Early Congregations #5 - Faith in Spite of Trouble
We're looking at growing qualities in the Early Church. Today we look at perseverance
| 4 For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you, 5 because our gospel came to you not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake. 6 You became imitators of us and of the Lord; in spite of severe suffering, you welcomed the message with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. 7 And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. 8 The Lord's message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia -- your faith in God has become known everywhere. Therefore we do not need to say anything about it, 9 for they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, 10 and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead--Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath. (1Thessalonians1:4-10) |
Beloved in Christ,
One of the greatest misconceptions about Christianity is that when you give your life to Jesus Christ, trouble will disappear. Yet the Bible teaches us something different: Faith does not exempt us from trouble; faith enables us to stand in the midst of trouble.
The church in Thessalonica was born in difficult circumstances. According to Acts 17:1--9, Paul's preaching brought many people to Christ, but it also provoked fierce opposition. Nevertheless, something remarkable happened. Instead of persecution silencing the believers, their faith became known everywhere.
What made this young congregation so powerful?
Firstly, their faith was rooted in the Gospel, not in circumstances (vv. 4--5).
Paul reminds them that the Gospel came not merely with words, but with power, the Holy Spirit and deep conviction. Their faith was not built on comfortable conditions but on an encounter with the living God.
Church, if our faith depends on everything going well, what happens when things fall apart? Genuine faith must have roots deeper than our circumstances.
Secondly, their faith produced joy in suffering (v. 6).
The Thessalonians received God's Word amid severe suffering, yet they experienced joy through the Holy Spirit.
Notice this: they were suffering, but they were not defeated. They were opposed, but they were not silenced.
Christian joy is not the absence of pain; it is the presence of Christ in the midst of pain.
Thirdly, their faith became a testimony to others (vv. 7--8).
Paul says they became an example to believers throughout Macedonia and Achaia. Their faith was not confined to their congregation. It travelled beyond their borders.
Here lies a powerful lesson for us during this Month of Mission: A missional church is not simply a church that sends missionaries; it is a church whose faith speaks beyond its walls.
Our communities must hear the Gospel not only through our preaching but also through our compassion, generosity, integrity and service.
Finally, their faith demonstrated genuine transformation (vv. 9--10).
They turned from idols to serve the living and true God while waiting for Christ's return.
True conversion changes our direction, our devotion and our destination.
Beloved, the UPCSA is called to remain faithful even when resources are limited, congregations face difficulties and mission becomes demanding.
Let us remember: Trouble may test our faith, but it must never terminate our mission.
May our congregations become living testimonies of Christ's transforming power.
CLOSING PRAYER
Lord Jesus, strengthen our faith in difficult times. Empower every UPCSA congregation to proclaim Your Gospel with courage, demonstrate Your love through service, and remain joyful in suffering. May our faith inspire others to follow You. Amen.
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Hi, I'm Richard Mkandawire, pastoring at St Columbas congregation,I love God, family, preaching and good conversations. Happily married to Aretha and blessed with three wonderful children: Khumbo, Mbawemi and Chimwemwe. I enjoy reading, laughter and connecting with people!
I am also convener of the Mission and Discipleship Committee and it is my privilege to conclude our Month of Mission Series and express warm gratitude to those who have helped us. (Titles have been omitted) Firstly the Month of Mission team: Wayne van Heerden, David Mushayavanhu, Matshidiso Piroe, Stewart Gordon and Theo Groeneveld. I also want to thank our devotion writers Amon Kasambala, Melanie Cook, Nelson Manabile, Awedzani Nemaukwe, Simabrashe Nota, Shona v/d Lingen, Robert Chawinga, ZW Lubambo, Allan Paskwababiri, Dephine Murowe, Jackie Barker, Sonye Banda, Debbie Louw, Mamalotje Magagane, Eunice Shingirai Masuna, Patrick Nyawuza, James Lungu, Teboho Elephant, Amber-Leigh Gordon, Faresy Sakala, and Bongiwe Ngebualana. Your thoughtful reflections have sharpened us and urged us to be growing and not declining in our service to God.
We hope you have enjoyed this devotional journey.
Soli Deo Gloria!
