Bible Readings:
Hebrews 13:1-25
1Thessalonians 5:12-28
Sermon Outline:
1 Thessalonians 5:12–18 (NKJV)
12And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you,
13and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves.
14Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all.
15See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.
16Rejoice always,
17pray without ceasing,
18in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
I How believers should relate to their Church leaders
II How believers should relate to each other
III How the believer should relate to himself
Thankfulness grows best in the seed-bed of conviction, just as some plants must be placed in the soil in the winter if they are to flower in the summer.
Sinclair Ferguson
Prayer without thanks-giving is like a bird without wings.
William Hendriksen
In thanking God, we fasten upon his favours to us; in praising and adoring God, we fasten upon his perfections in himself.
Matthew Henry
Thanksgiving is good but thanks-living is better.
Matthew Henry
Thanking God for whatever he gives us is one sure way of resisting the devil.
Spiros Zodhiates