November 19, 2015
Scripture Reading: 1 Thessalonians 3:7-8, 2 Corinthians 7:3-7
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. 7Therefore, brothers and sisters, in all our distress and persecution we were encouraged about you because of your faith. 8For now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord.
3I do not say this to condemn you; I have said before that you have such a place in our hearts that we would live or die with you. 4I have spoken to you with great frankness; I take great pride in you. I am greatly encouraged; in all our troubles my joy knows no bounds.
5For when we came into Macedonia, we had no rest, but we were harassed at every turn—conflicts on the outside, fears within. 6But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus, 7and not only by his coming but also by the comfort you had given him. He told us about your longing for me, your deep sorrow, your ardent concern for me, so that my joy was greater than ever.
Questions for Reflection:
Paul was encouraged by the faithfulness of the Thessalonians. When he received a report back from Timothy, Paul was excited. How did he express his excitement? This was not the only time that Paul expressed sentiments like that. Read the 2 Corinthians 3 passage above. How are the two passages similar? What do you learn about Paul, his ministry and his feelings for these churches from the two passages?
Paul viewed the churches he planted with great affection. F.F. Bruce in his commentary on Thessalonians writes, “Paul’s concern for his converts and sense of oneness with them breathes through all his correspondence. When they were led astray, he was indignant; when they slipped back, he was distressed; when they showed evidence of living lives worthy of the gospel, he was overjoyed.” We can learn from Paul’s approach to ministry. We should care for those around us. When they hurt, we should walk in the hurt with them. When they are celebrating, we should have joy. Part of living Christian community out means living life, all of life…including the messy parts, out with one another. When have you been encouraged by someone who was willing to be there in the tough times with you?