Thessalonians 2:13-20 The Thessalonians’ Conversion and Ongoing Salvation

Deeply concerned for the Thessalonians who found themselves under attack by the enemy in an attempt to discredit the gospel taught by Paul, the truth about Jesus resurrection and second coming. The apostle preached a simple message based on love, and the fulfillment of a thousand year old prophecy.

In the section of his epistle to the believers in Thessalonica, Paul addresses how the gospel was delivered, not only to glorify the Lord but also handled with Christ like character. The apostle’s point is delivery since content has already been established as holy and perfect.

13 For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe.” (1 Thessalonians 2:13)

Paul shares his gratitude for the believers in Thessalonica, a church he planted during his second missionary journey through the region, on his way to Berea from Philippi, where he and Silas found themselves under much persecution.

The apostle gives praise to God for the way Thessalonians received the perfect gospel of Jesus Christ, which in turn would reap its harvest. Once a seed planted in someone’s heart, the love of Christ blossoms to magnificence as it is watered daily by sacrifices and suffering in His holy name.

14 For you, brethren, became imitators of the churches of God which are in Judea in Christ Jesus. For you also suffered the same things from your own countrymen, just as they did from the Judeans, 15 who killed both the Lord Jesus and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and they do not please God and are contrary to all men, 16 forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they may be saved, so as always to fill up the measure of their sins; but wrath has come upon them to the uttermost.” (1 Thessalonians 2:14-16)

By referring to them as imitators, Paul compliments the Thessalonians and their suffering in the name of the Lord. Much like Christ was persecuted Himself, those in thessalonica would endure through trials indicative of the Christian faith. The path is narrow which leads to eternal life, narrow and likely painful. Believers should remember it was the Jews who took Jesus to the cross, among other notable Jews such as prophets and other martyrs.

17 But we, brethren, having been taken away from you for a short time in presence, not in heart, endeavored more eagerly to see your face with great desire.” (1 Thessalonians 2:17)

Paul and Silas spent less than one month in Thessalonica where they planted a church primarily made up of believing Gentiles. Paul would later send Timothy to comfort and encourage Christians in the area, and to overlook the growth and direction of the new church.

18 Therefore we wanted to come to you—even I, Paul, time and again—but Satan hindered us. 19 For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming? 20 For you are our glory and joy.” (1 Thessalonians 2:18-20)

Paul points to the enemy as the wall neither he nor his fellow laborers could break through. In time the apostle would send forth another missionary, Timothy to continue building the Thessalonian church in tune with the word of God and according to His divine will.

All believers should reminds themselves of the price that was first paid by Jesus, now paid back one breath at time in absolute sacrifice and glory. 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