A Theology of Thanks | The What and What For of Thanksgiving (Ephesians 5:20)

Ephesians 5:20; 1 Thessalonians 5:18; Colossians 3:17

Thanksgiving is an expression of gratitude- an appreciative recognition of kindness – a glad and humble acknowledgement of our indebtedness to our good and gracious God.

James 1:17; Isaiah 43:20-21

Thanksgiving for the believer is a biblical obligation fulfilled with spontaneous joy as an act of worship. It is not optional, it is ontological. 

Psalm 50:23; 1 Chronicles 16:28-34; Romans 1:21

Secondary Producers of Thanksgiving:

1) The Promise of the Gospel – Jesus saves sinners!

“The wisdom of God has ordained a way for the love of God to deliver us from the wrath of God without compromising the justice of God: The death of the Son of God for sinners!” — John Piper

2 Corinthians 9:15; John 3:16

2) God’s Constant Provision – Life, breath and everything!

Acts 17:24-25, 28

3) God’s Covenant People – Our blood-bought forever family that knows and loves us.

Colossians 1:3-6