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1 Thessalonians 4:13 - We All Sorrow Over Death, But God Has Provided Hope For Us.1 Thessalonians 4:13 (NIV) Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.1 Thessalonians 4:13 (NLT) And now, dear brothers and sisters, we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died so you will not grieve like people who have no hope. INTRODUCTION The Thessalonians were wondering why many of their fellow believers had died and what would happen to them when Christ returned. Paul wanted the Thessalonians to understand that death is not the end of the story. The great hope for all believers is in the Resurrection. Because Jesus Christ came back to life, so will all believers, including those who have already died. Therefore, we need not despair when loved ones die or world events take a tragic turn. God will turn tragedy to triumph, poverty to riches, pain to glory, and defeat to victory. All believers throughout history will stand reunited in God's very presence, safe and secure. As Paul comforted the Thessalonians with the promise of the Resurrection, so we should comfort and reassure each other with this great hope. [Life Application SB] COMMENTARY PEARL Grieving with Hope Grief is like a tidal wave that washes over you when you least expect it. Counselors often encourage people who have experienced loss to allow themselves to cry. They also suggest that you get regular sleep, some exercise, and eat nourishing meals. You should also welcome support from caring friends and family. The apostle Paul could add one more tip about how to grieve as a Christian. Today's Bible promise suggests that followers of Jesus do not mourn "as others who have no hope" Many in our world are "ignorant ... concerning those who have fallen asleep" - which is the Bible's way of describing death. Because of Christ's resurrection, we may have the assurance of life after death, of seeing our loved ones again in the kingdom of heaven. He explains, "For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus" (1 Thessalonians 4:14). That means that in the same way that Jesus died and was resurrected, so our loved ones who die in Christ will rise again. How will it all take place? "For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout. ... And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air" (vv. 16, 17). Are you or a loved one grieving over a loss? Cling to this promise and "comfort one another with these words" (v. 18). Dear Loving Father, wrap Your arms of comfort around me and others who are grieving the loss of a loved one. [The Most Amazing Bible Promises by Amazing Facts] CLOSING THOUGHT We have hope in the knowledge that nothing, not even death, can separate us from God's love (Ro 8:38-39). We have hope because Jesus will bring us to join Him in heaven so that we might enjoy eternity in unhindered fellowship with Him (John 14:3). Even though you are a Christian, you cannot escape life's sorrows. But you can temper your grief with the hope that Christ is risen, for He is your hope and your comfort. [Experiencing God Day by Day by Henry and Richard Blackaby] LINKS FOR FURTHER STUDY 1 Thessalonians 4:13 - We All Sorrow Over Death, But God Has Provided Hope For Us. https://www.abible.com/devotions/2023/20230129-0909.html Are the Dead Really Dead? https://www.amazingfacts.org/media-library/study-guide/e/4987/t/are-the-dead-really-dead- LINKS WORTH CHECKING OUT https://abible.com/links/ |