1 Thessalonians 3:1-5

Therefore when we could bear it no longer, we were willing to be left behind at Athens alone, and we sent Timothy, our brother and God's coworker in the gospel of Christ, to establish and exhort you in your faith, that no one be moved by these afflictions. For you yourselves know that we are destined for this.  For when we were with you, we kept telling you beforehand that we were to suffer affliction, just as it has come to pass, and just as you know.  For this reason, when I could bear it no longer, I sent to learn about your faith, for fear that somehow the tempter had tempted you and our labor would be in vain.

 

Since Paul was unable to return to the city, he did the next best thing by sending Timothy.  The purpose of the trip seems to be twofold: to help encourage the church during times of persecution and to receive information as to how the church was doing.  Certainly, carrying the letter we now study was another reason for this trip.  Paul’s love and concern for the church is exemplary.  Too often we allow distance to promote indifference.  Paul demonstrates care and concern even though he is far away.

 

GIVE ASSISTANCE: Since Paul was unable to return to Thessalonica, he was willing to be left alone in Athens and sent Timothy back to minister to them.  There were two goals of this ministry: establishing them in the faith and exhorting them to continue to grow in the faith.  This type of help is always important to believer in every phase and step of life, but it is especially important in times of trial and affliction.  When things become difficult, it is easy for us to become discouraged or distracted.  We need outside instruction and accountability to help us stand firm in the face of these trials.  The faith of others is a precious thing that must be encouraged and promoted.  The faith of new believers can be precarious and should be cared for and protected.  Caring for the faith and spiritual maturity of others is an important responsibility.

 

GET ASSURANCE: Paul cared deeply for this church and the people who were leading it.  He could imagine the suffering they faced and the temptations these sufferings must have brought about.  I simply had to know how they were doing and be assured that they were still walking with the Lord and growing in their faith.  God was using this church to spread the Gospel throughout the entire region and Paul did not want to lose this fruitful partnership.  He also knew that such a productive church would be the target of Satan for various kinds of attacks.  Paul’s love and concern for the church is evident.  This same kind of care should be present for all churches.  Too often, we hear of churches that are struggling but we are not moved to prayer, concern, and action.   

 

APPLICATION: Be faithful to encourage others in their faith and call them to a life of obedience and faithfulness.  Love the church and the people in the church enough to care, pray, and serve them.

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