Gene Cunningham - January 24, 2007
1 Thessalonians #12
God the Father made us qualified to share in the Inheritance of Jesus Christ; Common thread throughout 1 Thessalonians: Jesus Christ is coming back! 5 Crowns(stephanos) are offered to believer as an incentive to press on to spiritual maturity: 1) Crown of Joy; 1Th 2:19; Phi 4:1; 2) Imperishable Crown; 1Cor 9:24-27; 3) Crown of Life; Jam 1:12; Rev 2:10; Eph 1:3; Joh 10:10; 4) Crown of Righteousness; 2Ti 4:6-8; 5) Crown of Glory; 1Pe 5:1; often called the 'minister's crown'; but ALL of believers have a ministry that they can be faithful to! Crowns are a part of inheritance; Rom 8:14-17; If you want to be a joint-heir; you are going to suffer; Mat 25:14-30
Scripture References: Ephesians 1:3, 2 Timothy 4:6-8, Revelation 2:10, 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, James 1:12, 1 Thessalonians 2:19, Philippians 4:1, Matthew 25:14-30, Romans 8:14-17, John 10:10, 1 Peter 5:1
From Series: "1st Thessalonians - 2006"
The Thessalonians were persecuted for their faith. Paul's first letter to them provides comfort, reminding them of the details of Christ's return for His Church ("The Blessed Hope") and providing practical spiritual lessons for living.