January 15 | 1 Thessalonians 2:1-16

Judy Webb
Jan 15
2 min read

DAILY READING

1 Thessalonians 2:1-16

REFLECTION

In The Shadows

By Judy Webb

This sermon series title is perfect. Paul’s ministry began in the Shadow of the Cross. And still today we can see this shadow as a significant backdrop in his letters.

We had previously suffered and been treated outrageously in Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in the face of strong opposition. (1 Thessalonians 2:2)

Today we are zeroing in on 1 Thessalonians 2 where we learn of Paul’s heart for Jesus and His love for his fellow man. He loved them so much he repeatedly endured physical beatings. While preaching and teaching in Philippi, he was beaten and imprisoned for his words to the people. Despite this reality of Paul's life, he was not deterred from moving on to Thessalonica and preaching the Gospel there. Paul acted as a father on behalf of the believers at Thessalonica (v.v. 9-12)

Though Paul had many enemies who wanted to harm him, he was bold in the face of danger. He had competition for the attention of those who lived there, because there were many religious leaders who were seeking fame and fortune from their false teachings.

Paul’s message was pure as he preached truth. His adversaries were not concerned with truth. (Sound familiar for us today too?) Paul’s confidence in the word of God was not blind faith or wishful thinking. Paul could see that God’s word effectively works in those who believe. There is power in the word of God to change lives. Many of us reading today can attest to that truth.

When the Thessalonians responded to the gospel they became targets of persecution. Have you ever felt persecuted for your faith? Have friends or family berated and belittled you because you stand firm in your faith? Remember, the same happened to Jesus.

Are we not living in a time where we are called to stand firm…stand firm in our faith? A time is coming, in fact in other parts of our world it is already here. Now, as in the days of Paul, standing firm will be a symbol of our faith…and we may well die for it!

PRAYER

Dear Lord,

Give us courage and boldness when we need to be strong. There are days when we speak truth and others may not agree. They could even attempt to harm us, or discredit our voice. We need to be strong and proclaim truth, never wavering. Come Holy Spirit.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

JUDY WEBB

I have been a member of UALC for 26 years and have been writing devotions for this site for about 17 of them. Writing is my passion. As retired staff I still love everything about UALC and its members including my small group.