1 Thessalonians 3:1-5

1 Thessalonians 3:1-5

Therefore, while enduring no longer we determined it better to be left alone in Athens.  We send Timothy, our brother and fellow worker of God in the Gospel of Christ, in order to strengthen and encourage you all for the sake of your faithfulness in order that no one would be shaken in these afflictions.  For you all yourselves have known that we all were established in this.  For when we were also with you all we were saying to you all in advance that we were about to be afflicted – just as it happened and you all have known.  Because of this, while enduring no longer I also sent in order to know your faithfulness lest the one who tempts tempted you all and our labor should become into a lack of results.

Thoughts for Today

First Thought:

As we progress in this chapter we hear Paul begin to explain more about his circumstances.  When he and his associates could stand it no longer, they determined to send Timothy to Thessalonica.  Paul wanted to go himself.  He wanted to bring his ministry team.  But Satan was hindering him.  Therefore, Paul works around the efforts of Satan.  Paul doesn’t give up, he goes to plan B.  That’s a great mentality to have in ministry.  So often our plans don’t go off as we really desire them.  However, just because things don’t go exactly as planned doesn’t mean that ministry can’t be done.  Paul is flexible, refusing to let Satan win.

Are you willing to let the enemy win?  Do you give up easily or do you continue to strive towards the ultimate goal?

Second Thought:

Notice the mission upon which Timothy was sent.  Yes, he was sent to collect information for Paul and be his representative.  But more importantly, Timothy was sent to encourage the Thessalonians and exhort them.  Timothy was sent to lift them up in the face of their persecution.  Paul was concerned about the Thessalonians and their well-being.  Here we again see compassion from Paul.

When have you ever been concerned for someone else?  What circumstances in life brings about feelings of empathy, compassion, and concern?

Third Thought:

 Again we hear Paul talk about persecution.  We know that everywhere that Paul went persecution was sure to follow him.  People were threatened by his message.  People were challenged by his message.  Leaders didn’t like that Paul taught people to think for themselves and to depend upon God.  But if Paul and his associates were persecuted, it makes sense that those who live as Paul lived would find the same kind of persecution.  It just makes sense.  Jesus was persecuted and killed.  Jesus’ disciples were persecuted and killed.  Paul was persecuted and perhaps killed for his faith.  Why wouldn’t those who follow in those footsteps know persecution as well?  Paul is concerned that these fledgling believers would crumble under persecution that he knew would come.

Has persecution come to your door because of your faith?  How do you respond in these situations?

Passage for Tomorrow: 1 Thessalonians 3:6-10