Showing posts with label 1&2 Thessalonians. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 1&2 Thessalonians. Show all posts
Sunday, June 30, 2019
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Put 2 Thessalonians Back on the New Testament Shelf
Congratulations! You are 95% of the way through this journey. I know that it is probably hard to fathom, but we will be done with the entire Bible three months from today!
Tomorrow we start Paul's Pastoral Epistles!!
2 Thessalonians 3 - Living in Light of Christ's Return
LINK: 2 Thessalonians 3
BACKGROUND
In this closing chapter, Paul asked for their prayers in the spread of the gospel and for protection from evil men. He expressed confidence that our faithful Lord would protect them from the evil one, Satan. We are in a battle with an unseen enemy. Have you been "armoring up" since you read Ephesians 6?
Paul's last condemnation was for lazy saints who thought the day of the Lord was coming. Because of this, they did not work or plan for the future. This idleness led them to sin. Paul and his associates had already been a great example to them. He exhorted the lazy saints to get to work! If they didn't work, they should not eat and be associated with them. Hunger and loneliness would probably drive them to get to work! Tough love is sometimes the best kind of love!
REFLECTION
Having read this in the Daily Walk today, it makes me happy I had a great and productive day writing for the Bible Book Club after a few days of real aimlessness and lack of focus!
I am on the home stretch of an eight-year project writing and editing these posts. I feel like this is what God has called me to do, and I am passionate about people encountering Jesus through God's word.
APPLICATION
What is God calling you to do that will last into eternity?
PRAYER
Lord, help us to work heartily for YOU! Amen.
BACKGROUND
In this closing chapter, Paul asked for their prayers in the spread of the gospel and for protection from evil men. He expressed confidence that our faithful Lord would protect them from the evil one, Satan. We are in a battle with an unseen enemy. Have you been "armoring up" since you read Ephesians 6?
Paul's last condemnation was for lazy saints who thought the day of the Lord was coming. Because of this, they did not work or plan for the future. This idleness led them to sin. Paul and his associates had already been a great example to them. He exhorted the lazy saints to get to work! If they didn't work, they should not eat and be associated with them. Hunger and loneliness would probably drive them to get to work! Tough love is sometimes the best kind of love!
REFLECTION
How does the promise of Christ's return affect your daily life? Would a casual observer attest that something is different about you because of Jesus' words: "I will come back" (John 14:3)?
Jesus' return is a balancing doctrine. It gives both the present and the future a sense of perspective and helps us establish priorities that honor God. Some members of the Thessalonian church viewed His return as a reason to relax -- withdraw from society, close down their businesses, and settle back to wait. But Paul responded sternly to such misguided laziness (3:10-15). And, in our society, busyness can cause us to neglect or even forget to be about heaven's business.
Have you slipped into the same error through neglect of your family, business, or spiritual duties? Today is a great time to get back on target. Call a family council this evening to discuss any neglected tasks God wants you to perform until His Son returns. (Daily Walk, December 2008, p. 7)Note: If you are single, this can be done with a group of like-hearted brothers and sisters too!
Having read this in the Daily Walk today, it makes me happy I had a great and productive day writing for the Bible Book Club after a few days of real aimlessness and lack of focus!
I am on the home stretch of an eight-year project writing and editing these posts. I feel like this is what God has called me to do, and I am passionate about people encountering Jesus through God's word.
APPLICATION
What is God calling you to do that will last into eternity?
PRAYER
Lord, help us to work heartily for YOU! Amen.
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
2 Thessalonians 2 - Man of Lawlessness and Standing Firm
LINK: 2 Thessalonians 2
BACKGROUND
In this chapter, Paul described the end of the world and Christ's second coming (parousias, "presence") because some thought it had already come, but it had not. He said two things had to happen first:
The day of the Lord is described as a time of suffering and trouble. The man of lawlessness may be coming, but evil will not have the upper hand because Christ will come to judge the world.
Paul talks about a few of the signs involved (as Jesus did in Mark 13), but his major emphasis is on how each person can prepare for His coming. He makes this transition in 2:13-17 by exhorting the Thessalonians to "stand firm" in the teachings that they had already been taught. They would not suffer the same fate as those who are perishing (2:10) because they had been chosen by God for salvation. Neither will we! This chapter concludes with Paul's prayer for encouragement and strength.
APPLICATION
Are you standing firm? This is the best way to prepare for His coming.
PRAYER
Lord, thank You for choosing us for salvation, not because of anything that we have done on our own. Thank You for Your grace. Help us to stand firm during trouble and suffering and to hope for the glorious appearing of Jesus Christ. Amen.
BACKGROUND
In this chapter, Paul described the end of the world and Christ's second coming (parousias, "presence") because some thought it had already come, but it had not. He said two things had to happen first:
1) Apostasy - a distinguishable falling away from and rebellion against the Lord
2) Appearance of the man of lawlessness, doomed to destructionThe man of lawlessness is recognized by commentators as the Antichrist (1 John 2:18, 22; 4:3; 2 John 7). This will be the last great world dictator. God declared war on Satan and his family in Genesis 3:15 and promised that the descendant of Eve (Jesus) would be the one who would bruise him on the head. This is Satan's last stand, and the Antichrist is his production. Those who are perishing and who do not believe the truth will worship Satan and believe his lies (Revelation 6:1-2; Daniel 9:24-27; Revelation 13:15-17; 19:11-21).
The day of the Lord is described as a time of suffering and trouble. The man of lawlessness may be coming, but evil will not have the upper hand because Christ will come to judge the world.
Paul talks about a few of the signs involved (as Jesus did in Mark 13), but his major emphasis is on how each person can prepare for His coming. He makes this transition in 2:13-17 by exhorting the Thessalonians to "stand firm" in the teachings that they had already been taught. They would not suffer the same fate as those who are perishing (2:10) because they had been chosen by God for salvation. Neither will we! This chapter concludes with Paul's prayer for encouragement and strength.
APPLICATION
Are you standing firm? This is the best way to prepare for His coming.
PRAYER
Lord, thank You for choosing us for salvation, not because of anything that we have done on our own. Thank You for Your grace. Help us to stand firm during trouble and suffering and to hope for the glorious appearing of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Monday, July 29, 2013
2 Thessalonians 1 - Thanksgiving for Faith and Perseverance
LINK: 2 Thessalonians 1
BACKGROUND
2 Thessalonians
Paul's second letter to the church in Thessalonica was written about A.D. 52-53 from Corinth a few months after the first letter. It was written between the events of Acts 18:22 and 23. This would be the third of Paul's epistles with Galatians being the first.
He wrote this letter to clear up the confusion concerning the second coming of Christ.
In this letter, he commended them for their growth despite persecution, corrected their misunderstandings about the day of the Lord, and exhorted them to live in light of the coming of Christ.
1 Thessalonians 1
In this chapter, Paul thanked God for their faith, love, and perseverance amid persecution and affliction. He tells them that those who persecuted them for their faith and who do not obey God will face everlasting destruction when Christ returns. This everlasting destruction is the lake of fire (Revelation 20:14) - the place of eternal separation from God. Even though this is their end, we do not want that for anyone. That is why Christ told us to pray for those who persecute us and love our enemies (Matthew 5:44). The Thessalonians were being persecuted by both Jews and Gentiles (Acts 17:5-9).
REFLECTION
APPLICATION
It is really good to develop a "theology of suffering" that will help you through tough times. Here are some verses to get you started:
Lord, we know we have an enemy who does not want us to go forward in faith. We come against him in the name and blood of Jesus Christ. Teach us to boldly go forward and have the hope that You have things all in control. Lord, we pray for the salvation of those who persecute us for their faith. We do not want them to suffer an eternity without You. Draw them to Yourself. We ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.
BACKGROUND
2 Thessalonians
Paul's second letter to the church in Thessalonica was written about A.D. 52-53 from Corinth a few months after the first letter. It was written between the events of Acts 18:22 and 23. This would be the third of Paul's epistles with Galatians being the first.
He wrote this letter to clear up the confusion concerning the second coming of Christ.
In this letter, he commended them for their growth despite persecution, corrected their misunderstandings about the day of the Lord, and exhorted them to live in light of the coming of Christ.
1 Thessalonians 1
In this chapter, Paul thanked God for their faith, love, and perseverance amid persecution and affliction. He tells them that those who persecuted them for their faith and who do not obey God will face everlasting destruction when Christ returns. This everlasting destruction is the lake of fire (Revelation 20:14) - the place of eternal separation from God. Even though this is their end, we do not want that for anyone. That is why Christ told us to pray for those who persecute us and love our enemies (Matthew 5:44). The Thessalonians were being persecuted by both Jews and Gentiles (Acts 17:5-9).
REFLECTION
"If you haven't crossed the devil at least once a day, maybe you're walking in the same direction."
Anonymous
I have this quote written in my 2 Thessalonians Precept Upon Precept Study from 2004. (I have no idea where I ran across it.) After studying this chapter, and learning about the persecution of believers, I wrote this:
5-24-04: I am not in a season of suffering right now, but my friend, D, is in a season of suffering. I pray that I can be an encouragement and support to her in her time of need. I am holding up OK right now, but I am sure I will need to rely on Your strength and comfort as the days go by. Lord, thank You for the timing of all of this, and I pray I might honor and glorify You in this.
I had flown to be with my friend in her distress over a shocking dismissal from her work. She had stood up and spoken truth where there were many lies and deceptions, and she paid a big price. She was so distraught. She would cry with me for hours. Then, she would be so overwhelmed she would have to go into her bedroom and pray and cry out to the Lord. Each time she did that, I came in and studied 2 Thessalonians and prayed. I couldn't have asked for a more perfect chapter to be studying at that time.
Later that day I wrote:
5-24-04: Oh Lord, the timing of this could not be more perfectly timed. I love how You do this. I marvel at Your great goodness. I have been able to share these key verses with D and write them on note cards. I've been able to pray for her and comfort her. I know I can do better, but I will let You lead me through this.
Anytime we go forward in truth, there will be persecution. We learned from previous books in the Bible Book Club that we need to be gracious with outsiders (Colossians 4:5) and speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). We will learn in the future about giving an account to others for the hope that is in us with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15). Yet sometimes, no matter how gentle, loving, gracious, and respectful we are, people will be offended by the truth. With that offense, persecution often follows. There is such a fine balance between the two. I pray we can find it!
APPLICATION
It is really good to develop a "theology of suffering" that will help you through tough times. Here are some verses to get you started:
PRAYER
- Matthew 5:10-12; 10:16-25, 34-40
- Luke 12:51-53
- John 15:16-25; 16:33; 17:14-18
- Philippians 1:29-30
- 2 Timothy 3:10-13
- Hebrew 5:7-9
- James 1:2-4
- 1 Peter 1:6-9; 4:12-19; 5:8-10
- Psalm 73; 119:67-71
Lord, we know we have an enemy who does not want us to go forward in faith. We come against him in the name and blood of Jesus Christ. Teach us to boldly go forward and have the hope that You have things all in control. Lord, we pray for the salvation of those who persecute us for their faith. We do not want them to suffer an eternity without You. Draw them to Yourself. We ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.
Sunday, July 28, 2013
1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:21 - The Day of the Lord
LINK: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:21
BACKGROUND
The Thessalonians were wondering what would happen to the fellow believers who had already fallen asleep (died, Mark 5:39; John 11:11-13) when the Lord returned. First of all, their souls did not go to sleep. Paul had already stated in previous letters that to be absent in the body was to be present with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:8; Philippians 1:23; 1 Thessalonians 4:14; James 2:26), but their physical bodies that were once asleep would be raised. We do not know when this will be.
Here is a progression of the events when Christ returns:
Since believers are not people of the night, they have nothing to fear. We are not destined for God's wrath because the blood of Christ has averted His wrath once and for all. Although we have no fear, Paul exhorted us to be alert and self-controlled, put on the armor of faith and love, build each other up, respect leaders, live in peace, warn the idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient, resist revenge, pray continually, give thanks, not quench the Spirit, not despise prophecies, examine everything carefully, cling to what is good, and avoid every form of evil. Whew!
The letter concludes with Paul's benediction of grace, peace, and sanctification on the believer in Thessalonica and an exhortation to have the letter read to all.
REFLECTION
We are stuck between the "now and the not yet":
In the meantime, we are to live godly lives of worship to God until He comes again.
I remember once while listening to this song many years ago, I caught a glimpse of the return of Christ and my place in all of it. Hope this ministers to you as it did to me this morning.
(Lyrics by Pam Mark Hall)
No longer what we were before, but not all that we will be
Tomorrow when we lock the door on all our compromising
When He appears, He'll draw us near
And we'll be changed by His glory
Wrapped up in His glory
We will be like Him
For we shall see Him as He is
No longer what we saw before, but not all that we will see
Tomorrow when we lock the door on all our disbelieving
When He appears, our view will clear
And we'll be changed by His glory
Wrapped up in His glory
But I'm caught in between the now and the not yet
Sometimes it feels like forever and ever
That I've been reaching to be all that I am
But I'm only a few steps nearer
Yet I'm nearer
No longer what we were before, but not all that we will be
Tomorrow when we lock the door on all our compromising
And He appears, He'll draw us near
And we'll be changed by His glory
Wrapped up in His glory
When He appears, He'll draw us near
And we'll be changed by His glory
Wrapped up in His glory
BACKGROUND
The Thessalonians were wondering what would happen to the fellow believers who had already fallen asleep (died, Mark 5:39; John 11:11-13) when the Lord returned. First of all, their souls did not go to sleep. Paul had already stated in previous letters that to be absent in the body was to be present with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:8; Philippians 1:23; 1 Thessalonians 4:14; James 2:26), but their physical bodies that were once asleep would be raised. We do not know when this will be.
Here is a progression of the events when Christ returns:
1 Thessalonians 5 begins with the timing of the day of the Lord. This is a future time when God will intervene in human affairs. As you recall, we discussed it numerous times during our study of the Old Testament prophets (See link for the posts that contain THE DAY OF THE LORD). This day will be one of judgment and punishment, but we do not know when it will come because it will be like a "thief in the night" (Matthew 24:42-43; Luke 12:35-40; Revelation 3:3; 16:15). Paul goes into more detail about the day of the Lord in his second letter to the Thessalonians.1) Christ will come down from heaven (Romans 8:34; Ephesians 1:20; Colossians 3:1; Hebrews 1:3).2) There will be a loud command, the voice of the archangel, and a trumpet call. Whether all separate or all together, this is the announcement of Christ's return (1 Corinthians 15:52).3) The bodies of believers in Christ will rise from their graves (1 Corinthians 15:35ff, 51-54. John 5:24-29; 11:21-27. These bodies will be glorified like the glorified body of Christ (Philippians 3:20-21; 1 Corinthians 15:47-58).Paul was mocked by the Athenian philosophers when he talked about the resurrection of the dead (Acts 17:32). Their philosophy taught that getting rid of the physical body was a good thing. They also did not think a decomposed body could be resurrected.
4) Believers who are alive will be caught up in the clouds with Christ. The Latin word is rapto, meaning "to seize, to carry off" and is where we get our word "rapture." The Greek word is harpázō and means "to steal, to capture, to snatch, to seize, to take by force."
Since believers are not people of the night, they have nothing to fear. We are not destined for God's wrath because the blood of Christ has averted His wrath once and for all. Although we have no fear, Paul exhorted us to be alert and self-controlled, put on the armor of faith and love, build each other up, respect leaders, live in peace, warn the idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient, resist revenge, pray continually, give thanks, not quench the Spirit, not despise prophecies, examine everything carefully, cling to what is good, and avoid every form of evil. Whew!
The letter concludes with Paul's benediction of grace, peace, and sanctification on the believer in Thessalonica and an exhortation to have the letter read to all.
REFLECTION
We are stuck between the "now and the not yet":
See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us,
that we would be called children of God;
and such we are.
and such we are.
For this reason the world does not know us,
because it did not know Him.
Beloved, now we are children of God,
and it has not appeared as yet what we will be.
We know that when He appears, we will be like Him,
because we will see Him just as He is.
And everyone who has this hope fixed
on Him purifies himself,
on Him purifies himself,
just as He is pure.
1 John 3:1-3
In the meantime, we are to live godly lives of worship to God until He comes again.
“For to worship is to quicken the conscience by the holiness of God,
to feed the mind with the truth of God,
to purge the imagination by the beauty of God,
to open up the heart to the love of God,
to devote the will to the purpose of God.”
William Temple, a late Archbishop of Canterbury
APPLICATION
I remember once while listening to this song many years ago, I caught a glimpse of the return of Christ and my place in all of it. Hope this ministers to you as it did to me this morning.
Amy Grant singing "The Now and the Not Yet"
(Lyrics by Pam Mark Hall)
No longer what we were before, but not all that we will be
Tomorrow when we lock the door on all our compromising
When He appears, He'll draw us near
And we'll be changed by His glory
Wrapped up in His glory
We will be like Him
For we shall see Him as He is
No longer what we saw before, but not all that we will see
Tomorrow when we lock the door on all our disbelieving
When He appears, our view will clear
And we'll be changed by His glory
Wrapped up in His glory
But I'm caught in between the now and the not yet
Sometimes it feels like forever and ever
That I've been reaching to be all that I am
But I'm only a few steps nearer
Yet I'm nearer
No longer what we were before, but not all that we will be
Tomorrow when we lock the door on all our compromising
And He appears, He'll draw us near
And we'll be changed by His glory
Wrapped up in His glory
When He appears, He'll draw us near
And we'll be changed by His glory
Wrapped up in His glory
PRAYER
I pray that we can live lives of alertness and self-control, looking for the glorious appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ. Help us to be holy in our actions until You come again. Amen.
I pray that we can live lives of alertness and self-control, looking for the glorious appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ. Help us to be holy in our actions until You come again. Amen.
Saturday, July 27, 2013
1 Thessalonians 4:1-12 - Exhortations to Excel
LINK: 1 Thessalonians 4
BACKGROUND
Chapters 4 and 5 contain practical instructions and exhortations for the Thessalonians. I will only discuss 4:1-12 today because the topic of the Day of the Lord goes from 4:13-5:11. So I will post about that tomorrow.
They were living well, but Paul exhorted them to "excel still more" and complete what was lacking in their faith (3:10) in two areas: sexual purity and love for their brothers.
Sexual purity was a big issue. The Roman Empire and Gentile population of the day had very low sexual standards. Believers were to go against the morals of the society and walk in holiness. That could not be more true today where people who do not have sex out of marriage are looked on with astonishment and scorn. People cannot believe anyone could not have sex (Once, I had a friend say it is a necessary thing, like food and water.), but we are empowered to live a holy life by the indwelling Holy Spirit.
He also exhorts them to love their brothers still more and more. He exhorted them to strive to be at peace with God and others by leading a quiet life, minding their own business, and working with their hands. The Greek word for "quiet" does not mean less noisy but less frantic. Some in Thessalonica had become idle because they thought the day of the Lord was coming at any time and they saw no need to work. This obviously led to some strife among brothers.
No REFLECTION or APPLICATION
PRAYER
Lord, empower us by Your Holy Spirit to live holy lives and protect us and those we love from sexual temptation. Help us to excel in loving others from the heart. We ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.
BACKGROUND
Chapters 4 and 5 contain practical instructions and exhortations for the Thessalonians. I will only discuss 4:1-12 today because the topic of the Day of the Lord goes from 4:13-5:11. So I will post about that tomorrow.
They were living well, but Paul exhorted them to "excel still more" and complete what was lacking in their faith (3:10) in two areas: sexual purity and love for their brothers.
Sexual purity was a big issue. The Roman Empire and Gentile population of the day had very low sexual standards. Believers were to go against the morals of the society and walk in holiness. That could not be more true today where people who do not have sex out of marriage are looked on with astonishment and scorn. People cannot believe anyone could not have sex (Once, I had a friend say it is a necessary thing, like food and water.), but we are empowered to live a holy life by the indwelling Holy Spirit.
He also exhorts them to love their brothers still more and more. He exhorted them to strive to be at peace with God and others by leading a quiet life, minding their own business, and working with their hands. The Greek word for "quiet" does not mean less noisy but less frantic. Some in Thessalonica had become idle because they thought the day of the Lord was coming at any time and they saw no need to work. This obviously led to some strife among brothers.
No REFLECTION or APPLICATION
PRAYER
Lord, empower us by Your Holy Spirit to live holy lives and protect us and those we love from sexual temptation. Help us to excel in loving others from the heart. We ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.
Friday, July 26, 2013
1 Thessalonians 3 - Praying Them Toward Maturity
LINK: 1 Thessalonians 3
BACKGROUND
Paul continued to express his concern that he started in 2:17. Paul could not return to them, but he could send Timothy to strengthen them and encourage them amid their trials. After Timothy visited, he rejoined Paul in Corinth (Acts 18:1-5).
He reminded them that persecution was "par for the course" if they wanted to follow God in a pagan culture. He was also concerned about them being tempted to return to paganism, but Timothy brought the good news of them standing firm in their faith!
He closes the chapter by stating that he prayed for them night and day (3:10. Are you putting that on your topical list about follow-up?). He prayed that he would see their faces, complete his follow-up of them so that they would be mature in Christ (Colossians 1:27-28), that they would grow in love for each other and all people, and their hearts would be established blameless in holiness before God.
REFLECTION
BACKGROUND
Paul continued to express his concern that he started in 2:17. Paul could not return to them, but he could send Timothy to strengthen them and encourage them amid their trials. After Timothy visited, he rejoined Paul in Corinth (Acts 18:1-5).
He reminded them that persecution was "par for the course" if they wanted to follow God in a pagan culture. He was also concerned about them being tempted to return to paganism, but Timothy brought the good news of them standing firm in their faith!
He closes the chapter by stating that he prayed for them night and day (3:10. Are you putting that on your topical list about follow-up?). He prayed that he would see their faces, complete his follow-up of them so that they would be mature in Christ (Colossians 1:27-28), that they would grow in love for each other and all people, and their hearts would be established blameless in holiness before God.
REFLECTION
Paul added his own stabilizing reminder that trials are not necessarily a sign of God’s disfavor, but are part of every Christian’s legacy. When trouble comes, Christians often react by doubting that they are where God wants them to be; they often think that they have done something wrong and that God must be displeased with them. Even some mature Christians react this way, as evidenced by Paul’s words of reassurance to Timothy many years later. “Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Tim. 3:12). Yet storms often come to believers to make them able to stand firm, rather than to blow them away (cf. 2 Cor. 4:15-16). (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, Volume 2, p. 698)I can attest that "even mature Christians react this way." I am such a WIMP when it comes to persecution. The worst I have ever experienced was when I was in a sorority in college. Some girls HATED me, and I didn't even know them. I kept on wondering what I had done wrong, but I think it was just because of what I represented to them. The one who persecuted me the most was at a reunion tea this last year, and I swallowed hard when she walked into the room after not seeing her for 32 years, but I quickly recovered. It was a gentle reminder to continue to pray for her and others from that era of my life.
2023 Update: I should have mentioned all those years ago that I had many that persecuted me became believers and called me to apologize. One said, "I just did not understand what you were all about, and now I do."
APPLICATION
Continue to do your topical study on follow-up.
Is there a spiritual child you can pray for?
PRAYER
Lord, give us a heart like Paul who loved those he led and invested deeply in them. Amen.
APPLICATION
Continue to do your topical study on follow-up.
Is there a spiritual child you can pray for?
PRAYER
Lord, give us a heart like Paul who loved those he led and invested deeply in them. Amen.
Thursday, July 25, 2013
1 Thessalonians 2 - Spiritual Parenting
LINK: 1 Thessalonians 2
BACKGROUND
Paul reveals his pastoral heart in this chapter. He knew it was not just about sharing the gospel as an evangelist. It was also about caring for young believers. He was more concerned about this than all of his suffering (2 Corinthians 11:23-28). Paul knew that nurturing babes in Christ and helping them toward maturity was a top priority.
Paul revealed his . . .
Pure motives (2:1-6)
Paul suffered persecution in Philippi for preaching the gospel (Acts 16:22-24), but that did not keep him from preaching the gospel in Thessalonica and experiencing more persecution. His motives in preaching to them were to please God alone and not man.
Parental heart (2:7-12)
He showed gentle loving care like a mother. "Paul did not turn his converts over to baby-sitters" (The Bible Exposition Commentary: Volume 2, 1 Thess. 2:7-8, p. 165). He made sacrifices to care for them personally. He sacrificed to the point of imparting his very life!
He cared for them like a father who worked tirelessly to proclaim the gospel to them. He was an example to them of a holy life too. He also exhorted ("to call to one's side, strengthen"), encouraged ("to speak to, whether by way of admonition and incentive, or to calm and console"), and implored ("emphatic demand") them to walk in obedience to the God of glory.
Passionate Joy (2:13-16)
He rejoiced that the Thessalonians welcomed the gospel, showed transformed lives, and suffered for their faith like their fellow believers in Judea. In this, they were imitating the Lord and Paul.
He specifically targets the Jews who hindered the work they had been called to do themselves (Genesis 12:1-3; 22:18). They persecuted the prophets and killed Jesus (not ALL Jews did this, many became believers) because they could not see that He was the Messiah (Matthew 5:10-12). They rejected the truth to protect their traditions (Mark 7:1-8). By doing this, they were "filling up their sins and storing up wrath for the day of judgment" (Matthews 23:32). God is patient, but eventually, when the time comes, His patience will end and judgment will need to fall.
Prevented Return (2:17-20)
Paul's heart broke to have to be torn away from them when they were babes in Christ. He tried to return but Satan thwarted him. He wanted them to be assured that he had them in his heart. They were his hope; "their development was what he lived for as a parent lives to see his children grow up to maturity, to produce and reproduce" (The Bible Knowledge Commentary: Volume 2, 1 Thess. 2:19-20, p. 697). They were also his glory, joy, and crown. The believers, established in the Lord, were Paul's reward for all his labor.
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
On a more wonderful note, I am getting together this morning with two spiritual children who have become spiritual parents themselves. I have not seen them for a very long time! I am so looking forward to prayer and encouragement with them.
PRAYER
Lord, would You open doors of communication with our spiritual children? Amen.
BACKGROUND
Paul reveals his pastoral heart in this chapter. He knew it was not just about sharing the gospel as an evangelist. It was also about caring for young believers. He was more concerned about this than all of his suffering (2 Corinthians 11:23-28). Paul knew that nurturing babes in Christ and helping them toward maturity was a top priority.
Paul revealed his . . .
Pure motives (2:1-6)
Paul suffered persecution in Philippi for preaching the gospel (Acts 16:22-24), but that did not keep him from preaching the gospel in Thessalonica and experiencing more persecution. His motives in preaching to them were to please God alone and not man.
Parental heart (2:7-12)
He showed gentle loving care like a mother. "Paul did not turn his converts over to baby-sitters" (The Bible Exposition Commentary: Volume 2, 1 Thess. 2:7-8, p. 165). He made sacrifices to care for them personally. He sacrificed to the point of imparting his very life!
He cared for them like a father who worked tirelessly to proclaim the gospel to them. He was an example to them of a holy life too. He also exhorted ("to call to one's side, strengthen"), encouraged ("to speak to, whether by way of admonition and incentive, or to calm and console"), and implored ("emphatic demand") them to walk in obedience to the God of glory.
Passionate Joy (2:13-16)
He rejoiced that the Thessalonians welcomed the gospel, showed transformed lives, and suffered for their faith like their fellow believers in Judea. In this, they were imitating the Lord and Paul.
He specifically targets the Jews who hindered the work they had been called to do themselves (Genesis 12:1-3; 22:18). They persecuted the prophets and killed Jesus (not ALL Jews did this, many became believers) because they could not see that He was the Messiah (Matthew 5:10-12). They rejected the truth to protect their traditions (Mark 7:1-8). By doing this, they were "filling up their sins and storing up wrath for the day of judgment" (Matthews 23:32). God is patient, but eventually, when the time comes, His patience will end and judgment will need to fall.
Prevented Return (2:17-20)
Paul's heart broke to have to be torn away from them when they were babes in Christ. He tried to return but Satan thwarted him. He wanted them to be assured that he had them in his heart. They were his hope; "their development was what he lived for as a parent lives to see his children grow up to maturity, to produce and reproduce" (The Bible Knowledge Commentary: Volume 2, 1 Thess. 2:19-20, p. 697). They were also his glory, joy, and crown. The believers, established in the Lord, were Paul's reward for all his labor.
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
"It's 11 p.m.; do you know where your children are?" That's a healthy reminder to parents that the duty to discipline and supervise their children is a full-time job. Shirking that responsibility can only lead to heartache in the lives of children.
If Paul were writing to you today, he might begin this way: "It's December 2; do you know where your spiritual children are?" Though Paul's converts were spread out in more than 20 different cities, he never abandoned them but, rather, carried them in his heart and corresponded regularly with them.
Check Philippians 1:3-4, Colossians 1:3, and Philemon 4, and you'll find the same kind of statement that begins Paul's first letter to the Thessalonians: "We always thank God for all of you mentioning you in our prayers" (1:2). Do you have any spiritual children? Do you pray daily for them? Do you communicate with them periodically through phone calls, visits, and e-mails? If not, start today. As Paul shows us, spiritual growth is nurtured best in the soil of prayer and encouragement. (Daily Walk, December 2008, p. 6)Reading this today really convicted me. Tomorrow I will talk about a "persecutor" from my sorority days that showed up at a reunion, but one of the other people that showed up was someone I led to the Lord. I am convicted that I have not been praying for her and staying in touch with her all these years!
On a more wonderful note, I am getting together this morning with two spiritual children who have become spiritual parents themselves. I have not seen them for a very long time! I am so looking forward to prayer and encouragement with them.
PRAYER
Lord, would You open doors of communication with our spiritual children? Amen.
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
1 Thessalonians 1 - Thanksgiving for the Thessalonians
 |
| http://www.biblevector.com/2010/05/book-of-1-thessalonians.html |
LINK: 1 Thessalonians 1
BACKGROUND
Thessalonica was the chief port of the Roman province of Macedonia in what is now modern-day Northern Greece. It was located on the east-west Egnatian Highway, which was the main road from Rome to the Orient via Byzantium (now modern Istanbul, Turkey). Most of its nearly 200,000 residents were native Greeks with many Romans, Asians, and Jews also living there.
Pagan Greek religion produced immorality, but there was a strong Jewish presence that attracted disillusioned Greeks, Romans, and Asians to the synagogue resulting in many proselytes (a Gentile converted to Judaism). They were present when Paul preached there in Acts 17:1-9 during his second missionary journey in A.D. 51. He went to Macedonia because he received a vision of a man from Macedonia calling for help, Acts 16. As a result of his preaching there, some Jews, several Gentile Greeks, and some wives of prominent citizens of the city came to believe (17:4). Because of persecution, Paul and Silas were sent away to Berea (17:10).
A short time later, Paul sent Timothy to check on the Thessalonians because he heard of their persecution. Timothy rejoined Paul at Corinth with the good news that the Thessalonians were standing strong in their faith (Acts 18:1; 1 Thessalonians 3:6-7). It is believed that Paul wrote the two letters to the Thessalonians from Corinth in A.D. 52-53 and the events between Acts 18:22 and 23.
Paul wrote them to encourage them to persevere and to correct errors: moral laxity, laziness, and disrespect of spiritual leaders. He also assured them of Christ's return.
1 Thessalonians 1
This letter is from Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy. We will find out more about Timothy next week when we study Paul's letter to him, but Silas accompanied Paul on his second missionary journey (Acts 15:36-17:15), helped Paul establish the church in Thessalonica (Acts 17:1-9), and is mentioned in 2 Corinthians 1:19; 2 Thessalonians 1:1, and 1 Peter 5:12.
Paul thanked God because the Thessalonians stood firm despite persecution. They were a model to other believers everywhere (1:8). They had turned from the dead idols of the Greek pagan religion to serve the living God and to wait for the return of Jesus.
REFLECTION
1 Thessalonians is one of the first books I studied deeply. At the end of the three-month verse-by-verse study in 1981, our study went to the Oregon Coast and studied it again, but this time, we did it TOPICALLY. Our Bible study leader made nice little books and sent us out on a gorgeous June day to ask questions about how Paul "followed up" the new believers of Thessalonica. (I saved that precious book for years, but I cannot find it now!) I encourage you to look at Paul's attitude and actions toward these new followers of Jesus.
BACKGROUND
Thessalonica was the chief port of the Roman province of Macedonia in what is now modern-day Northern Greece. It was located on the east-west Egnatian Highway, which was the main road from Rome to the Orient via Byzantium (now modern Istanbul, Turkey). Most of its nearly 200,000 residents were native Greeks with many Romans, Asians, and Jews also living there.
Pagan Greek religion produced immorality, but there was a strong Jewish presence that attracted disillusioned Greeks, Romans, and Asians to the synagogue resulting in many proselytes (a Gentile converted to Judaism). They were present when Paul preached there in Acts 17:1-9 during his second missionary journey in A.D. 51. He went to Macedonia because he received a vision of a man from Macedonia calling for help, Acts 16. As a result of his preaching there, some Jews, several Gentile Greeks, and some wives of prominent citizens of the city came to believe (17:4). Because of persecution, Paul and Silas were sent away to Berea (17:10).
A short time later, Paul sent Timothy to check on the Thessalonians because he heard of their persecution. Timothy rejoined Paul at Corinth with the good news that the Thessalonians were standing strong in their faith (Acts 18:1; 1 Thessalonians 3:6-7). It is believed that Paul wrote the two letters to the Thessalonians from Corinth in A.D. 52-53 and the events between Acts 18:22 and 23.
Paul wrote them to encourage them to persevere and to correct errors: moral laxity, laziness, and disrespect of spiritual leaders. He also assured them of Christ's return.
1 Thessalonians 1
This letter is from Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy. We will find out more about Timothy next week when we study Paul's letter to him, but Silas accompanied Paul on his second missionary journey (Acts 15:36-17:15), helped Paul establish the church in Thessalonica (Acts 17:1-9), and is mentioned in 2 Corinthians 1:19; 2 Thessalonians 1:1, and 1 Peter 5:12.
Paul thanked God because the Thessalonians stood firm despite persecution. They were a model to other believers everywhere (1:8). They had turned from the dead idols of the Greek pagan religion to serve the living God and to wait for the return of Jesus.
REFLECTION
1 Thessalonians is one of the first books I studied deeply. At the end of the three-month verse-by-verse study in 1981, our study went to the Oregon Coast and studied it again, but this time, we did it TOPICALLY. Our Bible study leader made nice little books and sent us out on a gorgeous June day to ask questions about how Paul "followed up" the new believers of Thessalonica. (I saved that precious book for years, but I cannot find it now!) I encourage you to look at Paul's attitude and actions toward these new followers of Jesus.
 |
| My Bible Study from June 1981. I am in the Orange Jacket. |
Like the Thessalonians, I came from a pagan culture and had no background in the Bible. I could count the number of times, on one hand, I went to a church before age 10, but I was desperate and disillusioned with the "perfect" secular life I had with my family growing up. It lacked meaning and hope. Jesus gave this to me. Sadly, I was NOT followed up and grounded in the truth from the Word of God at the beginning of my journey of faith that began in the fall of 1969. It took me ten years to really start growing, doing the best I knew how to be as a believer in junior high and high school. I navigated it OK, but I was an orphan with no one to tenderly care for me like Paul cared for the Thessalonians until I met this group of women and our leader, Sheryl Rice Jury (she is not in the picture).
That is why I am passionate about follow up now!
APPLICATION
If you need some direction about how to ground new believers, let Paul be your guide and do a topical study on the subject of follow-up as we read 1 Thessalonians.
I also heartily recommend The Reservoir as a great discipling devotional.
I also have additional resources to help you become grounded or to ground someone else! Just leave a comment, and I can send them to you.
PRAYER
Lord, thank You for Paul's wonderful model of care and concern for the Thessalonians. May we care for someone else in the same way. Amen.
Here is a great resource
for getting you started helping people grow:
There are four lists in this handout with Bible studies for
investing in four different groups:
1) Discovering God (for not yet followers or those who need a
foundation)
2) Discovering Obedience (for establishing believers in obedience
to Christ)
3) Discovering Reproduction (for equipping believers to reproduce)
4) Discovering Leadership (for developing leaders)I also have additional resources to help you become grounded or to ground someone else! Just leave a comment, and I can send them to you.
PRAYER
Lord, thank You for Paul's wonderful model of care and concern for the Thessalonians. May we care for someone else in the same way. Amen.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
2 Thessalonians 3 - Be Busy, Not Busybodies!
by Becky
LINK: 2 Thessalonians 3
BACKGROUND
In this third chapter we are encouraged to keep doing what is right, to live responsibly, even when in the midst of difficult circumstances.
Evidently some of the Thessalonians, waiting for Jesus' return, quit working and relied on others to provide for them. Paul makes it clear here that Christians should work and not be a burden on others. In fact, if a person won't work, then he shouldn't eat. The church is told to quit providing for those who are idle.
REFLECTION
In verses 2-4 Paul turns from the lack of faith in men to the faithfulness of God. He says to pray "that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men. For not all have faith. But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one."(2 Thessalonians 3:2-3 ESV) The passage pivots from those who lack faith and are enemies of God to God's faithfulness. Turning to the Lord in prayer nourishes fresh confidence and hope in Him. No matter what evil threatens, the Lord is in charge and with His people.
If I were to sum up verses 6-15 it would be this way: Be busy, not busybodies! An old saying that reflects this passage is "Idleness is the devil's workshop." This passage, and many in Proverbs, make it clear that it is good to work. If we're not busy working, we will probably be busy gossiping. Today, though, there is a danger of confusing "work" with multitasking and an abundance of activities. I think that this passage uses "busy" in the sense of doing what is worthwhile and good, as well as earning our own living. The verses aren't encouraging a whirlwind of commitments or being a workaholic.
"Now such persons we command and encourage in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living.
As for you, brothers, do not grow weary in doing good." (2 Thessalonians 3:12-13 ESV)
The fact that Paul tells the Thessalonian believers (and so us) to not grow weary in doing what is right indicates that it's easy to tire of doing good... to tire of keeping on pleasing God. This race is a long one and requires endurance. Jesus will return, and in the meantime we are to continue trying to please Him, which takes perseverance!
APPLICATION
Are you discouraged and tired of doing good? "Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all." (2 Thessalonians 3:16 ESV)
God is with you! Turn to Him in trust and prayer and keep on keeping on.
PRAYER
Dear Father, Help us to turn to you in faith. Thank you for your faithfulness to us. Enable us to serve you and keep doing what is good. Keep us quietly busy with work so that we won't be so tempted to stick our noses where they don't belong.
LINK: 2 Thessalonians 3
BACKGROUND
In this third chapter we are encouraged to keep doing what is right, to live responsibly, even when in the midst of difficult circumstances.
Evidently some of the Thessalonians, waiting for Jesus' return, quit working and relied on others to provide for them. Paul makes it clear here that Christians should work and not be a burden on others. In fact, if a person won't work, then he shouldn't eat. The church is told to quit providing for those who are idle.
REFLECTION
In verses 2-4 Paul turns from the lack of faith in men to the faithfulness of God. He says to pray "that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men. For not all have faith. But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one."(2 Thessalonians 3:2-3 ESV) The passage pivots from those who lack faith and are enemies of God to God's faithfulness. Turning to the Lord in prayer nourishes fresh confidence and hope in Him. No matter what evil threatens, the Lord is in charge and with His people.
If I were to sum up verses 6-15 it would be this way: Be busy, not busybodies! An old saying that reflects this passage is "Idleness is the devil's workshop." This passage, and many in Proverbs, make it clear that it is good to work. If we're not busy working, we will probably be busy gossiping. Today, though, there is a danger of confusing "work" with multitasking and an abundance of activities. I think that this passage uses "busy" in the sense of doing what is worthwhile and good, as well as earning our own living. The verses aren't encouraging a whirlwind of commitments or being a workaholic.
"Now such persons we command and encourage in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living.
As for you, brothers, do not grow weary in doing good." (2 Thessalonians 3:12-13 ESV)
The fact that Paul tells the Thessalonian believers (and so us) to not grow weary in doing what is right indicates that it's easy to tire of doing good... to tire of keeping on pleasing God. This race is a long one and requires endurance. Jesus will return, and in the meantime we are to continue trying to please Him, which takes perseverance!
APPLICATION
Are you discouraged and tired of doing good? "Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all." (2 Thessalonians 3:16 ESV)
God is with you! Turn to Him in trust and prayer and keep on keeping on.
PRAYER
Dear Father, Help us to turn to you in faith. Thank you for your faithfulness to us. Enable us to serve you and keep doing what is good. Keep us quietly busy with work so that we won't be so tempted to stick our noses where they don't belong.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
1 Thessalonians 3 - Keep Growing
by Katrina
LINK: 1 Thessalonians 3
BACKGROUND
From this chapter, we know some of the activity of Paul and Timothy that fills in some gaps in the account written in Acts. Paul, Silas, and Timothy traveled to Thessalonica on the second missionary journey as recorded in Acts 17:1-14. The Jews became jealous of the converts, gathered a mob, and set the city in an uproar. The missionaries were staying with a man named Jason, and the Jews charged him with going against Caesar. Paul and Silas escaped the city and traveled to Berea where Timothy soon joined them. But the Jews followed them there and stirred up the people in that city. So, some believers conducted Paul out of the city to Athens, and Timothy and Silas followed shortly. Then, according to our passage today, Paul sent Timothy back to Thessalonica to encourage the believers and to assess the condition of the church there. Timothy rejoined Paul in Corinth and reported that the church in Thessalonica was doing well. While in Corinth, Paul wrote both of the Thessalonian letters.
REFLECTION
Once again we see Paul's heart for his "children in the Lord" in his prayer for them. He prays God will allow him to visit them in Thessalonica, and "may the Lord cause you to increase and abound in love for one another, and for all men . . . so that He may establish your hearts unblamable in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all His saints."
APPLICATION
We should be growing in our love for other believers as well as for all men. And we should be growing in holiness until the day Jesus returns for us. That should keep us busy! :-)
PRAYER
Lord, teach us to love one another and become more holy, continuously growing until you return for us. In the name of Jesus, amen.
LINK: 1 Thessalonians 3
BACKGROUND
From this chapter, we know some of the activity of Paul and Timothy that fills in some gaps in the account written in Acts. Paul, Silas, and Timothy traveled to Thessalonica on the second missionary journey as recorded in Acts 17:1-14. The Jews became jealous of the converts, gathered a mob, and set the city in an uproar. The missionaries were staying with a man named Jason, and the Jews charged him with going against Caesar. Paul and Silas escaped the city and traveled to Berea where Timothy soon joined them. But the Jews followed them there and stirred up the people in that city. So, some believers conducted Paul out of the city to Athens, and Timothy and Silas followed shortly. Then, according to our passage today, Paul sent Timothy back to Thessalonica to encourage the believers and to assess the condition of the church there. Timothy rejoined Paul in Corinth and reported that the church in Thessalonica was doing well. While in Corinth, Paul wrote both of the Thessalonian letters.
REFLECTION
Once again we see Paul's heart for his "children in the Lord" in his prayer for them. He prays God will allow him to visit them in Thessalonica, and "may the Lord cause you to increase and abound in love for one another, and for all men . . . so that He may establish your hearts unblamable in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all His saints."
APPLICATION
We should be growing in our love for other believers as well as for all men. And we should be growing in holiness until the day Jesus returns for us. That should keep us busy! :-)
PRAYER
Lord, teach us to love one another and become more holy, continuously growing until you return for us. In the name of Jesus, amen.
Monday, July 26, 2010
1 Thessalonians 2 - Paul's Love for the Thessalonians
by Katrina
LINK: 1 Thessalonians 2
BACKGROUND
In this chapter Paul defends himself and his ministry (vs 1-12) and expresses his loving concern for the Thessalonian believers (vs 13-20).
REFLECTION
Paul's expression of his heart in this chapter demonstrates his great love for the believers at Thessalonica. He had worked among them with the gentleness of a mother with her baby. He had fond affection for them and poured out his life for them. He had exhorted, encouraged, and implored each one of them as a father would his own children. His great desire was to see them walk in the ways of God. His separation from them grieved Paul, and he tried repeatedly to visit them again.
Paul did not view these people as a "project" or an item on his check-list. His heart was very connected to them. They were like his children. He poured his life into them in order to see them come to God.
APPLICATION
Verse 4 - "but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not as pleasing men but God, who examines our hearts."
Let's examine our own hearts and make sure our goal isn't our own glory and our motivation isn't self-centered. Especially in ministry, we must be seeking to please God not to get the praise of men.
PRAYER
Lord, examine my heart. Give me a pure heart of compassion and love for the lost as well as for other believers. May I seek to please You in all that I do and not pursue selfish desires or goals. Help me to love others by pouring my life into theirs and helping them to know You. In the name of Jesus, amen.
LINK: 1 Thessalonians 2
BACKGROUND
In this chapter Paul defends himself and his ministry (vs 1-12) and expresses his loving concern for the Thessalonian believers (vs 13-20).
REFLECTION
Paul's expression of his heart in this chapter demonstrates his great love for the believers at Thessalonica. He had worked among them with the gentleness of a mother with her baby. He had fond affection for them and poured out his life for them. He had exhorted, encouraged, and implored each one of them as a father would his own children. His great desire was to see them walk in the ways of God. His separation from them grieved Paul, and he tried repeatedly to visit them again.
Paul did not view these people as a "project" or an item on his check-list. His heart was very connected to them. They were like his children. He poured his life into them in order to see them come to God.
APPLICATION
Verse 4 - "but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not as pleasing men but God, who examines our hearts."
Let's examine our own hearts and make sure our goal isn't our own glory and our motivation isn't self-centered. Especially in ministry, we must be seeking to please God not to get the praise of men.
PRAYER
Lord, examine my heart. Give me a pure heart of compassion and love for the lost as well as for other believers. May I seek to please You in all that I do and not pursue selfish desires or goals. Help me to love others by pouring my life into theirs and helping them to know You. In the name of Jesus, amen.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
1 Thessalonians 1 - Encouragement
by Becky
LINK: 1 Thessalonians 1
BACKGROUND
Paul and Timothy and Silas (Silvanus) had spent about three weeks in Thessalonica, teaching as usual in the Jewish synagogue. A large number of people believed. That angered the Jews, who stirred up some mob violence. Paul and his friends had to get out of town quickly! You can reread the story in Acts 17.
A few years later Paul sent Timothy to check up on the believers in Thessolonica and this letter is a result of Timothy's report to Paul (1 Thess. 3: 5-8). It is one of the first letters of Paul, written in about 51 A.D., less than twenty years after Jesus' death and resurrection. So it gives us a good picture of the concerns of the very early church.
Timothy reported to Paul that the Thessalonians' faith and love were strong. But since Paul's visit several of them had died and they were confused. They had expected Jesus to return before that. What would happen to those who had already died when Jesus came back? Also, the persecution wasn't letting up. It was hard to be a Christ follower. How should they live?
Paul addresses these questions in this letter. The second coming of Christ is mentioned in every chapter. He tells them how to live in the meantime and in the midst of persecution. I hope you'll notice as you read this book the love and tenderness with which Paul speaks to these believers.
REFLECTION
This first chapter is full of encouragement for the Thessalonians who are full of doubt and discouragement about themselves. They'd believed the gospel, but life was harder than ever. They were being persecuted. Paul here makes clear that the message he brought them was true and powerful. He reminds them that he saw evidence of their faith: they received the message with joy, in spite of severe suffering. He tells them that others talked about the Thessalonians' faith - how they turned away from idols to worship the "true and living God."
The part I want to focus on is in verses 2-3. "We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ." (1 Thessalonians 1:2-3 ESV)
Paul reminds them of what he's seen in them. Look at how he makes clear that their work, labor, and steadfastness are the result of the faith, love, and hope they received in the Lord Jesus. It is because of their faith in the Lord that they work; it is because they love the Lord that they labor, and they are able to remain steadfast and faithful because they have hope in the Lord.
Paul goes on, "For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you..." What an encouraging statement - one filled with love. Paul calls them his brothers. He tells them that they are loved by God, that they are chosen by Him. From the very beginning of this letter, Paul wants them to understand that suffering isn't a sign that they aren't loved. He points them to Jesus' return.
And the letter just gets better, so keep reading!
APPLICATION
Is there someone that you can encourage in the Lord? Learn from Paul.
If you are discouraged , this book is a good one to read and ponder.
PRAYER
Father, I thank you for my brothers and sisters in Christ who continue to trust you in the midst of persecution. I ask that your Holy Spirit will encourage them. Give them steadfast hearts. Help them to know that you love them and enable them to keep on serving you in hope. In Jesus dear name, Amen.
LINK: 1 Thessalonians 1
BACKGROUND
Paul and Timothy and Silas (Silvanus) had spent about three weeks in Thessalonica, teaching as usual in the Jewish synagogue. A large number of people believed. That angered the Jews, who stirred up some mob violence. Paul and his friends had to get out of town quickly! You can reread the story in Acts 17.
A few years later Paul sent Timothy to check up on the believers in Thessolonica and this letter is a result of Timothy's report to Paul (1 Thess. 3: 5-8). It is one of the first letters of Paul, written in about 51 A.D., less than twenty years after Jesus' death and resurrection. So it gives us a good picture of the concerns of the very early church.
Timothy reported to Paul that the Thessalonians' faith and love were strong. But since Paul's visit several of them had died and they were confused. They had expected Jesus to return before that. What would happen to those who had already died when Jesus came back? Also, the persecution wasn't letting up. It was hard to be a Christ follower. How should they live?
Paul addresses these questions in this letter. The second coming of Christ is mentioned in every chapter. He tells them how to live in the meantime and in the midst of persecution. I hope you'll notice as you read this book the love and tenderness with which Paul speaks to these believers.
REFLECTION
This first chapter is full of encouragement for the Thessalonians who are full of doubt and discouragement about themselves. They'd believed the gospel, but life was harder than ever. They were being persecuted. Paul here makes clear that the message he brought them was true and powerful. He reminds them that he saw evidence of their faith: they received the message with joy, in spite of severe suffering. He tells them that others talked about the Thessalonians' faith - how they turned away from idols to worship the "true and living God."
The part I want to focus on is in verses 2-3. "We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ." (1 Thessalonians 1:2-3 ESV)
Paul reminds them of what he's seen in them. Look at how he makes clear that their work, labor, and steadfastness are the result of the faith, love, and hope they received in the Lord Jesus. It is because of their faith in the Lord that they work; it is because they love the Lord that they labor, and they are able to remain steadfast and faithful because they have hope in the Lord.
Paul goes on, "For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you..." What an encouraging statement - one filled with love. Paul calls them his brothers. He tells them that they are loved by God, that they are chosen by Him. From the very beginning of this letter, Paul wants them to understand that suffering isn't a sign that they aren't loved. He points them to Jesus' return.
And the letter just gets better, so keep reading!
APPLICATION
Is there someone that you can encourage in the Lord? Learn from Paul.
If you are discouraged , this book is a good one to read and ponder.
PRAYER
Father, I thank you for my brothers and sisters in Christ who continue to trust you in the midst of persecution. I ask that your Holy Spirit will encourage them. Give them steadfast hearts. Help them to know that you love them and enable them to keep on serving you in hope. In Jesus dear name, Amen.
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