Christ’s Glorious Rapture (1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11)

Belgrade URC

In 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11, Paul addresses the Thessalonian Christians' concerns about the fate of those who have died before Christ's return.

Paul reassures the Thessalonians that believers who have died will not miss out on Christ's return. Instead, when Jesus comes back, those who have died in Him will rise first, and then those who are alive will be caught up together with them to meet the Lord. This provides comfort and hope. Death cannot overpower Christ’s shepherding care.

In chapter 5, Paul shifts to discussing the timing of the Lord's return, emphasizing that it will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night. Therefore, Christians should always be prepared, living lives of faith, love, and hope.

So we are to live with an heavenly viewpoint, being alert and self-controlled in this life, confident in the resurrection power that Christ has secured for us, and supporting one another in the community of faith. We are a community who sojourns through this age in the Holy Spirit.