It Starts Small

5 Now, brothers and sisters, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, ² for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. ³ While people are saying, “Peace and safety,” destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.

⁴ But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. ⁵ You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. ⁶ So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober. ⁷ For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night. ⁸ But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet. ⁹ For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. ¹⁰ He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. ¹¹ Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

1 Thessalonians 5:1-11

about times and dates 

Remember that there were no chapter and verse divisions in the original letter to the Thessalonians! This continues immediately after the powerful message at the end of Chapter 4. It should absolutely be studied in tandem with that passage. It’s only natural for the Thessalonians to crave understanding. They want to know when the incredible events Paul described in Chapter 4 would unfold. When will this rapture happen? When will Jesus summon the saints from the earth to ascend and meet the Lord in the air? What magnificent events lie beyond this moment?

Other translations evoke the term “epoch.” This powerful word “epoch” flows with profound significance. It embodies a “memorable date or event.” It also signifies “a pivotal time, marked by an event that ushers in a transformative era or breakthrough.” The end times symbolize an exhilarating “epoch” that lies before us. This era is overflowing with promise. There is thrilling anticipation for the incredible journey of the future!

we do not need to write to you,

Paul has passionately used the same type of language in this letter repeatedly, including in 1:8, weaving a vibrant thread through the letter’s overarching theme.

. ⁸ The Lord’s message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia—your faith in God has become known everywhere. Therefore we do not need to say anything about it, 

1 Thessalonians 1:8
(Bold for emphasis)

He radiates positivity and enthusiasm! Paul wholeheartedly affirms and uplifts them for their incredible efforts. He focuses on their strengths and accomplishments. He does this instead of chastising them for any perceived shortcomings. An intriguing question arises. Why would Paul passionately reach out to them about this? They must truly need to hear it.

Paul passionately declared, “you yourselves know full well…” He then dove into the heart of the matter. He taught them about this vital issue. This was not new territory for them. They had already been guided on these essential points. Perhaps Paul even provided an enlightening introductory course. Or he at least covered core topics that he would enthusiastically revisit with new disciples. Paul was fervently reminding them of the wisdom they already possessed. Often, we, too, do not crave fresh teaching; instead, we yearn for that invigorating reminder of what we already know.

Solomon passionately declared in Ecclesiastes that nothing is truly new under the sun. Every lesson that can be imparted has already been shared in some form. Yet, humanity often finds itself in need of reminders about what we’ve previously absorbed. We are no different; we too require those nudges to awaken our awareness. Let’s embrace these reminders with open hearts and a teachable spirit, casting aside prideful declarations of, “I already know that.” Instead, let us joyfully rediscover the wisdom that can transform our lives anew!

The Day of the Lord

(See cross-references) What does this mean? The Day of the Lord signifies the awe-inspiring period of the end times! Why is this term chosen to represent the culmination of history? Right now, some might say it is the day of Satan. It is a time steeped in sin and malevolence. It often feels as if Satan is triumphing, as the world boldly stands in defiance against God. From the very moment of Adam and Eve’s rebellion, the echo of defiance has resonated throughout history. Individuals have hidden from the Divine, paralyzed by fear. In the Old Testament, the Israelites trembled at the mere presence of God on the mountain. They persistently rebelled against His authority. Today, people openly mock and deride the truth of God’s existence. Reverence is cast aside as if it were a forgotten relic.

One day, everything will change dramatically! The Lord is poised to unveil Himself gloriously. He will once again take on an active and visible role in this world. He will step out from the shadows where He often resides today. This will be His moment, His triumph! God’s wrath and judgment will pour forth upon those who dare to mock Him. He will unleash His punishment upon Satan and all his followers, rolling back the curse that has plagued humanity. Some may argue that the wedding day is the bride’s moment to shine. However, during the Day of the Lord, Jehovah will take the spotlight. He will command the stage!

Like a thief in the night

Simply put, He will arrive with the swiftness of a lightning bolt, catching us completely off guard. There will be no prior notice to cushion the impact. While a friend may call and say, “I’m coming over at 4:00, is that okay?” most thieves thrive on the element of surprise, and so does He. The beauty of His unpredictability stirs our hearts to remain vigilant. Not knowing the hour of His return fuels a fervent readiness within us. It reminds us that His arrival is always just around the corner.

Verse 3, “They” are proclaiming “peace and safety.” “They” represents the unbelievers, blind to the truth. In their hearts, people swell with a false sense of security. Their wallets brim with cash, and their bank accounts are swelling with digits, creating an illusion of prosperity. They have become like the rich fool in Luke, hoarding earthly treasures while their souls languish in complacency. Culture shouts to seize the day, to savor the fruits of their labor with abandon. Sin is embraced, tolerated like a welcomed guest. Yet, those who dare to sound the alarm about God’s impending judgment face scorn. They are mocked and subjected to contempt, or worse.

It was a scene reminiscent of the catastrophic fall of Babylon. What were the king and his nobles reveling in on that fateful night? They were immersed in a grand celebration, utterly convinced that their invincible fortifications would protect them from any threat. Yet, fate had other plans. The Persian army, with cunning stealth, launched a surprise assault, slipping through a canal and breaching the city’s defenses. The unsuspecting inhabitants found themselves defenseless, caught unawares in their false sense of security. In an instant, the lavish feast transformed into a haunting nightmare. The once-proud citizens faced swift and devastating defeat. They had relied on their wealth and power.

Like labor pains

13 As Jesus was leaving the temple, one of his disciples said to him, “Look, Teacher! What massive stones! What magnificent buildings!”

² “Do you see all these great buildings?” replied Jesus. “Not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.”

³ As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, James, John and Andrew asked him privately, ⁴ “Tell us, when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are all about to be fulfilled?”

⁵ Jesus said to them: “Watch out that no one deceives you. ⁶ Many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am he,’ and will deceive many. ⁷ When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. ⁸ Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places, and famines. These are the beginning of birth pains.

Mark 13:1-8

In Mark 13:1-8, we discover that Jesus’ second coming is similar to a woman enduring birth pangs. She feels the sharp intensity before the miraculous moment of labor arrives. So, can you recall some of the poignant signs laid out in that chapter? Jesus’ return will not be a moment devoid of evidence. Just as a woman may feel those telling pangs, she risks being caught off guard. She may be unprepared when the baby finally arrives if she neglects to pay attention. A wise mother takes charge. She meticulously arranges every detail for the arrival of her child. This includes setting up the nursery and gathering clothes, bottles, and diapers. She even packs a hospital bag, mapping out her route with purpose. In those weeks before labor, minor contractions signal the impending thrill of new life. During this time, she seizes the moment to finalize her preparations. She ensures that everything is in perfect order. Yet, not every mother is ready; some, often depicted on TV, are utterly unprepared. They convince themselves, “I have time,” continuously postponing essential preparations. The consequences of such negligence can be nothing short of catastrophic.

Jesus’ second coming is undeniably imminent! We can feel the anticipation in the air as the time draws nearer and nearer. For those with eyes wide open, the signs are unmistakable and stirring. Paul warns us with urgency that great destruction will befall those who remain unprepared. In that moment of reckoning, there will be no refuge.

But

This is one of the most powerful words you will encounter in all of the Bible. It starkly contrasts what our existence would be without Christ to the incredible life we can experience with Him. Without Christ, we would plunge into destruction, facing the overwhelming wrath of God’s judgment. But praise be, we don’t have to endure that fate! There is an extraordinary alternative! We aren’t destined to dwell in darkness, at the mercy of the thief. If we place our trust in Christ, we are truly sons of the light and day! This means:

• We embrace the undeniable truth! When the light illuminates our path, we gain crystal-clear vision, allowing us to anticipate the wonders that lie ahead. Yet, when we traverse the shadows, we blind ourselves to lurking dangers. We miss the hazards that threaten to ensnare us in a treacherous abyss.
• God passionately guides and directs us. He reveals everything we need to know. This empowers us to make profoundly wise decisions about our future!
• We are called to live vibrantly in the radiance of the truth. We must passionately reflect the brilliant light of Christ to everyone around us. The goal is to shine brightly as a powerful testimony of faith and love.

Be alert 

We must be vigilant and prepared! Let us not fall into the trap of complacency. Embrace a vibrant perspective and a powerful worldview. Reject the worries and distractions of this world that seek to extinguish your fervor for Christ. Stand firm against the worldly wisdom of our peers that can sway our decisions and life paths. Approach the culture surrounding you with keen discernment. Never let complacency creep into your Christian journey—ignite your passion and live fully for Him!

An alert army must fervently engage in daily drills. They must passionately hone their skills. This ensures they stand unwavering at the ready. They must remain steadfast even in the face of a lurking threat. Regardless of whether the horizon reveals no enemy for miles or decades of peace blanket the land, preparation is imperative! This pursuit demands immense self-discipline and an iron will. Vigorously defend yourselves against any temptation that dares to encroach. Relentlessly purge any sin from your lives before it takes root and flourishes. Devote yourselves to the rigorous study and memorization of the Word. Lift your voices in prayer. Actively seek out fellowship. Together, we strengthen our resolve!

Be sober

Be serious-minded! Jesus warns us about the last days. Many will be caught up in the routines of eating and drinking. People will be marrying and giving in marriage, as depicted in Matthew 24:38. This paints a picture of a dangerously relaxed and complacent lifestyle where personal pleasure and desire reign supreme. We must dig deeper! Let us forge convictions rooted in the Word and vigorously pursue those beliefs. To be sober is essential for gearing up for the enemy’s onslaught. We must arm ourselves with spiritual armor. This armor is paramount in this battle. Let us boldly examine each piece of the spiritual armor and understand its vital significance in our fight against darkness.

 For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath

This verse stands out as a cornerstone for those who passionately believe in a Pre-tribulation Rapture! It powerfully depicts a time when God unleashes His fierce wrath. He also delivers judgment upon a world that has turned its back on Him. Here, we see that God, in His mercy, desires for us to be spared from that impending wrath! While some may interpret this “wrath” as an eternity of punishment in hell, it could indeed represent that. However, the context suggests Paul is urgently referring to the immediate judgment. This judgment arrives with the day of the Lord!

And why on earth would God unleash His wrath upon believers? A loving father would never do such a thing to his own child! He may discipline with love, but that’s a far cry from unleashing fierce wrath. The truth is glorious. Believers are shielded from God’s wrath. It is one of the most exhilarating doctrines found in all of Scripture. We are saved—rescued from the torments of hell and spared from the overwhelming judgment during the tribulation. Verse 10 reminds us that our salvation is only possible because of Christ’s sacrificial death on our behalf. He bore the cost so we could revel in the freedom and blessings of life through Him. How will you express your gratitude to Christ in the coming year for His immeasurable sacrifice?

encourage one another and build each other up

How will you awaken your spirit to this calling? What vibrant actions will you take to uplift and strengthen your brothers and sisters in Christ throughout the coming year? As the daylight shines upon us, what fervent endeavors will you pursue? How can you remain vigilant and clear-minded as you navigate the year ahead? What heartfelt commitments will you embrace to truly embody the lessons we’ve explored today?

---

Cross-References

On the Day of the Lord:

• Joel 2:31
• Obadiah 1:15
• Malachi 4:5
• Philippians 1:9-10
• 2 Peter 3:10

On living in the light:

• Ephesians 5:8
• John 9:4
• Romans 13:12
• Philippians 2:15
• 1 John 1:7

Discussion Questions

• What “times” and “epochs” is Paul referring to?
• If they have no need to be written to about this, why does Paul write to them about it? Why does he even say this?
• What does the “day of the Lord” refer to?
• What does Paul mean that it will come like a “thief in the night”?
• Why might God have planned the last days to come suddenly and unexpectedly rather than giving a clear warning first?
• Who are the “they” in verse 3?
• Are there any warnings before a woman faces labor pains?
• Are there any warnings before the “day of the Lord”? If so, what?
• Who will face destruction and not escape?
• What is different about believers?
• What do the “darkness” and “day” mean? How about sons of light/day?
• What applications does Paul lay out for the Thessalonians? What can we learn from this? How can we be alert and sober in the coming year?
• How can we put on this spiritual armor? Why does Paul use the imagery of armor both in Ephesians 6 and here?
• What plans does God have for us? How does verse 9 tie in with the rapture?
• What do “awake” or “asleep” mean?
• What is the final application Paul gives from this passage?

---

© Kimberlee Smith 2025 http://www.itstartssmall.com All rights reserved.