1 Thess - ch3 - Caring for the Church

Prayer & Welcome

<<Pray for Holy Spirit power>>

The Goal of this study is: How to love and care for others...

Recap the Backstory in Acts

<<use the slide deck that gets created, and run it on the big screen and on your laptop>>

Paul starts his 2nd missionary journey this time with Silas, after Barnabas split over the choice to bring Mark or not (who wrote the gospel of Mark) . Creating 2 missionary journeys out of one!

<<map: Antioch to Cyprus and Tarsus>>

The goal is to visit all the churches that were planted in the first missionary journey… They get a good start and pick up Timothy a disciple in Lystra.

<<map Tarsus to Lystra>>

God needs to change their plans. The holy spirit gives them a check against going on their planed route into Asia minor Acts 16:6 (the area of Turkey were they had planted the 7 churches that are referenced in Revelation). Instead they go into some new Territory in Phrygia and Galatia. again planting churches. They plan to head south back into the area of the 7 churches of revelation and Spirit stops them again. (a check) Acts 16:7, SO they skirt the area of Mysia to get to Troas on the Coast.

<<map: Lystra to Troas >>

At that point the Holy spirit gives Paul a vision of a Macedonian calling him to come to them. Acts 16: 8-9, so they change their plans and head to Macedonia from Troas

<<map: Troas to Philippi>>

There first stop is Philippi

Paul and his companions go to a place of prayer on the sabbath day (to the jew first) and meet a group of praying women. God leads a business woman and worshiper of God to pay attention to Paul, and she is saved, and her whole household! So they run their ministry based out of her house. A house church is formed. Acts 16:12-15

But casting out a demon from a slave girl caused the owners who had been making money off the demonic fortunetelling she provided, were angry and drug them to the political leaders of the city, and told lies about them, and had them beaten and throne into prison. Acts 16:16-24

Instead of complaining and blaming God the worship God by singing, and praying in front of the other prisoners. God sends an earthquake and opens the doors, and unfasten the bonds… Acts 16:25-26 (likely the work of an unseen angel given Peters similar situation Acts12) . the end result is the prisoners see God in action the Jailer and his household is saved, the Political leaders of the cities must apologize for mistreating a roman citizen (Paul), and the Church House at Lydia's home is encouraged before they leave. Acts 16:27-40.

On to Thessalonica

Paul, Silas and Timothy then skip the smaller towns and arrive at Thessaloniki. It is a huge city about 200K in population at this time, the second biggest in this area. (Athens is bigger). Paul starts in the synagogue. and Reasons with them why the Messiah of the Torah must suffer, die and rise again, and he is Jesus! This makes powerful Jews Jealous! - The round up a Mob of wicked people (proving they were in the wrong) . They grab Jason, one of the recent converts before the City Politicians. and lie about them inciting rebellion against Cesar (because they taught Jesus is the King of Kings).

Both Jews and Gentiles in Thessalonica oppose and accuse Paul of sedition. According to Acts 17:7, the pagans of the city viewed Paul as a traitor to Caesar both politically (as head of state) and religiously (as head of the imperial cult).

1–2 Thessalonians The Author, Recipients, Occasion and Purpose of 1 Thessalonians

Moreover, the Jews would have seen Paul as a defector from the true religion and as an illegitimate representative of God. Though some scholars see nothing in Thessalonians to corroborate the Acts account of Jewish opposition, there is good reason to see reference to such adversaries in Thessalonica itself (1 Thess 2:15–16; see also 3:3–4).

In particular, the Jews probably considered Paul a false prophet who blasphemed (calling the crucified criminal Jesus the honored Messiah) and thus deserved death. They would also have believed that greed motivated him to deceive. Acts 17:5 says that “the Jews were jealous” after a large number of Gentile God-fearers believed Paul’s preaching in the synagogue. Although it is likely that many of the Gentiles who subsequently became Christians were not of the upper class, those converted in the synagogue were probably fairly wealthy (e.g., “prominent [Gentile] women,” 17:4) and may well have been financially supportive of the synagogue. Indeed, Paul was persecuted in Philippi because some were angry over losing money formerly made from a false prophetess who could no longer prophesy because Paul had cast a demon out of her (Acts 16:16–24). There was the same kind of opposition in Thessalonica as at Philippi, and this may have extended even to the financial cause of the persecution (1 Thess 2:2–3).

So after preaching only 3 weeks, and paying money to the city as security for Jason, the left. Stopping next in Berea. Acts 17:1-9.

1 Thessalonians 1. The Integrity of Paul’s Ministry in Thessalonica (1–2)

Paul’s enemies said he left town quickly because he was a self-serving coward.

1 Thessalonians 1. The Integrity of Paul’s Ministry in Thessalonica (1–2)

If Paul was discredited, then the Gospel message itself would be discredited.

Next stop Berea

In Berea, Paul teaches at the synagogue again, as is his practice to the Jews first.

<<map: Philippi to Athens>>

Berean Jews were Nobel characters, and they checked in the scriptures to see if Paul was preaching the truth. some Jews huge number of Greeks and many influential women all believe.

But the crazy evil mob maddening Jews from Thessalonica hear about it and come over to stir up trouble with the crowds again.

To save Paul they put him on a ship and send him way down south Athens. Silas and Timothy follow Paul a bit later after they wrap things up.Acts 17:10-14.

In Athens Alone

Athens is the political and intellectual capital of this area of Greece. Paul is there, and he can’t help himself, as his spirit is provoked by the and many idols in this city.

Paul spends time in Athens and presents Jesus at the Areopagus (also called Mars Hill) to the learned philosophers and folks who just loved hearing about new ideas. Areopagus is the cities “ Agora”, a marketplace, an open area surrounded on all sides by buildings, or Stoa, that served as an economic and social center of life (Schnabel, “Contextualising Paul in Athens,” 172–174; Hammond, A History of Greece, 523.

The Lexham Bible Dictionary Agora

Like a forum in a Roman city, the agora served as both market and gathering place for a city’s people. Plato and Aristotle both considered an agora to be an essential component of the polis (Plato, Republic 371b-d; Aristotle, Politics 1321b).

So the “Areopagus” functioned a bit like our social media of twitter and Ted talks, rolled into one. It is Fantastic speech… some join and believe in Jesus. Acts 17:15-34. The problem here is they love to debate ideas, but never be convinced and choose a side.

Not sure how much time Paul spend here. At some point, Timothy and Silas catch up to Him, and then because they are concerned about the Believers in Thessalonica Paul sends Timothy and Silas back for a report. 1Thess 3:1. SO it must have been some time.

Paul goes on to Corinth

Paul goes on alone to the biggest city in Greece Athens. Their he meets Aquila and Priscilla, Fellow tent makers. They had fled Rom in the Jewish persecution. (all Jews must leave ROME). Interesting to note that often Priscilla's name is mentioned ahead of her husbands… a remarkable departure from custom that proves not only the significance of Priscilla in the early church, but also lends understanding that the the early church was OK with Women leaders. It is in Corinth, that Timothy and Silas meet back up with Paul and the report from Thessalonica. At that moment, Paul takes time to write this letter to address the issues that were most pressing for the Dear fledgling Church that was in the middle of so much strife and conflict with the state and the jews.

<<map: Priscilla &Aquila, and Timothy meet Paul in Corinth>>

Recap Chapter 1

CHapter 1 is a celebration of the faithfulness of the Christians in Thessalonica… it has been a while since Paul was with them, and he is now getting word back - and by all indications their faith is thriving in the midst of attacks and adversity. The evidence for this is in the work of faith and labor of love… tangible realities of the inner change that was brought about the power of the Gospel. Not just it’s words, but its Holy Spirit power. So evident is their faith that it is evident in all the regions around Thessalonica. Not just “words” but but faith that is visible to even many miles and cities away. The difference is so amazing. before Jesus - Worshiping Idols. After Jesus - worshiping God and loving others bearing fruit in their good works.

Recap Chapter 2

Timothy goes back to Thessalonica, and brings back a report. In the report is indication that Paul’s Character and motives for his Message being attacked, in order to discourage and sway the Christians away from following Jesus.

Paul, call on the Thessalonians as witnesses of how he acted while he was with them for three weeks. He takes this section to provide fact-based logical arguments that clearly demonstration how non of those accusations could be true. In the slightest. In-fact if the same standard were turned around and applied to those that are bring the accusations, they could not stand up against their own accusations. For the attacks being brought against Paul are rooted in financial lose, in Philippi Acts 16:19 and in jealousy in Thessalonica Act17:5 according to Acts.

This is character assassination and it always looks the same… the devil does this all the time. we see it today - righteous people used of God are the target of all kinds of character attacks.

Paul is not responding to the accusers… but to those that might have been lead astray by the accusations, and have now doubts about Pau land the foundation of their first believing.

1 Thessalonians 1. The Integrity of Paul’s Ministry in Thessalonica (1–2)

• “Paul has a police record and is therefore untrustworthy” (1 Thessalonians 2:2, suffered before referring to his imprisonment in Thessalonica).

• “Paul is delusional” (1 Thessalonians 2:3, error).

• “Paul’s ministry is based on impure motives” (1 Thessalonians 2:3, uncleanness).

• “Paul deliberately deceives others” (1 Thessalonians 2:3, in deceit).

• “Paul preaches to please others, not God” (1 Thessalonians 2:4, not as pleasing men).

• “Paul is in the ministry as a mercenary, to get what he can out of it materially” (1 Thessalonians 2:5, 2:9, nor a cloak for covetousness).

• “Paul only wants personal glory” (1 Thessalonians 2:6, nor did we seek glory from men).

• “Paul is something of a dictator” (1 Thessalonians 2:7 we were gentle among you).

Paul is in it for the Fame and the Gory..

This ministry is not glamorous! just the opposite!

Shamefully treated in Philippi

Still came to you with boldness - Much conflict

Paul reassures them he is preaching not to please man, but to please God. If he wanted to please man, he could have continued to hunt down Christians and lead a life full of praise by Men. much better route to go!

You can tell because i did not come with empty words of flattery.

I did not seek glory from you or anyone else.

Paul is teaching errors & Heresy & not qualified to teach

We learn elsewhere that Paul’s qualification are impeccable. Acts 22:3 “3 “I am a Jew, born in Tarsus in Cilicia, but brought up in this city, educated at the feet of Gamaliel according to the strict manner of the law of our fathers, being zealous for God as all of you are this day.”

Paul’s motives are is evil (impure) and is deceiving you!

OK so what exact evil did Paul do? the Devil loves to attack Gods leaders with baseless Most such accusations. So Paul calls on them to remember that he was blameless. - they wont remember any evil that he did.

But also beware, as the devil will send wolves in sheep clothing to try to trap God’s children into sin.

English Standard Version Chapter 2

10 You are witnesses, and God also, how holy and righteous and blameless was our conduct toward you believers.

Jesus told us to judge a tree by it’s fruit, and the fruit of ther walk was explained in Chapter 1. His message was to call them to be like God… how evils is that?

Paul reminds them… of the nature of his words

1 Thessalonians 2:11–12 “11 For you know how, like a father with his children, 12 we exhorted each one of you and encouraged you and charged you to walk in a manner worthy of God, who calls you into his own kingdom and glory.”

Paul’s is preaching to get rich. He is greedy

really? then why did I not ask you for anything? Even tough i could have asked for that based on the principle of having enriched your life, you would give something back. The worker is worth his wages. But I purposefully did not do that, instead I worked all day and all night to ensure I did not burden you in any way! (maximize the gospel's power)

Paul's teaching is very personal… sharing everything, holding nothing back like a mother.

Where does your approval come from?

Man or God?: GOD - but for that to work. you must have a strong relationship with Him, such that you are complete with God.

Effective pastoring or even friendship comes when you are not dependent upon your friends for approval. that you are real and truthful with them. when they need loving correction you can do that without being compromised by your fears.

we need to know the identity God has given us, and stop living for our false identities.

Sharing & SPEAKING JESUS…

Starts with a walking with JESUS .. a peoples that is

Telling others about Christ often involves perseverance in the face of resistance, opposition, and persecution.

Read Chapter 3

1 Thessalonians 2:17–3:13 (ESV)

17 But since we were torn away from you, brothers, for a short time, in person not in heart, we endeavored the more eagerly and with great desire to see you face to face, 18 because we wanted to come to you—I, Paul, again and again—but Satan hindered us.

19 For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you? 20 For you are our glory and joy. 1 Therefore when we could bear it no longer, we were willing to be left behind at Athens alone, 2 and we sent Timothy, our brother and God’s coworker in the gospel of Christ, to establish and exhort you in your faith, 3 that no one be moved by these afflictions.

For you yourselves know that we are destined for this. 4 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. 5 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.

6 But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and has brought us the good news of your faith and love and reported that you always remember us kindly and long to see us, as we long to see you— 7 for this reason, brothers, in all our distress and affliction we have been comforted about you through your faith.

8 For now we live, if you are standing fast in the Lord. 9 For what thanksgiving can we return to God for you, for all the joy that we feel for your sake before our God, 10 as we pray most earnestly night and day that we may see you face to face and supply what is lacking in your faith?

11 Now may our God and Father himself, and our Lord Jesus, direct our way to you, 12 and may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, as we do for you, 13 so that he may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.

Intro - How Can I Be Sure That I Am Loved?

1 & 2 Thessalonians: How Can I Be Sure? 10 Studies for Individuals or Groups: With Notes for Leaders (Study 4: How Can I Be Sure that I Am Loved? (1 Thessalonians 2:17–3:13))

Sometimes the places where we would most expect to find love—families, churches and fellowship groups—fail miserably in providing the love we crave.

GROUP DISCUSSION. On a scale of 1–10, how loved do you feel by members of your family? your church?

Perhaps a 8-9 — many demonstrations of true concern and love.

PERSONAL REFLECTION. What have you contributed to the love people feel in your family? in your church?

Time, resources, money and love. Not just thoughts, not just words but deeds

1. How would you feel if you received a personal letter like this in the mail today?

That they cared. and wanted us to succeed - that means to “stand” - in the face of satanic

The Bible Exposition Commentary Chapter Five: Take a Stand! (1 Thessalonians 3:1–13)

The key word in this chapter is establish (1 Thes. 3:2, 13). The key thought is expressed in 1 Thessalonians 3:8: “For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord.”

2. What evidence do you find in this passage that Paul really did love the Thessalonians?

he wanted to visit them … a trip that was costly in time and money, and as he was blocked, sent the rest of his team in his place.

3. How do you most often express your love for others?What ideas from this passage can help you become even better at expressing love?

He who wants friends must first be friendly. Proverbs on friends.

praying. writing, calling

4. What fears caused Paul to send Timothy to Thessalonica (3:2–5)?

These believers we abandoned to early in the process - and in much affliction this is going to be a constant concern for one that wants to nurture the church.

The Bible Exposition Commentary Chapter Five: Take a Stand! (1 Thessalonians 3:1–13)

Apparently, Timothy did join Paul in Athens (note the “we” in 1 Thes. 3:1–2)

The Bible Exposition Commentary Chapter Five: Take a Stand! (1 Thessalonians 3:1–13)

Paul chose to be left alone in Athens so that Timothy could return to Thessalonica and establish the saints. The word translated “left” in 1 Thessalonians 3:1 means “to leave loved ones at death.” In 1 Thessalonians 2:17 he said that he felt “orphaned” from his friends in Thessalonica, and the Greek word can also mean “bereaved.” Paul was not a “hireling shepherd” who abandoned the sheep when there was danger (John 10:12–13). To leave these new believers was like an experience of bereavement.

he would risk his one life to return to them

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.

many afflictions in this place

“to establish and exhort you in your faith, 3 that no one be moved by these afflictions.”

5. How can a person like Timothy bring reassurance to people who are struggling?

that their fledgling faith would fail or falter - not because it was not great or good, but because of the many afflictions in the place.

1–2 Thessalonians Strengthen the Faith of the Flock (3:1–5)

American Christian culture is sometimes obsessed with a “health and wealth gospel” that teaches that, if people are faithful, God will favor them with material blessings and they will not suffer trials. Others have disagreed with such a perspective. These five verses speak definitively to this issue in a quite surprising way.

The Bible Exposition Commentary Chapter Five: Take a Stand! (1 Thessalonians 3:1–13)

Timothy was the ideal man to send to the church to help them stand firm. Timothy and Titus were Paul’s “special agents” whom he used as troubleshooters whenever the churches had problems. Paul sent Timothy to Corinth to help straighten out the problems there (1 Cor. 16:10–11). He also planned to send Timothy to help the saints in Philippi (Phil. 2:19–23).

Timothy was a Believer, and a Minister (servant)”deacon”, not afraid to work - needed to know how to teach others with love and patience. Phil 2:22 “22 But you know Timothy’s proven worth, how as a son with a father he has served with me in the gospel.” he is in unity with Paul. Phil 2:20 “20 For I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare.” hiw is

6. Why did Paul warn the Thessalonians that they were destined for persecution?

Because they already had. the jewish persecution is a sign of things to come. Jesus tought we would suffer if we followed him. There was obviously a very entrenched demonic presence that was already alerted and now working against the Holy spirit’s purposes. Phil1:29 “29 For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake,”

1 peter 4:12 “12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.”

we must warn new believers that this is coming.

Satan is behind all these attacks.... 1 Thes 3:5 “5 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.”

7. How can you be prepared for trials and persecutions?

be grounded in your relationship with God.

read the word… Paul is demonstrating the relationship with Jesus and Persecution

having done all to stand… stand firm then…

8. Why was Timothy’s report such good news to Paul (3:6–8)?

New Spirit-Filled Life Bible: Notes The First Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Thessalonians

On his return to Paul, Timothy brought the good news about the thriving faith and love of the Thessalonians (v. 6). Paul still hopes to see them again (v. 11), and the likelihood is that he did see them on a later mission tour (Acts 20:1–4).

9. What are Paul’s desires for the Thessalonians (3:10–13)?How do these desires reflect Paul’s love and caring?

New Spirit-Filled Life Bible: Notes The First Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Thessalonians

That Paul hoped to see the Thessalonians again to perfect what is lacking in their faith need not be taken in any heavy technical sense: no specific spiritual defects are detailed in the letters. The mood is a prayerful wish that they will increase and abound in love, along the lines of his later phrases “more and more” (4:1), “just as you also are doing” (5:11).

10. How might Paul’s example have helped the Thessalonians’ love to “increase and overflow” (v. 12)?

English Standard Version Chapter 3

12 and may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, as we do for you,

11. How can you (as an individual or as a group member) help love to increase within your family, church or small group?

Pray for people who are feeling unloved. Pray for your ability to express love.

Summary

homework

The book of James gives many practical suggestions of how love can be put into action. Read through James, making a list of these examples.