GOD REVEALED – A New Testament Journey (PART 6)Sample

1 Thessalonians – Cascading Hope

The beauty of the gospel is that it cascades with viral effect; particularly when the message lives through the lives of the teachers. Paul’s message and model to the Thessalonians does not stop there. It spread to believers in Macedonia, Achaia, and other places despite severe opposition. What makes the message so powerful and impactful?

True example (1:2-7)

Paul's example demonstrates and results in:
- Thankful prayers (2:13) on his part
- Work of Faith (1:8)
- Labor of Love (1:6-7)
- Steadfastness of Hope (1:9-10)

On the part of the recipients of the message

Paul’s teaching (ch 2:3-6) is a benchmark for us to validate ourselves and others as true representatives of Christ “approved by God and entrusted with the gospel”:
- Continue in the face of opposition
- Have pure motives
- No trickery
- No flattery
- No mask to cover up greed
- Work day and night
- Don’t look for praise
- Don’t assert authority

Tender Relationship (2:8-3)

Rather than asserting apostolic authority, Paul establishes a relationship (2:7-3:13):
- Like a nursing mother – gentle, caring (2:7)
- Like a father – exhorting, encouraging, charging (2:11-12)
- Like orphans – intense longing, making every effort, again and again (2:17-18, 3:5)
- Like a brother – strengthening, thanking, blessing (3:7, 9-10)

It is relationships that win others over.

Transforming Hope (ch 4)

The Christian hope is an assurance that changes our perception and actions.

Paul sharpens our long-term vision by describing the:
- Life of Hope (4:3-4, 7) – a pure, disciplined, and holy life
- Love from Hope (4:9-10) – unselfish love which keeps growing
- Limitless Future in Hope (4:14-17) – that Christ will come again and those who choose to live as His children will rise first to meet him in the air and live forever with Him

Tips on Life (ch 5)

- Alertness – always sober, protected by faith, love, and hope
- Attitude toward people – respectful, at peace with everyone and patient; spurring the lazy to action; boosting the tired and discouraged
- Attitude toward self – give thanks in all circumstances, rejoice always, pray without ceasing, test everything, and hold fast to good
- Avoid – falling asleep, returning evil for evil, quenching the Holy Spirit, or despising words of genuine prophets

Are we impactful through our lives and lips? Are relationships characterized by deep and tender love? Do we live the present in line with our future hope?