Tuesday, June 25, 2013

Distinct Directions for Peace

From now till the end of his letter, Paul writes short distinct directions on how to live a Christian life. If we follow these instructions closely, we will be living at peace in our hearts.

He continues with the theme of living in peace among yourselves when he instructs us to "warn the unruly..."(1 Thessalonians 5:14).

Our tendency may be to avoid confronting those who are causing trouble. Confronting them feels like we are stirring the pot. Individuals who are unruly invariably strike out against anyone who apposes them, and we do not want to be the brunt of his or her anger. But we must warn the rebellious of the danger in their behavior.

Strife is a sign of transgression (Proverbs 17:19)
Strife is listed with idolatry, witchcraft, adultery, murders, and envy (Galatians 5:19-21)
Strife is earthly, sensual and satanic in nature (James 3:14-16)