READ 1 Thessalonians 2:2-6

In these verses, Paul describes his ministry among the Thessalonian believers. 

Specifically, he explains how his preaching ministry was central to the evangelism, discipleship, exhortation, and spiritual growth of these believers.

His preaching was “with much contention” (vs. 2). This is an athletic term that means ''a contest, a struggle.'' 

He used this same word in Philippians 1:30 where he pictured the Christian life as an athletic contest that demanded dedication and energy. 

It had not been easy to start a church in Philippi, and it wasn't easy in Thessalonica either.

1.  His message - what he preached: 3a

Paul was committed to ''speak unto you the gospel of God...'' (vs. 2). This must always be the content of our message. In verse 3, he describes it as ''our exhortation.'' 

He proclaimed the message of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ and invited others to receive Jesus.

2.  His motive - why he preached: 3b

He was not guilty of “…deceit, nor of uncleanness” for his motives were pure. 

It is possible to preach the right message with the wrong motives. 

Unfortunately, some people in Paul's day used religion as a means for making money. Paul did not use the Gospel as ''a pretext for greed.'' (1 Thessalonians. 2:5). 

He was open and honest in all his dealings, and he even worked at a trade to earn his own support. 2 Thessalonians 3:8-9, “Neither did we eat any man’s bread for nought; but wrought with labour and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you: 9Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us.”

Paul was very sensitive about money matters. 

He did not want to give anyone a reason to accuse him of being a religious salesman. 

As an apostle, he had the privilege of receiving support. But he gave up that right in order to be free from blame that would disgrace the ministry.

3.  His method - how he preached: 3c-6

Paul wasn't interested in gimmicks or tricks. He refused to use any “guile” in order to win converts. The word translated ''guile'' carries the idea of ''baiting a hook.'' 

In other words, Paul did not trap people into being saved, the way a clever salesman traps people into buying his product. 

He simply proclaimed the gospel in faithfulness and purity. 

Often we hear, ''I don't care what your method is, just so long as your message is right.'' 

But some methods are unworthy of the Gospel. 

They are cheap, whereas the Gospel is a costly message that required the death of God's only Son. 

They are worldly and man centered, whereas the Gospel is a divine message centered in God's glory.

Beyond that, Paul didn't seek to receive ''glory from people” (vs. 4).  

As ''apostles'' of Christ, he had the authority to command and direct the church to operate in a certain way, pay him a certain amount, or treat him a certain way. 

But he didn't do that. He wanted to make sure that everyone knew, Jesus was the One who is forever important!

Tilly Smith - a 10-year-old English girl - saved her parents and dozens of families from the deadly Tsunami that hit Thailand on December 26, 2004. 

She had recently studied a lesson on tsunamis in geography class. 

Her family was enjoying a day at the beach and the sea began to bubble and rush away from the shore - while the adults were curious and thought it was odd, Tilly was overcome with fear. 

She began urging her family to leave, to run. 

As she pleaded her case and explained what she had learned, the parents and all the other families at that resort evacuated. 

It was one of the few places along the shores of Phuket where no one was killed or seriously hurt. One little girl who knew the truth and spoke it saved the lives of others. 

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1.  Are you faithful in sharing the Gospel?  Explain.

2.  What care did Paul take in making sure his ministry was above board?

3.  How valuable is biblical truth?  How can it save the lives of many?

4.  Do you believe judgment is real? How can you help someone else when it comes to judgment?