Here’s a reminder in case you missed it: In Thessalonians, Paul’s chief concern is that his readers “live lives worthy of God” (2:12), “please God” (4:1), and “live a holy life” (4:7).
Neither they, nor we, can do this if we are asleep at the switch, not paying attention to our lives, constantly evaluating them and adjusting them to meet God’s call and Christ’s example. Chapters four and five speak specifically to many of these requirements.
Why should we be so vigilant?
Because Jesus is coming back, and with Him he will bring two things: salvation for the ready, and wrath for those who are not. It is not God’s intent that we suffer His wrath, but we will, if we do not make our lives ready.
Two points stand out to me in the last chapter of 1 Thessalonians.
First, salvation is multi-dimensional. While the Thessalonians have been “saved” from their past sins, they are looking for another salvation to come. Salvation is not a “once for all” event.
Second, God has not left us on our own to accomplish the holy life. He Himself helps us by making us holy through and through, and keeping us blameless until Jesus comes (5:23-24).
Good.
I need all the help I can get. How about you?