June 5, 2014
WHO WILL YOU ENCOURAGE TODAY?
1 Thessalonians 2:13-20
Elizabeth Lampkin
Central Truth
When we share God's truth and encourage new believers, it's cause for great celebration and gratitude.
Key Verse | 1 Thessalonians 2:13
And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers. (1 Thessalonians 2:13)
1 Thessalonians 2:13-20
13 And we also thank God constantly 1 2:13 Or without ceasing for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men 2 2:13 The Greek word anthropoi can refer to both men and women but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers. 14 For you, brothers, became imitators of the churches of God in Christ Jesus that are in Judea. For you suffered the same things from your own countrymen as they did from the Jews, 3 2:14 The Greek word Ioudaioi can refer to Jewish religious leaders, and others under their influence, who opposed the Christian faith in that time 15 who killed both the Lord Jesus and the prophets, and drove us out, and displease God and oppose all mankind 16 by hindering us from speaking to the Gentiles that they might be saved—so as always to fill up the measure of their sins. But wrath has come upon them at last! 4 2:16 Or completely, or forever
Paul's Longing to See Them Again
17 But since we were torn away from you, brothers, for a short time, in person not in heart, we endeavored the more eagerly and with great desire to see you face to face, 18 because we wanted to come to you—I, Paul, again and again—but Satan hindered us. 19 For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you? 20 For you are our glory and joy.
Dive Deeper | 1 Thessalonians 2:13-20
The Apostle Paul encouraged new believers and experienced joy because of it. He was glad to do it. Even in persecution, he devoted himself to making disciples. From this passage we begin to sense his love and longing for the Thessalonian believers to continue their walk with Christ.
Jeff and I have not always walked with Christ. We didn't come to know Christ until five years into marriage, and those first five years were full of darkness. But a common thread was woven into those bleak days: believers who spoke truth into our lives and told us continually the Good News!
When we accepted Christ, things did not change overnight. Our hurts, habits, and hang-ups were rooted deeply in us. Thankfully, people continued to encourage us and point us to Christ. As new believers we longed for love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, which characterize all who follow His ways.
Today, we look back and see how God placed mature believers in our lives to encourage us in every step along the way. Here are a few of the ways we are encouraged today.
• Community group: we are blessed by the love of these folks who spur us on to love and good deeds!
• Re:Generation: Watermark's 12-step recovery program -- Recovery in Christ when life is broken -- simply amazing! After three years of being involved in this ministry, Jeff and I continue to be encouraged!
• Accountability partners and sponsors: our brothers and sisters in Christ who restore us gently, yet firmly.
• Family: we know life with and without Christ. Family encourages us to stand firm in our faith, beware of temptation, take care not to slip into to old sinful habits, and thank God in all circumstances.
Don't underestimate the power of encouraging new believers. This is my charge to you. Something that seems small to you may weave the only thread of light into a new believer's day. A kind word, letter, text, or meeting for coffee can make all the difference.
Who will you encourage today?
Discussion Questions
1. Who encouraged you when you first became a believer? How were you encouraged?
2. How have you encouraged others in the past to continue their walk with Christ?
3. What can you do today to encourage others in their walk with Christ?