In
this chapter, Paul recounts his ministry in Thessalonica. He recalls how his
team was persecuted by those who opposed the gospel in Thessalonica. But he is
glad that his time and effort spent in spite on the persecutions were not
wasted (verse 1). He gives thanks to God that these Thessalonians gladly
received the word of his preaching and were faithful Christians.
In
1 Thessalonians 2, we see how Paul executed his work as a gospel preacher. It
is a lesson for all preachers and workers of God. Preachers especially, need to
learn the art of preaching from Paul.
1.
With Boldness (verse 2). In spite of being shamefully treated by a hostile
reception at Thessalonica, Paul continued to preach the word with boldness.
Preachers, be bold in proclaiming the word.
2.
Without Deceit (verse 3). Paul preached only the truth. Preachers, preach from
the Word only (2 Timothy 4:2).
3.
Without Uncleanness (verse 3). Paul’ preaching was pure and will result only in
leading one to holiness and purity. Preachers, preach only the things that will
lead to holiness.
4.
Without Guile (verse 3). There was no false pretences. Paul was true and
sincere. Preachers, be honest and sincere; your listeners will appreciate and
love you for your sincerity.
5.
Responsible (verse 4). Christ entrusted Paul with the gospel; he did not betray
that trust. He went everywhere preaching the word. He fulfilled his mission (2
Timothy 4:7-8). Preachers, your greatest responsibility is to preach the Word;
do it with diligence.
6.
Not Men-Pleasers (verse 4). Paul did not sugar coat the gospel to please men.
He was ready to rebuke anyone who did wrong (Galatians 2:11-14). Preachers,
seek to please God and not men.
7.
God-Pleaser (verse 4). The aim of gospel preaching is to please God. And only
the truth will please Him (Matthew 7:21-23).
8.
No Flattering Words (verse 5). Paul did not blend and mix his doctrine to suit
with the tastes of different men, but with all sincerity and plainness,
preached the truth. Preachers, use plain words that are easy to understand.
9.
Without Covetousness (verse 5). Paul was not covetous; he did not rob his
hearers so that he could become rich. Preachers, do not desire to be rich and
envy not the rich (1 Timothy 6:10).
10.
Without Self-Glory (verse 6). Paul would not preach for popular applause.
Preachers, don’t get swell-headed when your audience praises you. Do not seek
the praises from men (Matthew
6:1-4).
11.
Gentle (verse 7). Far from assuming the authority which he had, Paul acted as a
tender nurse to a delicate child. Preachers, preach the truth in love
(Ephesians 4:15).
12.
Much Affection (verse 8). One of the characteristics of a preacher is he must
love his listeners.
12.
Sacrifice (verse 8). Paul was willing to risk his life for the Thessalonian
Christians. Preachers, your job requires you to make sacrifice.
13.
Diligence (verse 9). Paul laboured night and day. Preachers, be diligent in
your work.
14.
Blameless (verse 10). Paul’s manner of life was holy, just, and blameless.
Every preacher ought to be blameless in his life.
15.
Encourager (verse 11 ). Like a father he exhorts, comforts, and admonishes the
Christians. A preacher must be an encourager and motivator.
16.
Fatherly (verse 11). To the young, he was a caring father. A preacher must be
caring.
17.
Worthy (verse 12). Inconsistency would cause God’s name to be “blasphemed among
the Gentiles” (Romans 2:24). The preacher must walk the talk.
The
greatest vocation a man could possibly do is to be a preacher. The greatest
appreciation a congregation could show is to love and support its preacher.
And, the greatest return a preacher could give to his congregation is to keep
improving as a preacher: “But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions,
do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry” (2 Timothy
4:5). I thank God for those who preach the glad tidings.
Jimmy Lau
Psa
119:97 Oh how love I thy law! It is my meditation all the day.
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