Day 336

Christian Standards

1 Thessalonians Introduction

Prosperous, prominent, and thoroughly pagan, the seaport city of Thessalonica first heard the gospel on Paul's second missionary journey. A dynamic fellowship developed there, becoming a continual joy to Paul. He writes 1 Thessalonians to encourage them. They were being persecuted; he urges them to persevere. They have heard slander about Paul; he refutes it. Their city is full of sensual temptation; he exhorts them to hold to Christian standards. Finally, he corrects some misunderstandings about the return of Christ.

Scripture

December 1—1 Thessalonians 1-5: Comfort from Christ's Return

Observation

Thessalonica—the second gospel beachhead on the continent of Europe—was the scene of a short but significant ministry by the great missionary trio of Paul, Silas and Timothy. (Read about it in Acts 17.) The Five short chapters of this potent epistle show Paul's criteria for a fruitful ministry, his motives for laboring among the Thessalonians, and a revealing look at the coming of the Lord. The book ends with perhaps the most challenging list of exhortations in the New Testament!

Application

Only two groups of people will fall for flattery—men and women. While flattery might be defined as "the art of telling a person exactly what he thinks of himself," commendation is "the art of telling a person exactly what God thinks of him."

In the first chapter of Paul's epistle to the Thessalonians, he mentions at least ten commendable activities and attitudes in their assembly—ten reasons for Paul to give glory to God and for God to declare, "Well done, good and faithful servants." Read through the chapter carefully and see how many you can discover (1-3, not very flattering, 4-6, commendable effort; 7-9, honorable mention; 10 or more, medal of honor!). Then write down the name of one person with whom you can share a sincere word of appreciation and commendation. Don't look too far from home! Perhaps your spouse, parent, or child is most in need of a heartfelt "You're special to me!"

Prayer

Dear God, we realize that much of the successes in our life depend on our prayers to you and meditating on your Word. Your Word is a record of prayer—of praying people and their achievements. We reverence your Holy name that is closely related to our high regard for your Word. This hallowing of your name, the ability to do your will on earth as it is done in heaven, and the establishment and glory of your Kingdom are the aim of our prayers. Let the Word of Christ dwell in us so richly as we pray and thank you for the gift of prayer. In Jesus' precious name we pray! Amen! 

© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020