Friday, October 27, 2017

Encouraging, comforting and urging them to live lives worthy of God

1 Thessalonians 2:1-12
We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts. We were not looking for praise from people, not from you or anyone else, even though as apostles of Christ we could have asserted our authority. 
Surely you remember, brothers and sisters, our toil and hardship; we worked night and day in order not to be a burden to anyone while we preached the gospel of God to you.
For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children,encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.
It is clear that Paul's enemies have been engaged in a smear campaign. The apostle clears himself of their charges by reminding the Christians of what actually happened when he was with them.
He did not come as an itinerant(江湖) quack(庸俗) teacher, peddling(兜售) dubious(可疑) wares(商品) and out to deceive. Nor was he on the make, in any sense. He came to give, not get, willing to face more trouble while still smarting from his wounds at Philippi. Nor did he rely on them for his keep.
Why?
Paul and apostles are work hard, he give instead get from his brothers. Preaching gospel not for their own profits or praise of men, but honor the Lord Jesus. 
Real missionary is give the truth instead make money or name from men, we are messenger of the Lord.
Like Paul have give up their authority to get supply from them.
How?
Give honor to the Lord so we are not trying to please people but God. Encouraging, comforting and urging them to live lives worthy of God. Be a servant of the Lord!


  

No comments: