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“Paul, Silas and Timothy, To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace and peace to you.” 1 Thessalonians 1:1 NIV
Paul, Silas and Timothy in addressing the Church of the Thessalonians states, “in God the Father…” Paul is saying that the people who make up the church belong to and are, “in God the Father.” Remember that this was a newly formed church that Paul had preached to about Jesus the Messiah. That preaching lead to many receiving the Lord, and forming the church. Now he has given to them the understanding that they belong not only to the Son, but God the Father. He makes that thought clear by adding,” and the Lord Jesus Christ.”
Therefore, In Paul’s letter to the Galatians we become heirs: “But when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman, subject to the law. God sent him to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he could adopt us as his very own children. And because we are his children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, prompting us to call out, “Abba, Father.” Now you are no longer a slave but God’s own child. And since you are his child, God has made you, his heir.”(Galatians 4:4-7 NLT) The inclusion of God the Father and Jesus Christ allows us to reconcile with God and become his children.
To end the salutation Paul extends, “Grace and Peace to you.” It is a blessing that he gives to the churches that he has written letters to in the scriptures. God’s Grace and God’s peace far exceeds anything that man calls grace and peace. It is by God’s grace that we are saved. “God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God.” (Ephesians 2:8 NLT) God gives us peace that the world cannot give. “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 NLT
In the opening to the Thessalonians Church, Paul told them that they belong to God and blessed them with Grace and Peace. What a strong way to present a letter. Let us remember that we too are God’s children and have received his grace and peace.
We Love you
Pastors Willie and Rochelle McIntosh
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