Why we do the things we do
Forgeries and fakes are lies, and lies are everywhere. Lies are destructive as they lead us in the wrong direction. In the second chapter of his letter to the Church of Thessalonica, the Holy Spirit testifies to the authenticity of the Gospel message delivered by Paul. This testimony prepared the people of that Church, and us, to know the real from the fake. When we have experienced the genuine faith, hope and love of the Gospel, is easier to spot a fraud. As we wait for the return of the Lord Jesus Christ, we must not only look to discern between the false and true Gospel but also imitate the real thing so as to help as many people as possible into the Kingdom of our Lord Jesus.
Scripture
1 Thessalonians 2:9-12 ESV For you remember, brothers, our labor and toil: we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, while we proclaimed to you the gospel of God. [10] You are witnesses, and God also, how holy and righteous and blameless was our conduct toward you believers. [11] For you know how, like a father with his children, [12] we exhorted each one of you and encouraged you and charged you to walk in a manner worthy of God, who calls you into his own kingdom and glory.
Bible Study Questions
In 1 Thessalonians 2, Paul is reminding the Church of the way that he and the Apostles brought the Gospel to them. Give two reasons why he does this (Acts 20:28-30, 1 Corinthians 11:1)
Paul and his partners in the Gospel would not accept payment from the Thessalonians, (1 Thessalonians 2:9) but rather chose to work day and night so as not to burden them financially. Did Paul always operate this way? (2 Corinthians 11:8)
The Church got to witness the way that Paul and his partners in the Gospel lived, day to day. (1 Thessalonians 2:10). How were these works of faith a blessing to the Church?
In what three ways did Paul and his ministry team use words like a father to his own child in their ministry to the Church people of Thessalonica? (1 Thessalonians 2:11-12)
The ministry in Thessalonica shared the Gospel of God through labours of love, works of faith and constant encouragement and support. To what end were these three approaches, where did Paul’s team want to lead the people of that Church? (1 Thessalonians 2:12)
The Glory and Kingdom of God is constantly in mind as Paul teaches and encourages the Church. What event do he have in mind specifically? ((1 Thessalonians 2:19-20)