The Challenges and Joys of Loving Others

Passage

1 Thessalonians 2:17 - 3:13

Sermon Summary

Loving people is hard, especially if your love longs for their flourishing and good. It can also be rewarding. But to experience the reward, it requires a lot of resilience. As Paul shares his personal challenges and rewards in his love for the Thessalonian church (1 Thes. 2:17-3:13), he encourages us as we love others and try to be long-suffering in that love.
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Discussion Questions (choose any—you don't have to answer them all!)

1. [Optional starter question] What stood out or stuck with you from the sermon?
2. Who are you loving in a way that longs for their good and flourishing?
3. What sorrows have / are you experiencing as you love them? What are your fears for them? What hopes and longings do you have for those you are loving?
4. Share a story of one specific way you’ve seen God at work in your life, your friends or family, or Westside. As you share and hear those stories, what does it do for your faith?
5. What’s one specific way you hope God works in the life of someone you love? How can others help you be resilient in your love for them?
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Resources Consulted

• The Message of 1 & 2 Thessalonians, John R. W. Stott
• 1 and 2 Thessalonians, Leon Morris
• The Letter to the Thessalonians, Gene L. Green
• 1-2 Thessalonians, G. K. Beale
• “Being with the Wounded: Pastoral Care within the Life of the Church,” Stanley Hauerwas