Church Planting Insights From 1 ThessaloniansSample

When Paul wrote his first letter to the members of the church he planted in Thessalonica, he made a sad but true statement about trials. His comment about trials in chapter 3, verse 3, was, “We are destined for them.” Since we are destined to be persecuted and to face trials, we’d better be prepared to respond when trials and persecution come. Church planter Paul models the way for us. Because he knew that the young church he had started in Thessalonica would face trials and persecution, Paul, Silas, and Timothy responded in three ways:

·First, they repeatedly told the new believers they would be persecuted.

·Second, the church planters spent time with those facing trials and persecution.

·Third, they strengthened and encouraged the faith of the new believers in Thessalonica.

Sometimes, when we preach the Gospel, we speak a lot about the benefits of following Christ. And we should talk about Gospel benefits. But we must be truthful and tell those who are following Christ that trials will come. We must be clear about this before and after our hearers put their trust in Jesus.

Then, when trials and persecution come, it is vital for church planters to be present with those suffering. Paul and Timothy were in Athens when they learned that persecution had come to their dear friends in Thessalonica. Athens is about 500 kilometers (311 miles) from Thessalonica. Nevertheless, Paul and Timothy did everything possible to go and be with their persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ. But Satan blocked their way. Scripture does not say how their way was blocked, but finally, it was possible to send Timothy alone to Thessalonica to be with the persecuted believers there. When he arrived, he strengthened and encouraged the faith of the new believers.

Our presence has great power in ministry. We need to be with people who suffer, sometimes without saying a word. Sometimes, our presence means more than we can imagine. After spending some time together, strengthen the faith of those who suffer. Remind them of the goodness of God, the presence of God, and the ultimate victory of Christ and those he came to save.

Warn of persecution and trials. Be present during persecution and trials. Encourage and build up faith. Point those who suffer to Christ and his love for them. Be strong in the Lord and the strength of his might.

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