What does it mean to be a people pleaser? What does it mean to be a “rule keeper”?

In this second message from our Future Now series, we go to 1 Thessalonians 1, where we see a young church that became a powerful example of faith, love, and hope.

Despite pressure and persecution, the Thessalonians received the gospel not only in words, but with power, with the Holy Spirit, and with deep conviction. Paul knew that God has chosen them. Their transformed lives echoed the message of Jesus throughout the region—and continue to speak to us today.

Summary:

This sermon explores 1 Thessalonians 2:1-13, offering rich insights into Paul’s ministry to the Thessalonian church and the implications for our lives today. The speaker begins by addressing the common human experience of wondering if our efforts have been in vain, drawing a parallel to Paul’s situation after being driven out of Thessalonica.

Paul writes to this young church, reassuring them that his work wasn’t futile. He reminds them of the transformative power of the gospel, evidenced by their turning “to God from idols to serve the living and true God” (1 Thessalonians 1:9). This letter, written from Corinth, addresses the Thessalonians’ questions about the future and the return of Christ.

The sermon emphasizes a key theme in 1 Thessalonians: living with the future in mind. As the speaker notes, “Until Jesus comes back, there is going to be a constant series of problems, pains, and perils.” Yet, Paul presents a radical new way to live – a life transformed by the gospel and shaped by the certain hope of Jesus’ return.

Despite facing severe suffering in Philippi and ongoing conflict, Paul remained bold in proclaiming the gospel. The speaker highlights this tension, noting that Paul doesn’t deny the reality around him but also doesn’t elevate it above the greater reality of God’s sovereignty.

A significant portion of the sermon focuses on Paul’s approach to ministry. Unlike false teachers with hidden agendas, Paul’s appeal didn’t spring from “error or impurity or any attempt to deceive” (1 Thessalonians 2:3). Instead, he sought to please God rather than man. The speaker delves into the dangers of people-pleasing, quoting from Galatians 1:10 and Ephesians 6:5-6 to reinforce this point.

The sermon also explores Paul’s character as described in the passage. Paul likens himself to both a gentle, nurturing mother and an encouraging, guiding father. This dual imagery illustrates the depth of Paul’s care for the Thessalonian believers. The speaker notes that this presents a different picture of Paul than we often imagine, showing his gentleness and willingness to work so as not to burden the church.

Finally, the sermon culminates in Paul’s charge to the Thessalonians – and by extension, to us – to “walk in a manner worthy of God, who calls you into his own kingdom and glory” (1 Thessalonians 2:12). The speaker emphasizes that this call is not because it’s easy or convenient, but because it reflects the character of the God who calls us.

In conclusion, the sermon challenges us to live in the tension of the “now and not yet,” standing firm in our faith even in the face of opposition. It encourages us to embody Paul’s approach – not seeking to please people, but to please God, and to care for others with the gentleness of a mother and the encouragement of a father. Ultimately, we are called to live lives that reflect the eternal hope we have in Christ, eagerly awaiting His return.

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