We are returning to the theme of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Paul refers to this momentous event again in v13 and then goes on to talk about the Lord’s return. The two events cannot be separated. Jesus rose from the dead in order to come back again.
Why is Jesus coming back again? Well Paul doesn’t go into great detail here in order to explain everything that will happen on t hat great day, but he does go some way in telling us what will happen and why. The believers in Thessalonica seem to be concerned about loved ones who trusted in Christ but have died. Paul is seeking to reassure them that all is well with them and that they will not miss out on anything when the Lord returns. The dead in Christ will rise [v16] and then those who are alive and trusting in Christ will be caught up together with them and then go to be with the Lord forever.
What a comfort it is to know we shall be with the Lord and those we know who have trusted the Lord and died will also be there too. They haven’t missed out on anything. They will share in all the blessings the return of Christ has for those who trust Him as Saviour. We may mourn over their departure but we take much comfort from these words of Paul.
Tomorrow’s Reading: 1 Thessalonians 5
