March 22 - 1 Thessalonians 5:25-28

March 22 - 1 Thessalonians 5:25-28

Brothers, pray for us. Greet all the brothers with a holy kiss. I put you under oath before the Lord to have this letter read to all the brothers. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

Paul has come to the close of his first letter to the Thessalonians.  He has reminded them of his love, and of their initial love for God.  He has charged them to remain strong and to continue to do so even under great persecution.

The importance of his words to this congregation are emphasized in his closing words.  There were those who might try to have this letter suppressed, but Paul charged the recipients of this letter to ensure that these words were shared with everyone.  This charge was presented as an oath with the Lord as the guarantor.  This is the only one of Paul’s letters with this feature. His words to this new congregation were that important.  It kind of makes you want to go back and read them again.

What words will you take away from reading his first letter to the Thessalonians.  For me, there are several and they are found in the final verses.

Rejoice always
Pray without ceasing
Give thanks in all circumstances.
Do not quench the spirit.

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.