1 Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, 2 That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. 3 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; 15 Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. 16 Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, 17 Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work. I.
Introduction - In this passage of scripture, we find instruction
that is extremely important for us today. A. Paul instructs the Thessalonians not to be shaken in mind or troubled nor to be deceived by any man. B. He states that the Day of Christ shall not come until there is a great falling away first. C. We are living in the last days mentioned by Paul in this passage of scripture. We see many within the church who have been and are being deceived by false doctrines. II. Stand Firm - With all that has been going on in the world recently, it is so important for us, as Christians, to stand firm in our beliefs and on the Word of God. We must stand firm by: A. Knowing the Word of God and understanding WHO God is. (vs. 15) 1. Psalms 119:11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.
2. It is easy for us to be swayed if were not entirely sure
what we believe. a) The last part of 2 Timothy 1:12 states for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day. 3. If we truly know who Christ is then we Know that he is greater than anything that satan would use to tear us down or sway us. a) Phillipians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me 4. When we are sure of what we believe and who we believe in we can stand strong in our faith. a) 2 Corinthians 1:24 Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand. B. By putting on the whole armor of God. 1. Ephesians 6:13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. a) We need to have our loins girt about with Truth (gathering up those things that would trip us with the truth) b) Have on the Breastplate of righteousness (holy hearts) c) Feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of Peace (carrying the Gospel to the unsaved) d) The shield of Faith (guarding against the Fiery darts of the devil) e) The helmet of salvation (protecting our minds from satan) f) And the Sword of the Spirit (which is the Word of God). C. Through constant Prayer
1. Ephesians 6:18 Praying always with all prayer and
supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; 2. Phillipians 4:6-7 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 3. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 tells us to Pray without ceasing. III. Conclusion - In the time that we live in we can be easily deceived if were not careful. A. In Matthew 24:24, Jesus tells us For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. B. We MUST NOT be deceived. We MUST stand strong and firm in our beliefs and our Faith. C. As 1 Peter 5:8 says Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: