STANDING STRONG IN THE FAITH
READ 1 Thessalonians 3:1-10
Our aim this morning is to help you grow strong in faith. If you are going to stand up for Christ and stand strong in times of trouble you must have a deep-rooted faith.
Paul recognized the faith of this church as being strong, but he wanted to make sure that it remained strong. Paul emphasized faith five times in today’s passage.
1. Paul sought to establish & comfort them concerning their faith – vs. 2.
Timothy was sent to Thessalonica to establish and comfort the church concerning their faith. The word establish means to make stable or place firmly. The word comfort in this context means to exhort and encourage one in their faith. We all need to be established and comforted in our faith.
2. Paul wanted to know if their faith was standing against Satan’s attacks – vs. 3-5.
“That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto. 4For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know. 5For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain.”
People often falter when facing trials and afflictions. You and I must determine to continue walking in faith no matter how tough things may be.
3. Paul was encouraged when he learned that their faith and love remained strong – vs 6.
“But now when Timotheus came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and charity, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also to see you.”
It is always encouraging when people to whom you have ministered are growing in their faith. Don’t forget those who have taught you in the faith in the past and those who are doing so in the present.
4. Paul was comforted because of their faith – vs. 7.
“Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith.”
5. Paul wished to perfect their faith – vs. 10.
“…that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith.”
Paul wanted to make them complete and sound in faith. His ministry was not over in helping to perfect the faith of these new believers. Discipleship is a lifelong journey.
May we be a people who stand strong in the faith!
Your Friend and HIS,
Pastor Abbott
MEDITATIONS
1. As you read this passage, how do you see Timothy’s mission in the church?
2. Has your faith ever been impacted by a great trial of affliction? Explain.
3. If Timothy was giving an individual report on the condition of your faith, how might that report sound?
4. What can you do to perfect that which is currently lacking in your faith?