A Saved Membership

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:  

That the membership of a New Testament Church would be comprised of saved individuals should be a given…right? Yes, you would think so…. It makes sense to me that many different peoples at very different places in their personal spiritual journeys would darken the doors of a church. The worshiper, the seeker, the curious, the seasoned, the churched, the recent convert and even the skeptic may all have their occasions for attending a church service. To be sure all are wanted, and the church would rejoice to welcome any and all visitors to a given worship service. For a church to sustain a warm and welcoming environment is completely consistent with godly character and a desire to serve the community for Christ’s sake.

The issue I raise is that of ignoring the need for a genuine conversion experience, the requirement of biblical baptism, and the expressed submission to the Spirit of God’s leadership to unite with a specific body of believers. Commitment is a dirty word in the 21^st Century, but God still requires real commitment in conversion, baptism, and church membership. Every believer should have a basic conviction that the Spirit of God led them and placed them in a local church body. Every NT church should have a standard requirement for becoming a church member. The most fundamental requirement is salvation—conversion—candidates for baptism and membership must be people who know the Lord Jesus as Savior.

This is not a recent emerging view, Paul addresses the Church at Thessalonica as saved people who were growing in their commitment to Jesus Christ. First recall some observations from previous articles about a Strong Church Model.

Lesson:

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

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

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.

III. A Strong Church Engages in Energetic Service.  Vs 3

1Thes 1:3, Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father;

  

IV. A Strong Church Has a Saved Membership.  Vs 4

1Thes 1:4, Knowing, brethren beloved, your election of God. How can one know he is truly saved?

Paul refers to the church members’ “election of God.” They were genuinely saved folks who were committed to Christ and his church at Thessalonica. They were even suffering some persecution because of their sincere witness and authenticity. These believers were chosen by God; they belonged to the Father who called them unto himself. 

This is the marvelous teaching of election, a doctrine that has confused some and confounded others. A seminary professor once said, “Try to explain election and you may lose your mind. But try to explain it away and you may lose your soul!” (Wiersbe)

In the following thoughts I want to note the simple truth that church members are saved people. No, they are not perfect; in fact, in order to be saved they had to admit their sinfulness. It is here that we witness the ministry of God in a believer’s conversion. Note three vital facts:

1.     The Fact That God Has Chosen us in Grace (Eph 1:4-6).

a.       What Election Is.

                                                               i.      That salvation begins with God, and not with man, all Christians will agree. “Ye have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you” (John 15:16 see also Matt 9:12-13). The lost sinner, left to his own ways, does not seek God (Rom 3:10-11; 1Cor. 2:14); God in His love seeks the sinner (Luke 19:10; John 6:44, 65).

                                                               ii.      Election teaches that God does choose men to salvation (2Thess. 2:13-14). It addresses believers as those who are “elect according to the foreknowledge of God” (1Pet. 1:2).  It teaches that people can know whether they are elect by their response to the gospel: those who hear and believe are elect (1Thess. 1:4-7).

                                                              iii.      The fact is the same Bible teaches election and free salvation to all who will receive it. Both doctrines are found in a single verse: “All that the Father giveth Me shall come to Me; and him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out” (John 6:37). The first half of the verse speaks of God’s sovereign choice; the last half extends the offer of mercy to all. (MacDonald)

2. What Election Is Not.

                                                               i.      On the other hand, the Bible never teaches that God chooses men to be lost.  The fact that He chooses some to be saved does not imply that He arbitrarily condemns all the rest.  He never condemns men who deserve to be saved (there are none), but He does save some who ought to be condemned.  Compare Rom. 9:23 to 9:22.  God prepares vessels of mercy to glory, but He does not prepare men for destruction: they do this for themselves by their unbelief. God simply respects their decision. (Wiersbe)

                                                              ii.      The doctrine of election lets God be God. He is sovereign, that is, He can do as He pleases, although He never pleases to do anything unjust. If left alone, all men would be lost. Does God have the right to show mercy to some?

                                                            iii.      But there is another side to the story. The same Bible that teaches sovereign election also teaches human responsibility. No one can use the doctrine of election as an excuse for not being saved. God makes a bona fide offer of salvation to all people everywhere (John 3:16; 3:36; 5:24; Rom. 10:9, 13). Anyone can be saved by repenting of his sins, and believing on the Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, if a person is lost, it is because he chooses to be lost, not because God desires it.

                                                            iv.      This poses a difficulty for the human mind. How can God choose some and yet offer salvation freely to all men? Frankly, this is a mystery. But the mystery is on our side, not on God’s. The best policy for us is to believe both doctrines because the Bible teaches both. The truth is not found somewhere between election and man’s free will, but in both extremes. W. G. Blaikie summarizes:

Divine sovereignty, human responsibility and the free and universal offer of mercy are all found in Scripture, and though we are unable to harmonize them by our logic, they all ought to have a place in our minds. –MacDonald, William: Believer's Bible Commentary

2.     The Fact That the Chosen are Changed by Grace.

a.       The Way We Were Chosen. How did God choose his people? (Eph. 1:4)

                                                             i.      Before All Creation—“before the foundation of the world.” The time of God’s election is indicated to be before He created the universe, so that our salvation is wholly of His grace and not on the basis of anything we ourselves have done.

1.       The doctrine of election teaches that we are saved only because of God’s grace and mercy; as believers we are not saved by our own merit.

2.       Election and predestination focus on God’s purpose or will (Eph. 1:5, 9, 11), not on ours. God does not save us because we deserve it but because he graciously and freely gives salvation. We did not influence God’s decision to save us; he saved us according to his plan. Thus, we may not take credit for our salvation or take pride in our wise choice (Rev. 17:8). (Wiersbe)

                                                            ii.      He chose us in Christ, not in ourselves (Eph 1:3). There is the positional aspect of the truth, in Him: it is in the Person and work of the Lord Jesus that all God’s purposes for His people are brought to pass.

b.      The Reason We Were Chosen.

                                                             i.      We have a clear purpose of holiness: to be “holy and without blame before him in love” (Eph. 1:4).

1.      In the Bible, election is always unto something. It is a privilege that carries a great responsibility. The purpose is that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love.

2.      This purpose will not be completely realized until we are with Him in heaven (1 John 3:2), but the process should be going on continually in our lives down here.

3.      Perhaps we all should pray, “Lord, make me holy now, since this is Your eventual purpose for me. Amen.”

                                                             ii.      We have a clear motive of love.  Love fits well with holiness and blamelessness, for this would denote a balance between holiness and love. God is love and believers, because of God’s electing love, should manifest love with holiness. 

                                                            iii.      We have a certain appointment to share the glory of Christ. 

1.      2Thess. 2:14, Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

2.      God called us to salvation by using the gospel as it was preached. God’s purpose in doing so was that we might one day share the splendor and honor that Jesus Christ now enjoys, seated at the right hand of the Father (2Thess. 1:10-12).

3.      For the “obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Here the apostle peers into the future and sees the ultimate outcome of salvation—to be with Christ and be like Him forever. J. N. Darby captures the thought in his beautiful hymn:

a.      And is it so—I shall be like Thy Son?

Is this the grace which He for me has won?

Father of glory, thought beyond all thought!

In glory, to His own blest likeness brought!—Believer's Bible Commentary

3.     The Fact That People Believe and are Fruitful.

a.       Paul Knew That These Believers Were Among the Elect.   But How Did He Know?

                                                               i.      He Knew Because They Received the Gospel (1Thess. 1:4).

1.      II Th 2:13-14, But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth:

2.      Eph 1:13, In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,

3.      It strengthens a church greatly when every member is truly saved and has evidence in their lives of genuine salvation. Assurance is essential to spiritual strength.

                                                             ii.      He Knew Because of Their Christian Service (1Thess 1:3).

1.      1Thes 1:3, Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father;

2.      A genuine conversion should always lead to good works! Titus 3:8, This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.

2. Is the Sinner Forced to Respond to God’s Grace Against His Will?

                                                              i.      No, we responded through an act of our choice and will (Jn. 1:11-12). Certainly, this must be in the context of God’s Spirit and the Word of God working in the heart convicting and persuading us.  But, this is not in any way irresistible grace (Matt. 23:37).

                                                             ii.      It is the sinner who must exercise faith (Isa. 45:22; John 3:15, 16; Rom. 1:16; 10:11-13; 2Pet. 3:9; 1John 2:2).

                                                            iii.      The mystery of divine sovereignty and human responsibility will never be solved in this life. Both are taught in the Bible (John 6:37). Both are true, and both are essential.

Conclusion:

Yes, this is a great model of a strong church.  We would be wise to follow their example of:

I. Serving as faithful ministers

II. Existing in the sphere and power of God

III. Engaging in energetic service

IV. Sustaining a saved membership

So, again these were truly saved folks. While they belong to the local community they had a personal faith encounter with Jesus Christ that made them a part of God’s family. Being a member of God’s family subsequently led to joining Christ’s body—the Church at Thessalonica. Only saved individuals could become members. Yes, anyone can attend a church and benefit in many ways, but membership is exclusively for those saved, and biblically baptized converts, who follow the Spirit’s leadership to unite or join the church. It is a specific commitment. If you have never made this commitment as a saved person, then you need to. I did not say all churches are the same; I did not say the church you consider must be perfect. There are no perfect churches, but trust God’s Spirit to lead you to join the church of his desire for you. He places the members in the body.

What should we look for when considering a home church? Look for a church with leaders serving as faithful ministers of Christ. Join a congregation that understands it exists in the sphere or God’s power and grace. The church’s first identification and obligation are to Christ and not the community. Choose a church that manifests the characteristics of working in faith, serving in love, and enduring because of hope in Christ. A place that makes much of Jesus Christ, proclaims the entire Bible, develops committed witnesses and disciples, emphasizes the importance of walking in the Spirit, and reaches out to its community and the world with the Gospel is worth considering. Join, learn, grow, and serve with the people of God.

In light of our calling, pursue this spiritual ideal. Recognize that we are in constant danger of being swept downstream by the currents of our ungodly culture. We are also prone to let the truths we know and the relationships we enjoy with God grow cold. We need to vigorously pursue what we have been taught from God’s Word. Refuse to succumb to the danger of slipping backward in your Christian experience because of the pressures of your trials and the daily negative influences of the world, the flesh, and the devil. Pursue this goal of becoming strong churches with a saved membership.  

Real Evidence of Salvation

1THESS. 1:3-4

Theme: The Church of the Thessalonians is a positive example because the members gave evidence of real spiritual life and salvation. As such they provide us with a wonderful model to follow.

Introduction:  

1Thes 1:3, Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father; 4, Knowing, brethren beloved, your election of God.

Why did Paul claim he knew their “election of God”? How could he confidently state he ‘knew’ someone else is actually saved? Today we commonly hear believers say, “I cannot see another person’s heart…if they profess to be saved then I am inclined to believe them.” Others have said it differently, “The only person I know for certain is saved is me.”  In contrast, Paul knew that these Thessalonians were saved! What did he know that we have perhaps overlooked?

The simple answer is Paul saw how much the Gospel of Jesus Christ had impacted their daily lives! A changed life is still a powerful argument for the reality of salvation. Just take a look at 1 Thessalonians 1:9, where Paul testifies to how significantly different their lives were in Christ saying, “For they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God” (1 Thes 1:9). 

Literally, they were not who they use to be, and they did not live the way they once did! You see, the person who claims to be one of God’s people, but whose life has not changed, is only fooling himself. Beloved, God changes every person He chooses! Paul could see the difference Jesus makes in a life. Now, I must hasten to say, that all of this does not suggest believers are perfect or sinless, but this truth asserts that God’s life in real believers will show up! In great darkness, light will be more than evident, and in corrupt cultures, integrity is certain to stand out.

So what specifically did Paul witness in the lives of these believers at Thessalonica? Actually, faith, hope, and love are the three prime qualities of the Christian life; they are real evidences of salvation. Evidence is “the available body of facts or information indicating whether a belief or proposition is true or valid.” Consider then how these three characteristics stood out among these believers.

Message:

Paul Remembers Their Work of Faith (Vs. 3)

Yes, an important evidence of real salvation is faith in action and service to Christ Jesus.

A. Their Conversion Was By Faith (Acts 17:1-4; 2Thess 2:13-14; Jn. 6:28, 29).

          1. “In this sense, faith is an act or deed. But it is not toil by which a man earns merit or in which he can boast. In fact, it is the only work that man can perform without robbing Christ of His glory as Savior and without denying his own status as a helpless sinner. Faith is a non-meritorious work by which the creature acknowledges his Creator and the sinner acknowledges his Savior.” –MacDonald, William

           2.    1Thess 1:9, mentions that they had turned to the true God from idols.

a.      Faith in Christ had produced true repentance.

b.      “Evangelical repentance consists of (1) a true sense of one’s own guilt and sinfulness; (2) an apprehension of God’s mercy in Christ; (3) an actual hatred of sin (Ps. 119:128; Job 42:5, 6; 2 Cor. 7:10) and turning from it to God; and (4) a persistent endeavour after a holy life in walking with God in the way of his commandments.” –Easton, M.G.: Easton's Bible Dictionary

c.      If the Thessalonians had continued to worship their dead idols while professing faith in the living God, it would have been proof positive that they were not among God’s people.

B.  They Also Lived and Worked By Faith.

         1.      They were performing important works produced by faith in Christ.

a.      Faith must always lead to works of service (James 2:14–26).

b.      It has been said, “We are not saved by faith plus works, but by a faith that works.”

c.      Though believers are saved through faith alone (Eph 2:9) that faith should produce good works in each of us. We work not to be saved but because we are saved.

         2.     The work is through our churches and for the kingdom of God. The character of that work will be different for every believer, but the motivation (faith) and the desire (to bring more people to saving faith) are the same.

a.      When we give to missions to start new churches, it is a work of faith.  When we share the Gospel and distribute tracts, it is a work of faith.  When we teach, preach, parent, and serve these are works of faith.  When we bring people to church it’s a work of faith.

b.      To do work produced by faith does not mean that new believers have to leave their jobs and become full-time Christian workers. Believers can work for the kingdom in almost any vocation, for as we rub shoulders with nonbelievers, we can have a positive impact for Christ. Our faith in him prompts our work for him in our present vocations.

c.      Remember, we may not see the results or the immediate fruit of all our work, but we are to continue to work in faith without becoming discouraged.

i.      Isa 55:11, So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.

ii.      Isa 46:10,  Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure:

iii.      This is a tremendous trait in a strong church!

Anyone may claim to have faith in Jesus Christ as Savior, but what about us? Are we motivated to promote his kingdom, advance God’s will, or spread Christ’s gospel?  

Paul Remembers Their Labor of Love (Vs 3)

Another viable evidence of authentic salvation is laboring motivated by godly love.

A.      Love Is an Evidence of Salvation: “the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us” (Rom. 5:5). We are “taught of God to love one another” (1 Thes. 4:9).

1.      2 Cor 5:14-15, For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: 15, And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again. (See Rom 5:8)

2.      Christ-like love presses and compels us to serve (Acts 18:5).

B.      Love Is A Motive For Service. They were motivated to serve God because they love the Lord Jesus. We serve Christ because we love Him; this is a “labor of love.” “If ye love Me, keep My commandments” (John 14:15).

1.      They performed labor prompted by love for Christ. This consisted in their serving the true and living God (v. 9) in the midst of persecution (v. 6).

2.      Heb 6:10, For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.

3.      Why is it that Missionaries say good-bye to their parents, Pastor, Church, Family and Friends and go half way around the world to reach a people that really don’t want them there?  How is it that they stay in the work for years, and decades without complaining.  Because it’s a labor of love!

C.       Love Also Motivates Believers To Work Hard.

1.      Note the contrast between work and labor. Whereas work may be pleasant and stimulating, labor often involves strenuous effort to the point of fatigue and even exhaustion.

2.      Labor is toil, or wearisome effort, generally. Labor denotes not so much the actual exertion which a man makes, but the weariness which he experiences from that exertion. Labor speaks of what Christians ought to render to the Lord as labor in the Christian ministry (John 4:38; 1Cor 3:8; 15:58; 2Cor 6:5; 10:15; 11:23, 27).

3.      Unsaved people live for themselves (Eph. 2:1–2), but as true believers we are willing to toil because of love. We have a new motive for living; we love Christ and love others (Heb. 10:24–25).

D.      Love Should Compel Us to Serve; not cheap motives for profit (money, fame, self-glory, prestige, or personal honor ect.)

1.      MISSIONARIES TO JAPAN—BRO. & SIS. FENCH (71 yrs old)

2.      MISSIONARIES TO ZIARE, AFRICA—BRO. & SIS. DEAL (72 yrs old).  No doubt these missionaries were driven by the love of Christ!

A person may claim to love Jesus Christ, but what about us? When serving in Christ’s church becomes labor—real work, do we begin to back off or conveniently shifts our priorities?

Paul Remembers Their Patience of Hope Vs 3

The final evidence of real salvation in this passage is hope that sustains patience.

A.       They Steadfastly Waited For the Lord Jesus to Return

1.      “This speaks of their steadfast waiting for Jesus. They had been undergoing persecution as a result of their valiant stand for Christ. But no cracks had appeared in what Phillips calls their “sheer dogged endurance.” –MacDonald, William

2.      The believers at Thessalonica fixed their hope solidly on the return of Jesus Christ (v. 10).  –Nelson Study Bible

B.      This Is the True Hope of Believers—the Coming of Christ in the Rapture. This is mentioned at the closing of each chapter of this book.

1.      “To wait for His Son from Heaven” (1:10)

2.      “in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming” (2:19)

3.      “at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints” (3:13)

4.      “caught up with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air” (4:17)

5.      “I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blamless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (5:23)

C.       This Hope Is The Third Evidence Of Salvation, Waiting For Jesus Christ To Return (1 Thes. 1:10).

1.      The return of Jesus Christ is the dominant theme of both of both Thessalonian letters. Unsaved people are not eagerly awaiting the Lord’s return. In fact, when our Lord catches His saints up into the air, unsaved people will be totally surprised (1 Thes. 5:1–11). Let us be watchful for our Lord’s coming in the rapture for we know not when He will return for us.

2.      Faith, hope, and love are evidences of genuine salvation. These spiritual qualities are bound together and can come only from God (1 Cor 13:13; Rom 5:1–5; Gal 5:5–6; Col 1:4–5; Heb 6:10–12; 10:22–24; 1 Pet 1:21–22).

D.      They Could Patiently Endure the Suffering and Persecution in Light of the Lord’s Return

1.      “Patience” or endurance is “a bearing up continually and cheerfully under a heavy load” (2 Thes. 1:4).

2.      Such patience is inspired by hope in Christ. Specifically waiting for God’s Son from heaven (1 Thes. 1:10). This is why Paul kept this encouraging theme before them—he knew it would help them endure the pains they were facing.

3.      The lost have no hope. Believers have endurance in life’s trials because we know Christ is coming again. We need not give up in times of trial because we know the Savior is coming to deliver us (1 Pet 1:1–9; 4:12–16).

An individual may claim to hope in Jesus Christ as the one in control of his or her life, but what about us? When faced with difficulty or disappointment, do you endure in the faith or basically turns away in frustration?

Beloved, these three fundamental virtues should mark every genuine child of God—faith, love, and hope (1 Cor. 13:13). They testify to the reality that these Thessalonian were truly saved people. Paul knew they were saved because of the changes in their lives. God’s life was demonstratively evident in these Thessalonian believers. Faith, hope, and love must result in work, labor, and patience that will motivate us throughout life—signifying that we really “got the goods” when we trusted the Savior. How are faith, hope, and love evident in you?

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.