Paul’s first recorded letter to the Thessalonians is brief and tender. Followers of Jesus in this prominent port city were facing persecution for their faith. Some had died, and the church was anxious that Jesus had not returned as they had expected. Paul writes to encourage them to stay true to the way of Jesus: to labor for the sake of love, to live pure and blameless lives, and to be steadfast in their hope for the future. This personal and heartfelt letter reminds us that we are a family, bound together by our love of Jesus and our vision for a better world. Love is stronger than suffering, and nothing—not even death—can ever separate us from Christ. Together, we will look beyond the troubles and anxieties of our current situation to the sustaining love of God that strengthens our hearts and gives us peace. In this second week, we will look at Paul’s devotion to the Way of Love no matter the cost.

From Series: Hope Changes Everything | More Messages from Matthew Dyer | Download Audio