Ministry 911

Episode 19 includes special guest Adam Leaman.  Together, we offer a review of topics covered in episodes 1 through 18, an introduction of the rapture, and Scripture which explains how we can be assured eternity with Jesus Christ.

Considering four Greek terms as they relate to verse 13 "The stablishing of their hearts in holiness, which would come largely as a result of Jesus causing this super-increase of love."

1 Thessalonians 3:11-13, we’ll be digging in a little further – specifically into verses 11 and 12.  We’ll begin investigating a few Greek word and see how their true origins impact us, consider why the opposite of love could best be defined as fear, and find an interesting comparison on how we could use the spiritual gifts God has given us.

In 1 Thessalonians 3:11-13 we will be challenged to consider a translational difference when comparing the Greek and English languages – it might surprise you! We will also see one of the main reasons Paul had in seeking to understand how the Thessalonians were doing… and see how his reasons compare to our own.

I’ll be providing some practical insight into the decisions these missionary men made in order to reflect on what motivated them, fulfilled them and drove them to act. In part, this may challenge our own motivating factors and exhort us to consider the true value of things we believe are important.

Ministry 911 serves – on-site – as a first-responder to fellowships and non-profit organizations

• Interim pastorates, sacred worship leaders, interactive conference speakers for marriage, family and youth, life skills training and 501 (c) 3 upstart development are just a few needs filled by Ministry 911 – all provided free from charge, thanks to our crucial financial partners, like you.

In 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20, we will uncover a long-term motivation which drove Paul and fed his ambition for the Thessalonians.  By doing so, we – in turn – will be faced with the importance of remaining committed to God’s plans and the work He wishes to accomplish through the Holy Spirit. 

We will examine what it meant for Paul to long for the Thessalonians and consider ways in which we can relate to that kind of longing.  We will also learn more about God’s continued supremacy and goodness even when our plans for fellowship are abruptly interrupted and thwarted.

We will see Paul allude to two methods the Gospel is at work in our lives: for justification and for sanctification.  We will also be challenged to consider the validity of the author – being God, Himself – in light of a current-day social economy which questions God’s supremacy. 

• We’ll call out the phrase “walk worthy of God” and see how this kind of walk comes not from striving but is more of a natural outpouring of the Holy Spirt working through us
• We’ll see how this work of the Holy Spirit changes our character over time and what impact that has on our Christian living.  Let’s get started.

Looking today at verses 8-11, we’ll reflect on some additional truths we didn’t explore together last time related to

• A specific literary progression Paul used to show increased emphasis,
• The efforts Paul took in order to ensure that these new believers would not be distracted by the missionaries’ material needs,

We will also see Paul ask the Thessalonians to connect the dots between not only God being their witness, but the Thessalonians, themselves, being witness of their work.