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“Apostle
Paul” – A Role Model for Missionaries
I. Introduction:
Review I Thess. 1: 1-10
(Thessalonians: The Receivers & the Responders).I Thess. 2: 1-16 - Dr. Paul J Joseph II. Paul proves he was sincere and not a charlatan, v. 1 – 12. v. 1-2: The integrity of Paul’s ministry in Thessalonika. “not a failure” – evident from the changed lives of Thessalonians (1:5-8). “you know” – Paul defends his character and ministry. Why? Not because of some insecurity in Paul; if he could be discredited, then the gospel message itself would be discredited. v. 3-5: The integrity of Paul’s message in Thessalonika. a. Paul’s message was pure with the central theme “Salvation” and there was no deceit, uncleanness, or guile; these things were common among the “competing” religions of the day. b. God entrusted Paul with Gospel and approved him to be His servant. c. Don’ts in ministry: Not trying to please men, No use of flattery, No mask to cover up greed, Not looking for praise from Men. v. 6-9: Paul’s gentle, humble attitude, self-support and hard work demonstrated his motives were pure. a. Paul did not seek glory from men; his needs for security and acceptance were met in Jesus. He did not spend time trying to earn the acceptance of men. b. Paul was like a nursing mother looks only to give here child and not looking for anything in return. c. Paul’s preaching was effective because he gave not only the gospel, but himself as well, because of love. d. Paul recognized his right to be supported by his flock (I Cor. 9:14), but voluntarily gave it up to set himself apart from missionaries of false religions. v. 10-12: Paul’s own behavior and message demonstrates the integrity of his character before God and men. “Yet Paul not only lived justly and blamelessly, he also told the Thessalonians they should live the same way – his life and message were consistent” (Guzik). How about ours? III. More thanksgiving for the work God has done in the Thessalonians, v. 13 – 16. v. 13: Paul is thankful that they welcomed the gospel as God’s message, not man’s. Evidence: It effectively works, it changes lives. v. 14-16: Thessalonians welcomed suffering when they welcomed the word, yet they stood steadfast. Paul Joseph, AICF, 08/23/03 |