February 25 1 Thessalonians 5:9-10
“For God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us so that whether we are awake or asleep we might live with him.”
In these verses, Paul offers assurance to believers about their ultimate destiny in Christ. They serve as a continuation of his discussion on the coming Day of the Lord (1 Thess. 5:1-8), emphasizing that Christians are not appointed for divine judgment but for salvation.
1. God’s Purpose for Believers
Paul contrasts wrath with salvation, reinforcing the idea that those in Christ are not under God’s judgment but are instead recipients of His grace. This echoes Romans 8:1: “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” God’s plan for believers is one of redemption, not destruction.
2. Salvation through Christ
Salvation is not achieved through human effort but through Jesus Christ, who secured it by His death. Paul continually underscores that Jesus’ sacrifice is the foundation of Christian hope, aligning with other passages such as Ephesians 2:8-9 and Romans 5:9.
3. Living with Christ
Awake or Asleep – The phrase “whether we are awake or asleep” likely refers to both the living and the dead in Christ. Paul had earlier addressed concerns about believers who had died (1 Thess. 4:13-18), assuring them that all who belong to Christ—whether physically alive or deceased—will be with Him eternally. This underscores the believer’s secure hope of resurrection and eternal fellowship with Christ.
• Encouragement in Uncertain Times
These verses provide comfort, especially in times of suffering or fear about the future. They remind believers that God’s plan is one of salvation, not judgment.
• Assurance of Eternal Life
The believer’s security is rooted in Christ’s atonement, offering peace even in the face of death.
• A Call to Live with Confidence
Knowing our destiny in Christ, we are called to live with faith, hope, and a sense of mission, preparing for His return.
Paul’s message is one of profound hope: because of Christ’s sacrifice, we have an unshakable promise of eternal life with Him.
These days certainly qualify as uncertain times. Although it is probably true that ever day is in a way uncertain. However, the message of the Gospel is that everyday can have certainty in Jesus. That is Paul’s message.
How certain is your day?
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