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IN ALL OUR AFFLICTION AND DISTRESS

Text: 1 Thessalonians 3
17 May 2020

SUFFERING FOR THE SAKE OF THE GOSPEL

The Apostle Paul suffered much for the sake of the Gospel. Some of his sufferings may be noted as:

  1. Physical suffering

a) Stoned

b) Jailed

c) Beatings

  1. Emotional suffering

a) He was anxious about the churches

b) He was distressed about their suffering for the Lord

c) He was concerned that some may fall away 

DRAWING ENCOURAGEMENT

How then did the Apostle Paul find personal encouragement?

6 But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and brought us good news of your faith and love, and that you always have good remembrance of us, greatly desiring to see us, as we also to see you— 

7 therefore, brethren, in all our affliction and distress we were comforted concerning you by your faith. 

8 For now we live, if you stand fast in the Lord.

9 For what thanks can we render to God for you, for all the joy with which we rejoice for your sake before our God, 

10 night and day praying exceedingly that we may see your face and perfect what is lacking in your faith?     1 Thessalonians 3:6-10

  1. Prayer really helps

a) Prayer was made to the Lord

b) Night and day praying exceedingly

  1. Good news will help too

a) Timothy brought back good news about the Thessalonians

b) The report given to Paul:

i) Their faith and love had not diminished

ii) They remembered Paul fondly and gratefully

OUR CHALLENGE DURING THIS DIFFICULT TIME

Let us attempt to do the following:

  1. Let us pray much for each other
  1. Let us have good thoughts of each other
  1. Let’s share things that are uplifting and encouraging

May our faith in the Lord and our love for the brethren continue to be well-sustained! Let us be a blessing to others!