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"Your patience and faith..."

Text: 2 Thessalonians 1:4

A SOLID FAITH

The evidence of a strong faith was clearly exhibited! Only a solid faith could withstand the persecution that the church endured.

“So that we ourselves boast of you among the churches of God
for your patience and faith in all your persecutions
and tribulations that you endure.”

2 Thessalonians 1:4

1. The churches of God

a) Paul had founded many churches.

b) He founded churches on his missionary journeys.

c) There is little doubt that Paul did the following:-

i) He sought to keep in touch with the churches he founded.

ii) He sought to keep the churches in the loop with each other.

iii) He would occasionally mention the needs of some poorer churches.

iv) He certainly commended the testimony of some of the stronger churches.

2. “So that we ourselves boast of you”

a) The word “boast” is not used in the bad sense of the word.

b) Paul spoke of the progress of the Thessalonians as a father who delighted in his children.

3. The context

a) The Thessalonians faced persecution.

b) They underwent tribulation.

4. The testimony of the Thessalonians

Three aspects were especially highlighted:-

a) They showed great “patience”.

i) This word may also be translated “perseverance”.

ii) The Thessalonians were able to remain steadfast under great pressure.

b) They obviously had a strong and solid faith.

i) They did not forsake their faith.

ii) They held fast to their faith.

c) They were able to endure even though they must have suffered much for the sake of their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.