17 But since we were torn away from you, brothers, for a short time, in person not in heart, we endeavored the more eagerly and with great desire to see you face to face, 18 because we wanted to come to you—I, Paul, again and again—but Satan hindered us. 19 For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you? 20 For you are our glory and joy.  1 Thessalonians 2:17-20

A. The Desire for Togetherness

1. Paul: 1 Thess. 2:17

2. Thessalonians: 1 Thess. 3:6

3. God: Jer. 31:33-34, Revelation 21:1-5

4. David: Psalm 63:1-3, Psalm 122:1

B. The Motive for Togetherness

1. Love: 1 Cor. 13:13

– Presence of personal sacrifice: 1 Thess. 1:3

– Presence of desire for togetherness with God’s people: 1 Thess. 3:6

– Presence of progressive practice: 1 Thess. 4:9-10

– Presence of watchfulness of the heart: 1 Thess. 5:8

Today

a. The Process of Love

– God’s love personally experienced: Transformation: Rom. 5:15, 1 Thess. 1:4, 2 Thess. 3:5, Eph. 3:14-19

– God’s love controlling us: Submission: 1 Thess. 4:9-10, 2 Cor. 5:14-15

b. The Practice of Love

– God’s love flowing from us: Obedience: 1 Thess. 4:1, John 13:34-35, John 14:15, John 14:21, John 14:23-24, John 15:10, John 15:12

1. Obedience validates love beyond words: John 13:34-35, John 14:15

2. Obedience promotes loving divine fellowship: John 14:21

3. Obedience is love in present tense action: John 14:23-24

4. Obedience enables the enjoyment of Christ’s love: John 15:10

5. Obedience mirrors the loving life of the Master: John 15:12