1 Thessalonians, Day 1
1 Thessalonians, Chapter 1
As we begin our look into 1 Thessalonians, let’s go back to Acts 17. We see Paul and his companion, Silas, arrive in Thessalonica. As was their custom, they headed directly to the synagogue and preached from the Scriptures for three days. Some of those listening were persuaded and joined them. There were those Jews who were jealous and set the city in an uproar. They attacked Jason, complaining how Paul and Silas “turned the world upside down.” Jason was freed, with the seed of the Gospel being planted in Thessalonica.
Thessalonica was the proud capital of the Roman province of Macedonia. Their population was over 100,000. They were a flourishing city center of trade and philosophy. It was a free city, governed by local officials called “politarchs.” They worshipped the Greco-Roman pantheon and the imperial cult, and Egyptian cults were also prominent. Also, a sizable population of Jews was there (Acts 17:5).
Paul opens this letter recognizing Silvanus (Silas) and Timothy, and greeting the church of Thessalonica — “Grace to you and peace.”
From there, Paul praises this young church over and over. He thanks God for them when remembering them in his prayers. Imagine the great Apostle Paul praying for you! We ought to consider how often we’re praying for our churches. The Thessalonians’ work of faith, labor of love, and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, are duly noted by Paul. Can we say that’s a true statement for our churches? Do we come with a “labor of love”? These early Christians knew what their mission was, and those outside recognized it.
God chose them, and the Gospel Paul preached came not only by the Word, but by the power of the Holy Spirit, with “full” conviction! Are we living a life of “full” conviction by the Holy Spirit?
It has been said, “Imitation is the greatest form of flattery.” Ephesians 5:1: “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children.” Paul shared that he was pleased with them for being “imitators of us” and of the Lord. Remember the angry mob back in Acts 17? Being a Christian comes with a price. Jesus spoke of it more than once. This church was under much affliction, but continued with the joy of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, their witness became an example to all believers in Macedonia and Achaia. And not only in that region, but their faith in God was broadcast everywhere. That sounds like they fulfilled the Great Commission! Their faith and imitation of Jesus were so powerful, Paul and company didn’t need to say anything.
Imagine that — a young church’s witness, belief, and repentance from idols to serve a living and true God, greatly affected their world! Many occupying the pews, seats, and stadiums, are still in need of repentance. Idols still reign in the lives of the unsaved and the saved. When will we learn to become “imitators” of God, knowing full well He is the only “true” and “living” God?
Grace to you and peace,
Tom Dye