Appointed unto Afflictions 1 Thessalonians 3:3

Paul desired to revisit the church in Thessalonica, however he and his companions thought it best that he stay in Athens alone. Although he could not go to them, he sent “Timothy” his “beloved son in the faith” to “establish” or “confirm” them and “comfort” them “concerning” their “faith”. In chapter three and verse three of his letter, Paul continued to share why he was sending Timothy to them as he desired they not be “moved by” “afflictions” which were “appointed” unto them. We read:

That no man should be moved by these afflictions:

for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto.

The verse begins, “That no man should be moved by these afflictions:” Paul began with the phrase, “That no man” which refers to “nobody, no one and nothing” “should be moved” which literally means “to wag the dog” and metaphorically means “to flatter, fawn upon, agree, agitate, disturb or be troubled by” “by these afflictions” which means “pressures, oppression, tribulations, distresses or straits”. No doubt the Thessalonians heard of the troubles and pressures Paul and his entourage faced as they shared the gospel, and it is quite possible the Thessalonians suffered persecution themselves. Paul desired for them not to be pressured to abandon the faith because of them.

The verse goes on to say, “for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto.” Paul went on to add, “for yourselves” which refers to the Thessalonians “know that we” which means “Paul, his companions and the Thessalonian church members “ “are appointed thereunto” which literally means “to be laid, set, put or made to be” and metaphorically means “to be set by God's intent, destiny and make up towards, unto and among”. In other words, God knew these “afflictions” were going to be laid upon those who are believers in Jesus Christ, and Paul, his companions and the Thessalonians were not exempt from their trouble.

While we meditate upon these words of Paul, we may at first wonder why God would allow“appointed” “afflictions” to come upon His believers. We must remember these “pressures, oppressions, tribulations and distresses” come from this world and those who are unbelievers within it. Jesus said in the gospel of John in chapter sixteen and verse thirty three, “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me you might have peace. In the world you shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world”. We may have confidence in the fact that although we will face “afflictions”, Jesus has overcome them. Let us learn to trust in, rely upon and cling to Jesus Christ when the greatest “afflictions” come, and may we realize they are never to “move us” from our faith and trust in Him.

Next time Paul tells the Thessalonians how they were going to “suffer tribulation” , so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

 

Timothy Sent 1 Thessalonians 3:2

Paul the apostle cared deeply for the Thessalonian church members, and he desired to visit with them again. They were his “hope, joy, crown of rejoicing, glory and joy”, and although he and his traveling partners wanted to see them, they decided it best for Paul to stay in Athens alone. In chapter three and verse two of his letter, Paul shares how he sent “Timotheus” or “Timothy” to them and why where we read:

And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellow-laborer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith:

The verse begins, “And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellow-laborer in the gospel of Christ,..” Paul began with the phrase, “And sent Timotheus” or “Timothy” whose name means “honoring God” and was “a resident of Lystra, apparently, whose father was a Greek and mother a Jewess. He was Paul's traveling companion and fellow laborer”. Paul considered “Timothy” his “son in the faith” and “dearly beloved son”. Paul went on to add a description of Timothy as he wrote, “our brother” which means “a fellow believer which is united to another by the bond of affection” “and minister of God” or “one who executes the commands of another, especially of a master, a servant and attendant of the Godhead or trinity which is comprised of God the Father, Christ the Son and the Holy Spirit” “and our fellow-laborer” which means “companion in work and labor” “in the gospel” or “good tidings or news of the kingdom of God soon to be set up, and subsequently also of Jesus the Messiah, the founder of this kingdom” “of Christ” which means “the anointed One and Messiah”. Paul had great confidence that although he could not visit with the Thessalonians, sending Timothy who was not only a beloved brother and fellow-laborer in Christ, would be just as beneficial to them.

The verse goes on to say, “to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith:” Paul continued by giving the reasons he sent “Timothy” to the Thessalonians, “to establish you” or “to make them stable, set fast, fixed, strengthen, made firm and rendered constant” “and to comfort you” which means “called to one's side such as addressing, speaking to and calling upon them in the way of exhortation, entreaty and instruction” “concerning your faith” or “about, on account of, because of, around and near your conviction of the truth that God exists and is the creator and ruler of all things, the provider and bestower of eternal salvation through Christ”. Timothy was not sent to the Thessalonians just to visit, but to be useful in encouraging, exhorting and comforting them in areas of their belief in Jesus Christ.

As we think through these words of Paul, we cannot help but notice the confidence he had in Timothy, and his extensive care for the Thessalonian church members. Not only was he going to send Timothy to meet with them, but he had a specific mission in mind for Timothy as he went. It is important that we are “established and comforted concerning our faith”. This is one of the primary roles of the pastors and leaders within churches, and those who hold these positions would benefit from observing the example of Paul and Timothy. We too may be used to help others in the gospel of Jesus Christ, and as the Lord Jesus provides opportunities for us to be His “ministers”, may He empower us to care for others in the same manner as He did for the Thessalonians.

Next time Paul continues to share why he sent Timothy to the Thessalonians, “so no man should be moved by these afflictions” , so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

At Athens Alone 1 Thessalonians 3:1

Although “Satan hindered” Paul and his companions from visiting the church members in Thessalonica, he still considered them his “hope, joy, crown of rejoicing, glory and joy”, and as we begin chapter three of his letter to the Thessalonians, Paul shared about being “at Athens alone” where we read:

Wherefore when we could no longer forbear, we thought it good to be left at Athens alone;

The verse begins, “Wherefore when we could no longer forbear,...” Paul began with the word, “Wherefore” which is a conclusion word that means “on account of, through which thing, consequently and for which cause” “when we could no longer forbear” which is “stegō mēketi stegō” and means “they could no longer hold out against, endure, or contain themselves”. Because Paul and his companions valued the Thessalonians so much, they could no longer contain themselves for visiting them in some manner. Oh to God that we have such compassion toward others.

The verse goes on to say, “...we thought it good to be left at Athens alone;” Paul continued with “we thought it good” which means “it seemed of good pleasure, willingly and favorably inclined towards” “to be left” or “abandoned, left behind and to leave remaining” “at Athens” which means “uncertainty and was a famous city in Greece, the capital of Attica, and the chief seat of learning and civilization during the golden period of the history of Greece” “alone” which means “forsaken, destitute of help, only and merely”. Rather than sending no one to visit, Paul and his companions decided to leave Paul in Rome and send one of them to see the Thessalonian church members.

While we meditate upon this verse, the most striking aspect is Paul's deep level of care for the Thessalonian church members. No wonder his assessment of them was so profound, and his desire to see them was so great. Though he himself desired to visit, he sacrificed his opportunity to allow someone else to go. This depth of love for others can only be instilled by our Lord Jesus, and when we think about how passionately Paul was driven against Christians in the past, we marvel at his drive toward them now. Perhaps our prayer should be for the Lord Jesus to put within us a love and concern for others as He did Paul, and when that love is installed, may we be able to express ourselves towards those whom He places in our paths even if we have to sacrifice being “alone” to do so.

Next time Paul writes about how he sent Timothy to the Thessalonians, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Our Glory and Joy 1 Thessalonians 2:20

Paul the apostle and his companions care deeply for the Thessalonians, and the “hope, joy and crown of rejoicing” was for the Thessalonian church member to be “n the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming”. In chapter two and verse twenty of his letter to the Thessalonians, Paul continued his passionate description of what they meant to him as he tells them they are their “glory and joy” where we read:

For you are our glory and joy.

Paul began this verse with the words, “For” which means “because, even, indeed and no doubt” “you are our glory” which refers to the Thessalonians and means “splendor, brightness, magnificence, excellence, preeminence, dignity grace, majesty and good opinion resulting in praise and honor” “and joy” or “gladness, calm delight and cheerfulness”. When Paul thought about the Thessalonian church members, he considered them in excellence, gladness, cheerfulness and delight.

As we meditate upon Paul's words, we should be inspired by his admiration of this group of people. The Thessalonians were like a grand prize for Paul and his men, and just the thought of them brought praise and honor to them. We might wonder why they had such an impact upon him, and discover those who are followers of Jesus Christ because of our inspiration become “our glory and joy”. There are few delights in life that compare to when the Lord Jesus has allowed us to be instrumental in others' lives pertaining to their relationship with Him. May Paul's description of the Thessalonians not only invigorate us to lead others to Jesus, but also give us a comparable admiration he had for those he influenced.

Next time we begin a new chapter and watch Paul writes about staying “in Athens alone”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Our Hope, Joy or Crown of Rejoicing 1 Thessalonians 2:19

Although Paul and his companions desired to visit with the Thessalonians once again, “Satan hindered” them from doing so. Their compassion and care for the church members in Thessalonica filled them with desire for the people who worshipped there. In chapter two and verse nineteen of his letter, Paul shared how the Thessalonicans were his “hope, joy” and “crown of rejoicing” where we read:

For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing?

Are not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?

The verse begins, “For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing?” Paul began with a question, “For what is our hope” or “because, indeed, even what is their expectation and confidence of good” “or joy” which means “gladness, cheerfulness and calm delight” “or our crown” or “mark of royal or exalted rank which is given as a prize to victors in public games and an ornament of honor” “of rejoicing” which means “act of boasting and glorying”. Paul the apostle often used references to “games” when he shared concerning the Christian walk. In this case Paul saw the Thessalonians as his means of hope, joy and rejoicing like unto those within Olympic competitions.

The verse goes on to say, “Are not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?” Paul asked another question which begins, “Are not you in the presence” or “in front of, before and in the sight of” “of our Lord” which means “he to whom a person or thing belongs, about which he has power of deciding; master and the title given to God, the Messiah” “Jesus” which means “Jehovah is Salvation” and refers to “the Son of God, the Savior of mankind and God incarnate” “Christ” or “anointed one, the Messiah and Son of God” “at his coming” which refers to “arrival, advent and future visible return from heaven of Jesus, to raise the dead, hold the last judgment and set up formally and gloriously the kingdom of God”. Paul and his companions' ultimate reward would be the attendance of the Thessalonians before the throne of God when Jesus returns to the Earth to rule and reign in righteousness and peace.

When we think through Paul's words, we can imagine him thinking about the Olympic games and the competition that ensues. Paul's desire was to see the Thessalonians as victors and winners before the throne of God, and he desired they would participate in the celebration that will commence when Jesus rules and reigns on the earth. How passionate are we about others being before the throne of God? Do we know people we desire to be in the “presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?” Do we care for people in such a manner that we desire for them to be “victors”? Perhaps our prayer should be to have the Lord Jesus instill in us the same passion that Paul had for the Thessalonians, and when the power of His Holy Spirit comes upon us, may we be His “witnesses” in this world concerning the “hope, joy and crown of rejoicing” that may be obtained.

Next time Paul writes about the Thessalonians being his “glory and joy”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Satan Hindered Us 1 Thessalonians 2:18

Although Paul and his companions were “taken from” the Thessalonians “for a short time in presence, not in heart”, they still “endeavored the more abundantly to see” their “face with great desire”. In chapter two and verse eighteen of his letter to the Thessalonians, Paul shared more about coming to them and shared how “Satan hindered” them in the process. We read:

Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us.

The verse begins, “Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again;” Paul began with the word, “Wherefore” which means “on account of, through which, consequently, therefore and for which cause”, and it is used as a conclusion word before the phrase “we would have come” or “Paul and his companions willed, had in mind, intended, resolved, determined and purposed” “unto who” which refers to the Thessalonians, “even I Paul” which means “truly and for certain Paul whose name means small or little” “once and again” which is the Greek phrase “kai hapax kai dis” which means “indeed, also and even twice”. Paul's desire was to see the Thessalonians, and if it were possible, he would have done so two times.

The verse goes on to say, “but Satan hindered us.” Paul added, “but” which is a disassociation conjunction that means what is about to be stated takes precedence over what was just said, “Satan” who is “the adversary and name given to the prince of evil spirits and the inveterate adversary of God and Christ” “hindered us” which means “to cut into, impeded, cut off” Paul and his men. Though Paul's purpose and drive was to see the Thessalonians, “Satan” prevented them from doing so.

When we meditate upon Paul's words, it is interesting to note the effect that “Satan” had upon Paul and his men as they desired to see the Thessalonians again. Though it was Paul's passion to make face to face contact with the church of Thessalonica, he was “hindered” from doing so. This brings us to think about our own desires. Are our Godly passions being prevented by “Satan” who wishes to keep us from accomplishing our pursuits? Are their people we would like to visit, minister to, help and gather with that seem to always have something blocking our seeing them? Perhaps we, like Paul, should realize from where this hindering comes and commit our ways unto the Lord Jesus that He may thwart any attempt by Satan to keep us from what He has put on our hearts. May the Lord Jesus help us to discern when our battles are “spiritual” and from wicked “Satan” and not just physical impediments.

Next time Paul writes about the Thessalonians being his “hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

To See Your Face 1 Thessalonians 2:17

The Thessalonians had received the word of God as though it was from God Himself rather than men, and they became followers of the churches in Judaea even though the Jews located there had “killed the Lord Jesus, and their own prophets, and have persecuted” Paul and his companions. Paul declared them to be so harsh, they forbad them “to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved” and the result was “to fill up their sins alway”. Paul assessed, “for the wrath is come upon them to the uttermost”, and in chapter two and verse seventeen, Paul shifted his thoughts to the idea of wanting to “see” the Thessalonians' “face” where we read:

But we, brethren, being taken from you for a short time in presence, not in heart,

endeavored the more abundantly to see your face with great desire.

The verse begins, “But we, brethren, being taken from you for a short time in presence, not in heart,...” Paul began with the words, “But we” which is a disassociation conjunction that means “what is about to be stated takes precedence over what was just written” and refers to Paul and his companions, “brethren” which means “fellow believers which are united to another by the bond of affection” “being taken from you” or “bereaved or separated as of a parent or parents” “for a short time” which means “for a certain and definite time or season fixed by natural law and returning with the revolving year and due measure such as the seasons of spring, summer, autumn and winter” “in presence” or “with the physical face, countenance and look” “not in heart” which means “the soul or mind, as it is the fountain and seat of the thoughts, passions, desires, appetites, affections, purposes and endeavors”. Though Paul and his men were physically away from the Thessalonians, in spirit they were with them all the time.

The verse continues, “...endeavored the more abundantly to see your face with great desire.” Paul added, “endeavored” which means “to hasten or make haste and give diligence to” “the more abundantly” or “in greater degree, more earnestly and more exceedingly” “to see your face” which means “perceive with the eyes, notice, discern and discover them in person” and refers to the Thessalonians “with great desire” or “with much craving, longing and concupiscence”. Paul desired once again to see the Thessalonians and was purposed to do everything he could to fulfill that passion.

When we think through these words of Paul, we cannot help but notice Paul's deep care and concern for the church in Thessalonica. The people there were so valuable to him that he craved and longed to see them once again. This is interesting to think about when we relate it to his former life when he was “breathing out threatenings and slaughters” against the church. Only the Lord Jesus can put this kind of love in a person, and it is enjoyed after receiving Jesus as Lord and Savior as well as being filled with the Holy Spirit. Paul and the men who were with him demonstrated this Godlike kind of love toward the Thessalonians, and perhaps our prayer should be to love others as Paul loved these church members, and should we find ourselves coming up short in putting value upon seeing them, may the Lord fill us with His love that we may love others as He loved us.

Next time Paul writes concerning “Satan” hindering he and his team, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Forbidding to Speak to the Gentiles 1 Thessalonians 2:16

In order to identify with the Thessalonians, Paul the apostle reminded them of how they received the word of God as coming from God Himself and not just men, were followers of the churches of God in Judaea, and could identify with persecution as he referenced the Jews who “killed the Lord Jesus, and their own prophets, and have persecuted” Paul and his companions. The Jews behavior wasn't pleasing to God and was “contrary to all men”. In chapter two and verse sixteen of his letter to the Thessalonians, Paul shares how he and his companions were “forbidden” “to speak to the Gentiles” where we read:

Forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved,

to fill up their sins alway: for the wrath is come upon them to the uttermost.

The verse begins, “Forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved,...” Paul began with the word, “Forbidding” which means “hindering, withholding, denying and refusing” “us to speak” or “utter a voice or emit a sound, articulate, talk and tell” “to the Gentiles” who were “tribes, nations, people groups who were foreign to worshipping the true God and pagans” “that they might be saved” which means “kept safe and sound, rescued from danger, injury, peril and perishing”. The people who opposed Paul and his companions persecuted them to such a degree they would not let them evangelize or share the gospel with the “Gentiles” or “pagans” so they might be saved.

The verse goes on to say, “to fill up their sins alway: for the wrath is come upon them to the uttermost.” Paul went on to add, “to fill up” which means “make full and supply” “their sins always” or “errors, wrongs, offenses and violations against the divine law in thought or act at all times and forever” “for the wrath” which means “anger, temper, movement or agitation of the soul, violent emotion with indignation in the form of punishment” “is come” or “reached, attained and arrived at” “upon them to the uttermost” or “on them to the eternal end, termination, last in succession or series, finish, close, purpose and aim”. Paul knew the destiny of those who were not saved by the gospel of Jesus Christ was to be eternally doomed and punished, and he and his companions desire was to reach as many people possible with the “good news” of salvation.

When we think through Paul's words, we might be amazed that anyone would prevent others from hearing the gospel of Jesus Christ. There are people in the world today who would stop all sharing of Jesus if they had the ability to do so. These are agents of Satan who prevent people from sharing salvation through Jesus Christ which is available to everyone. These agents, of whom Paul writes, were to pay a price for their obstruction to the gospel, and their punishment was to be “to the uttermost” or eternal. Let us be certain we are not resistant to others hearing the “gospel of Jesus Christ”, and may we constantly be aware, there are “Gentiles” or “pagans” who need to be told about the glorious grace and salvation that is available through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Next time Paul writes concerning those who forbad Paul and his companions wanted to “see” the Thessalonians' face with great desire”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Killed Jesus, Their Prophets and Persecuted 1 Thessalonians 2:15

Paul told the Thessalonians they received the “word of God” as though it was from God Himself and not just from men, and he encouraged them by mentioning the way they “became followers of the churches of God which in Judaea are in Christ Jesus”. They also had “suffered like things of” their “own countrymen, even as they have of the Jews”, and in chapter two and verse fifteen of his letter, Paul gave examples of the way the Jews “killed Jesus, their own prophets and have persecuted” them:

Who both killed the Lord Jesus, and their own prophets, and have persecuted us;

and they please not God, and are contrary to all men:

The verse begins, “Who both killed the Lord Jesus, and their own prophets, and have persecuted us;” Paul began with the words, “Who both killed” which refers to the Jews who “destroyed, extinguished, abolished and inflicted mortal death against” “the Lord Jesus” who is “he to whom a person or thing belongs, about which he has power of deciding; the master” whose name means “Jehovah is Salvation and is the Messiah” “and their own prophets” or “ones who, moved by the Spirit of God and hence their organ or spokesman, solemnly declare to men what they have received by inspiration, especially concerning future events, and in particular such as relate to the cause and kingdom of God and to human salvation” “and have persecuted” or “driven out, banished, pursued, and oppressed with calamities” “us” which refers to Paul and his companions. In order to relate to the hardship which the Thessalonians endured, Paul used personal persecution and the Jews killing Jesus and their prophets to demonstrate his depth of understanding.

The verse goes on to say, “ and they please not God, and are contrary to all men:” Paul went on to add, “and they please” or “are agreeable with or accommodate one's self to the opinions, desires and interests of others” “not God” which refers to “the Godhead bodily and trinity comprised of God the Father, Christ the Son and the Holy Spirit” “and are contrary” which means “over against, opposite, as an adversary, hostile and antagonistic in feeling or act” “to all men” or “to each, every, and everyone who are human beings whether male or female”. The actions of these who killed Jesus and their prophets as well as persecuted Paul and his comrades did not “please” God, and they were in such a state they were opposed to every person who lived.

When we think about Paul's words, we know for certain we do not want to be a part of this group. So many times people believe they are in the right direction and are actually “opposed” not only to people, but also to God Himself. We must seek to “please” the Lord in all our ways, and if we are opposed to ways different than ours, let us be certain we align with God's ways. These of whom Paul writes believed themselves to be “right” by killing Jesus and the prophets of old as well as persecuting Paul and his men, yet, they were not so. Let us bow our hearts and minds before the Lord Jesus and ask Him to reveal to us any way in which we do not “please” Him and are contrary to people just for adversity's sake.

Next time Paul writes concerning those who forbad Paul and his companions “to speak to the Gentiles”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Follower of the Churches 1 Thessalonians 2:14

Paul the apostle thanked God without ceasing because the Thessalonians received the word of God as being shared from God Himself rather than men, and in chapter two and verse fourteen of his letter, Paul goes on to share how they “became followers of the churches of God” which were in “Judaea” where we read:

For you, brethren, became followers of the churches of God which in Judaea are in Christ Jesus: for you also have suffered like things of your own countrymen, even as they have of the Jews:

The verse begins, “For you, brethren, became followers of the churches of God which in Judaea are in Christ Jesus:” Paul began with the words, “For you” which refers to the Thessalonians” “brethren” or “fellow believers united to each other in the bond of affection” “became followers” which means “came into existence to be imitators” “of the churches of God” or “gathering of citizens called out from their homes into some public place as an assembly of the Godhead bodily or trinity comprised of God the Father, Christ the Son and the Holy Spirit” “which in Judaea” which means “he shall be praised” and refers to “the southern portion of Palestine lying on this side of the Jordan and the Dead Sea which distinguishes it from Samaria, Galilee, Peraea, and Idumaea” “are in Christ” which refers to “the anointed One, Messiah and Son of God” “Jesus” whose name means “Jehovah is Salvation” and is “the Son of God, Savior of mankind and God incarnate”. Not only did the Thessalonians receive the word of God as though it was from God Himself, but they also became imitators of the churches which were established within the Judaean cities.

The verse goes on to say, “for you also have suffered like things of your own countrymen, even as they have of the Jews:” Paul went on to say, “for you also” which refers to “the Thessalonian church members” “have suffered” or “been affected by, felt, had a sensible experience in” “like things” or “similar and same happenings” “of your own countrymen” which means “by or under their people and tribes” “even as they” which refers to “the church members in Judaea” “have of the Jews” which refers to “those who belong to the Jewish nation as respect to birth, origin and religion”. In a similar fashion to those who “suffered” from their own people as a church of Jesus Christ in Judaea, the Thessalonian church members “suffered” from their people as well.

When we think through these words of Paul, we realize that people within the churches paid a price for their belief and trust in Jesus Christ. Just because a person believed in Jesus did not exempt them from alienation or persecution from their fellow countrymen. Church members within Judaea suffered, and those within Thessalonica did as well. Sometimes people suffer greatly for their commitment to Jesus Christ, and many have died for their beliefs. While we meditate upon this idea, let us examine our own lives and determine if we live in such a way that persecution is the result of our belief, and if it is, let the Lord Jesus remind us we are in good company with Him when we suffer like for these things.

Next time Paul writes concerning those who “killed Jesus and their own prophets”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Thanking God without Ceasing 1 Thessalonians 2:13

Paul and his companions labored among the Thessalonians to support themselves as an example of how much they cared for them. They desired that the Thessalonians “would walk worthy of God, who has called” them “unto his kingdom and glory”, and in chapter two and verse thirteen of his letter to them, Paul tells the Thessalonians he thanks “God without ceasing” for the way they heard the word of God. We read:

For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when you received the word of God which you heard of us, you received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually works also in you that believe.

The verse begins, “For this cause also thank we God without ceasing,...” Paul began with the words, “For this” which means “the one present here” “cause” or “channel of an act and account or reason something is done” “also thank we God” or “even and indeed are grateful and thankful to the Godhead bodily and trinity consisting of God the Father, Christ the Son and the Holy Spirit” “without ceasing” which means “without intermission or omission, incessantly and uninterruptedly”. In other words, Paul and his companions were constantly thanking God for that which he is about to share.

The verse goes on to say, “...because, when you received the word of God which you heard of us, you received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God,...” Paul went on to give the reason he thanked “God without ceasing” as he wrote, “because” which means “since and on account of” “when you received” or “took, joined, associated and accepted” “the word of God” which is “the speech and utterance which embodies a conception, idea doctrine or teaching” “which you heard of us” or “took audience to, received and heard from Paul and his team” “you received” which means “to take with the hand, hold, take up, sustain, bear, endure and get” “it not as the word of men” or “speech or utterance of human beings” “but as it is in truth” which means “or in reality, most certainly and indeed” “the word of God” or “speech and utterance of God the Father, Christ the Son and the Holy Spirit”. Paul and the men with him shared the “good news” of Jesus Christ with the Thessalonians in such a way they received their words as though it was coming straight from God Himself.

Finally the verse says, “...which effectually works also in you that believe.” Paul completed this thought with the words, “which effectually works” or “is operative, at work and putting forth power which displays one's activities” “also in you that believe” or “in the ones who think, are persuaded of, give credit to and place confidence in the fact that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true, reliable and worthy of trust”. The effect of Paul and his companions sharing the gospel with the Thessalonians was that it was operative and at work in those who believed it.

When we think about Paul's words, we should ask ourselves whether people hear us or the Heavenly Father when we speak. Do we share in such a way that it glorifies God rather than us when we tell others about Jesus? Paul and his men loved the people of Thessalonica and prayed incessantly for them, and their care for the Thessalonians was demonstrated by their passionate sharing of the “good news” of Jesus. Perhaps our lesson should be applied in such a way that others will know they have met with God when we speak, and rather than boosting our own glory, let us be as Paul who shared the gospel of Jesus Christ in a manner that others responded by giving all the glory to God where it is deserved. Then, let us pray without ceasing for the ones who have heard our words and received them as though they were from the Lord.

Next time Paul writes concerning the Thessalonians being “followers of the churches of God”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Walking Worthy of God 1 Thessalonians 2:12

Paul the apostle reminded the Thessalonians how he and his companions labored among them both night and day to not be burdensome to them. They also lived “holy, just and unblameable” among them and “exhorted, comforted and charged every one of” them “as a father does his children” to demonstrate their love for the Thessalonians. In chapter two and verse twelve, Paul told the Thessalonians why they behaved this way as he desired for them to “walk worthy of God”. We read:

That you would walk worthy of God, who has called you unto his kingdom and glory.

The verse begins, “That you would walk worthy of God,...” Paul began with the statement, “That you would walk” which means “to make one's way, progress and make due of opportunities” “worthy” or “suitably, appropriately and after a Godly sort” “of God” which refers to “the Godhead bodily and trinity which is comprised of God the Father, Christ the Son and the Holy Spirit”. Paul and his companions lived in a “holy, just and unblameable” manner as they “exhorted, comforted and charged” the Thessalonians because they desired for them to “make progress” and “make use of their opportunities” to grow in their relationship with God.

The verse goes on to say, “...who has called you unto his kingdom and glory.” Paul went on to add, “who has called you” which means “invited and bid you” “unto his kingdom” or “royal power, kingship, dominion and rule” “and glory” which is the Greek word “doxa” and means “opinion, judgment, view, estimate, splendor, brightness, magnificence, preeminence, dignity and grace”. Paul desired for the Thessalonians to know God Almighty as He invited them to be a part of his “splendor, magnificence, glory and grace”.

When we think through Paul's words, we should be amazed that God desires anyone to be invited “unto his kingdom and glory”. Our unworthiness is a given, and still the Heavenly Father desires that we participate in His magnificence. Oh the glory and grace that is afforded to the Christian who “trusts in, relies upon and clings to” Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord! Oh that we might all “walk worthy” of His greatness, and when we fall short, may the grace of God abound in our lives so we may enjoy the glory of God He desires for us!

Next time Paul writes concerning the Thessalonians receiving the “word of God” “not as the word of men, but as it is in truth” so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.