Sjbjburke's Blog

We learned in the last message, dealing with chapter five, verses 12 and 13, that the pastor and the people work together to carry out God’s will for His church. They serve together under the direction of God through His Word to accomplish His purpose. If you are not sure what His purpose is, we will look again to His command as written by Matthew in chapter 28, verses 18 through 20.

Each of the Gospels as well as the Book of Acts declares this command from God. This message is repeated throughout the New Testament –

1 Timothy 2:3-5 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;

2 Timothy 2:24-26 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

Titus 3:5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;

This is the truth the church is to take to the world generation after generation until Jesus comes back. The Apostles are dead, the Prophets are dead, the Evangelist and Pastors of previous ages are dead, but the church is still alive and well! God could have extended the lives of the Apostles, kept them alive until He returned. This would have been an amazing sign to the world! Can you imagine Peter, James, John, Matthew and the others, how wise these men would be; how strong these men would be, how revered these men would be – they would be worshipped by the world, yet God declared –

1 Corinthians 1:26-29 For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: That no flesh should glory in his presence.

This is us! We are the ones being described by Paul 2,000 years ago . And Jesus knows that we are
these that are being described and He promised a wonderful thing –

John 17:18-20 As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;

The Lord declared that He would build His church and through His church reach out to the world with the wonderful saving grace – the gospel. He will be in His church and He will direct His church! He is the Head of the church and He will receive the glory He deserves.

We need to know this and we need to submit to His will and work together for His glory. This is the truth that the missionaries are teaching the believers in Thessalonica as we learned in 5:13 “…be at peace among yourselves.”

We are all in this together. The pastor leads us in laboring with him in the ministry of the Lord.

Ephesians 4:11-12 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:

These verses inform us of our responsibilities to the Lord and to one another. Notice again how 5:14 begins – “Now we exhort you. brethren…” This is to us, all of us!

In verse 14 we are instructed to care for the good of those in need. We are to –

A. Command the unruly. They are to be submissive to the Lord as they are instructed in His Word. We must do God’s work God’s way!

B. Comfort the feebleminded. This word means those that are fearful and easily discouraged. Remember how John Mark seemed to be excited to minister with Barnabas and Paul, but quit when faced with opposition. Barnabas was a comforter and helped John Mark return to the work, reconciling with Paul and becoming strong in the ministry of God’s Word.

C. Carry the weak when they are about to fall. “…support…” We must know them and be able to recognize the signs of weakness, stepping in quickly to help them .

D. Casting yourself upon the Lord daily. “…be patient toward all men.”
We know ourselves and realize that we can become impatient and even angry when men refuse to be commanded, comforted, or carried.

We must practice the same that we preach.
We must memorize the same verses that we teach them,
We must seek the same grace,
We must know the same strength.
We must listen and act upon our own counsel.

As we enter the year 2018 will you commit to be willing to –

Command the unruly
Comfort the feebleminded
Carry the weak?

Then first, we must cast ourselves upon the Lord each day for we cannot help others until the Lord has helped us!

The Lord burdened my heart tremendously through the Prophet Daniel. We know about the life of Daniel and we know that he was a righteous man living in a sinful world. He could have rebuked the nations – all of them – telling them that they were the problem, not him. He could have said that he did not want to have anything to do with them, stay away from him, not tell him their problems, it was not his problem! Daniel did not do that though.

Daniel 9:4-6 And I prayed unto the LORD my God, and made my confession, and said, O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love him, and to them that keep his commandments; We have sinned, and have committed iniquity, and have done wickedly, and have rebelled, even by departing from thy precepts and from thy judgments: Neither have we hearkened unto thy servants the prophets, which spake in thy name to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, and to all the people of the land.

Daniel 9:17-19 Now therefore, O our God, hear the prayer of thy servant, and his supplications, and cause thy face to shine upon thy sanctuary that is desolate, for the Lord’s sake. O my God, incline thine ear, and hear; open thine eyes, and behold our desolations, and the city which is called by thy name: for we do not present our supplications before thee for our righteousnesses, but for thy great mercies. O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive; O Lord, hearken and do; defer not, for thine own sake, O my God: for thy city and thy people are called by thy name.

Will we commit to pray this year for the will of the Lord to be done? Will you commit to pray?

Message Nine

II. The Commitment to one another. 1 Thessalonians 5:12-22

This morning we will look at Paul’s admonition in respect of the leadership of the church. A church has two offices: That of the pastor and of the deacon. The pastor is called of God and the deacon is called by the church. Paul is speaking particularly of the office of pastor and we will focus on this office today.
We must address first the common misunderstanding among Christians as to the office. A common definition is seen in denominations – an international governing body developed by man creating a hierarchy based on Biblical terms. This plan is opposed to a Scripturally planned autonomous community of believers with God called and placed leadership. The terms used are the same, but the functions are polar opposites. The government developed by man consist of offices of authority designated bishop, elder, and pastor, one having authority over the other.

The government developed by God consist of one office with three functions: bishop, elder, and pastor.
This plan is noted in Luke’s writings in Acts 20:17,28.

It is important for us to understand that no leader of a church has any authority over a leader of another church, no matter what he may be called, bishop, elder, or pastor! No church has authority over another church! Churches may fellowship together as they choose and they may assist one another as they choose, but they are never required to submit to the rule of another church! The church in Jerusalem, when asked their opinion, as noted in Acts 15, to settle an issue caused by their members, responded with, not a command to them, but a recommendation letter to churches to help them in the ministry of the gospel in communities where Jews and Gentiles were being saved and coming together in church.

When the church in Thessalonica was established, Paul taught them of God’s plan for leadership and appointed leaders from among them. In this letter, he is exhorting them to respect the leaders and in doing so, reminded the church of –

A. The Responsibilities of the membership. 1 Thessalonians 5:12,13

1. The pastor to the people. 1 Thessalonians 5:12

a. Paul set forth the offices by describing the ministry of each –

1). The Pastor. 1 Thessalonians 5:12a “…them which labour among you…”
2). The Bishop. 1 Thessalonians 5:12b “…and are over you…”
3). The Elder. 1 Thessalonians 5:12c “…and admonish you…”

A. T. Robertson stated that the word ‘admonish’ is an “Old verb from nouthetês and this from nous (mind) and tithêmi, to put. Putting sense into the heads of people.”
God set forth the manner of counselling a pastor is to give to the people. He is to tell them “Thus saith the Lord” and expect them to submit to the truth of the Word of God. We find here the great gulf fixed between the popular psychology of today and the practical unchanging psychology of God. God expects us as individuals to take responsibility for our actions. While we may provide reasons, there are no excuses – we make our own decisions and will stand before the Lord to give account of them.

b. Peter declared the ministry of the pastor –

1). The Elder. He is to have wisdom and understanding of the will of God –

1 Peter 5:1 The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed

2). The Pastor He is to have practical knowledge of the Word of God and present it to the people. He is to know them and nourish them.

1 Peter 5:2 … Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;

3). The Bishop. He is to oversee them and lead them to accomplish the purpose of God for the church.

1 Peter 5:3 Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.

Having instructed the people in the ministry of the pastor to the people, Paul turned to the responsibilities of –

2. The people to the pastor. 1 Thessalonians 5:12,13

a. To know them. 5:12

Members are told that they should know their pastor. They should be familiar with him and the work that he does in the ministry of the Lord. Paul states that members should appreciate all that the pastor is and does – to “know him” or them. I am afraid that the professional aspect of the pastorate has created a gulf between the pastorate and the people, developing what is considered to be spiritual leadership – the pastor, and the laity – the church member. We must remember that we are all in this together, not separated by an artificial spiritual wall! Remember that every believer is a priest, a spiritual representative of the Lord on earth.

1 Peter 2:9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

It is not him and us, we are all in this together. The pastor leads us in laboring with him in the ministry of the Lord.

Ephesians 4:11-12 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:

And Paul declares that the brethren are to –

b. To esteem them. 5:13a Which means we are –

1). To pray for them
2). To participate with them.
3). To provide for them.

We are –

c. To be united behind them. 5:13b “…and be at peace among yourselves.”

It is sad to say, but many churches are hindered in their ministry unto the Lord because they are divided about the leadership. This is due to comparisons made with past leaders or preference shown among the congregation when more than one pastor is serving in the church. Paul confronted the church in Corinth over this issue –

1 Corinthians 3:2-6 I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal? Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.

We have a responsibility given to us by God. Have you accepted this responsibility and are you doing what is necessary to fulfill it?

Will we hear these wonderful words from the Lord as we stand before Him –

2 Timothy 4:7-8 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

To hear the words of Jesus “Well done, thou good and faithful servant..”

Are you saved? Are you His child, born into His family?
Are you standing in the place of righteousness today – all is right between you and the Lord?

Chapter Five

I.  The Comfort of the Lord’s Coming.  1 Thessalonians 5:1-11

As we look at the first eleven verses of this chapter, we need to remember that the Thessalonian church members were mostly Gentiles – Luke wrote that those first believers were both Jews and “…of the devout Greeks not a few…”. Paul also wrote of how they had “…turned to God from idols…”. These Gentiles, though, had been faithful in the synagogue of the Jews and would have learned from the Scriptures that the judgment of God was coming – which is what Paul was referring to when he wrote that they “…know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.”

God had revealed this truth through the prophets throughout the ages –

Daniel 12:1 And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.

Amos 5:18 Woe unto you that desire the day of the LORD! to what end is it for you? the day of the LORD is darkness, and not light.

Zephaniah 1:14-15 The great day of the LORD is near, it is near, and hasteth greatly, even the voice of the day of the LORD: the mighty man shall cry there bitterly. That day is a day of wrath, a day of trouble and distress, a day of wasteness and desolation, a day of darkness and gloominess, a day of clouds and thick darkness,

Zephaniah 1:18 Neither their silver nor their gold shall be able to deliver them in the day of the LORD’S wrath; but the whole land shall be devoured by the fire of his jealousy: for he shall make even a speedy riddance of all them that dwell in the land.

They knew that the wrath of God was coming upon unbelievers, but the grace of God through the establishment of His church was unknown to them, something they were “…ignorant of…”. The Holy Spirit led Paul to enlighten them, and everyone else, of God’s plan for believers of this age. The Apostle Peter referred to the Lord’s leadership of Paul as he reminded the saints to be prepared for the coming of the Lord in –

2 Peter 3:7 (KJV) But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.

2 Peter 3:14-16 (KJV) Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you; As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.

These things were hard to understand, nevertheless, they are true! As an Apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ, Paul revealed God’s plan for His saints in this age of grace, this revelation being a comfort to the brethren. Can you imagine how much comfort Paul and the others received when they learned of this promise from God? They were just as the others until this time, knowing only of the judgment of God coming upon the world. Being comforted himself –

He continued to instruct them and build them up in the Lord –

A. He reminded them of the judgment of that which they knew – the wrath to come.
1 Thessalonians 5:1-3

“…peace and safety…” They knew of the lies the religious told King Ahab about going into battle, that he would win the victory – but instead of listening to the counsel of the prophet of God, he listened to the popular sayings and ended up being killed in the battle.

“…peace and safety…” They knew of the lies the religious leaders in Jeremiah’s day told Kings of Judah that they would not be destroyed by sword or famine, yet the Lord said “…the prophets prophesy lies in my name. I sent them not, neither have I commanded them, neither spake unto them…”. They believed the lies and were destroyed by the Babylonians.

As the unbelieving Israel and Judah of old did not escape the judgment of God, neither would unbelievers be safe now when God’s judgment comes. The only way to be safe is to be saved!

B. He reassured them of their position in the Lord. 1 Thessalonians 5:4-8

Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

C. He revealed the reason for comfort. 1 Thessalonians 5:9-11

1. The Dead –

2 Corinthians 5:8-9 We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him.

2. The Living –

1 Thessalonians 4:17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

About four years after Paul wrote this letter to the Thessalonian church explaining the plan of the Lord’s return, he corrected the Corinthian’s misunderstanding of the doctrine of the resurrection and the coming of Christ for His saints. In 1 Corinthians 15, he reasoned with them about

– the necessity of the resurrection, “flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God…”,

– the nature of the resurrection, “…In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed…”

– The wonderful comfort found in the Lord’s return –

1 Corinthians 15:55-58 (KJV) O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.
Conclusion:

We know that the wrath of God is coming, but to the praise of His glory, we know that we will not be judged in wrath, because we are saved by grace!! The Lord is removing us, taking us out of the way before this judgment comes. Because of this, we can comfort one another and edify one another and we all can be looking forward to His coming –

Titus 2:13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

Where do you stand today. Are you able to rejoice in the Lord’s return because you are His child? –

Or are you fearful of His return because you know you will be judged because you did not believe on Him?
Be saved today! Move from fear to rejoicing.

Chapter Four

The missionaries recognized that the relationship they had with the believers in Macedonia resulted in rejoicing in the mercy and grace of God. They also realized that they were to correct them when they were wrong. The reports that Timothy and Silas shared in Corinth not only revealed the faith manifested in the lives of the new believers, but also some areas of concern that needed to be addressed.

As Paul prepared to leave Timothy, departing soon to go to His Lord, he reminded him of the lessons learned early in their ministry –

2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.

We have learned of the missionary’s determination to Preach the Word. We learned also that they were ready at all times to do what was necessary to minister that Word to others, rejoicing when they were well received and rejoicing when they were rejected by men. We saw how they denied themselves to serve others, emphasizing the Lord’s Words –

Matthew 16:24 (KJV) Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

– and as I have said many times before, that Cross is not an earthly burden but it is a Heavenly identification!

Paul began to correct the believers, to “…reprove, rebuke, and exhort…” in order to edify them – to help them continue to grow in the Lord.

We notice that through the Scriptures we know that the missionaries practiced what they preached – Believers should live –

A. Pure Lives. 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8

The missionaries had come from a society with morals founded on the Law of God –

Exodus 20:13-17 (KJV) Thou shalt not kill. Thou shalt not commit adultery. Thou shalt not steal. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour’s.

This is not to say that they did not sin. If they had no sin, God would not have given the Law to guide them. They did sin, but they had a moral value instilled in them to instruct them to live a pure life and knowing they would be judged by God when they broke the law. In the lives of the Macedonian’s there was no such guide and no requirement to morality. All of these things were part of life and part of their religious practice. The missionary’s learned they must preach salvation and also separation from the sin of the world.

This command includes all believers – men, women, married and single. “…every one of you…” 4:4
We are commanded to live holy lives and to teach others to live holy lives –

1 Peter 1:15-16 (KJV) But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

Believers should fulfill their –

B. Present Responsibilities. 1 Thessalonians 4:9-12

The missionaries knew that loving one another as the Lord loves us involves more than just an emotional sentiment. It means putting others before self. The missionary’s showed their love by not being a burden on others, expecting people to simply serve them because they love them. Paul reminded Timothy of this years later as Timothy pastored the church in Ephesus –

1 Timothy 5:8 (KJV) But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.

Paul not only instructed the Thessalonians in this, but also we read this same command to the church in Philippi –

Philippians 2:2-4 (KJV) Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
It is important that we know and do the will of God in our daily lives, in our relationship with Him and with those around us.

And believers should –

C. Praise the Lord for the knowledge of the Truth. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

The church had been taught about the coming of the Lord, but they did not understand how it would be accomplished. It seems that some of the saved had died, leaving family and friends to worry as to whether they missed the resurrection by dying before Jesus came. This led to a general confusion among the brethren which needed to be corrected.

1. The Purpose. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-15

To instruct them in the truth as revealed by God. They were ignorant (not knowing), not willingly or rebelliously, but simply had not been taught yet. This part of God’s plan was unknown until this time.

2. The Plan 1 Thessalonians 4:16,17

The Lord revealed His plan at this time in that the people would be informed –

3. The Preparation. 1 Thessalonians 4:18 “…comfort one another with these words.”

Great comfort is found in knowing the promise of God is sure –

that the words spoken at the Lord’s ascension into Heaven are true words

Acts 1:9-11 (KJV) And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.

That the admonition to look for His coming is true –

Titus 2:12-13 (KJV) Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

Philippians 3:20-21 (KJV) For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.

All of the words Prepare us to live unto Him. They are comforting words, encouraging us with the truth of His Return.

Today, are you ready to meet the Lord? If He were to come today, which He could, what will He say to you?
Well done my faithful servant
Or depart from me, I never knew you?

1 Thessalonians Message Six
How did their Decision effect them –

B. Their Delight. 3:6-10

The missionary’s decision to separate in order to minister and help the new believers was confirmed to be the right thing to do. The good report was and blessing and an encouragement to them as they reunited in Corinth. Luke recorded the encouragement these men bought to Paul upon their return –

Acts 18:5 And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ.

– To do more!!

I pray today that we will be able to see ourselves reflected in the verses. If not, I trust we will acknowledge our need to the Lord and seek His forgiveness and the Holy Spirit’s leadership in transforming our lives according to the testimonies presented before us.

Let’s look at –

1. The Return. 1 Thessalonians 3:6a “…Timotheus came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings…”

Hearing good news is wonderful, but delivering good news has a special reward of its own. The one is anxious to hear news but the other has joyful anticipation of arriving and presenting the message which will bring forth rejoicing from those that hear it. I am sure that both Silas and Timothy were rejoicing as they traveled to Corinth to share the blessings of God upon His people.
When we consider waiting for news and bringing news, we understand that God has created us to be able to react accordingly to the situations we face.

At times we receive bad news. Consider this –

Just say we are faced with a lion approaching – hormones are released which prepare us for what is commonly called “fight or flight”. Adrenalin is pumped in, sucrose is increased, and unnecessary functions are closed down. It is like a ship that hit an object in the sea and began to sink. The compartments that are not necessary at this time are closed off, the passageways for escape are cleared and all of the crew, from captain to cook, are called to do what is necessary to save lives. Remember the actions of the crew of the ship that Jonah was on? All were called out to save the ship and all unnecessary things were thrown overboard. Staying alive became the immediate priority and everything else was of secondary importance.

God has created us to be able to rise to the occasion and overcome the danger – “Save the Ship or lower the lifeboats”!

Now let’s consider good news – Notice our common greetings:

“How are you today”, “Ni Hao Ma?”, “Apa Khabar”. Each greeting looks for a positive answer – Good News! When we hear good news it is like fireworks are going off – awesome beauty!

No really – Consider this –

Psalm 139:14 I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.

With the technology that is available today, a discovery has been made that each time a person receives good news, the brain shoots off a sort of fireworks display through the release of the chemical dopamine. An emotional and physical pleasure is related to receiving good news. Have you considered how much good news affects you?

In a 2013 report, smartphone users open their Facebook pages an average of 14 times each day. Now, why would someone do that? Before this technology was available, people rushed to answer the telephone or looked for the post to arrive. Why? We all have the desire to hear news and we especially look for good news. The Lord has a special desire that we hear good news and also, delight in delivering good news.

Romans 10:15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!

Proverbs 15:30 The light of the eyes rejoiceth the heart: –

You can see good news in a person’s eyes. This is the blessing of face to face communication, you can see it before you hear it!

– and a good report maketh the bones fat.

Proverbs 25:25 As cold waters to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country.

Knowing these things we can understand the Delight of the missionaries in giving and
receiving –

2. The Report. 1 Thessalonians 3:6b

The report consisted of three identifying marks of the work of God –

a. Faith and love. “…faith and charity…”

1 Corinthians 13:13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.

Philemon 5 Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints;

1 John 3:23 And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.

b. Fidelity. “…ye have good remembrance of us always.”

The Macedonians showed forth a loyalty and love for their teachers. As the saying goes “Gone, but not forgotten”!

c. Fellowship.

A child of God loves the Lord and His people. “…desiring greatly to see us…”. Remember how that from the beginning of creation, God desired to fellowship with His people –

Genesis 3:8 “And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day….”

Genesis 5:22 “And Enoch walked with God …”

Genesis 6:9 “…Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God.”

Matthew 11:28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

When we have God in us, we have this same desire, to be with Him and with His people.

The good report brought forth –

3. The Response. 1 Thessalonians 3:7-10

The good news blessed the missionaries such that –

a. They were encouraged that all they had suffered in bringing the truth to the Macedonians
was worthwhile! 3:7,8 “…we were comforted…” “…For now we live…”

b. They were encouraged to praise God and pray for the saints. 3:9
c. They were encouraged to preach to them again and teach them more of the wonderful grace of
God! 3:10

Reflecting on the results of their Decision and rejoicing in their Delight, they set forth –

C. Their Desire. 3:11-13 “…That he (God) may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, and the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints.”

The purpose of the ministry was more than seeing people saved, but to see them sanctified, set apart unto the Lord in holiness that the commission of the Lord Jesus Christ would be fulfilled in the world –

“Ye shall be witnesses unto me…”

Conclusion:
As we asked last week, are you willing, as they were, to step away from what you consider to be your safety and security and trust the Lord to keep you safe and secure, away from your comfort zone to present the truth of the Gospel to others?

Do you recognize their delight in serving the Lord? Do you want to?

Do you have the desire to do more to establish others in the faith and demonstrate a holy life in the Lord?

Do you know the Lord as your Saviour?

The selfless concern of the missionaries is noted by their willingness to temporarily separate from one another in order to encourage the believers in Thessalonica. They rejoiced in the faith demonstrated by these young believers, but they also knew Satan’s determination to destroy them as well as the trouble that was stirred up by their countrymen.
The missionaries could accomplish more by staying together as they continued their ministry toward the South. They understood the wisdom of Solomon’s statement –

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.

– even so, they decided against that which would be convenient for them, manifesting their love and concern for those that had trusted the Lord for salvation.

Their placement of care for others above themselves leads us to –

A. Their Decision 1 Thessalonians 3:1-5

The missionaries understood that the Lord would take care of His children, but He also taught them an important lesson – the Lord uses the mature believers to care for the young. The Lord works through His people!

Romans 15:1-3 (KJV) We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification. For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me.

Ephesians 4:11-13 (KJV) And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:

Based on this truth –

The missionaries determined that they needed to share what they had learned through the grace of God in their lives. Notice that each had been strengthened by the Lord as they faced dangerous, life threatening situations.

Paul –
At Damascus, escaping for his life by being lowered over the wall in a basket.
At Jerusalem, not being trusted by the brethren.
At Lystra, being dragged out of the city, stoned by the crowd, and left for dead.
At Philippi, being humiliated, beaten, and put in prison.

Silas –
At Jerusalem, suffering with the brethren as outcast from the Jews.
At Philippi, with Paul in being humiliated, beaten, and imprisoned.

Timothy –
As a resident of Lystra, observed the treatment of Paul and Barnabas.
As a partner in the work at Philippi, observed Paul and Silas suffering at the hands of the people.

These men experienced the grace and mercy of God and determined that they had to share the faithfulness of God with others. They knew the truth that Peter stated –

1 Peter 4:13-14 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.

In returning to Macedonia, they would –

1. Confirm them in their walk. (Establish) 1 Thessalonians 3:1,2a

Ephesians 5:1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children;

2. Comfort them, which involves admonition and consolation. 1 Thessalonians 3:2b

1 Corinthians 15:57-58 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

3. Commit themselves to the Lord. 1 Thessalonians 3:3-5 In this decision, we see –

a. The Attitude

Paul used an interesting word here when he exhorted them not “to be moved by these afflictions…”. The word ‘moved’ is a description of a dog wagging its tail. The dog wags its tail as an emotional response. Paul is reminding these believers that they do not have to respond emotionally to the afflictions they will face when they are confirmed in their way, comforted in their knowledge of the Lord and committed to His purpose for their lives.

b. The Agreement.

Because of the missionary’s knowledge of God’s working in their lives, they were agreed in sending Timothy to the Thessalonians to help them “we”, and Silas also returned to those in Macedonia to help them leaving Paul alone (“I”) in Athens and then on to Corinth.

The missionaries knew the difficulties that this decision involved, but they also knew through God’s working in their lives that it was important to slow down, separate, and help the brethren.

c. The Application. They needed to listen to their own message and apply it to their lives!

Paul revealed his emotional state to the Corinthians as he entered into the ministry to them without his companions in the work –

1 Corinthians 2:3 And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.

– but was determined to listen to his own message and not be “moved” (directed by emotions) from his course. Always remember the Lord’s response to Paul’s fear –

Acts 18:9-10 Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace: For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city.

The Lord’s promises are sure and we need to apply them to our lives –

2 Timothy 1:12-14 For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day. Hold fast the form of sound words…

Learn the lesson that they learned – put others before ourselves. Step outside our areas of comfort and trust the Lord. Here, early in their ministry, the Lord taught them that they could not always do that which was convenient or comfortable. Many times they would be inconvenienced and uncomfortable, but it was necessary and, therefore, good and ultimately brought glory to God.

2 Timothy 4:16-17 At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge. Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.

God is faithful, always! Will you trust Him today to step out and do His will for your Lives?

1 Thessalonians Message Four

In the previous message we saw that being encouraged by the results of God’s Word and work, Paul summarized the missionary’s ministry and motives among the Thessalonians. He wrote of their –

A. Responsibilities in ministering the Word of God. 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12

He wrote of –

1. The Unchanging Message. 1 Thessalonians 2:1-6
They did not change their method, their message, or their motive.

Paul continued to write of –

2. The Undaunted Courage. 1 Thessalonians 2:7,8

He then explained –

3. The Unblameable actions. 1 Thessalonians 2:9-12

We see through the ministry of the Word of God how God blessed through them and what He did to them in their testimonies – The unchanging message, The undaunted courage, and their unblameable actions. We left off with this thought – how do we measure up to this work of God today? Now –

As Paul considered the pursuit of the God given responsibilities in ministry, he concluded that all was done through the power of God and to the glory of God. He then reviewed the –

B. Rewards from ministering the Word of God. 1 Thessalonians 2:13-18

They could identify with the grace of God bestowed on the lives of these people. They personally experienced His –

1. Salvation. 1 Thessalonians 2:13 “…when you received…”

Not adopting another religion, but being born into a relationship with God. “…which effectually worketh also in you that believe.” They were both comforted and challenged by their –

a. Faith.

Colossians 2:6-10 As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:

And their –

b. Future

1 John 2:25 And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life.

John 14:1-6 (KJV) Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

God worked in their lives, bringing about a change – “…effectually worketh…”! He works through His Word! Be a people of the Word of God – The Bible.
They personally experienced His –

2. Security 1 Thessalonians 2:14-16

a. The Persecution from the world. 1 Thessalonians 2:14-16a

Spoken of as a matter of fact – to be expected:

James 1:2-4 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

b. The Promise of God. 1 Thessalonians 2:16b

1). God knows what evil is being done and He will bring judgment upon those in His time!
2). God knows those that are His and He will keep His promise to bring us unto Himself.

a). His children cannot be removed from Him!

John 10:28-30 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand. I and my Father are one.

b). His children will not be rejected by Him!

John 6:37 All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.

And they personally experienced –

3. Solidarity. 1 Thessalonians 2:17,18

God had established a solid relationship between them on the foundation of His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. They were brothers and sisters in Christ, loving, caring, and seeking to be a blessing to one another.

Romans 5:5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
What wonderful rewards are given by God as we serve Him!

Nothing on earth presents such great difficulties as the ministry of God’s Word, but nothing bestows such great rewards and blessings. God ministers His grace and mercy to us as we serve Him.

Our responsibilities and rewards lead us to –

C. Rejoicing resulting from ministering the Word of God. 1 Thessalonians 2:19,20

There are great Responsibilities, Rewards, and Rejoicing in our relationship with God. Notice how they build upon one another. As we faithfully serve the Lord and fulfill our Responsibilities, we are Rewarded which leads to Rejoicing in Him.

What is God trying to do in your life? He is trying to bless you and bring you to rejoicing, not by the things of the world, but through the power of the Spirit. Will you give yourself to Him today?

Salvation?
Service?

Sweet-Hearts forever. Genesis 2-5
Today we will examine the first marriage on Earth. The very first “sweethearts”. I pray that we may learn from them and know what we can do to remain “Sweethearts forever”.

I. The perfect couple. “They were made for each other”

A. God made a matched pair. 1:26,27; 2:18, 21-25.

1. They were made to fulfil, to complete, to do God’s will.
2. They were made with perfect attitudes. (no adjustment needed)
3. They had a perfect beginning together.

B. God gave them a perfect home. 1:28,29; 2:8-14

C. God gave them the perfect career.2:15

1. No clash of personal identities.
2. They worked together as unto the Lord.

II. The problems came. Genesis 3

A. A fourth party got involved. Vs. 1

1. We do not live in a void.
2. We are not alone, even when only the two on Earth.
Note: Now because of our sin nature, we can get into trouble even when absolutely alone!

B. The perfect couple sin against God and against each other.

1. The innocence was gone. There is a difference in the relationship.
2. The fear had entered, they were hiding and fearful in their own home.

C. The judgement came. 3:11-19 Sin always has a price to pay

1. The excuses were made. Vs. 11-13
2. The judgments were pronounced.
3. It was not my fault is not valid.

a. The serpent lent himself as an instrument of deceit.
b. The women made a decision without discussing it with her husband.
Just do it and then he will have to agree
c. The man followed the women instead of following God.
Note: The agreement to sin divided them.

III. The presence restored. (They had been divided from God and from each other)
Their lives would never be the same, but it did not mean their lives were over.

A. The fellowship restored. 3:21

1. Through the sacrifice ordained by God, their sin was covered.
2. They were not afraid to be in God’s presence.
3. They were not afraid to be with each other.

B. The problems in life continued

1. They had to deal with relocation.3:23,24
2. They had to deal with new vocation.
3. They had to deal with rebellion. 4:8-13

C. The marriage prospered through the mercy of God. 5:4
They were to keep the land and multiply children.
They were to be sweethearts even though in a completely different environment which could only be
achieved through the grace and mercy of God and their faith and trust in Him.

We can learn many things from this couple.
We should remember that we can have a good marriage under any conditions if God is directing it, but we can have a bad marriage even in perfect conditions if we do not listen and obey God.
Being sweethearts means the husband and the wife each put God first.
Also remember – Do not entertain sin!
Eve was caught up in this. She kept thinking about that fruit.
Adam caught up this. He followed Eve instead of calling up the Lord for help.
Cain was caught up in this – even though warned by God to turn back now- he continued in his own way. Genesis 4:7
Is sin as your door? Are you about to destroy a sweet relationship with God or with your husband or wife?

Being encouraged by the results of God’s Word and work, Paul summarized the missionary’s ministry and motives among the Thessalonians. He wrote of their –

A. Responsibilities in ministering the Word of God. 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12 He wrote of –

1. The Unchanging Message. 1 Thessalonians 2:1-6

They were faithful in preaching, taking the message to the people.

a. They did not change their method. 2:1 “…our entrance in unto you…”

“Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature”

He knew God’s will and we are exhorted to know the same –

1 Corinthians 1:21-23 For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe. For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom: But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;

And so we praise the Lord also that –

b. They did not change their message 2:2

Look at the message preached – the Gospel –

1). The message that was preached to the Macedonians.

Acts 17:3 Opening and alleging, that Christ must needs have suffered, and risen again from the dead; and that this Jesus, whom I preach unto you, is Christ.

After being forced out of Thessalonica and Berea, Paul arrived in Athens. Look at –

2). The message that was preached to the Athenians.

Acts 17:31-32 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead. And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked: and others said, We will hear thee again of this matter.

And having little influence in Athens we see –

3). The message that was preached to the Corinthians.

1 Corinthians 4:5 (KJV) Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.

These missionaries preached the truth of God, the Gospel, to these people as though they were involved in a great contest “…contention.” The word is “agon” from which the word agony is derived. It pictures determined struggle to overcome as one engaged in an Olympic wrestling contest.

Paul described this same struggle as he was involved in a physical and a spiritual contest over the souls of the believers. He wrote to the church in Colosse –

Colossians 2:1 (KJV) For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh;

And he described to us that struggle which we face daily as the children of God –

Ephesians 6:12 (KJV) For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

This being the case, the victory to be won is in the power of God. We cannot change the rules of engagement that God has set forth thinking that we will gain the advantage. We must trust God going forward in this battle according to His Word –

Ephesians 6:11 (KJV) Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

Take note that they refused to change the message –

Acts 4:12 (KJV) Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

And they were faithful to the Lord –

1 Corinthians 15:58 (KJV) Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

Some heard and believed. Some heard and rejected. Many of those who rejected the message also rejected the messengers, persecuting them. In the face of all of this – the message was never changed to accommodate the hearers. The hearers would be changed by belief in the message.

The missionaries were true to God. Throughout the ministry –

c. They did not change their motive. 2:3-6

Some did and some still do. Remember what Paul told Timothy about Demas – “…Demas hath forsaken me having loved this present world…” Demas had been a faithful labourer in the ministry with Paul, but over time he saw that Paul was not interested in gaining the things of the world while false teachers were being materially rewarded. Do you remember another who forsook the Lord for material gain? Judas lived day to day with the Lord Jesus and the other disciples for three years, but it was not enough for him. It happens, and so it is important to thank the Lord for those who serve the Lord for His glory, not for what Peter described as “filthy lucre” and the motive that Paul described as the root of evil – “the love of money…”.

Paul continued to write of –

2. The Undaunted Courage. 1 Thessalonians 2:7,8

The Lord put into the hearts of these men a love for these that had turned to Him in faith and trusted Him for salvation. Paul, Silas, and Timothy were living examples of the Lord’s words to His disciples as noted by John –

John 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

Paul illustrated their care for them in such a way that we can all understand – a mother’s love. An applicable example of a mother’s love took place just a few years ago in India. A woman was working in a field when a leopard came from the forest and attacked her 7 year old son. As the animal dragged the boy back into the forest, the mother gave chase with only a cutting sickle in her hand. She forced the leopard to release the child and the animal escaped into the forest. The child survived because its mother was willing to lay down her life for his. This is what Paul is expressing – their devotion to these new born children of God.

Of course, there are those who would ask “Why did you all leave when the trouble started? He then explained –

3. The Unblameable actions. 1 Thessalonians 2:9-12

Paul told the brethren to remember how He, Silas, and Timothy had behaved while ministering the Word of God to them. The Thessalonian believers should rebuke those that brought accusations against them and remind the accusers how these men –

a. Worked from dawn to dusk to supply their needs. 2:9a
b. Witnessed to them faithfully through the preaching of the gospel. 2:b
c. Walked among them reflecting the holy life of the Lord Jesus Christ. 2:10
d. Watched over them as a father. 2:11,12

Paul not only emotionally cared for them as a mother loves her children, he also emphatically challenged them as a father would to stand up for the Lord, as David stood up to the evil Goliath, challenging his own brothers and countrymen “Is there not a cause”! or as Joshua set forth the challenge to the world “…but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

We see through the ministry of the Word of God how God blessed through them and what He did to them in their testimonies – The unchanging message, The undaunted courage, and their unblameable actions. How do we measure up to this work of God today? Would those who know us be able to defend us of accusations from others by telling them “they never changed the message, they love us and will lay down their lives for us, and they glorify the Lord through their lives”?

What does the Holy Spirit reveal to you today? Where is the praise unto God deserved or the prayer unto God demanded? Will you obey the Lord’s direction today?

Remember in Chapter One we noted –
A. The Message manifested by the missionary’s lives 1 Thessalonians 1:1-6
1. They were caring – for the saints. Love that remembers. 1:1
2. They were committed – to the saints. 1:2-4 “…remembering…” to have on their minds
3. They were consistent – for the saints. 1:5,6 “as ye know what manner of men we were”

They were developing a lifelong practice of ministry in carrying out the commission of the Lord Jesus Christ. They gave the church a pattern to follow until the Lord returns.
They were able to praise the Lord for His working in their lives. They saw that He had brought them through it and not only this, they saw HOW He has used them for His honour and glory. He had made them leaders because they were faithful followers.

We asked last week –

Are you following the Lord in such a way that He would want someone to follow you?

This morning we continue to look at their ministry and see –

B. The Movement of God through His Word is recorded by the missionaries. 1 Thessalonians 1:7-10

This is, of course, the plan of God as noted in His Command –

Matthew 28:18-20 (KJV) And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

Paul, Silas, and Timothy noted the change God wrought in the lives of these people by their –

1. Public Testimony 1:7,8

The testimony of this church gave joy and encouragement to the missionaries. Note the Apostle John’s response to the faithfulness of those he had brought to the Lord for salvation –

3 John 4 (KJV) I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.

The Lord blesses us through the actions of those we have the opportunity to minister His Word to. Paul experienced this throughout his ministry. Note his statement to the saints in Philippi –

Philippians 2:1-2 (KJV) If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.

Some believe that their actions should not have any affect on others. They dismiss the importance of doctrine. They declare that God will, and should, accept their lives and worship according to their definition of truth, not necessarily His. We are to be single minded with God and one another. This is only accomplished when our lives are based on His Word. We must then study to know what God is telling us. Many claim that this is not important, but it means everything because this is how God identifies us with Himself!

God changes us. He prepares us to work out our salvation for His glory –

Ephesians 2:8-10 (KJV) For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

– and those around us are aware of that change. Our prayer is that they will want to trust God as their Saviour, but, sad to say, often, they reject God and us, becoming angry with us.

1 Peter 4:4 (KJV) Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you:

We can thank the Lord that while those that we were with before may reject us, we have a new family that loves us and are encouraged by our testimony in the Lord!

By their –

2. Personal devotion to God. 1:9 “…turned to God from Idols to serve the living and true God.”
And by their –

3. Positive expectation of the return of the Lord Jesus Christ to take them unto Himself. 1:10

The hearers were changed by belief in the message. When people believed, the missionaries rejoiced over those that trusted in God and were encouraged that they were leaving behind a testimony for those that did not believe yet. Maybe they would in time!
The missionaries rejoiced in the work of God. They anticipated that what the Lord had done, He would continue to do. He increased both their faith and their expectations.

Again – As He did something through them, He did something to them!

Is God working through you today? Do you want Him to?

Will we be like the servants the Psalmist spoke of –

Psalm 123:1-4 (KJV) A Song of degrees. Unto thee lift I up mine eyes, O thou that dwellest in the heavens. Behold, as the eyes of servants look unto the hand of their masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her mistress; so our eyes wait upon the LORD our God, until that he have mercy upon us. Have mercy upon us, O LORD, have mercy upon us: for we are exceedingly filled with contempt. Our soul is exceedingly filled with the scorning of those that are at ease, and with the contempt of the proud.
Are our eyes directed by our hearts upward to the Lord, seeking His leadership, watching for His direction, needing the guidance of His hands in our lives. Will you look to Him today?