Beyond the Weekend

April 16 | Deep Sadness

April 16, 2020

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

For since we believe that Jesus died and was raised to life again, we also believe that when Jesus returns, God will bring back with him the believers who have died. 1 Thessalonians 4:14

Read: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

Listen: 1 Thessalonians 4

TODAY’S MESSAGE

Paul knew new believers were facing real grief and loss in a young church meeting in a home in Thessalonica, Greece. The church there was facing deep sadness and loss as many from their church were dying. Paul responds to their fear and questions by pointing to Jesus’ resurrection. He wanted his readers to understand that Jesus resurrection gave them hope in their own resurrection. Watch this video clip as Pastor Jeff Manion talked about this hope in the resurrection. In verse 18, Paul tells his readers to encourage one another with this reminder: they need hope, and they need one another.

If we’re honest, many of us are facing fear about the future as we read the numbers of people affected by this virus. Others of us have experienced loss already. It’s easy to be discouraged and full of fear. Paul’s words are essential for us too. We have hope, and we need to encourage each other. We need other Christians in our life, especially now. May we encourage one another and cling to our true hope in this season. If you would like to talk to someone about grief, please contact our care team at care@adabible.org.

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Spend a few minutes and ask yourself, “Who is encouraging my faith right now?” If you are in a small group, now is a great time to lean into the relationships there. Find ways to encourage those in your group and commit again to attending. If you are not in a group right now, join a digital small group for our next series at adabible.org/groups.


Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.

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