1 Thessalonians 5v11, the apostle Paul encourages the Thessalonian Christians to be purposeful in their spiritual lives by exhorting, comforting and encouraging one another. The reason for this is the prospect of Christ's return (1 Thessalonians 5:2), which will physically bring both living and dead believers into His presence (1 Thessalonians 4:13–18). According to this verse, Christians should let the prospect of spending eternity with Jesus motivate them to encourage and edify one another rather than being dismayed and discourged as world events unfold, we should remind one another that a better day lies ahead. 

1. The Context and the Reason for the Exhortation (v.1-10)
2. The Exhortation to Encourage and Build (v.11)

Paul acknowledges that the Thessalonian believers were edifying one another, because after giving the exhortation to encourage one another in v.11, he added, "just as you are doing." He simply wanted his readers to keep on encouraging one another.

Hebrews 10:23–25 implores us to "hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."

Getting Started

1. In a world where bad news and serious problems from around the world daily flood into our lives through various news sources, it’s easy to become discouraged and depressed. What encouraging thought(s) take you to your happy place?

• Read 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11

2. What insight, principle, or observation from Sunday’s sermon did you find to be the most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling?

Digging Deeper

3. Read Hebrews 3:13. Throughout the Bible we see instructions to encourage one another and verses that are meant to encourage us. Why is encouragement emphasized in the Bible?

4. In John 16:33, Jesus says to his followers, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation.” Why would Jesus’ use negativity as a means of encouragement?

5. What does Ephesians 4:15-16 say about encouragement?

The Heart of the Matter

6. Encouragement makes it easier to live in a fallen world in a holy way. Read the following verses and explain what encouragement provides:

• John 13:34-35:
• Romans 15:4:
• Hebrews 12:5:
• John 10:10:

7. Why is it important to encourage each other with the truths of God’s word and not just pop-psychology?

8. We always have room to grow in pleasing God, loving one another, and encouraging and building up one another. What are some ways you can be a better encourager to the saints?