The gathering of believers

John 14:1–3; 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18; 1 Corinthians 15:50–58

Use your preferred translation.

What comfort do these promises offer, and how does the pre-Tribulation interpretation understand their timing?

• What does the passage say? Restate it in your own words before interpreting it.
• Who is speaking, and to whom?
• What is the surrounding context — what comes just before and after?
• Which words or phrases repeat or stand out?

1. Paul tells the Thessalonians to “encourage one another with these words.” What exactly in the text is meant to encourage?
2. Which details about timing are stated in these passages, and which come from how they are read alongside other texts? Try to separate the two.
3. 1 Corinthians 15 ends with a call to steady work. Why might Paul move from resurrection to labor?

Who in your life is grieving, and how could these promises be offered to them gently rather than as an argument?

Write a short note of encouragement to someone who is grieving or weary, without trying to explain their loss.

Thank Jesus for His promise to prepare a place and to come again, and ask Him to steady you in the work He has given.