1Th 5:1-11

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Those who are still alive (1Th 5:1-11)

Paul had already told the Thessalonians that no one knows when Christ will return. He will come as unexpectedly as a thief. His intervention in the affairs of the world will be as sudden as birth pains. His return will smash the non-Christian’s sense of security with a destruction that none will escape (1Th 5:1-3).

The life of the non-Christian is likened to a dark night of moral laziness and ill-discipline. The life of the Christian is likened to a bright day of watchfulness and self-control. Therefore, Christians of the ‘day’ should not act like non-Christians of the ‘night’, otherwise they will be both surprised and ashamed when Christ returns (1Th 5:4-7).

Just as soldiers must always be prepared for any eventuality, so Christians must always be prepared for Christ’s return. They must be self-controlled in their behaviour, strong in faith and love, and confident in their salvation (1Th 5:8).

Union with Christ means that they will escape God’s wrath and enjoy salvation in its fulness. This is a further reason why they should live in a way that pleases God and encourages fellow Christians (1Th 5:9-11).