Tabor Baptist Church

Overview

• Illustration of the pastor who had left the church because he wanted the church to be run in his way
• We have to be careful about making our own judgements
• What would we think about the church in Corinth/Thessalonica
• Response came mainly from the Greeks and prominent women
• The Jews became very upset with this and falsely accused Simon to stir up trouble
• Paul is writing to this church, to encourage them

• The Church of Jesus Christ is a work in progress
• The disciples made many mistakes but Jesus prayed that they had kept 'His word'
• Forgiveness and grace is very important

He was desperate to hear news about the church (3:5)

Chapter 1

• Paul reminds himself that he hadn't gone alone but as part of a missionary team
• He doesn't use the phrase 'apostle' as in other books but refers to himself as a brother
• He is inclusive
• We need to be a people who include others, not having favourites and not excluding people
• Reminds the church of who they were
• They may have come from different clubs, societies, etc but were one in Jesus Christ
• The people had turned from their idols to worship God (v9)
• A huge transformation had occurred
• Grace and peace (v1)
• Paul wants the best for the people of God
• We all need to know the peace and grace of God
• This was his first desire
• He wanted to strengthen and encourage them
• Praying for the believers (v2)
• Such an encouragement
• We need to be those who pray often
• Praising their spreading of the gospel (v3,7-8)
• Their witness was known over Macedonia and Achaia (v7-8)
• Praising their 'election' (v4)
• This was clear from the manner of their conversion
• The gospel came "not in word only, but in power and much assurance" (v5)
• The became true followers (v6)
• Reassures them of the hope ahead

Summary

• Paul is encouraging and confirming the church
• Reminds the church of who they were
• Desired God's grace for them
• Reminded them he was praying for them
• Confirmed their salvation
• Reassures them of the hope ahead

What are we doing to help those around us?