A sea of troubles
1 Thessalonians 2.1-12
Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, so we cared for you.
Prepare
I hope you have never been treated as badly as Paul was. But what troubles are you facing? What persecution for your faith do you see in your daily life?
Read
Explore
Paul continued his mission despite being in physical danger almost everywhere he went (v 2). Yet passages like this suggest that what hurt – more than very real sticks and stones – were the words and false accusations he faced from the churches he planted. Read verses 3 to 6 and 9 again. What do you think Paul had been accused of by the way he responds?
‘You know,’ he says (vs 1,2,5,11); ‘Surely you remember’ (v 9); ‘You are witnesses’ (v 10). He counters the accusations by reminding them of the truth: that he loved them (vs 7,8) and worked hard not to be a burden, so he could offer the gospel free of charge (v 9). As the Thessalonians’ love was proved by their actions, so was Paul’s.
Look again over the passage to see the different familial phrases and pictures Paul uses. His motivation was to build God’s family, which is why he kept going despite everything, why his love was so passionate – and why the hurt cut so deep.
Respond
Paul and his companions gave everything; they were willing to suffer terribly – physically and emotionally – for the sake of sharing the gospel. Is there a situation where you would love to share the gospel, but too often give in to your fear and stay silent?