The First Epistle To The Thessalonians - Executable Outlines

An Exhortation To Walk In Diligence
1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
INTRODUCTION
1. In his “apostolic instructions”, we have seen Paul exhort the church at Thessalonica...
a. To walk in holiness - 1 Th 4:1-8
b. To walk in love - 1 Th 4:9-10
2. His next instruction (1 Th 4:11-12) is an exhortation to “diligence”, to ensure that...
a. They walk properly toward those who are outside - cf. 1 Pe 2:12
b. They lack nothing - cf. Ro 13:8
3. That this requires diligence is evident from the word “aspire” (study, KJV) in verse 11...
a. A word meaning “to be ambitious”
b. As translated in the NASB (to make it your ambition)
[In three particular areas does Paul want them to be ambitious, the first being...]
I. TO LEAD A QUIET LIFE
A. AN APPARENT PARADOX...
1. For the phrase “quiet life” suggests a calmness, a serenity
2. Yet for this we are to be “ambitious”, apply diligent effort, which seems to be contrary to
the idea of quietness, calm
-- The “quiet life”, like many good things, does not come without concerted effort
B. AN ADMIRABLE GOAL...
1. As much as possible, to live peaceably with all men - Ro 12:18; 14:19; He 12:14
a. Though such is not always the case
b. As Paul found out even in Thessalonica - cf. Ac 17:1-6
2. For which we are to diligently pray - 1 Ti 2:1-2
a. That we might live quiet and peaceful lives
b. That we might live such in all godliness and honesty
3. A quiet and peaceful life is more likely if we:
a. Seek first the kingdom of God - Mt 6:25-34
1) Which requires setting our priorities
2) Which requires saying no to many distractions
b. Learn contentment in Christ - Ph 4:11-13; 1 Ti 6:6-10
c. Overcome anxiety through prayer - Ph 4:6-7
-- The search for “simplicity” is a popular trend today; for the Christian, it is to be more than just a
trend, but a way of life conducive to godliness and honesty
[As we “aspire” to lead a quiet life, we cannot do so unless we also give diligence...]
Mark A. Copeland
Sermons From First Thessalonians 41