Read I Thessalonians 1
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Thessalonians+1&version=NIV
As was often the case, Paul’s opening thanksgiving introduced themes that were prominent in the body of the letter. The triad of faith, love and hope (v. 3) occurs again toward the letter’s end (5:8) , forming a bracket for the entire letter, just like “peace.” Paul listed hope last in both places, probably for emphasis, since the Thessalonians assurance in the Christian hope was one of the primary concerns of the letter. In verse 6 Paul spoke of how the Thessalonians had “imitated” him. Serving as a model for the young Christians was an emphases Paul continues into the 2nd chapter. The Thessalonians, of course, had imitated Paul in their suffering for Christ (vv. 4-6), and Paul would return to that theme later in the letter in chapter 2 & 3. In verse 10, as Paul summarized his initial preaching to them, he concluded with a reference to Christ’s return and the coming judgment, which as we will see is the central emphasis of the entire letter.
Discussion Question
What do you think convinced Paul that the Thessalonians were indeed chosen by God?
What kind of Christian characteristics do you look for in a model?
Reflection Question
Which of the qualities that Paul mentions in verse 3 would you like to see developed in your life now?
I think Paul was convinced because they became a model for all believers in Macedonia and Achaia. He says, "in spite of severe suffering, you welcomed the message with the joy given by the Holy Spirit."
ReplyDeleteI think even today we seek models just like this. Those who not only talk about their faith but those who walk their faith as well. Those who truly serve God.
The Thessalonians became imitators of the disciples and the Lord and I think that convinced Paul that they were chosen by God. They were obviously living the same life (model) that the disciples were living and therefore, it was probably easy for Paul to see this in these people.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Jan that today we look for models who live like Christ taught us to live. These models help us to grow in our faith.
I think he was convinced because he saw the work of the Holy Spirit in the members of the Thessalonian church. I agree with the others in that I am looking for someone who is truly living their faith, those who I can see Christ shining through.
ReplyDeleteIt is more than just hear the words and speak the words of God. You have to put them into action. I think Paul new that they had heard the words, but he saw them live it and risk everything to spread the gospel for God.
ReplyDeleteI like to listen to other Pastors preach and teach. But for them to be a role model for me, they need to be living what they preach. I like to see what they do, not always what they say.
I've heard Paul referred to admiringly as "the greatest salesman in the world" and as a fellow salesperson, I completely understand his feelings toward the Thessalonians. In a lifestyle wrought with rejection and ridicule, when you find someone who "gets it" - they understand the value you bring and appreciate your help - often it is those people who keep the salesperson motivated and out working hard when everything around them says quit. These followers provided not only testimony for Paul, but also a much-needed earthly source of strength and substantiated his message.
ReplyDeleteI agree, I think Paul saw that the Thessalonian church was living life according to god. Their actions were how god wanted people to live. I look for models who live according to christ. Who treat people with respect, live the way jesus taught us. Have patience, compassion & love for others.
ReplyDeleteI think Paul attributed the zeal of the Thessalonians to the work of the Holy Spirit because they so readily adopted the Christian life and did their best to live as Christ had asked. In a model I mostly look for someone who is kind, loving and not easily offended. The fruits of the spirit are easily observable.
ReplyDelete