The faith of the Thessalonians
Over the next five days we'll look together at the five chapters of Paul's first letter to the Thessalonians. It's interesting to read about Paul's mission trip to Thessalonica as Luke tells it in Acts 17:1-9 alongside looking at Paul's letter to the Christians in Thessalonica. From the account in Acts it's clear that this particular mission trip was successful both amongst Jews and non-Jews, however this did cause some opposition and persecution which the community in Thessalonica are still recovering from when Paul writes to them.
Knowing that the early Christians in Thessalonica had experienced some persecution and violence and also that the community is largely made up of non-Jewish converts, Paul opens his letter to them thanking them for their faith in times of adversity, and reminding them of their conversion. He writes this:
'For we know, brothers and sisters, loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction.' 1 Thessalonians 1:4-5 [NIV]
The Christians in Thessalonica experienced the power of the Holy Spirit and their lives were transformed. Paul encourages them that they've made a name for themselves across Macedonia and Achaia (1:7-9) and their faith is widely known and is an example to new Christians elsewhere.
How can we as a community of believers live in such a way that the story of the gospel becomes known around us?
Emma Higgins | |
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