Key Thought: Despite the presence of difficulties in the Christian life, we should hope in the knowledge that God is with us to provide strength to overcome.

[Teaching plan for Keeping the Church Faithful September 24, 2012]

1. Have a volunteer read 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17.

A. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the main idea of this text is.
B. What ‘traditions’ do you believe Paul is speaking of here? How can we tell what is a pillar of truth to hold onto and a tradition to let go of? Share.
C. Personal Application: What Adventist traditions should we hold and stand fast with, especially in the times in which we live?
D. Case Study: One of your relatives states, “Paul said God chose the Thessalonians from the beginning. Does this indicate that God already has forordained whose going to be saved and who isn’t?” How would you respond to your relative?

2. Have a volunteer read 2 Thessalonians 3:6-8.

A. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the main idea of this text is.
B. What does it mean to “walk disorderly”? What does it mean to withdraw yourselves from that person?
C. Personal Application: How well do our lives reflect the truths that we have and endeavor to share with others? Share.
D. Case Study: One of your friends states, “The church is supposed to take care of the poor. If someone is hungry, you should feed him. It doesn’t matter whether he works or not, or even if he wants to work. There are no stipulations on helping someone.” Do you tend to agree or disagree with your friend? How would you respond?

3. Have a volunteer read 2 Thessalonians 3:9-12.

A. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the main idea of this text is.
B. How can we hold onto the statement that God is faithful, especially in trying times? Share.
C. Personal Application: What experiences have you had with church discipline? How do we keep a balance between acceptance and confrontation?
D. Case Study: One of your neighbors states, “How does your church deal with unruly and troublesome members who always seem to be complaining about something and causing dissention?” How would you respond to your neighbor?

4. Have a volunteer read 2 Thessalonians 3:13-15.

A. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the main idea of this text is.
B. How can we treat a brother who doesn’t obey the gospel as a brother and yet not have company with him? Share your thoughts.
C. Personal Application: Have you ever gotten ‘tired’ from doing things for people and they don’t seem to appreciate it? How can you take to heart the counsel not to get tired in well-doing?
D. Case Study: Think of one person who needs to hear a message from this week’s lesson. Tell the class what you plan to do this week to share with them.

(Note: “Truth that is not lived, that is not imparted, loses its life-giving power, its healing virtue. Its blessings can be retained only as it is shared.” MH p. 149)

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