Living to Please God. 1 Thessalonians 4:1-2.
Dear Saints,
As Paul begins the conclusion to this letter, he has some important instructions for the Thessalonians. The first is a lifestyle aimed at pleasing God.
Received (v. 1). The Thessalonians had been taught how to live in order to please God. There is a standard by which those who belong to Christ ought to live. In almost all situations that we face, it is possible to know whether our actions please God, or they do not. The Thessalonians had been taught how to live and were following the instructions.
Reminded (v. 2). Paul wants the believers to recall what they were taught. It is important that we keep the teaching of the truth ever before us because the allure of sin is very powerful. The instructions given to the Thessalonians were in the Lord Jesus, meaning that the source was Christ, as was the intent. Sometimes leaders pile burdens on the shoulders of believers that have nothing to do with pleasing Jesus. One will not be a better Christian because one keeps more rules. Ask yourself whether you are acting to please God, or just obey rules.
Your Loving Pastor Chris.