The believers expected Jesus to return in their generation. Yet while waiting some had died, maybe from persecution, and the Thessalonians were confused as to what would happen to them. Doubts arose. Some grew tired of waiting, were sleeping spiritually, and were engaging in the darkness. Particularly, they were getting drunk since wine from their region is world famous.

Paul teaches them that those who had fallen asleep (died) would rise to meet the Lord first, then those who were alive. He gave them a glorious hope in Jesus' victorious trumpet call to overcome their doubts, encourage their faith, and build them up.

Next, he warned them that the Day will come like a thief in the night and to live as children of the light. Darkness easily overcomes us when we fall in despair. We need to live with faith and love to guard our hearts and the hope of salvation to protect our minds. This is basic gospel faith to believe in Jesus' Second Coming. But we often lose our vision and become petty and sinful, sliding into the darkness. Let's wake up! Examine our hearts soberly and repent living in the darkness. Let's live in the light!


Application: Father, thank you for giving us the promise of Jesus' return. Help us to wake up and live with faith, love, and hope as children of the light.
One Word: Live as children of the light, listening for Jesus' trumpet call!