Paul’s Thanksgiving for the Thessalonians (1 Thess. 1)
While Paul’s overall impression of the Thessalonians was not great (Acts 17:11), there were some who had obeyed the gospel and Paul was thankful for them and the change he saw in their lives.
Paul’s Thanksgiving for the Thessalonians (1 Thess. 1)
While Paul’s overall impression of the Thessalonians was not great (Acts 17:11), there were some who had obeyed the gospel and Paul was thankful for their:
- Spiritual Character (v2-3) — they were a people of faith, love, and hope shown by their work, labor, and patience. (cf. James 2:17)
- Example (v6-7) — They followed good examples and be-came examples to others themselves. Most importantly the example they followed and set was a godly sort (2:13; 1 Cor. 11:1; Heb. 11:39, 12:1).
- Evangelistic Efforts (v8) — The word of God did not stop with them but as an echo continued to sound forth in that area. (cf. Acts 8:1; 4:20; Matt. 28:18-20; 2 Tim. 2:2).
- Zeal (v9) — They gave heed to the gospel and were willing to change from what they had known when presented with the truth (cf. Acts 17:11, Matt 13:15, Eph. 19:18-20); from vain idol worship to fruitfully worshipping and serving the true and living God (cf. Acts 17:23ff,1 Pet. 2:9; Eph. 2:10).
- Hope (v10) — They now can and do look forward to the coming of the Lord as those who are prepared in Christ (4:17, 2 Tim. 4:8; Rev. 14:13, 21:27; cf. Eph. 1:3, 7; 1 Cor. 15:20, 58; 1 Thess. 5:8/Eph. 6:17).
