A Witness That Works!

1 Thessalonians 2:1-12

We are continuing our study of 1 Thessalonians today. Last week, we learned about the people of Thessalonica and the men that God sent to teach them the gospel. Today, we will look at the method of Paul's witness. Certainly, he was one off the most successful witnesses of all time. In today's scripture, we will get some insight about why he was so successful.

In 1 Thess 2:1, Paul states that his witness to the Thessalonians was successful. Why was this the case?

First and foremost, the gospel is perfect! (1 Thess 2:3). Paul writes that the message did not come from "error, impunity or by way of deceit." When we represent Christ in the world, we can have full confidence that our message is true!

Second, Paul's focus was on pleasing God rather than men (1 Thess 2:4-6). When interacting with the Thessalonians, Paul did not use flattery to win friendship, did not seek money for his support or preaching, and did not seek honor/ reputation for himself. Instead, he was focused on following God's will and pleasing Him alone.

Third, Paul's witness was personal (1 Thess 2: 7-12). Verse 8 says that not only did Paul tell the people about Jesus but that he imparted his own life to them. He established a relationship and was willing to give of himself. If our witness is to be successful, we have to be willing to establish new relationships with unsaved people. Our focus must be on doing what is necessary to win them for the Lord. In verse 7, Paul writes that he gently nurtured them as a mother cares for her own children. In verse 11, he reminds them that he "exhorted, comforted, and urged" them on as a father does for his children. Just as a good parent is selfless and centered on doing what is best/necessary for their child, so was Paul toward the lost.

We can/ must act just as Paul did. If we follow his example, our witness will very likely bear fruit. The gospel is powerful! When it is coupled with a caring, compassionate believer that puts the interest of the hearer first, it almost certainly will be well received! Make a commitment today to reach out to a lost person. Establish a relationship with them. Nurture them. Exhort them. Comfort them. Urge them. At the moment of their conversion, you will know that it was worth the effort!

Watch the two videos below to gain insight and useful tips on how to prepare to be a good witness for the Lord.