Tuesday, May 23, 2017

The Apostle by Chapter: 1 Thessalonians Chapter 2

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.

Devotional Archive