November 18, 2015
Scripture Reading: 1 Thessalonians 3:3b-6
For you know quite well that we are destined for them. 4In fact, when we were with you, we kept telling you that we would be persecuted. And it turned out that way, as you well know. 5For this reason, when I could stand it no longer, I sent to find out about your faith. I was afraid that in some way the tempter had tempted you and that our labors might have been in vain. 6But Timothy has just now come to us from you and has brought good news about your faith and love. He has told us that you always have pleasant memories of us and that you long to see us, just as we also long to see you.
Questions for Reflection:
Paul was not surprised that the Thessalonians had encountered trials. In fact, he expected it. What words or phrases in the passage above reinforces the idea that Paul knew the Thessalonians would encounter persecution? Would you say the same thing has happened in your life? As Christians in America, we do not face persecution on the same level as some believers do around the globe. Our friends in Afghanistan have been abandoned by their family for their faith. Our church planter friends in Myanmar face the real possibility of being imprisoned for their faith. What do the trials and persecution we face in America look like? How can you be encouraged by the trials happening around the world? How can you be praying for those facing deeper levels of persecution?
Paul, in concern for the Thessalonians, sent Timothy. After Timothy had strengthened and encouraged (verse 3) the church, he returned to Paul. What did Timothy report back to Paul? The mutual encouragement and support pictured in this chapter is a great look at what Christian community can and should be. The Thessalonians were not only served by Paul & Timothy, but they served them as well. As Christians we cannot be mere consumers, taking from others. We need to be contributors, supporting and encouraging, pouring our lives into others as well. When you examine your involvement in Christian community right now, would you say you are acting more as a consumer or a contributor? Why?