Unable to return to Thessalonica as planned, Paul felt compelled to explain his reasoning behind sending Timothy ahead instead of visiting the small Roman town himself. The apostle’s concern involved both the Thessalonians and the enemy who continued to ambush young believers or those of weak faith.
Paul shares his sorrow and sacrifice as he announces Timothy as his chosen fellow laborer to oversee the work of the holy spirit in the region.
Paul in His Great Solicitude Sent Timothy to Them. The Joy that Timothy’s Report Gave Him. His Prayer to See Them Face to Face. A Prayer for Them.
“1 Therefore, when we could no longer endure it, we thought it good to be left in Athens alone, 2 and sent Timothy, our brother and minister of God, and our fellow laborer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you and encourage you concerning your faith, 3 that no one should be shaken by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we are appointed to this.” (1 Thessalonians 3:1-3)
Paul’s affection for the believers in Thessalonica was exuded by the apostle not only during his visit but also in his letters. From Athens he would appoint his entrusted spiritual son Timothy, whose mission was to encourage the Thessalonians in their daily struggle against evil combating those doing Satan’s work.
“4 For, in fact, we told you before when we were with you that we would suffer tribulation, just as it happened, and you know. 5 For this reason, when I could no longer endure it, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter had tempted you, and our labor might be in vain.” (1 Thessalonians 3:4-5)
Paul’s intention to send Timothy onto Thessalonica was for him to encourage the believers in the region as well as report back to the apostle upon their next meeting. Paul would be delighted to hear the church in Thessalonica was thriving.
“6 But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and brought us good news of your faith and love, and that you always have good remembrance of us, greatly desiring to see us, as we also to see you— 7 therefore, brethren, in all our affliction and distress we were comforted concerning you by your faith. 8 For now we live, if you stand fast in the Lord.” (1 Thessalonians 3:6-8)
Upon his return Timothy delivered the good news about the Thessalonians, that the work of the spirit continued to harvest as believers throughout the region battled both temptation and evil.
Glad his appreciation for the Thessalonians was reciprocal, Paul now calls on believers to hold steadfast in the faith, anxiously awaiting our Lord’s second coming and fulfillment of prophecy found in the perfect word of God, the holy bible.
“9 For what thanks can we render to God for you, for all the joy with which we rejoice for your sake before our God, 10 night and day praying exceedingly that we may see your face and perfect what is lacking in your faith?” (1 Thessalonians 3:9-10)
Paul’s commending of the Thessalonians was based on the joy shared by the apostle and believers in the small trading town, which would see three or four years before Paul’s return. The young church much needed guidance and leadership, hence the need for Timothy to look over the church and act as liaison between the gospel and new believers in thessalonica.
“11 Now may our God and Father Himself, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way to you. 12 And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love to one another and to all, just as we do to you, 13 so that He may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints.” (1 Thessalonians 3:11-13)
Paul’s hope for the Thessalonians has them continue to grow in the Lord and His word as they word out their own salvation, through works and dedication to God almighty. By the law of Christ, which is love, all believers are called to advance the gospel until Jesus’ triumphant return. 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
