Prayers of Joy and Thanksgiving

Rev. Tim Eden, pastor at Bethel Lutheran Church in Bryan, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13.

St. Paul’s time in Thessalonica had been cut abruptly short due to persecution, leading to his concern for the faith of the fledgling congregation. That’s why his thanksgiving and joy overflow upon the good report he receives from Timothy. St. Paul’s prayers had been answered; the congregation had remained faithful. Now he continues to pray for an opportunity to be with them face-to-face again and continue instructing them in the truth of the Christian faith. His prayer for his own travels is coupled with his prayer for the Thessalonians, that the Triune God would continue to increase their love and establish them in holiness as they await the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.

“Advent with the Apostles” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Epistle readings for the season of Advent. This holy season of repentance and joy focuses on the coming of Christ. As the apostles write to us concerning Christian doctrine and life in light of what Christ has done in His first coming in the flesh, they strengthen us to live and wait in hope for His second coming in glory on the Last Day.