In 1 Thessalonians 4:13, Paul wrote to the Thessalonian Christians concerning their brethren who had passed from this life faithful to Christ. He said, “But we do not want you to be uninformed, brethren, about those who are asleep, so that you will not grieve as do the rest who have no hope.”
This verse begins a section of comforting words from Paul to these Christians. They were wondering what would happen to their brethren, who had passed from this life. Paul assured them that there is a resurrection coming on the last day and that their brethren would be with them and Jesus forever, beginning at the resurrection.
Resurrection is not only for Christians, however. Jesus delivered this teaching in John 5:28-29: “Do not marvel at this; for an hour is coming, in which all who are in the tombs will hear His voice, and will come forth; those who did the good deeds to a resurrection of life, those who committed the evil deeds to a resurrection of judgment.”
Resurrection comes to all, but hope belongs only to those who have obeyed the gospel of Jesus Christ. “The rest” of whom Paul spoke in 1 Thessalonians 4:13 are those who have failed to obey the gospel (cf. 2 Thessalonians 1:8). They have not repented of their sins, nor have they been baptized in the name of Jesus to have their sins forgiven (cf. Acts 2:38). Because they have not done this, they have no hope, and their resurrection on the last day will bring with it no pleasantries. They will be resurrected to pain and anguish forever (Revelation 20:11-15).
Many are hopeless, but you need not be one of them. Use your time today to obey the gospel if you have not. Make peace with God and look forward confidently to your resurrection.