In the first epistle of Paul to the Thessalonians, chapter 4, he speaks of Christ’s second coming, the resurrection of the righteous, and the change of the living saints. In the fifth chapter he shows that that day will come upon the masses as a thief in the night. He says, however, “But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.” 1 Thessalonians 5:4. That people who will be found watching for Christ’s coming, whom He calls “children of light,” He exhorts as follows: “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. PGGC 29.1
In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-21. PGGC 30.1
What is more consistent than to expect the Lord to teach directly His people who are to pass through the perils of the last days and be prepared to meet the Saviour in peace at His coming? It is that point of time to which the patriarchs, and the true prophets of all past time, have looked with intense interest, when the conflict of ages, the controversy between sin and righteousness, is to close, and the age for which all other ages were made is to be brought in. It can not be that God, who is abundant in mercy, will refrain from specially instructing His people. Thanks be to God, He has not left this as a matter of supposition; for He will guide His people by the spirit of prophecy, as the Scriptures clearly teach. PGGC 30.2