Sermons

Reverend Phil Simmonds

PASTORS THOUGHTS

“Thessalonians 2 provides some specific information re 2 major events that will proceed the 2nd coming of the Lord Jesus – first, the rebellion of people against God and His Gospel – second, the revealing of the Man of Lawlessness – and although this may be confronting, it should always be remembered that these events are all under the control and allowance of God the Father. This week we’ll look at the first event, the Rebellion, which should not surprise Christian’s to learn is, in a limited way, already in progress! 2 Tim.4:3.

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Reverend Phil Simmonds

PASTORS THOUGHTS

“2 Thessalonians continues the theme of 1 Thessalonians, encouraging the small and new Christian congregation to persevere in their suffering for the sake of their Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ – with the knowledge that their suffering for Christ’s sake would not go unnoticed nor unpunished by God the Father!
God is just, and His faithful In Christ will receive their promised resurrection into the personal and everlasting presence of God – Revelation Chapter 21. This is the promised hope of all true Christians – is it also yours?”

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Reverend Phil Simmonds

PASTORS THOUGHTS

The closing verses of 1 Thessalonians 5 (vs. 12-28) come under the heading of “Final instructions”, and in them God, through Paul, sets out a comprehensive “how to check list” for the Christian church to live by – awaiting the Lord’s return. Notice the emphasis is upon “living” a life pleasing to God in Christ that will witness His setting apart of His people – which in turn should bind them together in the unity of Christ – enabling His church to stand united in times of difficulty and challenges! Take some time to read through the “check list” – would we pass muster?”

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Reverend Phil Simmonds

PASTORS THOUGHTS

Hopefully, the promise of the Lord’s return, as specifically revealed by God in 1 Thessalonians Chapters 4 and 5, is taken as a “given”, and as a source of great comfort and encouragement by all Christians to-day. But sadly, some continue to literally “waste” their time trying to determine the date of the Lord’s return, despite Jesus Himself telling the World clearly that God The Father alone knows the appointed time of His return (Matthew 24:36)! Rather, all Christians should live out each day as if that day could be the day of the Lord’s return, and be found by Him living a life worthy of His calling – 1 Thessalonians.5:12-24; Ephesians .4:1-6 – should He come then?”

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Reverend Phil Simmonds

PASTORS THOUGHTS

“In Chapter 4 of 1 Thessalonians, Paul moves on from encouragement to instruction in what many commentators describe as the “ethics” of Christian living – what Paul also refers to in Philippians l.2:12b as “continuing to work your salvation with fear and trembling!” The focus being to live a life that increasingly seeks to please God in every aspect (Christ likeness). But Paul also moves onto qualify/ expand his previous instruction re: the Lord’s Return (Second Coming) – affirming that the saving work of Christ (His death and resurrection) extends beyond physical death into a guaranteed resurrected life with Christ. May all Christian’s be challenged to “continue to work out their salvation” to the glory of God in this life, and be encouraged by God’s promise of their resurrected life to come, in and through Jesus Christ”.

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Reverend Phil Simmonds

PASTORS THOUGHTS

“Chapter 3 of 1 Thessalonians reminds me of the old saying – “iron sharpens iron” – which can be found in Proverbs 27:17 “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another”. In Old testament culture, one iron blade was used to sharpen another – which makes the sharpened blade more useful and effective. In the context of Chapter 3, this relates to caring relationships, sometimes involving criticism, and positive perseverance that encourages others spiritually and personally. May we be as iron sharpens irons to others.”

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Reverend Phil Simmonds

PASTORS THOUGHTS

“Chapter 2 of 1 Thessalonians, provides us with a unique insight of what it meant to be part of a “new” church plant during the early pioneering mission work of the New Testament Church. It reveals the truly testing and threatening circumstances facing the newly established Church – and the attitude required of both Pastor and congregation to persevere. The reason for doing so – to be a Gospel witness for Christ, and to become the means by which the gentiles may be saved. Is this also our reason for being His Church? “

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Reverend Phil Simmonds

PASTORS THOUGHTS

“This week we start a new message series based upon Thessalonians 1 & 2. Paul having established the new Church, has since been forced to flee from the persecution of the Jews, and now writes to the Thessalonian church to encourage the new Christians to continue with the work of the Gospel – Godly living and provide assurance to believers re the “second coming of Christ”. God willing, we will all be encouraged and challenged by God’s inerrant Word”

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Reverend Phil Simmonds

PASTORS THOUGHTS

“For all True Christians, there is a time, past present or future, when like Habakkuk, you will come (or have already come) to the realization that despite what is happening in your life, or the circumstances of an ever deteriorating world situation surrounding you, there is only one person to turn too – the Sovereign Lord God, in and through His Son the Lord Jesus, and His empowering Holy Spirit. It is then that the reality of the phrase “and you will know the peace that is beyond all (human) understanding” has true meaning in your life, and like Habakkuk, will bring you peace of mind, heart and soul – praise God.”

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Reverend Phil Simmonds

PASTORS THOUGHTS

“One of the continuing Biblical themes from Genesis to Revelation is that “the righteous will live by faith” – which requires, no matter what the circumstances of life, that God’s people place their trust completely in God – His salvation found in Jesus Christ – His providence – His spiritual help in times of need – His promise of eternal life. However, this also requires much dependent prayer and encouragement before God’s Throne of Grace!”

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