How would you articulate the main theme of this passage?

What does Paul ask the Thessalonians to pray for?  (3:1-2)

What do you think it means for “the word of the Lord” to “speed ahead and be honored”?  (3:1)  What can we be doing to try and ensure that this happens in our lives, as Christians?

What is the Great Commission?  (Matthew 28:18-20)  What does it look like for a Christian to be faithful to this calling on their life?

Paul words seem to imply that when Christians are faithful to engage in gospel ministry (3:1), they should expect persecution from the world (3:2).  In your experience, have you observed this to be true?  If so, how?  (If not, why do you think that is?)

How does God expect and intend for his people to endure persecution?  What can we be doing in our lives to position ourselves so that we will persevere in the faith?

What assurances does Paul give to the Thessalonian believers to help them to persevere through affection and persecution?  (3:3)  Do you find these words to be helpful?  Why or why not?

Paul is encouraged by the Thessalonians’ willingness and ability to follow the commands that they receive from the apostles.  (3:4)  Why do you think this is the case?  What can we be doing, as Christians, to position ourselves to better obey the commands of God that we find in Scripture?

What do you think it means for the Lord to direct someone’s heart to the love of God?  What do you think it means for the Lord to direct someone’s heart to the steadfastness of Christ?  (3:5)  What can we be doing, as Christians, to create space in our lives for God to do these things in our own hearts?

Why is obedience to Christ’s commands important?  Why is loving Christ in our hearts important?  How can we be careful to find a balance, so that we are not neglecting either of these vital callings?

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