I Thessalonians 5:16-18

1. Rejoicing
- Is rejoicing the same as being thankful?
- Does rejoicing come naturally for the christian?
- Do the ungodly rejoice at times?
- If they do, what is the difference?

a. To rejoice in opposition. Matthew 5:11
- because we have a reward in heaven.
b. Rejoice in temptation. James 1:2-4
c. Rejoice in suffering. 1 Peter 4
d. Rejoicing in earthly loss. Hebrews 10:34
- We have in heaven a better & enduring substance.
e. Rejoice that your names are written in heaven. Luke 10:17-20
- Do not rejoice in personal gain or power.
f. Rejoice in God's divine judgment. Habakuk 3:17
- The Lord God is my strength.

2. Thankfulness
- Why is thankfulness so important for the christian?
- What constitutes thankfulness?
- Is it a lifestyle or verbal assent?
Luke 17:11-19
a. Giving of thanks is God's will for us.
b. Thanksgiving is appropriate even in adversity.
c. Thankfulness safeguards against apostacy.
d. Unthankfulness is a sign of the end times.
e. Thankfulness is tested by prosperity.
f. Thanksgiving is to be done collectively. Psalm 100