River Oaks Stand Strong

In verses 11 and 12 of chapter 4, Paul teaches the Thessalonians to avoid unruly lives and to “mind your own affairs.” He encourages diligent work as part of a believer’s witness to a watching world. 

In verses 9 and 10 of chapter 4, Paul gets back to his emphasis on loving one another. The Thessalonians were known for their love toward other beilevers, and Paul wants them to keep growing in this.  

In verses 7-8 of chapter 4, Paul continues his emphasis on sanctification and his stern warning about sexual sin. He notes that to disobey in this area is to sin against God, “who gives his Holy Spirit to you.” 

In verses 3-6 of chapter 4, the apostle Paul addresses sanctification – the process by which God makes a believer increasingly holy. Paul strongly warns against sexual sin, and notes that the Lord is “an avenger” in cases of adultery.

In verses 1-2 of chapter 4, the apostle Paul points to a life of increase – abounding in spiritual growth – for every believer. We should never stop growing to know God better and love Him more.

In the latter half of verse 3:13, Paul notes his anticipation of the Lord’s return.  This coming reality shapes his thinking and his vision for ministry. It should shape ours as well 

In verses 11-13 of chapter 3, the apostle Paul gives a “benedictory prayer” – a blessing mixed with prayer – for the Thessalonians.  His words provide a beautiful model prayer that we can pray for ourselves or others.

In verses 6-10 of chapter 3, Paul expresses his relief that the Thessalonian believers were doing well spiritually. But Paul does not intend to cease praying for them; rather, he is praying “earnestly night and day.” 

In verses 4 and 5 of chapter 3, Paul continues to express his concern for the Thessalonians. He notes the spiritual danger they may face when “the tempter” seeks to destroy their faith.

In verses 1-3 of chapter 3, the apostle Paul expresses his great concern for the faith of the new believers in Thessalonica because of their suffering. Paul reminds them that believers in Jesus are “destined” for such suffering.

In the final verses of chapter 2 (verses 17-20), the apostle Paul again points to the reality of Jesus’ second coming. He notes his own joyful anticipation of the Lord’s return 

In verse 13 of chapter 2, the apostle Paul points to the power of God’s Word to effect change in our lives. In verses 14-16, Paul notes the importance of persevering through suffering.

Verses 9-12 of chapter 2 present another metaphor for effective disciple-making – that of a father instructing and guiding his children.

Verses 5-8 of chapter 2 present a touching picture of gently caring for those who are new in their faith.

Verses 1-4 of chapter 2 address our motives – are we aspiring to please people or to please God?

Verses 9 - 10 point to the importance of expectantly waiting for the return of Jesus.

Verses 6-8 focus on the importance of living our faith before others as good and godly examples.

Verses 4 and 5 touch on what it means to be loved and “chosen” by God.

Verses 2 and 3 of chapter one reveal three marks of a growing believer in Christ.

The first episode in this podcast series focuses on 1 Thessalonians 1:1 and introduces us to this remarkable book. Emphasis is placed on what it means to be “in Christ.” 

A new podcast by Pastor David Beaty begins Monday, February 2. These weekday episodes will go verse by verse through 1 and 2 Thessalonians as a supplement to our sermon series and small group study,  Stand Strong: Everyday Faith in Light of Eternity . 

Hello friends! This week David Holcomb and David Beaty sit with special guest Martin Harrison as we finish our study in Luke chapter 24, "The Resurrection". Here we explore the different events that occurred around the resurrection of our Lord. This week's Essential Moment focuses on the Resurrection.

Hello friends! This week David Holcomb and David Beaty sit with special guest Bella Tisdale as we continue our study in Luke chapter 23, "Jesus on the Cross". Here we explore the different events happening during the greatest moment in human history, the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. This week's Essential Moment focuses on the death of Jesus.

Hello friends! This week Pastors David Holcomb and Andrew Wild sit with special guest Dave Steward as we continue our study in Luke chapter 23, "Jesus' Trial". Here we get a good background and understanding of the steps that lead to a trial in which an innocent man receives the death penalty, and a guilty man is released from his. This week's Essential Moment focuses on Substi...

Hello friends! This week Pastors David Holcomb and David Beaty sit with special guest Kelly Sweet as we continue our study in Luke chapter 22 with "Peter's Denial." Here we learn about Christ's forgiveness and restoration despite our deepest failures and this week's Essential Moment discovers the reality of Satan.