Today we are reading 1 Thessalonians 1. In this chapter we read about the steadfast faith and powerful witness of the Thessalonians. “We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction. You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake. And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit, so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia.” 1 Thessalonians 1:2-7 ESV When Paul visited Thessalonica on his Second Missionary Journey, he was met with strong opposition. At first the people were eager to hear about Jesus. Later the Jews stirred up opposition and forced Paul to move on. The Thessalonians did not abandon their faith. They persevered and a church was established. Paul describes them as “imitators” of him. How are you an imitator? Who are you imitating? May God been seen and heard through you! Pastor Tim
