photo #5161131

14. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also with sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.15. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are live and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.16. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:17. Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.1 Thessalonians 4:14-17 Paul encourages believers, that Christ died for our sin, then rose from the grave. We are justified by His sacrifice, and covered with His righteousness. Here Paul mentions sleep in the place of death, for we are alive in Christ. This is the word of the Lord. And though Christ may delay His coming because of His mercy for the lost, it is sure He is coming for those who belonged to Him at their passing, and for all that live for Him now. For Christ shall come for His own in person, He will not be coming as a helpless baby, but as a King, a Saviour, and the reward shall be to those who passed first. Then all who are alive being His own shall follow. Paul says, comfort each other with these words, for they are sure words. And not one follower of Christ will be left behind or forgotten. Amen.