Mark Howell says, "The Gospel will affect every area of our lives, including our passion for living today and our hope for what is coming tomorrow."

Ben Patterson has the following to say about Christians "People in the church are like porcupines in a snowstorm. We need each other to keep warm, but we prick each other if we get too close." A healthy church is identified by how its people relate to one another and to God. How can we be an authentic church?

The questions are taken from the Bible study by Donald Baker titled 1 & 2 Thessalonians: How Can I Be Sure? and Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary: Exalting Jesus in 1 & 2 Thessalonians by Mark Howell.

Our readings for this week: 1 Thessalonians 5: 12-28.

Plan to join us this Sunday morning at 9:30 am or go to our FB page to link to Youtube live on Sunday mornings or anytime on our website redoakpresbyterianchurch.com

Questions to think about:

1. What qualities make you a good person to have as a friend?

2. What do you find compelling about the kind of communtiy described in these verses?

3. How does Paul instruct the Thessalonians to treat their Christian leaders?

4. When should you speak words of warning or admonishment to a friend (v. 14)? How can you do this and still "live in peace with each other"?

5. What does it mean to be joyful "always", pray "continually" and give thanks "in all circumstances" (vv. 16-18)?

6. What would help your church or fellowship group become a stronger community of prayer?

7. Look through this passage again and pick out the actions and attitudes (stated or implied) which are displeading to God. What are they? What can you do to help and encourage each other to avoid these sins?

8. Why do you think so many Christians struggle with finding joy in life? What can they do to experience joy and express gratitude?

9. What has this passage taught you about the role of friends in helping you to live a Christian life?