Sermon Notes from 1 Thessalonians 3:1-5, "We Are Destined for This, Part 2" by Tray Earnhart.

[The following notes were taken at the 10:45AM service this morning at Kosmosdale Baptist Church. The sermon should soon be available to hear on-line HERE.]

1 Thessalonians 3:1-5.

I. Introduction: Opposition in the Christian Life
A. Sometimes people, seeking to discern the will of God, think that they are only in God's will if they are facing no opposition.
1. This is a dangerous error.
2. As seen in the earthly ministry of our Lord (and in other biblical/historical/personal examples), OFTEN living in the will of God is accompanied by great opposition.
B. Suffering often prompts us to ask God why we are experiencing certain trials.

II. "It is God's purpose" that His people experience suffering and opposition in their earthly life.
A. It MUST be seen as part of God's purpose, for Satan is inferior to God and a defeated foe.
B. God promises suffering for His servants and promises great blessings for His suffering servants.

III. It is Satan's purpose to bring suffering and opposition to God's people in an attempt to hinder the gospel.
A. Paul knew satanic opposition in his ministry: Acts 13:4-12.
B. Paul warned Timothy about great opposition in the last days: 2 Timothy 3:1-11.
C. Satanic opposition CANNOT:
1. Provide an excuse for disobedience;
2. Thwart the purposes of God;
3. NECESSARILY be taken as an indication of God's displeasure.
D. Satanic opposition is itself used by God to conform us to the image of Christ.

IV. Our sufferings will give way to "shouts of joy:" Psalm 126.