Bible Study

Bible Study

December 8, 2025

1 Thessalonians 3:3 – 5 (CSB)

“Be Vigilant”

‘So that no one will be shaken by these afflictions. For you yourselves know that we are appointed to this. 4 In fact, when we were with you, we told you in advance that we were going to experience affliction, and as you know, it happened. 5 For this reason, when I could no longer stand it, I also sent him to find out about your faith, fearing that the tempter had tempted you and that our labor might be for nothing.”

God had made many promises to his people but He made one the Paul that is very interesting. He told Paul he would have many future sufferings as a result of following God. Annais told him that in Acts 9:6. How would we like to hear that in the very beginning. I ask if pastors have been wrong in telling people their new walk with Jesus will not always be easy but the rewards are awesome?

There were a couple of reasons Paul told them this so they would not think God’s plan was not working out. Paul told them to expect persecution as he had before his experience with the church in Thessalonica. When we know this we will better be prepared to deal with it when it occurs in our life. Paul faced tribulation in his walk with Jesus.

Why is there a hindrance in our walk? Satan is busy at work trying to destroy the very thing Christ has given you and that is new life. He will continue to tempt and try us to get us to fail in this new walk. Paul was aware of how Satan works as he was not a bit deceived by Satan’s actions.

I would add along with his knowing of Satan’s actions that he also knew his methods as we read in Ephesians 6:11 – 13 “Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this darkness, against evil, spiritual forces in the heavens. 13 For this reason take up the full armor of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand.”

Paul took action to counterattack Satan to assure his work was beneficial.

God Bless.