Do you welcome and receive the Word of God for what it truly is? The Bible is the true Word of God. Though we believe this, we need reminders of even the most basic tenets of our faith. Sometimes we can take for granted and undervalue that which should be most dear to us. In 1 Thessalonians 2:13-16 we will see how the Thessalonian church welcomed the Word which is for the salvation of the world, and how this stands in sharp contrast with those who oppose the Word.

Discussion & Response Questions for 1 Thessalonians 2:13-16

1. As you look back at this Sunday’s Scripture text and sermon, what were some of the takeaways? What did you find helpful or encouraging? What questions do you have?

2. What does this text reveal to us about the character and work of our Triune God?

3. What is Paul thankful for in the Thessalonian church?

4. What does true reception of God’s Word look like? What is evidence of the Thessalonians’ reception of God’s Word (v. 14)?

5. What are ways that you are observing the work of God’s Word in the lives of the saints at OBC? In the lives of your family? In your life?

6. Consider why Paul describes the persecutions of the church. How is the experience of the Thessalonians similar or different from the churches in Judea?

7. What does Paul reveal about the nature of opposition to the gospel?

8. Why is the Word of God worth suffering persecution over? How did Paul prepare the Thessalonians for suffering, and what does it look like to prepare ourselves for suffering?

9. As we think about the Christian life, we usually think of the imitation of Christ. Here in verse 14, we see the imitation of faithful churches. Why is it important to know of other faithful churches and Christians? How might Christian history and biography help us?

10. How should we respond to this text?