1 Thessalonians (2013‪)‬ Dr. Robert L. Dean Jr.

Help! Someone is attacking and slandering me unfairly. What should I do? Listen to this lesson to learn how the Apostle Paul says we should handle unjust social opposition and rejection. Find out several ways Paul boldly refuted the false charges against him and what his goal for his congregation was. See how he explained his motivation and past conduct without anger or bitterness in genuine humily and with love.

Are you facing pressure to go along with the beliefs of co-workers, friends, and even family members in the pagan culture of our world? Listen to this lesson to learn how Paul handled the opposition and persecution he faced in the 1st century Roman world. See that he taught that we need to focus with spiritual courage and boldness on the long game and not what’s happening at the moment. In his instructions to pastors and all believers, Paul emphasized that we need to seek God’s approval and not man’s in all that we do.

What is your motivation to grow spiritually and tell others about the Lord Jesus Christ? Listen to this lesson to hear how the Apostle Paul described his motivation as he faced a chaotic, hostile world. See that our own country is experiencing increasingly evil trends and more and more people want to take Christianity out of society. Observe that the Scriptures tell us about the strength provided when we trust God and see how the truths in the Bible are being challenged. Understand that we need to be serious about our commitment to grow spiritually so we are ready to face whatever comes.

Do you find it hard to tell others what you believe about God? Listen to this lesson to see the importance of boldness and courage when witnessing. See that you will face opposition and persecution. Find out the difference between battle courage and moral courage and the ingredients that make up spiritual courage. Hear about the necessity of listening to the person you are talking to and not arguing with them. Accept that if they do not believe what you are saying you may still be planting a seed that will grow. Continue to seek opportunities to share your faith as you rely on the Holy Spirit and treat those who may be hostile with kindness and caring.

Can you name a way that God evaluates believers? Listen to this lesson to learn that God is looking for faithfulness. All believers in the Church Age have a spiritual gift which is designed to function in the local church, in our homes, and in the workplace. Find out how the Apostle Paul saw his ministry and how he first took the gospel to the Jews in the synagogues. See that he met hostility many times which led to riots and danger and suffering. Understand the role of persuasion in presenting the gospel. As we live our lives in the devil’s world, see that it demands spiritual courage as we learn the Word and walk by the Spirit.

What is your view of the future? An apocalyptic event as portrayed in movies and books? Listen to this lesson to learn about a coming seven-year period more violent and intense than anything the world has ever seen. Find out that believers will not have to go through this but will be “snatched up” or raptured to Heaven. Hear the evidence for the Rapture occurring before the Tribulation starts. Find out about different views about the timing of the Rapture and the problems associated with them. Hear about the imminency of the Rapture. As a believer, look forward every day to the Rapture in order to be spiritually prepared when Christ returns for the Church.