Memory Text: “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:18, NKJV).

INTRO:
As we arrive at this final lesson in our Good Word study series on how Christ “unites” heaven and earth, we address one final important aspect of the unity Christ longs for among his followers. As believers learn to treasure and defend their love for God and their life with one another their unity grows. This final lesson is entitled, “Standing All in the Will of God.” Memory Text: “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:18, NKJV). Many people struggle with the notion of knowing and doing the will of God. What seems to be Paul’s approach to Christ’s followers becoming “united” by living in union with God’s will? Let’s take a closer look.

Q: How do you explain Paul’s insistence that Christ-followers remaining joyful, thankful, and prayerful when facing discouraging circumstances or suffering? Is it really possible to remain steadfast when we experience suffering? How does this attitude impact “unity” in the church fellowship?

Q: Why do you think Paul names specific individuals in Colossians 4 and the tasks that he places before each of them? What specific tasks has God placed before you as you grow in the knowledge of God and serving others. What tasks might God be asking you to engage in as you grow in His love?

Q: How does the work of Christ through the plan of salvation unify the church on earth with the church in heaven? What do you think are the essentials are for “unity” in the churches of our day? What connects our righteousness not only by our faith in Jesus, but is revealed in our daily lives and our relationships with others?

CLOSING SIDEBAR:

“In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NKJV)

“Nothing tends more to promote health of body and of soul than does a spirit of gratitude and praise. It is a positive duty to resist melancholy, discontented thoughts and feelings—as much a duty as it is to pray. If we are heaven-bound, how can we go as a band of mourners, groaning and complaining all along the way to our Father’s house?”
— Ellen G. White, Steps to Christ

“In ordinary life we hardly realize that we receive a great deal more than we give, and that it is only with gratitude that life becomes rich. We easily forget that the fellowship of Christian brethren is a gift of grace, a gift of the Kingdom of God. Only with gratitude does this fellowship become what it is meant to be.”
— Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Life Together

As the series concludes, Paul points believers toward a life marked by gratitude and trust. Thankfulness shapes how the church responds to both joy and hardship. Living within God’s will draws believers into deeper unity with heaven and with one another, reflecting Christ’s presence in the world.

CONCLUSION OF THIS SERIES ON UNITY
“This concludes our 13-week study of the theme of unity in the letters to the Philippians and Colossians found in the New Testament. NEXT WEEK on the “Good Word” podcast there will be a brand new 13-week Bible lesson study entitled: “Growing in a Relationship with God.”
My thanks to our program engineers, Naomi Cueto and Faith Montes, and to all of you for listening in. Until next time, for the “Good Word,” I’m Phil Muthersbaugh.