Thomas Wheeler - Thessalonian Sanctification

1 Thessalonians 1
(5) Our Gospel...
     Not another: there were many going around.
     It is distinct, because it brings power--the power of God.
          "(Needed) to change a life that is self-oriented to a life that is focused on others."
          Given the moment we trust Christ.
(6) Joy from the Holy Spirit
     Real, supernatural joy.
(8) "God's primary method of evangelism is a changed life."
     We are a new creation, this refers to personal sanctification.

1 Thessalonians 2
(15-20) Takes note of persecution.
     God's sovereignty is trusted, there is no need for retribution.
     Spiritual warfare, we are sometimes beset by spirits.
     Our great hope = people. Even in the midst of tribulation. We need interaction with people.

1 Thessalonians 3
(2) Paul sends Timothy since he could not go himself.
     (P.) was hindered, but (T) was not.
(6&7) Faith & Love
     (F) w/o (L) is insufficient.
     There must be mutual (L) and concern for one another.
(12) What does Paul say about love?
     "We never get to a place where we don't need to continue increasing in it."
The Three Essentials
     Faith
     Love
     Holiness
          Achieved through the work of the Holy Spirit.

1 Thessalonians 4
(1) Paul taught them:
     (3) The will of God
          Sanctification: To be set apart, not to neutrality, but to God.
          Wheeler used the illustration of My Heart, Christ's Room
          Be serious with sin
     (4) We are a testimony to God with our bodies.
          Be proactive about the Christian life.