The Thessalonians were suffering because they were being persecuted for their faith. In 1 Thessalonians 3, Paul shows four ways to enco...
The Thessalonians were suffering because they were being persecuted for their faith. In 1 Thessalonians 3, Paul shows four ways to encourage such believers.
By sending help (1 Thessalonians 3:1-2). If you can’t go yourself, send someone to strengthen and encourage them in their faith. Paul sent Timothy to them.
By warning them (1 Thessalonians 3:3-4). Paul warned the Thessalonians that we were destined to be persecuted for our faith. Jesus warned His disciples they would be persecuted. He did not do this to discourage them, but to encourage them. If you follow Christ expecting that everyone will encourage you and agree with you, you will easily become discouraged when you face opposition. If you expect opposition, you will be better equipped to endure it without becoming discouraged.
By checking on them (1 Thessalonians 3:5-9). A second reason Paul sent Timothy, was to find out how they were doing in their faith and love. They were encouraged and thankful to God to find the Thessalonians were doing well spiritually.
By praying for them (1 Thessalonians 3:10-13). Paul prayed God and the Lord Jesus would clear the way for them to come and visit the Thessalonians. He prayed God would make their love increase and overflow for each other and everyone else. He prayed God would strengthen their hearts, so they would be holy and blameless in the presence of God the Father, when the Lord returns with all His holy ones.
Photo by @gebhartyler on Unsplash
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