Introduction:
The importance of faith in a Christian’s life can never be
overestimated; for without it, it is impossible to please God,
(Hebrews 11:6). In our text, Paul shows his great concern for the
faith of these new Christians in Thessalonica.
Text: I Thessalonians 3:1-8
Body:
I. Encourage One Another’s Faith (Verses 1-2)
Brief background: Paul and Silas began the second missionary
journey alone, but Timothy and Luke soon joined them. All four
entered Philippi in Macedonia, but apparently Timothy and Luke
remained there. Paul and Silas traveled on to Thessalonica and then
to Berea. It appears that Timothy joined them at Berea and he and
Silas remained there while Paul traveled on to Athens alone. Upon
arriving, he sent word back to Berea for Silas and Timothy to join
him as soon as possible. As soon as they arrived, Timothy was sent
back to Thessalonica because Paul was very concerned about these
young Christians. Silas, on the other hand, was sent back to
Philippi and brought monetary help with him. Then Silas, Paul and
Timothy met later at Corinth. Acts 17:14-15
Paul was troubled at having to leave Thessalonica so quickly. The
brethren there needed encouraging and strengthening, especially
considering the persecution from the Jews. He was very concerned
about whether they would stand the test. Paul sent Timothy, a
minister of God. This means a fellow-worker; an associate in the
work. He was working for God! Paul was concerned for their
salvation. Note: Are we truly working for God and concerned for
other’s salvation? These Thessalonian Christians were still babes
in Christ. I Peter 2:2 Many had come out of idolatry and pagan
religion.
“Establish”: to make stable, place firmly, fix
“Encourage”: comfort and exhort
Timothy’s teaching would build them up in knowledge, courage and
in faith. This is similar to Jude 20. We should have as a goal in
our lives to help others, especially new Christians, increase in
their faith.
II. Remember Faith Can Falter (Verses 3-5)
Paul reminded them that it is our lot as Christians to experience
persecution. I Peter 4:12-14 ‘Do not be disturbed’ by these
afflictions. They may be used for good. James 1:2-4 Christians
from an early age need to be taught that persecution will come their
way. Life is not a bed of roses. Sacrifices will have to be
made. Romans 12:1 We also need to hear the words of Christ. John
15:18-20
Satan, the tempter, would use every possible means to undermine
their faith. I Peter 5:8-9 Use the ‘Word of God’ on him just as
Jesus did when He was tempted. Paul’s ‘labor might be in vain’. It
was his concern they would fall and be lost. His work, on their
behalf, would have been in vain. I Corinthians 3:10-15
III. Stand Fast in the Faith (Verses 6-8)
Timothy returned from the church in Thessalonica with good news.
Their faith was steadfast and their love was strong. They had not
given in to temptations and persecution. They were as concerned for
Paul and Silas as Paul and Silas were for the Thessalonians. Paul
was enduring many afflictions and this report was a great comfort to
him. Hearing about other Christians’ faithfulness is a great
encouragement to us. Hebrews 12:1-2
Paul’s joy over the Christians’ faithfulness is quite
apparent. It is possible for a child of God to be faithful. I
Corinthians 10:13
“in the Lord” = in the faith No one can stand firm in the Lord
without being in the Lord and obeying His teachings. They must be
of like faith.
Invitation:
How does one “get into the Lord?” Their faith leads them to
repent and confess and then baptism places them into Christ.
Galatians 3:27
Are you, as a child of God, remaining faithful?
Bobby Stafford
May 22, 2011
