STRONG FAITH - A GOOD REPUTATION. When Paul first preached in the synagogue at Thessalonica, he likely taught that the prophecies of the coming Messiah in the Old Testament scriptures were fulfilled when "the Christ" came in the flesh as Jesus of Nazareth. He "reasoned" with them by presenting biblical arguments that supported his teaching in ways they could understand. "Opening' involved both the scriptures and the minds of the listeners by explaining the word of God in its proper context. "Alleging" includes explaining and comparing his teachings with the scriptures. In the early stages of his work there, he worked with his own hands to meet his needs and those of others. He had received at least two gifts from the Philippian congregation while there to support his ministry.
He taught in the synagogue for at least three Sabbaths. The places where he preached afterward are not mentioned, but we know the opposition grew strong against them early on. In fact, it was so intense that Paul and Silas had to leave at night for Berea. The Jews provoked those opposing them by accusing them of turning "the world upside down." Timothy later returned to teach and encourage the saints. Now, Paul writes as a father would to his children.
He begins with the first of twelve qualities that identify God's children. A local church consists of those called out from the world and called to the Person of our Lord Jesus Christ within a community. In line with Paul’s fatherly address to the Thessalonian saints, he told them they are "in God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ." This is the only time he refers to the Father this way in all his epistles. In this particular letter, the focus is on our position in Christ. In other epistles, it emphasizes the location of the local church on earth. Jesus is called "Lord" twenty-five times in this letter. Silas and Timothy are brothers in fellowship with Paul, sharing their concern for the believers at Thessalonica. Supporting fellowship with others in a work helps strengthen and encourage those we seek to influence.
FEATURES THAT MARK THE SAINTS’ WALK:
- Called out ones, v. 1: the church is called out from the world and called unto the Person of the Lord Jesus Christ.
- People of faith, v.3: practice what they believe.
- People of love, v.3: meeting the needs of others without expecting compensation.
- People of hope, v.3: not easily discouraged.
- Brethren, v.4: same interests, same family, same thinking – “knowing” by experience, not intuition.
- Elect, v.4: beloved by God, elected by God.
- Followers, v.6: disciples/learners – turned to God…
- Afflicted ones, v.6: their testimony was challenged.
- Ensamples, v.7: models of truth in everyday life are the best preparation for Gospel work.
- Changed, v.9: turn to God from idols – you could see the difference.
- Servants, v.9: new Master; new service; new goals.
- Waiting ones, v.10: highly motivated.