Read the Book: April - JuneSample

Week 19

1 Thessalonians 2

The Posture of Christian Faith

The second coming of Christ is the most prominent theme in the letter to the Thessalonians. In 1 Thessalonians 2, Paul is sharing encouragement, reassurance, hope, and truth on what the posture of Christian faith should look like for this day. When you give your life to God, you inherit the holiness and blamelessness of Jesus. This means that when God sees you, He sees Jesus. You were chosen by God to look forward to the accomplished salvation on a new earth, where “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away” (Rev. 21:4). 

Not only are we living a new life in Christ when we follow Jesus, but God then entrusts us as Christians with the gospel message. God gives us the amazing gift of having a relationship with Him through Jesus, and He tells us not to keep it to ourselves, but to share it with care and knowledge. We are called to set aside our desires for personal glory. When we share the gospel with acts of kindness, listening and empathizing, and gentleness, it draws others to Jesus themselves. 

Our responsibility is to follow God boldly, speak truth, keep our motives focused on Him, and not water down the truth with “flattering words” (1 Thess. 2:5). If we speak in a way that contradicts God’s character or look for satisfaction in people’s approval and not God’s, we will never be fulfilled. However, when we follow Paul’s example to share with truth, boldness, gentle character, and a desire to care for people, we have an attractive spirituality that brings people closer to Jesus. This is the purpose God gave us that brings true fulfillment in life, now and eternally. 

Take a few moments and ask yourself: Am I being gentle, intentional, bold, and truthful in the way I share my faith? Am I a good steward with the truth of the gospel and share it in a way that’s pleasing to God? No matter the answer, you can always ask God to strengthen you for His glory.


Family Connection: Paul tells us in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-19 to “rejoice always” and “give thanks in all circumstances!” Spend a few minutes every day this week for everyone to share what they are thankful for. This could be at dinner, in the car, or before bedtime. After everyone shares, take turns praying to God and thanking Him for his goodness!