THE BEST WAY TO LIVE

                                                     1 Thessalonians 4:1-12 (873)

    Introduction

          A.  The best life that anyone can possibly live is a life that pleases God.  1 Thess. 4:1-2

                1.  As we live for God, we are blessed.  Matthew 6:33 (707); Ephesians 1:3 (863)

                2.  We will be rewarded in eternity.  Matthew 25:46b (726)

          B.  To live for God, we must overcome living for self.  Luke 9:23 (760); Galatians 2:20

                (860)

          C.  Let’s concentrate on how we should live to please God based on 1 Thessalonians 4:

                1-12 (873)

      I.  If we intend to please God, our lives must be holy.  1 Thessalonians 4:1-2,7

   

         A.  The term “holy” means that set apart for the Lord’s use.  Romans 12:1-2 (837)

               1.  In character and conduct.  Romans 12:1:  “a living sacrifice, holy” Romans 6:13

               2.  Our lives must be separate from the values of the world.  Romans 12:2

   II.  We shouldn’t take advantage of a brother in Christ.  1 Thessalonians 4:3-6

         A.  A Christian man can’t engage in sexual activities outside of marriage and please God.

               V6

  III.  We need the Holy Spirit to help us live for God.  1 Thessalonians 4:8; Romans

        8:14-16 (834)

IV.  If we intend to please God, we must practice love for one another.  Vv 9-10; John

       13:34-35 (793)

  V.  Let’s look at what our ambitions should be.  1Thessalonians 4:11

       A.  “To lead a quiet life”

       B.  To mind our own business.

       C.  To work with our hands.  2 Thessalonians 3:10-12

VI.  The results.  1 Thessalonians 4:12

      A.  Our lives will have the respect of outsiders.

      B.  We won’t be dependent on others for financial support.  Ephesians 4:28 (865)

      C.  Our lives will glorify our Heavenly Father.  Matthew 5:16 (705)

Conclusion:  The way we live is a choice, but we can’t please God unless we live according to

                      HIS will.