Beyond the Weekend: Unshakable
When life gets tough, how do we stay steady and not crumble under the pressure? In this series, we’re digging into the book of 1 Thessalonians, where Paul writes to a group of new believers facing tough times. Their story shows us how to stand firm, no matter what comes our way. Whether you're feeling pressure at work, challenges at home, or just the daily grind, this series is all about finding strength in God’s promises. Let’s talk about how to live with unshakable hope, love and faith—together.
Unshakable
Read: Acts 17:1-16 Listen: Acts 17
As was his custom, Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and proving that the Messiah had to suffer and rise from the dead. "This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Messiah," he said. Acts 17:2-3
Paul's faith in Jesus perseveres and endures the most excruciating situations. His life is a testament to unshakable faith and purpose in Christ. God sends Paul on a special mission to spread the good news of Jesus to the Gentiles. Paul pursues this mission with a singular focus. His life and missionary journeys are not easy. Paul repeatedly faces roadblocks, riots, violence and imprisonment. Paul's devotion to Christ allows him to press on no matter the circumstance. His faith is unwavering, unstoppable and unshakable. Acts 17 reveals Paul's intense struggle during his brief time in Thessalonica. Paul later writes the letter of 1 Thessalonians to encourage these new believers to have unshakable faith, too.
We, too, desire an unshakable faith that stands firm in any circumstance. We may know people who model this firm faith. Their cancer diagnosis deepened their well of peace and wisdom. Their release from addiction emboldened them to share the transformative love of Christ. Their broken marriage strengthened their trust and dependence on God. We, also, can have faith that remains strong in adversity. Throughout this series, we will explore what it takes to build an unshakable faith that points others toward Christ.
TODAY: Ask God to use this sermon series to strengthen your faith in him. Open your heart to a deeper love and devotion to Jesus. Then, commit to attending each week of this series. Trust that God will use the example of Paul's unshakable faith to inspire unwavering faith in your life.
JESUS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT:
Read Daniel 3-4. Highlight anything that points to Jesus. Note the fourth man in the fiery furnace. Reflect on how Jesus is with us in everything, including our trials (Matthew 28:20).
