Bible Study

Today we read 2 Thessalonians 3. Paul concludes his Letter with a prayer for peace and, in his own hand, a blessing of grace. We should imitate Paul in his blessing. We should pray for peace for others, even for our enemies. We should bless, and not curse, even those we do not like, even those who do us harm. Our prayer for God’s peace and grace in our lives is no mere wish. We do have peace with God and with one another through the blood of Christ; by the grace of our Lord, this is a peace that passes all understanding and remains steadfast regardless of external assaults by the devil. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10426). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read 2 Thessalonians 2. Paul calls on the Thessalonians to stand firm in the faith the Lord has given them. He reminds them that both their calling and comfort have God as the source. We must not seek the truth in the spirit of the age, in the fads, trends, or ideas of today’s marketplace. The God who has elected us unto salvation keeps us steadfast in the faith. The doctrine of election is a doctrine of the Gospel, by which we know that our salvation is guaranteed because it depends on God alone as He has chosen us before the foundation of the world. God assures us of this through the external signs of His Word and Sacrament He handed down to us through the apostles. • “The body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ strengthen

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10422). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we steart reading Paul’s second letter to the Christian congregation in Thessalonica, chapter 1. God’s judgment will be carried out by the Lord Jesus at His second coming on the Last Day. This is bad news for those who do not believe, for those who reject God’s grace in Christ (verse 8), as “they will suffer . . . away from the presence of the Lord” (v 9). As believers, we live in a state of continual readiness for this day. Jesus will be glorified in us, and we in Him (verse 12); by His grace, God will judge believers worthy to inherit heaven; and by His power, He will bring our faith to its heavenly fulfillment (verses 11–12). • Gracious Father, You led Your people, ancient Israel, from bondage in Egypt to the Promised Land. Lead us, the new Israel, from this earthly vale of tears to the promised land of Your heavenly kingdom and eternal life. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (pp. 10417-10418). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read 1 Thessalonians 5: Paul gives both his final instruction about leadership and a benediction. Christians should support and encourage one another. We should respect the elders and leaders of our congregations because of their work for the Lord and the whole people of God. The Lord Jesus, by humbling Himself to the point of washing His disciples’ feet, showed to us the love He has for all believers. • Lord, give us Your heart and mind so that our life may be blameless, respecting and loving others. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10391). (Function). Kindle Edition.