Sermon 221

📖 SERMON 221 — A LIVING CHURCH (PART 3)

Text: 1 Thessalonians 1:1–10
Dates noted: January 8, 1950; February 16, 1964; June 28, 1970
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

Not all churches are living churches. Some are dead, some lukewarm, some worldly. But the Thessalonian church was alive — spiritually vigorous, faithful, and exemplary. Paul presents it as a model. This sermon concludes the description of a living congregation.

I. A LIVING CHURCH IS REMEMBERED WITH GRATITUDE

(Previously expounded)

II. A LIVING CHURCH IS KNOWN TO BE AN ELECT CHURCH

(Previously expounded)

III. A LIVING CHURCH IS A WITNESSING CHURCH

(Previously expounded)

IV. A LIVING CHURCH AWAITS JESUS’ RETURN

A. This expectation marks spiritual vitality
1. She keeps her eyes fixed on heaven.
2. She eagerly looks for the return of Christ.
3. She lives in constant awareness that her Redeemer is coming again.

B. This hope is the secret of her spiritual strength
1. It inspires faithfulness in service.
2. It encourages self-denial.
3. It fuels missionary zeal.
4. It produces holy living.
A church expecting Christ becomes a church prepared for Christ.

CONCLUSION

To be known as a living church is a glorious distinction — but the evidence must be present. A living church consists of living members: men and women alive in Christ, transformed by the Gospel, witnessing boldly, waiting eagerly for Jesus’ return. A dead membership cannot form a living congregation.

Are you alive? Let us pray and labor that we may be alive in the sight of God.