Standing firm in Faith and Love.
This week we are exploring the purpose of the church. Shingi Masunda introduced us to some of Paul's co-workers in building up the church, Jane Nyirongo reminded us that faith is the baton we pass to the next generation and Wonke Buqa urged us to build up and edify the body of Christ.Today we will see how excited Paul gets when he hears that the Thessalonian church is standing firm in faith and love.
The church in Thessalonica did not have an easy birth. There was a wonderful initial response with Jews and Greeks responding very positively to Paul's message but then there was a backlash from the Jews who instigated a riot so severe that the brand new church leaders were arrested and forced to post bond (guarantee that they would not disturb the peace). This meant that Paul and Silas had to leave immediately. The enemies of the church in Thessalonica were so negative towards the church that they sent trouble-makers to disrupt Paul and Silas when they got to the next city.
And so Paul was worried about this fledgling church. Eventually he was able to send Timothy to see how they were doing. When Timothy reports back to him, Paul is so excited that he calls it "good news" (The Greek word is euangellion which Paul usually uses for "gospel") I don't think it is stretching it too far to say that for Paul, the Gospel was such "Good News" that it transformed lives.
What was it about the Church in Thessalonica that had Paul so excited?
- They were strong in faith - they had weathered the storm of persecution and opposition. They trusted God.
- They maintained love and affection for one another and for Paul and Silas.
- They were standing firm in spite of opposition
This is the work of the church: To stand firm in faith and love. Take a moment to ask yourself these questions:
- Does my belief in a loving God and Risen Saviour impact me daily and am I able to keep believing amidst the noise and negativity all around me?
- Do I choose to reach out to those around me in conscious practical love, not giving in to the temptation to gossip, criticise, find fault and hold on to petty grudges?
- Am I standing firm or is the rat race sucking me in? Am I maintaining holy habits and nurturing a vibrant faith or has my edge been dulled by the deluge of opinions and frenetic busyness all around?
What would Timothy find if he visited me and the congregation I'm in?
| But Timothy has just now come to us from you and has brought good news about your faith and love. He has told us that you always have pleasant memories of us and that you long to see us, just as we also long to see you. 7 Therefore, brothers, in all our distress and persecution we were encouraged about you because of your faith. 8 For now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord. (1Thessalonians3:6-8) |
