“We believe!” Such words, when we find them in creeds, remind isolated and lonely people that they’re not walking alone. In today’s verses, Paul reminds new believers that they belong in a larger community as they share words and beliefs with other people in view of loved ones who have died.
Recognize in I Thes 4:14-15 the phrase, “we believe” (4:14 a,b-twice) and “so we tell you” (v. 15). Find a three-part joy for Christ's community, even in the face of death--
I. (14a) ‘we believe’—A Person
II. (14b) ‘we believe’—A Procedure
III. (15) ‘so we tell you’—A Promise
A family may get excited about a blueprint for a new home, especially when a capable builder is holding the plans. As Paul lingers over this creed, prepare to be encouraged as we meditate on the future plans for resurrection of Jesus Christ, the 'God-Man'. Jesus is ‘The One’ on whom these promises are laid. Christ is the ‘first-born’ from the dead (Col 1:18) and the ‘first-fruits’ for all who have fallen ‘asleep’ (I Cor 15:20). Through trust in Christ, we begin to see our greatest fears about death begin to melt away.