Athey Creek | Audio Podcast

The Apostle Paul knew what it was like to be accused, misunderstood, and criticized, and in 1 Thessalonians 2, he shows us how to respond. As we examine the characteristics of his ministry and his conduct toward the believers in Thessalonica, we find a model rooted in boldness, integrity, love, and faithfulness.

In 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Paul speaks about the coming time when Christians will be caught up, commonly known as the Rapture of the Church, describing it as a key event in the End Times. As we seek to follow Paul’s charge not to be ignorant about the Rapture, we define the terminology, map out the timeline, and conclude by examining how the Bible points to a pre-tribulation Rapture.

As we begin our study of Paul's first letter to the church in Thessalonica, we learn some important history of the city, are reminded of Paul's experience there during one of his missionary journeys, and see how the city had changed dramatically since his visit. As we study verse by verse through 1 Thessalonians 1, we see how Paul commends their faith, hope, and love, praises the example they set for other believers, and then shifts our attention to one of the book's main themes: the End Times.

In 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10, Paul assures the church at Thessalonica that they have been delivered from the coming wrath. But just what is it, when is it coming, and how can we ensure we are spared as well? As we take a deep dive into the reality of God’s wrath, we seek to answer these questions, begin a more comprehensive look at the End Times, and learn how we should live in light of what is to come.

As Paul begins to wrap up his letter to the Colossian church, we see him address the topics of husbands and wives, children and parents, and employers and employees. As we study Colossians 3:18-4:18, we examine how the world seeks to corrupt these relationships, learn about God’s design for them, and finish with Paul’s final thoughts and encouragements.