The Scripture makes it very clear that as we focus on purity we experience power from above. Paul stressed this in his final letter to his understudy Timothy. “Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter [i.e., “iniquity”], he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work” (2Ti 2:21). How? The process is simple: God the Father works through the Son. The Son works through the Holy Spirit. The Spirit works through the Word. The Word works through the believer. The believer works through living faith.
Gene Cunningham - January 24, 2007
1 Thessalonians #2
(Rom 6:1-6) God's Grace is greater than all sin; We are dead to sin but alive to God. Believers should walk in newness of life - the resurrection life of Christ. The grandest theme of scripture is the Grace of God. (1Co 15:22) Two spheres of life (Col 1:13). (1Co 12:13) Baptism of the Holy Spirit. (Rom 7:6) Living in the power of the Spirit; not the law. (1Th 1:1-5) Evidence of election - How do we know someone is chosen by God? God chose Christ to die for us; when we choose Christ as our Saviour; we become elect; sacrificial love; courage of hope. (1Th 1:6-8) Evidence of edification. (1Th 1:9-10) Evidence of expectation (Christ is coming soon).
Scripture References: Romans 7:6, Colossians 1:13, 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10, Romans 6:1-6, 1 Thessalonians 1:6-8, 1 Thessalonians 1:1-5, 1 Corinthians 12:13, 1 Corinthians 15:22
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.