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Scripture and questions for study and reflection:

Read 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12.

1. Pastor Mick began with a review form last week referring to the movie \\u201cThe Sixth Sense.\\u201d How does the famous line from that movie (\\u201cI see dead people; they\\u2019re everywhere.\\u201d) relate to the D.L. Moody story? How should this impact the way we live our lives?

2. In verse 2 Paul discusses how they \\u201chad previously suffered and been treated outrageously in Philippi.\\u201d What was he talking about? How had they suffered? Would that be that last of Paul\\u2019s suffering for the gospel? If not, what other sufferings would he endure?

3. What does Paul\\u2019s suffering for the sake of the gospel tell us about what we can expect in our own lives? How have you suffered for the sake of the gospel?

4. Paul says in verse 4, \\u201cWe are not trying to please people, but God who tests our hearts.\\u201d What do you think he means by that? What can we learn from that verse and how can we apply it to our daily lives?

5. How is people-pleasing sometimes still a problem in the modern church?

6. In verse 8 Paul says, \\u201cBecause we loved you so much, we were delighted to share not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.\\u201d Pastor Mick borrowed the phrase \\u201cliving sermons\\u201d from another pastor to help explain that verse. What is meant by the phrase \\u201cliving sermons\\u201d and how is it related to this verse? To your life?

7. Why do you think Paul uses the metaphors of both a nursing mother and of a father in this section? How might the two differ? What similarities might they have?

8. Why is it important to have someone \\u201cencouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God\\u201d as Paul describes in verse 12? Who does this for you? For whom do you do this?

9. Pastor Mick said that living to please God is the key to abundant life. Do you agree? Why/why not?

Prayer for the Week:
Almighty God, we strive to please you with all that we say and do in our lives, but we confess that we often fall woefully short. Through the power of your Holy Spirit dwelling within us, help us to do better. Help us to spend our days as living sermons that point others to you so that those who are dead in sin will receive new life in Christ. In Jesus\\u2019 name we pray. Amen.