Dr. Ben Stubblefield
Visiting Assistant Professor of Christian Studies, University of Mobile
Commended
1 Thessalonians 1:1–10
Mark Twain said, “I can live for two months on a good compliment,” and I think I could stretch it to three. Everybody needs uplifting, particularly pilgrim Christians, tempted and tried.
Paul often applied the good medicine of encouragement. In 1 Thessalonians he gives his young, persecuted, disheartened church plant a hefty double-dose. In fact, that’s the main business of Paul’s opening, which can be described under four headings.
Partnership (1)
Though Paul is the inspired and authoritative writer (2:18; 5:27) the letter opens by identifying Silvanus and Timothy, who as co-senders undoubtedly gave input to the content of 1 Thessalonians. I think it is worth observing that this Kingdom ministry comes from Paul and his friends.
And that’s not unusual in ministry — we are rarely productive in work for the Lord when we attempt it alone. And how much sweeter, how much better, how much happier it is to labor together for the Lord (Phil. 1:3–5).
Evidence (2–5a)
Remember, Paul was in Thessalonica for three weeks before he got run off by a mob (Acts 17:5–9). But that was long enough to start this church which, since his absence, had been facing the same kind of opposition and anger. They’re disheartened and likely wondering if they had gotten something wrong.
When you’re down and out or life hits you hard, it helps to know a couple of things: 1. you’re not making a mess of it, and 2. God hasn’t left you.
In verse 2, Paul begins encouraging them by observing how grateful before God he is for the ample evidence of His work in their lives. They are showcasing the triple virtues — faith, hope and love. And they’re not just squeaking by; they’re inspiring Paul to joy.
He continues by reminding them of God’s design — what they’re going through is not the result of God-forsakenness. God loves, chooses and indwells them.
Isn’t it good to be reminded that God is working through us even, and perhaps especially, when we are down and out? And isn’t it good to cherish the truth that He loves us still, like Joseph, even when life puts us in the bottom of a well?
Influence (5b–8)
They’ve not only blessed Paul. Their example has influenced those “in every place” who have heard about their faith. In fact, their witness has been so profound he need offer no correction, no warning, no rebuke. He comments, “We have no need to say anything.”
Again, for a church that feels it’s struggling, they are making a mighty impact. This is akin to the church in Philadelphia (Rev. 3:7–13) that has “little power” but stands out among all the churches because, as Jesus says, they “have kept My word.” The Thessalonians are having an outsized impact on the world because they are being faithful under fire.
Purpose (9–10)
Finally, Paul encourages them by talking about their tremendous future. All this trial is going to end in resurrection.
If you’ve ever watched a suspenseful movie, you know what it’s like to be set on edge. At any moment something could spook you, and you’re constantly nervous. But if you watch it again, you’re serene because you know how it’s all going to turn out. You know the end from the beginning.
We know how this age is going to end, don’t we? So whether we face trials, tribulations, problems, pain or persecution, we can move through this life with a peace beyond all understanding. We have this assurance, as the hymn says, “Because we know He holds the future, and life is worth the living just because He lives.”
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