 3:22-23: “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
- 1 Corinthians 1:9: “God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.”
Hebrews 10:24
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.“
- Analysis:
- This verse emphasizes the importance of mutual encouragement within the Christian community.
- The term “spur one another on” suggests intentional effort to inspire and motivate fellow believers to live out their faith in tangible acts of love and service.
- This is a communal response to God’s faithfulness, reflecting His love in action.
- Cross-References:
- Galatians 6:9-10: “Let us not become weary in doing good…let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.“
- John 13:34-35: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”
- Titus 3:8: “I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good.”
Hebrews 10:25
“Not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.“
- Analysis:
- This verse underscores the necessity of gathering together as a Christian community, even amidst challenges or persecution.
- Regular fellowship provides an avenue for encouragement, accountability, and spiritual growth.
- The “Day approaching” refers to the return of Christ, emphasizing the urgency and importance of remaining united and prepared for His coming.
- Cross-References:
- Matthew 18:20: “For where two or three gather in my name,there am I with them.“
- Acts 2:42: “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”
- 1 Thessalonians 5:11: “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
Key Takeaways
- God’s Faithfulness is the Foundation:
- Our hope in God’s promises is secure because He is faithful and unchanging. Believers are called to remain steadfast in their faith, trusting in His reliability.
- Community Encouragement is Essential:
- Believers are not meant to live their faith in isolation. Mutual encouragement helps sustain love, good deeds, and perseverance.
- Gathering Together is Vital:
- Regular fellowship strengthens the body of Christ and equips it to face trials. It fosters spiritual growth and preparedness for Christ’s return.
- Urgency in Light of Christ’s Return:
- The nearing of “the Day” calls for believers to deepen their commitment to God and one another, living faithfully as they await Christ’s return.
This passage encourages both individual perseverance in faith and active participation in a supportive and loving church community, reminding believers of the hope and purpose they share in Christ.
Therefore:
What must we remember?
- Ephesians 6:12 NIV For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
What must we do?
- Ephesians 4:2-3 NIV Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
Conclusion: Celebrating 32 Years of God’s Faithfulness
As we reflect on Hebrews 10:23–25 in the context of our 32nd church anniversary, we are reminded of how deeply these truths resonate with our journey as a church family. For over three decades, we have experienced the faithfulness of God, even in times of uncertainty and challenge. This milestone is a testament to His unwavering promises and sustaining grace.
- God’s Faithfulness as Our Anchor:
- Just as we are called to “hold unswervingly to the hope we profess” (v. 23), our church has stood firm in the hope of Christ. Each year has been a chapter in the story of His reliability and grace toward us.
- Encouraging One Another:
- Our church community has been a place where we “spur one another on toward love and good deeds” (v. 24). Together, we have inspired one another to serve faithfully, showing Christ’s love to the world around us.
- The Importance of Fellowship:
- For 32 years, we have not “given up meeting together” (v. 25). Our gatherings have been a source of strength, encouragement, and unity.
- Anticipating the Future:
- As we celebrate this anniversary, we also look forward with urgency and expectation, knowing that “the Day” of Christ’s return is approaching. This is a moment to recommit ourselves to His work, preparing for even greater things ahead.
To God be all the glory, honor, and praise for 32 years of His goodness and faithfulness!