Study Desk

The Day of the Lord

Now, brothers and sisters, about times and dates^(a) we do not need to write to you,^(b)

for you know very well that the day of the Lord^(c) will come like a thief in the night.^(d)

While people are saying, "Peace and safety,"^(e) destruction will come on them suddenly,^(f) as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.^(g)

But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness^(h) so that this day should surprise you like a thief.⁽ⁱ⁾

You are all children of the light^(j) and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness.

So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep,^(k) but let us be awake^(l) and sober.^(m)

For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night.⁽ⁿ⁾

But since we belong to the day,^(o) let us be sober, putting on faith and love as a breastplate,^(p) and the hope of salvation^(q) as a helmet.^(r)

For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath^(s) but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.^(t)

He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him.^(u)

Therefore encourage one another^(v) and build each other up,^(w) just as in fact you are doing.

Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard^(x) among you, who care for you in the Lord^(y) and who admonish you.

Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.^(z)

And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle^(aa) and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak,^(ab) be patient with everyone.

Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong,^(ac) but always strive to do what is good for each other^(ad) and for everyone else.

Rejoice always,^(ae)

pray continually,^(af)

give thanks in all circumstances;^(ag) for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

Do not quench the Spirit.^(ah)

Do not treat prophecies^(ai) with contempt

but test them all;^(aj) hold on to what is good,^(ak)

reject every kind of evil.

May God himself, the God of peace,^(al) sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul^(am) and body be kept blameless^(an) at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.^(ao)

The one who calls^(ap) you is faithful,^(aq) and he will do it.^(ar)

Brothers and sisters, pray for us.^(as)

Greet all God's people with a holy kiss.^(at)

I charge you before the Lord to have this letter read to all the brothers and sisters.^(au)

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.^(av)