1 Thessalonians 1:6-10
Q.1. What was it about the response of the Thessalonians that so thrilled the apostle? – (1 Thes.1:6-8)
The Thessalonians had imitated Paul, amid much opposition. In doing this, they had proved the reality of their faith. Paul was touched further, that – 7 you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. 8 For the word of the Lord has sounded forth from you, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith toward God has gone forth (1 The.1:7-8). Being the consummate evangelist that he was, Paul would have been thrilled by this.
Q.2. How did the Thessalonians prove that they had really changed permanently? (1 Thes.1:9-10)
The Thessalonians were unembarrassed in sharing their love of Paul. However, Paul also wrote – how you turned to God from idols to serve a living and true God (1 Thes.1:9). Their whole lives had been refocused, as they determined – to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, that is Jesus, who rescues us from the wrath to come (1 Thes.1:10). The Thessalonian believers were exemplary witnesses of the Saviour. They were committed to serving Him as the living and true God. This was inspired by Jesus’ death, when He in love rescued them from the wrath they deserved. It was reinforced by the knowledge that Jesus would come for them at any time.