The new church in Thessalonica had questions about Christ’s return and what happens to those who die prior to Christ’s return (1 Thess. 4:13-5:11). Many today ask similar questions…

Paul provides these words of instruction to encourage all believers. Christians need not grieve at the death of fellow believers, like unbelievers grieve. The believer’s hope is based on the resurrection of Jesus, who promises to raise those who have died in Him. For believers who are alive at Christ’s return will not have any advantage over those who have already died. At Christ’s return, which will be public and visible to all, the dead in Christ will rise first. Then, those who are alive at His return will be gathered to the Lord to meet Him in the air. All of God’s people will be with the Lord forever.

No one can predict the time of Christ’s return, and for some this event will be as unexpected as a thief’s intrusion during the night. But as believers, we should be alert and self-controlled so as not to be surprised, and to be encouraged to know of our salvation in Christ, and eternity with Him.