Not in word only

When Paul preached to the Thessalonians, false prophets gave conflicting messages. Unlike those false prophets, Paul did not try to win the Thessalonians by flattering them. Nor did he try to line his pockets. Paul knew his conduct was pure, and he called upon God as his witness to this truth.

Since the beginning of the church their have been people who brought confusion to the Gospel message.

Romans 16:17-18 “17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. 18 For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.”

This was common in Paul’s day

This is common here

This is especially common where the Youngs are going

Satan is not fighting churches; he is joining them. He does more harm by sowing tares than by pulling up wheat. He accomplishes more by imitation than by outright opposition. - Vance Havner

Wear the gospel as it should be worn

Gospel comes to people not in word only. 1 Thess 1:5 “5 For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.”

Many use ministry as a pretext for greed 1 Thess 2:5 “5 For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness:”

Rather than being greedy (v. 5) be delighted to share with them your life. 1 Thess 2:8 “8 So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.”

Give more than your location, give your life

Give the gospel, give your life. 1 Thess 2:8 “8 So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.”

Many of you might consider the challenge before Graham and Olivia being living in another country.

They desire to do so much more than live there. They desire to live in such a way that their lives will impart the Gospel to people they will come to know and love.

Preach and live in a sincere manner

Make the gospel clear in your preaching and life. 2 Cor 2:17 “17 For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.”

We do not think in terms of rights. 1 Cor 9:11-12 “11 If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things? 12 If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ.”

Conclusion

1 Thess 1:5 “5 For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.”

Dear Nigeria,

We are sending the gospel. It is not coming in word only but it is coming in power, and in the Holy Ghose, and in much assurance. You do not know right now but you will someday know what manner that Graham and Olivia are bringing it to you. Their ministry is not a cloke of covetousness for their own greed, which we know you have experienced. They come to love you and desire to not only give you the Gospel but to impart their entire lives for you; for your good and His glory.

Soon to be your brothers and sisters in Christ,

Vision Baptist Church