Thessalonians 2:1-12 Paul’s Character and Preaching in Thessalonica

Having delivered a standard greeting to his audience in Thessalonica Paul now shifts focus on his own ministry, more importantly he writes about the way the gospel itself was delivered as well as the character of its preacher, Paul himself.

At the time he wrote this letter the apostle was in Corinth, around A.D. 52 shortly after his trip through the southern Roman region, now known as Greece.

1 For you yourselves know, brethren, that our coming to you was not in vain. 2 But even after we had suffered before and were spitefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we were bold in our God to speak to you the gospel of God in much conflict.” (1 Thessalonians 2:1-2)

Paul had recently been beaten in Philippi on his first missionary journey through modern day Europe. It was in spite of this he carried on his mission onto Thessalonica where he preached the same bold gospel, which continued to reap a harvest within the growing Thessalonian church.

3 For our exhortation did not come from error or uncleanness, nor was it in deceit. 4 But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts.” (1 Thessalonians 2:3-4)

Paul describes his message as clean and true, like the only one true God. The gospel which the apostle preached was inspired by the law of Jesus, the law of love He poured out on the cross. The gospel preached by Paul and his fellow laborers led to salvation, and had eternal consequences.

5 For neither at any time did we use flattering words, as you know, nor a cloak for covetousness—God is witness. 6 Nor did we seek glory from men, either from you or from others, when we might have made demands as apostles of Christ.” (1 Thessalonians 2:5-6)

The apostle denies using pleasing words in his preaching while among the Thessalonians, which he calls on God for judgment since no man could know Paul’s motive but himself and his divine creator.

The teaching exuded by the apostle and fellow ministers of the gospel was to serve as a testimony, so should the fact the group of missionaries paid their own way through town instead of relying on the church to afford their financial responsibility toward Paul.

7 But we were gentle among you, just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children. 8 So, affectionately longing for you, we were well pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us.” (1 Thessalonians 2:7-8)

Paul compares his teaching of the gospel as gentle and caring as a nursing mother, and also shares his own pleasure found within the Thessalonians’ hearts. Unlike his first painful stop along this journey, Paul received more affection in thessalonica then Philippi. Paul showed favor for people who didn’t beat and chase him out of town, he was human after all!

9 For you remember, brethren, our labor and toil; for laboring night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, we preached to you the gospel of God. 10 You are witnesses, and God also, how devoutly and justly and blamelessly we behaved ourselves among you who believe; 11 as you know how we exhorted, and comforted, and charged every one of you, as a father does his own children, 12 that you would walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.” (1 Thessalonians 2:9-12)

Paul and his fellow missionaries paid for their journey through tent making, weaving cloths which at the time was done by hand and therefore very laborious. Because of their dedication toward the Thessalonian church and their intention to self-sustain, Paul proved he had no motive other than share the good news about Jesus Christ, Lord and Savior of men through faith.

Making certain to keep the church on track, Paul reminds his readers of their responsibility toward God, that each one should stay focused on the narrow path that leads to heaven, where our divine Father awaits us. Let us pray!

Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Paul,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.

Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.

God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.

May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.

We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.

Praise God,
Amen!

This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com

Posted in Bible Studies.

Daniel St.Pierre