Paul noted three important aspects of the Thessalonian congregation:
There is a work of faith.
There is a labor of love.
There is a steadfast hope.
They became imitators of the Apostles, welcoming the message by the Holy Spirit. Through their actions they shared the joy and message of Christ to other believers. The committed church that follows the model of the early church will be known to its community. It will have signs and wonders in the name of Jesus. Acts 4:30. The congregation will be bold and unashamed of the gospel. Romans 1:16.
We should be living in expectation of God's movement and even more in expectation of Christ’s return. Revelation 3:10. Watching, waiting, and standing in readiness. And while we are waiting with expectation, we should be working with faith, love, and hope.
The Model Church is made up of Model Believers.
These are questions to ask:
1. What kind of church are you?
2. What kind of testimony do you project before the world?
3. Are the Works of God through the Holy Spirit at work in our lives, known in our communities?
Are we a light in the dark world around us?
I found this song which I think fits the message today:
We Are Called.
Verses for Today:1 Thessalonians 1:3-8 (NIV)
3 We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. 4 For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you, 5 because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake. 6 You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. 7 And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. 8 The Lord’s message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia—your faith in God has become know
n everywhere.
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