The Mystical Sphere of God's Power 2

1THESS. 1:1-4

Subject: A Strong Church 

Theme: The Church of the Thessalonians is a positive example because of its leadership, members, teaching, service, and God’s work among them. The Thessalonians provide us with a wonderful model to imitate.

Introduction:  

Now that we have observed the place and peculiarities of the church at Thessalonica, it is time to turn our attention to what God equipped them with as a standard provision—a powerful resource. The provisions of the Thessalonian church are worth considering because they are mighty empowerments! The church possesses precious gifts “from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ,” and so do we! Yes, I am of the view that this “letter greeting” is far more than merely a greeting. Certainly these two blessed gifts will make a church stronger when we know how to rest in them and appropriate them into our lives.

Note the Power of this Church

1Thess. 1:1,   “. . . Grace be unto you, and peace …  

“Grace” is the first component of this salutation to the church in Thessalonica. “Grace” was a Grecian greeting and “peace” was a Hebrew greeting in the first century and this signified that the gospel is for the world (Rom. 1:16). Such a greeting signifies that the church was more cosmopolitan as well; there is plenty of evidence to support this conclusion in Acts 17 when the church was planted. Paul was greeting the Jews in a manner familiar to them and addressing the Grecians in a way familiar to them.

“Grace” indicates the church enjoyed the blessings of the unmerited favor of God. This is real spiritual strength for service and relationship building. It is because we have experienced grace that we can give grace or show grace to others who need it. One thing people should be able to find when interacting with a godly NT church is grace. Believers are recipients of grace and stand in the best position to show grace to the fallen, undeserving, and repentant. In Ephesian 3:7-8, Paul says,

Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power. Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ

The apostle viewed his entire ministry as a gracious opportunity afforded to Him by a mighty gracious God! He enjoyed incredible ministry power because of God’s grace operating through him. Did God use Paul because Paul was so great or so wonderful or so dedicated or so educated or so eloquent? According to Paul’s own admission God used Paul because God is gracious…. Paul did not earn the privileges extended to him; they were actually gracious gifts from God; favors that were purely underserved. Beloved, by recognizing this extraordinary truth we position ourselves to deal graciously with other undeserving fallen human beings. It is from grace we discover the strength to be gracious to others in the execution of God's work. Grace should mark every church as a distinct characteristic. Grace should actually avail power to behave and do what is underserved for another. We are sustained in these activities to the degree of our own realization of the grace God extended to us. When you find yourself unmotivated to treat another graciously remember how graciously God has treated you. I know from experience this will help.

“Peace” is the second part of the greeting addressed to the church and it means to be bound, joined and woven together. This, no doubt, was Paul’s prayer for this multicultural church. He yearned for them to be woven together as a tapestry of God's infinite grace operating within and among God's people. Ethnic, historic, and socioeconomic differences can drive a wedge through a church and split it along one of these faultlines. These are powerfully divisive weapons the devil has employed with astounding success over the centuries on many continents. God offers the hope of “peace” in the church and this can potentially influence the culture at large. Again, God’s peace is conciliatory binding together and weaving very different peoples into the fabric of a church.Continous growth, curiosity, empathy, and constant dialog are required to get there. Instead of stereotyping ask the questions to understand what is actually going on.   

Before peace can impact our relationships and bridge cultural and ethnic gaps, we must experience inner peace. People who have experienced peace can abide together in peace. Peace in this regard denotes the state of the Christian in this present life. The tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, fearing nothing from God and consequently content with its earthly lot, whatever it is (Rom 5:1; 8:6; 15:13; 2Thess 3:16; Col 3:15).

Furthermore, peace means the soul is bound together by the love of God, and anxiety means the soul is being torn apart by excessive concerns.  Peace is being assured, confident, and secure in the love of God.  When we worry, we doubt God’s wisdom and love over our lives. Worry is rooted in a belief that we have to do it all, while peace recognizes God as the center of one’s world. Worry is rooted in fear and cultural fears or distrust can increase the level of anxiety in a church fellowship. Our common ground in Christ should enable us to overcome the differences we have resulting in social peace in the fellowship of God’s people.

God affords His people peace through the incredible promises he has given us. He is the Source of these wonderful blessings. These encouragements should help us overcome our cultural differences to know real harmony and solidarity in the local congregations. We should not fear having a cross-cultural ministry if God has given us that opportunity. Yet, many churches are dying by attrition because their homogeneous membership is aging and the immediate communities have changed. The demographics in many American communities have become more diverse in the last 25 years. It is most likely this trend will continue. This is especially true in the metropolitan areas. The future promises a greater assortment of people groups in the average community. How many times will congregations relocate their church building because they are trying to escape the changes? God has brought the world to our door steps; it is our priceless opportunity if we dare to acknowledge it. Beloved, Jesus offers His people peace as the power to overcome such challenges. Take a moment and meditate on the following verses while applying them to this discussion: 

John 14:27, Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

John 16:33, These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

Rom 8:28, And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ are our Source of these precious gifts. Peace is the blessing of the Lord God (Job 25:2; Ps 147:14; Isa 45:7). It is God’s prescription for life with the church body even when there are socioeconomic and ethnic differences. Diversity should be regarded as a strength and not a threat. Yes, there are very real challenges, but I believe the opportunities outweigh them. Recall the conciliatory statements of Paul in Galatians 3:26-29,

For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise. (Gal. 3:26-29, KJV)

To another congregation adjusting to vast ethnic diversity, the Apostle Paul clearly states that Jesus Christ is the focal point for peace among the brethren. Through His cross Jews and Gentiles are reconciled. Beloved, the cross of Christ has the same potential today; it has not in any way lost it potency and power to change ancient prejudices, ethnic distrust, racial tensions, unforgiving hearts, and gross injustices. Consider what Paul says to the Ephesians,

For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. (Ephesians 2:14-22, KJV)

As it has been well said on many occasions by Central American, Caucasian American, Asian American, and African-American pastors, “A race problem is actually a grace problem.” Real believers are spiritual family because of our redemptive relationship with Jesus Christ. God’s grace and peace will enable and empower us to transcend our ethnic differences and serve together through our local congregations to the glory of our Father in heaven. Our churches really should be making a serious impact in this regard. The task is ours to show the rest of society how this is done. I do understand the reservations involved with all of this. I also understand the rewards of pastoring a wonderfully multicultural congregation for ten years while in Germany. Yes, all of this requires real courage and commitment. For some there is little opportunity for a cosmopolitan church family, but for others it's almost an imperative. God has brought all kinds of precious people groups into the very shadow of our steeple. I encourage you to allow God to use you to make an eternal difference in these lives. The shameful truth is we work every week in incredible diversity and this is regarded as progress and a strength. Still Sunday morning at 11 o’clock is the most segregated time of the week. I cannot see how this is glorifying to God when our faith should be making this difference among believers. Let us model God's power to bring different peoples together to His glory. 

The Mystical Sphere of God's Power

1THESS. 1:1-4

Subject: A Strong Church 

Theme: The Church of the Thessalonians is a positive example because of its leadership, members, teaching, service, and God’s work among them. The Thessalonians provide us with a wonderful model to imitate.

Introduction:  

No doubt you have heard some preacher say, “If you ever find the perfect church, please don’t join it. If you do, it won’t be perfect anymore!”

Since local churches are made up of human beings, saved by God’s grace, no church is perfect. But some churches are closer to the New Testament ideal than others. The church at Thessalonica was in that category. At least three times in this letter, Paul gave thanks for the church and the way it responded to his ministry (1 Thes. 1:2; 2:13; 3:9). Not every pastor can be that thankful.

What characteristics of this church made it so ideal and such a joy to Paul’s heart? –Wiersbe, Warren W.: The Bible Exposition Commentary

Today I wish to explore with you the incredible idea that we are laborers together with God (1Cor. 3:1-15) in the ministry of our local church family! It is this vital relationship, association, and spiritual orientation that fundamentally define why a church exists! It also provides the necessary resources and latitude for us to execute the Lord’s business in the world. So again we pose the question, do we belong to a model church or do we need to be remodeled?

Message:

I.  A Strong Church Has Faithful Ministers.  Vs. 1& 2

1Thes 1:1, Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus…  

Now that we have explored the vital importance of the ministers being faithful to God and trustful of God, we need to take a look at the congregation they all served. Paul addresses them in a most specific manner.

II. A Strong Church Exists in the Sphere of God’s Power. Vs. 1

1Thes 1:1… unto the church of the Thessalonians which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Paul describes this church as belonging not only to an earthly sphere and location, but a dynamic and spiritual address as well. Just as we gain some sense of our identities, rights, privileges, and opportunities from the physical place we belong to, the same can be said for the spiritual place as well. The question could be asked, “Does our church exists for the community in which it abides or for God?” Another question is who decides? Other questions could be entertained as well like, is it appropriate for a ministry to be relevant to God first and not its community first? Is this association with the Father and the Lord Jesus through my church significant? How does our fellowship with God relate to our purpose as a church? These are good questions, and the following thoughts at least begin to address them from 1 Thessalonians 1:1-4.

Note the Place of this Church

1Thes 1:1… unto the church of the Thessalonians which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ

This local church resides in the city of Thessalonica (Acts 17:1-9). A church should be understood as an assembly of baptized believers called out by God from the mass of humanity to a life of separation to Him and His purpose. This reality means churches have a definite relationship with God and this relationship is primary. While a church obviously has a physical location, this location does not define its purpose or design. It may flavor the culture and feel of the congregation when they meet for worship and service, but it does not define the reason the church exists.

Nevertheless it is important to recognize that each church has a primary people to address its ministry to. Each city or county will have its own unique story comprised of different ethnic compositions, social dynamics, racial tensions, historical moorings, political leanings, cultural values, and economic challenges. These components make a city what it is and govern its future for good or bad. All of these elements influence the way people view each other, the do’s and don’t of the region, and the available opportunities that may be capitalized upon.  The fact that this church was located in Thessalonica presented several social, political, and economic challenges or opportunities. The addition of a Christ-centered church should introduce the city to genuine spiritual realities that would transform the culture.

It is also noteworthy that they are addressed collectively as one assembly in the city of Thessalonica and not as individuals. God’s plan is for a church to function in harmony and unity of purpose. I think it is also significant that early believers identified with the local assembly. You see, belief in Christ always led to joining a fellowship of believers, the church body of Christ in their respective locations (see Acts 2:42–47; 1 Cor. 12:27). These individuals had a relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ, but they were summoned to live and serve in community with other genuine believers. In an age where church membership is being de-emphasized, God evidently still values and commends it to us all. Finding a good church is challenging, but far from impossible. To reject all churches and go-it-alone is foreign to Bible mandates and teachings. Humble yourself and submit to God’s prescription; get yourself and your family into a church that preaches Jesus Christ as the Savior and Lord, the Scriptures as the final authority in matters of faith and practice, and the Great Commission as Christ’s mission for each assembly.

To be sure, the primary purpose of any authentic church body is to take the gospel to the lost world, disciple the converts, and reproduce itself (1Thess 1:8; Matt 16:18; 28:19-20). Dr. Wiersbe says it well stating, “The church is not a social club; it is a spiritual organism, an organization composed of people whom God has “called out of darkness into His marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9).” Where is your membership as a real Christian? Have you answered God’s call to belong to one of His assemblies in your city or county? I understand that not everything claiming to be a church is actually a church. I encourage you to discern the real churches and join one out of obedience to God’s design for Christians and churches.

Secondly, the location of this church is in “God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ.” This is obviously a spiritual realm or sphere of operations, but it is profound in the extreme. Churches function and operate from this spiritual realm to impact the natural realm we live in. We are actually executing the will of heaven on earth as empowered and authorized agents and agencies of Jehovah God! This “Sphere of Power” provides relationship, identity, power, authority, provisions, and other spiritual resources. This kingdom reality frees us to practice kingdom principles and gives us the grace to refuse worldly values and ideals. In fact this spiritual orientation is what gives shape and substance to a church's vision and mission. It is not the local city or culture, but the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ!

Furthermore, the local assembly is grounded in and exists in the sphere and power of the Father and the Son of God, Jesus Christ. Believers and church members are viewed as close to God and under His authority as the church executes its God-given mission in the world. Again our Lord Jesus graciously affords us redemption, relationship, identity, and belonging. Then our heavenly Father wonderfully provides security, love, strength, purpose, meaning, and all spiritual resources required to achieve His will. What a blessed reality!  Beloved, recognizing this shows us who is actually sustaining the life of a true NT Church. Certainly God can sustain His authentic churches wherever they are today. Perhaps a review of God’s boundless power would be helpful to boosting our confidence and dependence upon Him. Notice the power, strength and provisions of our Great God in Nehemiah 9:7-25. 

One more observation is of note in this section. The Lord Jesus Christ is as much God as the Father. Clearly Paul was emphasizing this and also preached this in Thessalonica (Acts 17:3). God the Son is also “Lord;” He is the Sovereign who is to be obeyed. We can please Him by rightly aligning ourselves with a good New Testament church and in concert with that assembly execute the great commission. By doing so we answer our Lord’s desire when He prayed to the Father asking,

That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one… (John 17:21–23).

Any genuine church member who is in Christ Jesus is also in God the Father through the new birth experience. Yes, salvation is a prerequisite to church membership. I personally believe a convert becomes a member of a church through water baptism by immersion. Others can be transferred to a church by baptism or a statement of faith. Belonging, spiritual identity and relationship are important to God and they should be to us. God summons us to fellowship and association with Himself and His churches. Recall the words of the Apostle John in1 John 1:3,

That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.

Each genuine church abides in the same awesome God today. This is comfort for us as we do the work of the ministry! We are laborers together with God. We belong to God and God belongs to us and we no longer belong to the world. Our lives are filled with direction, meaning, purpose, and power as we align ourselves to God's plan. This mystical sphere of power is where we belong; this association shapes the parameters of all else concerning us and our church.

Note the Peculiarity of this Church

1Thes 1:1… unto the church of the Thessalonians which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ

This Church is distinguished from any heathen ‘assembly.’ The fact that it is “IN God” distinguishes this assembly from all other assemblies in the city or region. The passage highlights the distinction between those in the church and others in the city. God’s people are His unique treasure. I know this sounds a bit boastful, but it is actually a biblically and theologically sound idea—a truth.

Perhaps this points to our incredible potential “IN God” or the collective potential of an obedient church “IN” “Jesus Christ.” Among the many implications to be considered is this idea that direction, authority, purpose, power, and resources come from this sphere of power! We cannot achieve anything of significance to God if we rely solely or primarily on naturalistic methods and strategies devoid of the authority and power of God. Yes, it is true that much can be accomplished that men will applaud and celebrate, but still I must ask, what are God’s interests? Sometimes our allegiance to God is diluted or skewed by a sense of obligation to our city or county or certain individuals therein. Before we know it the church is doing things and spending resources on endeavors that have nothing to do with God’s designs for His churches. Increasingly the mission of the Lord’s churches is forgotten and finally forsaken. Yes, some churches will have unique opportunities to serve a community because where they are and the significant challenges in that area. Yes, this will be different for each genuine church, but the core ministry never changes. Beloved, relevance to God comes first and then relevance to the community outside the church. This is not strange talk to anyone who knows the churches belongs to Christ first and foremost. He is the actual Head and Director of each assembly. We exist for the praise of the glory of His grace (Eph. 1:6, 12, 14).

We should remain a distinguished people of God; we are more useful to God as a distinct people instead of a compromising people. We are not of this world’s crowd; we are God’s crowd! Our purpose is to glorify God--to show forth the praises of Him! Beloved, recall the words of the Apostle Peter in 1 Pet 2:9-12,

But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: 10, Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. 11, Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; 12, Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.

A church’s activities, vision, and mission are not settled in the city or culture in which the church exists. These elements come from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ in whom we live and move and have our being. The motives and goals that we take aim at come from the God who has already established our agenda. Some of our methods and strategies will change with the times and vary within the culture, but all should be sanctioned by God. It is God’s values and directives that shape our mission and vision and not those values of the community. If what we do is relevant to God, then prayerfully the culture and community will see its value eventually. What can I say…we are a peculiar people; we are God’s treasured people and we live to show forth “the praise of Him who hath called us out of darkness” and into His marvelous light! Doing this and focusing on this fills life with meaning and purpose, and though our activities are mundane at times, they still transcend the temporary to impact the eternal.

It is true we need to be students of the city or county we are attempting to reach with the gospel, but the culture does not shape our values, vision, or mission. People do need a sense that those who seek to serve them actually understand who they are. People have a fundamental need to feel valued, appreciated, and respected, but how much does God deserve the same. Once again recall the evangelistic strategy of the Apostle Paul saying,

For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more. And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you. (1Cor. 9:19-23, KJV)

Clearly he made any necessary social and cultural adjustments to accommodate the neutral amoral elements or cultural idiosyncrasies of a given people group. In no way did he sanction, dismiss or condone sin or superstitions. To each people group Paul came across as someone who respected their social nuances, customs, courtesies, and history. Paul understood what was merely an amoral matter and what was actually a moral concern. This is very healthy evangelistic agility and a demonstration of godly love. Paul’s approach is also pure respect for a people and who they are.

Needless cultural offenses can limit the impact of the gospel and a church. It is true the gospel is offensive enough already without adding pointless disrespect. Paul understood this. Yes, we are to be well informed about the culture in which we work, but this knowledge does not influence our core purpose as a church. This understanding enables and empowers us to handle an ethnic group or a foreign people with the correct form of respect and dignity. I served in a foreign country for more than 20 years as a member of our military and as a missionary. I get what Paul is referring to! Every foreign missionary or state ambassador gets the incredible importance of this. What we fail to realize is that a country as multicultural as the United States of America will have many such considerations. One key is seeking to understand another people group or culture. Engaging in honest dialog with an aim to understand first and then to be understood second is paramount. Respecting people because they are human beings who bear the image of God is fundamental. Treating folks the way we want them to treat us is our Lord's council and strategy. Communicating empathically can help us overcome the ethnic and racial tensions to achieve mutual understanding. Beloved, God gives believers the wherewithal to overcome these types of challenges as we move the gospel of Jesus Christ to the regions beyond. 

Faithful Ministers

1THESS. 1:1-4

Subject: A Strong Church

Theme: The Church of the Thessalonians is a positive example because of its leadership, members, teaching, service, and God’s work among them. The Thessalonians provide us with a wonderful model to imitate.

Introduction: 

So what makes for an ideal church or a good model ministry? Though the answer is incomplete, God still uses faithful ministers to build solid churches. There are myriads of ideas surrounding what makes for a good church home, but the Scriptures afford us clear teaching on this matter. The wonderful part is these truths are not culture bound or limited to a certain century or hemisphere of the globe. God has used men and congregations who were truly and deeply faithful to Him in many positive ways. In our brand of Christianity it appears that talent, education, notoriety, connections, and personality are the primary contributing factors to a minister's success or a church’s growth and progress. While these natural factors are good in their place, ministers who strive first to be faithful to God will build strong congregations.

How important is faithfulness? Is this something that is critical in the life of a church, ministry, or Christian organization? While many places in the Word of God could easily be consulted for an answer, my favorite is found in the writings of Paul. The great apostle says, “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful” (1Cor 4:2, KJV). Certainly God regards faithfulness as a significant characteristic in His ministers implying they must be men who habitually and actually believe and trust Him.

The church in Thessalonica, established on Paul’s second missionary journey, was a model church. Paul mentions this in the first chapter; “So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia” (1 Thess. 1:7). This church was a testimony to the whole area that we would call Greece today. Paul also speaks of this church as being an example to the Corinthians in 2 Corinthians 8:1–5.—McGee, J. Vernon: Thru the Bible Commentary

Are we a part of a model church or do we need to be remodeled?

Message:

A Strong Church Has Faithful Ministers.  Vs 1& 2

1Thes 1:1, Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus…  

A. Consider the Caliber of these Servants of God.

      1.  Apostle Paul.

a) Apostle. Paul’s commission was to take the Gospel to the Gentiles (Acts 9:15; Eph. 3:1–12), but he always started his ministry among the Jews.

b) Missionary/Evangelist (Act 17:1-10, 16; 18:5). It is interesting to study the words Luke used to describe Paul’s public ministry in the synagogue (Acts 17:2–3).

i)                    Reasoned means “to discourse using questions and answers.” Perhaps “dialogue” would be a good synonym.

ii)                   Opening simply means “explaining.” Paul would read a portion of the Old Testament Scriptures and explain their meaning with reference to Jesus Christ and the Gospel.

iii)                 Alleging literally means “to lay beside.” Paul put the Scriptures before them in an orderly manner, showing them how they harmonized.

iv)                 Preach means “to proclaim, to announce.” Paul did not simply teach the Scriptures; he proclaimed Christ and urged his listeners to receive Him by faith.

We can learn much from Paul’s approach to evangelism. He used the Word of God, and he declared the Son of God. He started where the people were and led them into the truth of the Gospel. (When Paul preached to Gentiles, he started with the God of Creation, since they had no knowledge of the Old Testament Scriptures. See Acts 14:8–18; 17:16ff.) –Wiersbe, The Bible Exposition Com.

c) New Testament Writer.

The Holy Spirit led Paul to pen this inspired letter to meet several needs.

i)                    He encouraged his converts in the faith to persevere despite their persecution (1Thess 2:14-16).

ii)                   He refuted false charges made by the local enemies of the gospel: that the missionaries had preached in order to fatten their wallets and gain other personal benefits (2:1-6); that Paul had left Thessalonica hurriedly and had not returned because he was a coward and a hypocrite (2:17-19).

iii)                 Paul also wrote to correct some errors that had cropped up in the church: an inclination to moral laxity and laziness (4:1-7; 5:4-11), and a tendency not to respect the church’s spiritual leaders (5:12-20).

iv)                 Paul gave instruction too on the subject of what would happen to Christians who would die before the Lord’s return (4:13-18). —Walvoord, The Bible Knowledge Com.

       2.   Missionary Silas (vs. 1, “Silvanus”)

            a) Paul’s Missionary Partner

Acts 15:37-41, And Barnabas determined to take with them John, whose surname was Mark. 38, But Paul thought not good to take him with them, who departed from them from Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work. 39, And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus; 40, And Paul chose Silas, and departed, being recommended by the brethren unto the grace of God. 41, And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches.

            b) Silas’ Ministry Position

i)                           Paul joins Silas and Timothy with himself in his greeting. Remember that Silas and Timothy had just returned to Paul with their report from Thessalonica (3:1-3). By joining their names with his, the Thessalonians would know they are all in agreement concerning this letter.

ii)                         Also, Paul reveals his humility when he joins these men with himself Silas and Timothy would have been unknown had not Paul associated himself with them. This is a very noble gesture on the part of Paul. He is always identifying himself with the brethren. He was not aloof, separated, and segregated above all the others who were working for the Lord Jesus.

iii)                        This is something we need to remember today in regard to the ministry. Don’t put your preacher on a pedestal; let him be right down among you. Those of us who are ministers are largely responsible for trying to make a difference between the clergy and laity. –McGee, J. Vernon: Thru the Bible Commentary

       3.  Missionary Timothy

            a) Paul’s Missionary Protégé.

Acts 16:1-5, Then came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus, the son of a certain woman, which was a Jewess, and believed; but his father was a Greek: 2, Which was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium. 3, Him would Paul have to go forth with him; and took and circumcised him because of the Jews which were in those quarters: for they knew all that his father was a Greek. 4, And as they went through the cities, they delivered them the decrees for to keep, that were ordained of the apostles and elders which were at Jerusalem. 5, And so were the churches established in the faith, and increased in number daily.

            b) Timothy’s Ministry Position.

Even though Paul’s ministry in Thessalonica was not a long one, it was solid enough to leave behind a thriving church. When he left for Athens, Paul told Timothy and Silas to remain there and help the new church and then to join him later. When they did meet again, Paul sent Timothy back to Thessalonica to encourage the Christians and assure them of his love and concern. (He had tried to go back twice, but was hindered; 1 Thes. 2:17–18.) It was when Timothy rejoined Paul at Corinth and gave him the report on the new church that Paul wrote 1 Thessalonians. He wrote 2 Thessalonians just a short time later.

            c) Lessons from this Ministry Team.

All of this background teaches us several helpful lessons.

i)                    Obviously, God uses people. God did not send angels to evangelize Thessalonica; He sent a converted Jewish rabbi and his friends, including a young man who was part Jew, part Gentile. God still uses people—dedicated people who will obey His leading and share His message.

ii)                   Here is a second lesson: the Gospel is still “the power of God unto salvation” (Rom. 1:16). It did not require years to set up a church in Thessalonica. God’s power was effective in changing lives, and a church was founded in less than a month. Paul reminded them that the Gospel came to them not “in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Ghost” (1 Thes. 1:5).

iii)                 Finally, Satan still opposes the Gospel and persecutes God’s people; but persecution can be a means of growth. As we study this letter, we will see that God’s Spirit strengthens and encourages suffering saints as they go through the difficulties of Christian life. –Wiersbe, The Bible Exposition Commentary

B. Consider the Concentration of these Servants of God.                                                            

1. They Faithfully Prayed For The Church.

1Thes 1: 2, We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers;

a)      They Were Thankful to God for Each and Every Member    Vs 2

i.       Only In Dictionary

A businessman said, “People are ingrates. It took me 61 years to find it out. I have 175 employees, men and women. At Thanksgiving, I sent them 175 choice turkeys. Only four thanked me. Two thanked me by notes and two said, “Thank you” when they chanced to meet me in the hall. Because of their thanklessness, I’ve decided never to go out of my way to be nice again.”

Someone has said, “If you want to find gratitude, look for it in the dictionary.”

—Selected, Tan, Paul Lee: Encyclopedia of 7700 Illustrations

ii.      Whenever Paul prayed he mentioned the Thessalonians. (Are we as faithful in remembering our Christian brothers and sisters?) And it was always with thanks that he prayed for them, remembering their work of faith, their labor of love, and their patience of hope. –MacDonald, William: Believer's Bible Commentary
iii.    Paul, Silas, and Timothy rejoiced together in what God had done in their converts’ lives. They continually and frequently gave thanks; the Thessalonians were a constant source of joy to them. Whenever these missionaries prayed for the Thessalonians, they gave thanks to God for them. Rather than being a source of grief these Christians evoked gratitude. In this they served as models for all Christians. –Walvoord, John F.: The Bible Knowledge Commentary

b)      They Counted Each Member as a Gift From God to The Fellowship Vs 2

c)      They prayed faithfully and fervently for this church (3:9-10). They were not only faithful to communicate God’s eternal Word, but they faithfully prayed for the saints.  This is why personal prayer time, prayer meetings, and prayer breakfast meetings are so important!  Do we pray daily for our fellow members? In every strong Church there must be faithful prayer and teamwork among those that minister in the church!

2. They Faithfully Planted the Church.

It was during Paul’s Second Missionary Journey that the light of the gospel first broke in on the darkness of Thessalonica (Acts 17:1–10).

Thessalonica at that time was a strategic city, both commercially and politically. True to form, Paul went to the Jewish synagogue and showed from the OT that the Messiah had to suffer and rise from the dead. He then went on to declare that Jesus of Nazareth was the promised Messiah. That lasted for three Saturdays. Some of the Jews were convinced, and took their place with Paul and Silas as Christian believers. Also, many of the Greek proselytes and quite a few of the leading women of the city were converted. Then the backlash started. Those Jews who did not believe rounded up some of the hoodlums from the marketplace, incited a riot, and besieged the house of Jason, where Paul and Silas had been staying. The Christian brethren in Thessalonica decided that it would be wise for the preachers to leave town, so they sent them by night to Berea.

The remarkable thing is that when Paul and Silas departed, they left behind a congregation of believers who were instructed in the doctrines of the faith and who were unmoved by the persecution they endured.   Paul and his team may have spent as long as three months in the city. The apostle’s Letters to them show that the Thessalonians had a broad acquaintance with Christian doctrine... –Adapted, MacDonald, William: Believer's Bible Commentary

So what makes for an ideal church or a good model ministry? Though the answer is incomplete, God uses faithful ministers to build solid churches. There are myriads of ideas surrounding what makes for a good church home, but the Scriptures afford us clear teaching on this matter. The wonderful part is these truths are not culture bound or limited to a certain century or hemisphere of the globe. God has used men and congregations who were truly and deeply faithful to Him. In our brand of Christianity it appears that talent, education, notoriety, and personality are the primary contributing factors to a church’s growth and progress. While these are good in their place, ministers who strive first to be faithful to God will build spiritually strong congregations. 

Dr. MacDonald writes, “A major requirement in stewards is to be found faithful. Man values cleverness, wisdom, wealth, and success; but God is looking for those who will be faithful to Jesus in all things.” (MacDonald, W. (1995). Believer’s Bible Commentary)

The sad reality is so many are committed to themselves, their welfare, popularity, material wealth, and future options that the things or Christ are lost somewhere in the scramble. It is as Paul says in Philppians 2:21, “For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ’s.” God uses men who genuinely care about His interests and deeply value the things of Jesus Christ. Certainly this includes Christ’s churches that He died for and is constantly making intercession on behalf of!

Furthermore, when “faithful” (1Cor 4:2) refers to believers it connotes being full of faith and trustful towards God. Obviously, this is more than being worthy of trust or confidence; it does include this element, but it is richly more. Faithful describes the person who trusts God so entirely that they are worthy of the trust of others as a by product (Acts 10:45; 16:1; 2 Cor. 6:15; Col. 1:2; 1 Tim. 4:3, 12; 5:16; 6:2; Titus 1:6; Eph. 1:1; 1 Cor. 4:17). In turn such servants are truly faithful to God, His Word, and the ministry committed to their charge. God uses their confidence in Him and depth of commitment to His plan and ways to bless whatever He gives them. Also bear in mind the blessing is consistent with God’s plan and not our ideas. The principle is God works through trustful servants because their confidence honors Him. 

In light of this article, there are some questions we should all ask ourselves as servants of the Most High God. Consider these for starters:

1. Am I really trusting God as a habit of life and ministry?

2. Has ministry become a routine of strategies and tactics that I have become versed in using or manipulating?

3. Does my confidence in God lead me to embrace strategies that are new to me, but are not new to God?

4. Do I want my outcomes and “fruit” more than God’s outcomes?

5. Am I using man-made metrics to define fruitfulness?

6. Am I trusting traditions because they are familiar and comfortable?

7. Is my faithfulness to a label causing me to reject faithfulness to God?

8. Have I substituted trusting God for popular programs?

9. Am I merely trustworthy when God desires that I be trustful?

10. Am I relying more on naturalistic factors (talent, education, personality, and connections) than supernatural factors (trusting God, the Word, and faithfulness) for effectiveness?

Remember Paul, Silas, and Timothy were men who were full of faith towards God, trustful as a standard, and clearly worthy of being trusted by others. Like God, The Bible, and God’s covenants (Ps. 119:86, 138; Isa. 25:1; 1 Tim. 1:15; Rev. 21:5; 22:6), they were deeply “faithful.”