Series: In the Last Days / Week 1 – Preparing for the Return of Christ
ICEBREAKER
Ask: When you look at the world today—news, culture, technology—does it ever feel overwhelming or uncertain?
• Do you tend to feel more anxious or more hopeful when you think about the future?
SAY:
“We’re living in a time that can feel chaotic and uncertain—but Scripture reminds us this isn’t new. The question isn’t just what’s happening around us… it’s how are we living in response to it?”
SECTION 1: LIVING IN THE LAST DAYS
READ 1 Thessalonians 1:1–3 (NIV)
“Paul, Silas and Timothy, To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace and peace to you.Thanksgiving for the Thessalonians’ Faith We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers. We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Discuss
How can faith, love, and hope keep you grounded in uncertain times?
Why is it important to remember that we’ve been living in the “last days” since Jesus ascended?
SECTION 2: GOD’S LOVE AND POWER
READ 1 Thessalonians 1:4–5 (NIV)
"For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake."
Discuss
What would change in your life if you truly relied on God’s power daily?
SECTION 3: WE TURN FROM IDOLS
READ 1 Thessalonians 1:9 (NIV)
"For they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God."
READ 2 Timothy 3:1–5 (NIV)
“But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God—having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.“
Discuss
What are some modern-day idols that can quietly take God’s place?
Why is it so easy to justify or overlook idols in our lives?
What is one specific area where you need to “turn” back toward God?
SECTION 4: WE SERVE THE LIVING GOD
READ 1 Thessalonians 1:9 (NIV)
"For they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God."
Discuss
What does serving God with full loyalty look like in everyday life?
Where might you be “walking the fence” instead of fully serving God?
SECTION 5: WE WAIT WITH URGENCY
READ 1 Thessalonians 1:9–10 (NIV)
"For they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead—Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath."
Discuss
What does it look like to actively wait for Jesus instead of passively waiting?
SECTION 6: HEART CHECK QUESTIONS
READ Matthew 6:14–15 (NIV)
"For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. "But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins."
Discuss
Have I forgiven those who hurt me?
Have I shared my faith with those who need Jesus?
Am I more focused on this world or eternity?
Am I trusting in God’s grace alone to save me? (Eph. 2:8–9)
Which of these questions challenged you the most and why?
FINAL THOUGHTS:
What is one “idol” you need to turn from this week?
What is one intentional way you can serve God this week?
What is one way you can live with urgency (not fear) starting today?
PRAYER TIME:
Repentance from idols and divided focus
Strength to serve God daily