Malcolm Cox

How to support people when they suffer, 1 Thess 2:13-20 Introduction, vv13 Consequences of accepting Accepting opens the door for God’s power to work What happens? Our world gets disturbed! What do we do when that happens? 1. How to handle suffering, vv13-16  ‘You suffered’ Why? QUESTION: Why do we suffer? Teens, why do you suffer bullying, gossip, violence, injustice? A. Fallen world Justice and what is right not always valued If Jesus suffered, so will his followers  If justice matters to you, become a Christian   Work for justice with the only one who truly understands what is just - with his strength and power, wisdom Work with the one who will see justice done - confidence is his commitment to justice since made greatest sacrifice for justice B. Some prefer darkness “This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.” (John 3:19 NIV11) C. How we grow “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you f