1.2 CONSTANT MAINSTAYS (2 Thessalonians 1:2)

2 Thessalonians 1:2 "Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ."

Grace and peace are God's provisions for the supply of all our needs as a church, and as individuals in the church (Hebrews 4:16 ). His favour now and until we are favoured to see His face, and peace that passes all understanding all the way home. With these as our constant mainstays we could not be cared for more.

1.3 COMMENDATION MENTIONED (2 Thessalonians 1:3)

2 Thessalonians 2:3 "We are bound to thank God always for you."

It should be normal to rejoice and give thanks for the success of others in Christ. The spiritual have great joy in praising others. The carnal look for flies in another's ointment (Ecclesiastes 10:1 ). Let us keep looking for things to praise in others - this is the way of love.

2 Thessalonians 2:3 "Because your faith grows exceedingly".

His desire expressed in (1 Thessalonians 3:10 ) is fulfilled. Faith grows through exposure to God's Word and by being tested in the dark experiences of life.

2 Thessalonians 1:3 "And the love of every one of you all abounds towards each other."

Love is to abound towards fellow members of His body. How wonderful that we can experience God's overflowing love (Psalm 86:5 ), so working in us that we have love for others that abounds more and more (Philippians 1:9 ). This love seeks over and over the highest good of those loved. Can we be commended because we have unshakeable faith and unstoppable love?

QUESTIONS FOR GROUP INTERACTION

1. Having God as your Father through the New Birth, does it mean for you a loving relationship close to His heart?

2. What would you say are the essentials that consolidate membership of a local Church?
   • What are the constant provisions to supply all your need?

3. Should you find it normal to give thanks for the success of others?
   • Particularly for another's unshakeable faith, and unstoppable love?
   • Are you glad when you see the marks of maturity in those who endure tribulations?