|
Listen
|
We see in 1 Thessalonians, that Paul and Silas came to preach the Gospel, but after a few weeks they were persecuted, and had to leave the city. Soon after this, the believers in Thessalonica began to be persecuted, even unto death. Paul wrote a letter of encouragement and thanksgiving to the believers in Thessalonica.
The Apostle Paul gave thanks for the faithful work of the Thessalonians “(probably Christian Service).” He gave thanks for their loving deeds thought to be “manual labor.” This is important. Not everyone in Thessalonica was working or being faithful in the Thessalonian Church, but that did not deter Paul from praying a prayer of thanksgiving for everyone. This is an important lesson in encouragement. Paul encouraged everyone. The Apostle Paul was speaking out of love. “We always thank God for all of you and pray for you constantly. As we pray to our God and Father about you, we think of your faithful work, your loving deeds, and the enduring hope you have because of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Thessalonians 1:2-3 NLT
How did the Apostle Paul get the inspiration to continue to encourage people? The answer is Hope! He directly mentioned their enduring hope that Jesus was coming back again to receive His church. This hope allowed them to endure the persecution that they were now under because of their faith in Jesus Christ. “But when the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit upon his glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered in his presence, and he will separate the people as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will place the sheep at his right hand and the goats at his left.” Matthew 25:31-33 NLT.
If you need someone to pray with you, or you recently accepted Jesus as your savior contact us at [email protected].
Reference
“1st and 2nd Thessalonians” by Gordon Fee
We Love You,
Pastors Willie and Rochelle McIntosh
On Mission Every Day. Join us
- Learn the Word by reading our weekly blog.
- Write a comment, join us on social media or zoom meeting every Sunday at 2:30pm ET except the 2nd Sunday at 6:00PM (day subject to change).
- Do you need Prayer? Have questions? We can be reached at [email protected]
Was this message a blessing to you? Would you consider sharing it?
