Series Introduction: “Flourish” may be one of the best words, to describe a Christian who is maturing in their faith.

Definition of Flourish: to be healthy and thriving; to blossom; to be at the height of influence

Why Should We As Christians Flourish:

Because We Are Called Out

• Christians Have Been Called From Two Locations: (I Thessalonians 1:1a)

             from death of sin to the life of Jesus

             from the darkness of sin to the light of Jesus

• Churches Have Been Called To Two Locations: (I Thessalonians 1:1b)

             a physical location

             a spiritual location

• Christians Have Been Called: (I Thessalonians 1:1c)

             from a life of condemnation to a life of grace

             from a life of worry to a life of peace

Because We Are Changed (I Thessalonians 1:2-3)

• New Spiritual Realities:

              past—faith

              present—love

              future—hope

• New Physical Realities:

              work—faith

              labor—love   (1 Corinthians 16:14)

              patience—hope  (Romans 5:3-5)

Because We Are Chosen  (I Thessalonians 1:4)

Our Perspective: 

     “For whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (Romans 10:13)     

God’s Perspective:     

     “Just as He (God the Father) chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love, having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself according to the good pleasure of His will.” (Ephesians 1:4-5)

• Salvation Is Initiated By God  (John 15:16)

• Salvation Is Irresistible To Believers

Application: It is obvious from God’s Word that true followers of Jesus, will have a faith that is flourishing. Does this describe you? ______  If not, what is keeping your faith from flourishing?