Submitted
by Sam Nobles
As
Paul begins his letter to the Thessalonians he launches lays out his ministry, message, and lifestyle like a resume
listing attributes of his character. Our unconscious influence speaks more
loudly than our conscious influence.[1]
Some have thought that this chapter is Paul’s way of defending himself against
the false accusations of his critics. No matter the reason, Paul reminds the
Thessalonians that his ministry was successful, and they were the living proof
of it.
·
Faithfulness
(v.1-6)
Paul’s anguishes
in Philippi could have been what made him hesitate to minister in Thessalonica,
but he was committed in his faithfulness to the Lord. The message and motive he
delivered was pure; therefore, God blessed Paul’s ministry. It is better to be
approved by God and suffer than to be applauded by men and prosper.[2] In the
moments when you feel like giving up, that’s when you should keep going.
·
Gentleness
(v.7-9)
Young
believers need spiritual mothers and fathers to encourage them in the things of
the Lord. Paul was both a nursing mother and a working brother alongside the
Thessalonian believers. Much can be accomplished when your ministry is
motivated by love, and not by pride or the desire for material gain.
·
Blamelessness
(v.10-12)
Young and new
believers need good examples to follow. In the same way that children do as you
do, and not as you say, so do new believers. I think it is important to
yourself if your example as a Christian would help others to grow in Christ?
·
Eagerness
(v.13-16)
The
Thessalonians had a hunger for the Word of God, and that craving was the
catalyst for their growth in the Lord. When they heard God’s Word they eagerly
embraced it and lived it out with immediacy.
·
Hopefulness
(v.17-20)
The Apostle
Paul desired to once again see his friends; but even if they did not meet again
on the earth, Paul knew that he would meet them at the coming of the Lord. You
can’t separate joy and evangelism; the two go hand in hand. It is my prayer
that we would never lose sight of the privilege, priority, and joy of sharing
the gospel with people who don’t know Jesus.
Scripture to Claim:
For what is our hope or joy
or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you? For
you are our glory and joy. (1
Thessalonians 2:19-20)
[1]
Believer’s
Bible Commentary, Second Edition, accessed May 16,
2017,
https://www.christianbook.com/believers-bible-commentary-second-edition/william-macdonald/9780718076856/pd/076856.
[2]
Be
Ready (1 & 2 Thessalonians), accessed May 16, 2017,
https://www.christianbook.com/be-ready-warren-wiersbe/9781434765017/pd/765017.
