February 2, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – 1 Thessalonians Chapter 5
1 But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.
2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.
3 For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.
4 But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.
5 Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.
6 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.
7 For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night.
8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation.
9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,
10 Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.
11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.
12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;
13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves.
14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.
15 See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.
16 Rejoice evermore.
17 Pray without ceasing.
18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
19 Quench not the Spirit.
20 Despise not prophesyings.
21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.
22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.
23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
24 Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.
25 Brethren, pray for us.
26 Greet all the brethren with an holy kiss.
27 I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read unto all the holy brethren.
28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.
King James Version. Public Domain
Commentary
Introduction
In the final chapter of the First Epistle to the Thessalonians, Paul calls on the believers to be vigilant and prepared for the return of Christ. He compares the “day of the Lord” to a thief in the night, who comes suddenly when no one is expecting it. At the same time, he encourages the Christians to live in the light, actively engage their faith, and encourage one another. The letter concludes with practical exhortations for a Christian life marked by joy, prayer, gratitude, and sanctification. This chapter reminds us of the urgency of the faith and the hope of eternal life in Christ.
Commentary
Paul begins with a forceful warning: the return of Christ will be unexpected. While the world rests in security, the day of the Lord will suddenly arrive. However, for the believers, this should not be a surprise—they are children of the light who are meant to live consciously and vigilantly.
The metaphors of light and darkness illustrate a clear division between those who are prepared for God’s plan and those who live in spiritual indifference. Vigilance means leading a life characterized by faith, love, and hope for redemption. This spiritual “armor” protects the believers from spiritual slumber and the intoxication of the world.
The second part of the chapter contains practical admonitions for the everyday life of a Christian. Paul emphasizes the importance of mutual encouragement, patience in dealing with others, and the commitment to doing good. Particularly striking are his exhortations: “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances.” This attitude is not dependent on external conditions, but is an expression of deep trust in God’s guidance.
Paul concludes with a blessing, asking for God’s sanctification of spirit, soul, and body. This shows that sanctification is a comprehensive process that affects our whole life. The return of Christ is not only a hope for the future but also an incentive for the here and now.
Summary
1.The Sudden Return of the Lord – Paul warns that the day of the Lord comes like a thief in the night. Believers are to remain vigilant and live in the light.
2.Spiritual Vigilance – Christians are children of the day and should arm themselves with faith, love, and hope to be prepared.
3.Practical Instructions for the Christian Life – Paul calls for mutual encouragement, patience, joy, prayer, and gratitude.
4.Sanctification and Blessing – Paul prays for the complete sanctification of the believers and concludes with a call for community and a desire for God’s grace.
This chapter reminds us that in anticipation of Christ’s return, we should not remain passive but actively grow in our faith, lead a holy life, and radiate the joy of the Lord in our daily lives.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | Steps to Christ
Chapter 3—Repentance
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction
Repentance is the first step toward true conversion and reconciliation with God. But what does genuine repentance mean? Is it merely a fear of the consequences of sin, or is it a profound turning away from it? The Bible shows us that true repentance is not only the acknowledgment of our faults but also an inner transformation that leads us to Christ. Many wonder how they can come into alignment with God. The answer is: through sincere repentance and the acceptance of God’s grace. In this chapter, we recognize that genuine repentance does not come from ourselves, but is the work of the Holy Spirit who convicts our hearts and draws us to Christ.
Commentary
The Bible distinguishes between genuine and false repentance. False repentance is often evident in people who fear the consequences of their sin but do not hate the sin itself. Examples of this are Esau, Balaam, Judas, and Pharaoh – each of them repented of their actions, but not from a change of heart, rather out of fear of punishment.
True repentance, on the other hand, is a deep recognition of the sinfulness of one’s own life and a sincere desire for change. King David is an example of true repentance: he recognized his guilt, sought God’s forgiveness, and asked not only for cleansing but for a new heart and a renewed spirit (Psalm 51).
This true repentance cannot be achieved by human effort alone. It is Christ who leads us to repentance. The Holy Spirit convicts us of sin and shows us the righteousness of Christ. Those who become aware of the love and suffering of Jesus are moved to conversion. Only through Christ’s work on the cross can we recognize our sinful nature and develop a sincere desire for change.
Many people mistakenly believe that they must first repent before they can come to Christ. Yet the Bible teaches that Christ himself grants us repentance. Without him, we are not capable of truly regretting our sin or turning away from it. Therefore, Jesus calls, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
Another obstacle to true repentance is self-righteousness. Many believe that they are not as sinful as others and therefore do not need a profound conversion. But it is precisely pride and self-deception that separate us from God. The Bible shows that even small sins can have serious consequences – even the disobedience of Adam and Eve led to suffering and death in the world.
The chapter concludes with an urgent warning: whoever repeatedly rejects God’s invitation to convert hardens their heart. The best time for repentance is now – for every delay can cause the heart to become increasingly unresponsive to God’s voice.
Summary
1.False and True Repentance – Genuine repentance does not mean fearing the consequences of sin, but hating the sin itself.
2.The Work of the Holy Spirit – Repentance is not a human achievement but the work of God. The Holy Spirit convicts us and draws us to Christ.
3.The Cross as the Key to Repentance – Whoever recognizes the suffering and love of Christ will be moved to conversion. God’s goodness leads us to repentance.
4.The Danger of Procrastination – Those who delay their conversion harden their hearts and risk missing out on God’s grace.
This chapter urgently calls us to true repentance—not out of fear of punishment, but out of love for God. Whoever recognizes and repents of their sin has the door wide open to forgiveness and renewal.
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