2. 1Thessalonians #2 Paul’s Relationship with the Church at Thessalonica 2:1 - 3:13

3. 1Thessalonians #2- Paul’s Relationship to the Church  Remember the main points from the previous lesson: >This was a young, likely small and predominantly Gentile church. >Previously very concerned, Paul had just received word that they were in fact standing firm in the faith. >He is therefore attempting to praise, edify, and complete what is lacking in their faith.

4. 1Thessalonians #2- Paul’s Relationship to the Church  Like chapter 1, chapters 2-3 are easily divided into sections: 1. Paul’s Conduct Toward the Church, 2:1-12 2. Paul’s Reception by the Church, 2:13-16 3. Paul’s Concern for the Church, 2:17 - 3:10 and 4. Paul’s Prayer for the Church, 3:11-13

5. 1Thessalonians #2- Paul’s Relationship to the Church  Paul’s Conduct Toward the Church, 2:1-12 -v.1 coming was “not in vain” It had obviously produced specific fruit in them and for many others, 1:3, 6-8. -v.2 references Philippi, cf. Acts 16:19- 24 > 17:5-10

6. 1Thessalonians #2- Paul’s Relationship to the Church  Paul’s Conduct Toward the Church, 2:1-12 vv.3-6 His approach to them was not: -from error, impurity, or deceit, v.3 -pleasing men, v.4 (cf. 2Tim.4:3-4) -with flattering speech, v.5 (cf. Jude 16 & 2Pet.2:3) -nor for men’s glory, v.6 (2Cor.4:5)

7. 1Thessalonians #2- Paul’s Relationship to the Church  Paul’s Conduct Toward the Church, 2:1-12 vv.7-11 But instead His approach was: -gentle as a nursing mother, v.7 -with fond affection & sacrificial, v.8 -with labor & hardship, v.9 -with a devout, upright, & blameless example, v.10 -as an imploring father, v.11

8. 1Thessalonians #2- Paul’s Relationship to the Church  Paul’s Conduct Toward the Church, 2:1-12 v.12- “So that…. you may walk in a worthy manner of the God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.” >They had started well! >Paul wanted to be sure they finished just as well!

9. 1Thessalonians #2- Paul’s Relationship to the Church  Paul’s Reception by the Church, 2:13-16 They: -v.13 properly received the word! -v.14 became imitators of other faithfuls -vv.15-16 and withstood the cruel persecutions of the unfaithful! cp. v.15 > v.13 & v.16 > 1:6-8

10. 1Thessalonians #2- Paul’s Relationship to the Church  Paul’s Concern for the Church, 2:17 - 3:10 -vv.17-18 was heightened by his love, absence, & being thwarted by Satan -vv.19-20 and by his extreme joy and pride in them! (cp. to a father) Therefore, (chapter 3): -vv.1-2 Timothy was sent to encourage -vv.3-4 so that they be not disturbed by his afflictions! (cp. 2Cor.11:23-28)

11. 1Thessalonians #2- Paul’s Relationship to the Church  Paul’s Concern for the Church, 2:17 - 3:10 So, -v.5 Timothy was sent…. and, -v.6 they were not only doing great, they thought kindly of and longed to see him! Therefore, v.7 he was comforted in his affliction, & v.8 could really live! (if they stood firm)

12. 1Thessalonians #2- Paul’s Relationship to the Church  Paul’s Concern for the Church, 2:17 - 3:10 Now notice Paul’s response to their faith: -v.9 thankfulness to God! and, -v.10a continued prayer (cf. 5:17) -v.10b longing all the more to see them -v.10c to complete what was lacking in their faith. Ever the father, mother, and educator/encourager!

13. 1Thessalonians #2- Paul’s Relationship to the Church  Paul’s Prayer for the Church, 3:11-13 He prayed that: -v.11 God would direct his way to them (again! cf. Acts 16:9) -v.12 that the Lord would cause them to increase & abound in love for one another & all men, cf. 1Jn.2:10 -v.13 So that they would be ready for Christ’s return! (intro. to chps.4-5)

14. 1Thessalonians #2- Paul’s Relationship to the Church  Conclusions? Same question: What about you? Are you ready for Christ’s return? Why not? Likewise, same question: What about us? Are we comparable examples of faith, fidelity, evangelism, and holiness before God? Why not?