November 29, 2011 (1 Thessalonians 4-5; 2 Thessalonians 1-3)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “For God has not called us for the purpose of impurity, but in sanctification. So, he who rejects this is not rejecting man but the God who gives His Holy Spirit to you.” 1 Thessalonians 4:7-8 NASB
Observation: Paul is making it plain and clear for the church to know what kind of life God has called a Christian to live. A Christian is not called for the purpose of impurity, but in sanctification. We must be intentional and careful to conduct ourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. A person that rejects the instructions provided in scripture as to how a Christian should walk, is not rejecting man, they are rejecting God.
Application: The message Paul spoke unto the Thessalonians was a message of love and encouragement. He praised them for the good they were doing and encouraged them to excel even more. But notice he also preached a message of conviction when it came to sin. He plainly told the people what type activities they were not to be taking part of. Sexual immorality is not only still being practiced by those in the church, but now the church has accepted and embraced those who commit such acts. The message of conviction has been replaced by the sermon of acceptance.
Prayer: Dear Lord, I praise and worship You for who You are. You are great, mighty and wonderful! Your word is everlasting forever and ever. Thank You for servants like Paul that preach a message of encouragement with instruction in righteousness. Father cleanse me of all sin and prepare my heart to receive Your word. Sanctify me by Your Spirit and for Your purpose. I accept and receive You as Lord and Savior, in Jesus name, Amen!