SCRIPTURE: 1 THESSALONIANS 2
BIBLE VERSES:
“On the contrary, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts. You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed—God is our witness. We were not looking for praise from people, not from you or anyone else, even though as apostles of Christ we could have asserted our authority. Instead, we were like young children among you. Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, so we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well” (1 Thessalonians 2:4-9)
“For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.” (1 Thessalonians 2:11-12)
PAUL’S MINISTRY IN THESSALONICA (vs. 1-16)
ROLES THAT PAUL PLAYED TO WIN CONVERTS:
- As a faithful steward of Gospel (vs. 1-6) – Paul was entrusted with the gospel not to please men but God. He never used flattery, nor put a mask to cover up greed. He was not looking for praise from men.
- As a gentle mother (vs. 7-8) – Paul showed love and care to the new believers as a mother would give to her own children. He toiled and worked night and day in order not to be a burden to anyone.
- As a concerned father (vs. 9-16) – Paul labored, preached and provided personal teachings and public ministry to the church. . He dealt with them as a father deals with his own children. His ministry is like a father that involves encouragement, comfort and urging them to live lives worthy of God.
- As a loving brother (vs. 17-20) – Paul called the saints brethren. He loved and prayed for them. He desired to see them again and was looking forward to the glorious day when they could rejoice together in the presence of Christ.
PAUL’S LONGING TO SEE THE THESSALONIANS (vs. 17-19)
Paul were separated from the Thessalonian believers and he made every effort to meet them again. He longed to see them again with hope and joy in the presence of Lord Jesus Christ when he comes.
THOUGHTS:
- Paul did not seek money, fame or popularity in sharing the Good News. His motive was pure and sincere. When you are involved in God ministry, do you do out of love for Christ and others?
- Gospel message should never be compromised by alternation or omission to make it more acceptable to flatter people.
- The highest reward and greatest joy of preaching the Gospel is to see people believe in Christ and growing in faith.