Experiencing Joy for Others (Chris Barnes)

Note – The Sermon focusing on the letters to the Thessalonians will be on Dec 12th. It comes at a later time in the sermon series due to the End Times content; which connects with Revelation. 

OBSERVE: Within these two chapters we observe the following:

• Paul desiring to know the status of the faith of the Thessalonians.
• Timothy’s encouraging report and the joy that Paul experiences in hearing this.
• Paul urges the believers to continue growing in their faith.
• An encouragement to live in ways that will reflect Jesus.
• A reminder of the gospel and the certain hope in the resurrection.

 
INTERPRET: When Timothy brought a report from his visit to the Thessalonians, he brought good news. This good news was that the Thessalonians were doing well in their faith and love. Paul expresses his joy that the Thessalonians are enduring persecution faithfully, and he prays that they will continue to grow in the faith.

The next chapter begins to address points that Paul wants to clarify. The first of these points is the need to grow in good works. The next point is to avoid living immorally. Paul is making these points because they are to be set apart by living in these ways. Paul then dispels some false gossip rumors about the resurrection. Paul emphasizes that no one who is in Christ will miss out on the resurrection; whether dead or alive.

APPLICATION: Paul’s reaction to the good news that Timothy brought back about the Thessalonians should be an example for us all. Paul felt great joy when hearing about the endurance of their faith; even providing encouragement to Paul in times of distress and persecution. This joy then expressed itself into prayer for their future well-being.

As members on one united body; we should all experience this same joy when one of our brothers and sisters are doing well in the faith. When someone in the family of believers grows in faith and love; it only helps the body as a whole. It is in this joy for others; that we can experience great joy in the presence of the Lord like Paul did. Our genuine hope should be that we will all experience the glorious resurrection on the Day of the Lord.

REFLECTION: Do you find great joy in the spiritual well-being of others? Do you often pray for the continued well-being of others?

PRAYER: Gracious Lord; thank you for all of my brothers and sisters in the faith. May you continue to do a great work in them; helping them all to grow in their faith and love. I ask that you fill me with more joy in all of their victories; and may this joy encourage myself in times of distress. In the wonderful name of Jesus I pray. AMEN

SONG: Thessalonians Song