Good morning,
First Thessalonians 2 explains Paul’s ministry to the Thessalonians and its results. Paul was called by God to preach the gospel. Today we will see eight ways that Paul preached the gospel.
The Pastor of the Church-Paul (1-12)
a) Paul preached the gospel boldly in the face of severe suffering (1-2)
For yourselves, brethren, know our entrance in unto you, that it was not in vain: 2 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.
b) Paul preached the gospel honestly (3)
3 For our exhortation was not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile:
c) Paul preached the gospel selflessly (4-6)
4 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.5 For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness: 6 Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.
d) Paul preached the gospel gently as a mother nursing her child (7)
7 But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children:
e) Paul preached the gospel lovingly (8)
8 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.
f) Paul preached the gospel tirelessly (9)
9 For ye remember, brethren, our labor and travail: for laboring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.
g) Paul preached the gospel unblameably (10)
10 Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe:
h) Paul preached the gospel encouragingly as a father (11-12)
11 As ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children,12 That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.
When we speak to someone about Jesus, do we exhibit these characteristics? We should. What a concept of boldness butted up against love. Our witness should explain clearly God’s plan of salvation. The person we witness to should feel our concern, love, gentleness, and encouragement to follow Jesus. Following our witness, we have hopefully earned the right to speak to this person again about Jesus.
Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001
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