1st.Thessalonians 2:1-8 " For yourselves, brethren, know our entrance in unto you, that it was not in vain: But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our GOD to speak unto you the Gospel of GOD with much contention. For our exhortation was not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile: But as we were allowed of GOD to be put in trust with the Gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but GOD, which trieth our hearts.
For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; GOD is witness: Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of CHRIST. But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children: So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the Gospel of GOD only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us. "
Is the Gospel an essential in your life ? To what lengths do you go to see that the message of the Gospel is clearly and sincerely expressed ? The Apostle Paul and his companions were willing to see to it that the message of the Gospel was made known despite the obstacles and hindrances they faced. He not only endured being "shamefully entreated" when he ministered in Philippi, but he further described the reception in Thessalonica as being "with much contention" (v.2). One can see the resolute determination that drove Paul and company to present the Gospel throughout the world, wherever they found themselves and had the divinely given open door. A few responded in both Philippi and Thessalonica, but when we read of those ministries in the book of Acts, we realize that the numbers were relatively small. Yet even the low amount of converts did not dissuade the Apostle because he considered it a great privilege to be "put in trust with the Gospel" (v.4). Paul Knew that it was an honor to proclaim the Gospel of GOD's great Salvation from sin to the Gentile world.
Furthermore, the Apostle did not use terms, phrases, or ideas to manipulate the Thessalonian Saints (vv.3,5). He made no attempt to deceive them into hearing his proclamation of the Gospel. He was not simply seeking results so that he could "pad his resume" to impress others. Paul's desire was exclusively to please the LORD through the ministry that GOD allowed him to have. To what end are you serving the LORD ? Are you merely looking at the results - the end product - or are you seeking to be honest and faithful in your service for GOD ? We are but stewards entrusted with the Gospel. GDF
Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie
Copyright, Feature: A Daily Bible Study Guide.
Used with permission. www.feasite.org
