The apostle Paul was a steadfast soldier in the Lord’s army. His inspired writings keep us on track and encourage even the most discouraged of saints. However, Paul needed encouragement too! He was human and faced struggles that are common to all mankind. In fact, dare I say that Paul faced even more difficult hardships than most Christians will ever face (2 Corinthians 11:25-28). Despite his struggles, Paul had some brethren who seemed to encourage him to keep pressing on even when times were bleak. Brethren like those in Philippi, Rome, Thessalonica and other locations as well encouraged Paul. In fact, when Paul wrote his first letter to those in Thessalonica, he told the brethren that they were “examples to all in Macedonia and Achaia who believe” (1 Thessalonians 1:7 NKJV).
Their godly influence and faithful example were heard of all around (1 Thessalonians 1:8). Why were folks so encouraged by this local assembly of Christians? What made this congregation of God’s people such a marvelous model of what authentic Christianity is all about? Paul explained, “For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come” (1 Thessalonians 1:9-10). Their Christianity was authentic because it involved at least three necessary qualities.
Firstly, there was an alteration. “For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols…” (1 Thessalonians 1:9). Salvation for the Thessalonians was not merely outward in appearance, but they severed their relationship with the world. Far too many times Christianity becomes a “checklist” way of life. “Do this, don’t do this, say this, never say that,” etc. While there are certainly commands to be obeyed as Christians, the alteration that we undergo should be a joyful and willing way of life. Altering our lives to the will of the Savior is not burdensome or grievous (1 John 5:2-3)! Christianity will never be lived as God intends until a true alteration of heart and mind takes place. Godly sorrow leads us to change our lives (2 Corinthians 7:8-10). Paul was greatly encouraged when he saw an alteration in the lives of his brethren in Thessalonica.
Secondly, there was action. “…to serve the living and true God…” (1 Thessalonians 1:9). Christianity is not just ceasing to do the wrong thing. If the Thessalonians would have only stopped serving idols and not actively and passionately served the true God of Heaven, their faith would not have been complete. The word “serve” here carries with it the idea “to be devoted to.” Far too often Christianity is seen as merely ‘being on the roll’ of a particular congregation. To be devoted to involves and includes active participation in the Lord’s work. There is no such thing as an unemployed Christian. Jesus compared disciples to branches on a tree, and those branches that bear no fruit are cut off (John 15). The Thessalonians were willingly and actively bearing fruit for the Master, whereby they were the fuel to feed Paul’s spiritual fire.
Thirdly, there was an awaiting. “And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come” (1 Thessalonians 1:10). “Wait” here carries with it the idea of excited anticipation. How do you view a fun and exciting event in your life? We usually think of such events often, talk about them regularly and plan for their arrival. One of the greatest parts of Christianity is anticipating Heaven! It is impossible to think about Heaven, talk about Heaven and plan for Heaven without being excited about going there. Unfortunately, some Christians fail to look beyond today and allow the troubles of this life to zap their joy. It does not take much effort to notice the scowl and misery on the face of those in the world. Very few have any joy or have a remote hint of a smile. Sometimes Christians can fall victim to this plague as well, especially when we forget about what it is for which we are waiting! I am going to see Jesus soon! I am going to Heaven; this world is not my home! Misery and heartache are not eternal! The Thessalonians were engulfed with “much affliction” (1 Thessalonians 1:6), and so it was essential for them to remember regularly that the problems they were facing were only temporary. Our situation is no different! Trouble is part of this life, but troubles are not in the life to come for Christians.
The lesson for us is clear. Purposefully turn from your idols (anything that comes before God), passionately serve the living God and patiently wait for the Savior. In doing this, our faith will be noticed and the Word of God will be sounded forth all over this sinful world! Like the Thessalonians, let’s each be a marvelous model for Christ!
