April 10, 2026

‭‭The first epistle or letter the Apostle Paul wrote of the New Testament was 1 Thessalonians.

Being the first letter and perhaps the beginning of his official ministry, which is at that time 10-15 years after the event on the road to Damascus, we see verse 16, which modern-day churches use as a hint of rapture.

Perhaps, all who start ministry lean a bit toward Eschatology (the study of end times). I do not discount verse 16. I am sure the Apostle Paul, in his time, and as others in today’s time, all believe Jesus can come anytime.

The context of the chapter is to instruct on abstainence from sexual immorality and to stay pure for the coming of the Lord. Whether Jesus comes today or beyond, these words are eternal, and we must all keep His commandments and be ready in case of His appearing, whether for rapture or personal judgment, whether good or bad, and reward us for our deeds.

What is God’s Will in this part?

1 Thessalonians‬ ‭4‬:‭3‬-‭8‬ ‭BSB‬‬ “For it is God’s will that you should be holy (set apart) : You must abstain from sexual immorality;

4 each of you must know how to control (guard) his own body in holiness and honor,

5 not in lustful passion like the Gentiles who do not know God; and

6 No one should ever violate or exploit (seduce) his brother or sister in this regard, because the Lord will avenge all such acts, as we have already told you and solemnly warned you.

7 For God has not called us to impurity or perversion but to holiness. Anyone, then, who rejects this command does not reject man but God, the very One who gives you His Holy Spirit.”

Senior Pastor Steve Kim