The Thessalonica church was started out of persecution.

• The church had begun in Jason’s home
  • The town was in an uproar
    • Mobs were mad
    • Riots broke out

Thought: things haven’t changed much

• Loyalty to the different political parties
• Hatred toward God and those who stand for biblical truths
• Those who oppose the government intruding into their lives

But God was working.

Encouragement #1 Chpt. 1:2-10

• Their faith work
• Their work of love
• Their inspiring hope

The church needs good, role model leadership today

• People who are self-less
• Faithful
• Hardworking
• Hopeful

Great leaders lead when things look their worst.

Note: vs. 8 NIV Their faith was known throughout the world. Romans 1:8 NIV

Encouragement #2 Chpt. 3:6-10; “Your faith and love” 

1. What does faith do?

Note: vss. 7-8; Faith stands firm in the Lord

1. What is your faith standing on/firm?

True faith is firm because of its belief in the invisible God.

Note: Hebrews 11:1-2 NIV Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. 2 This is what the ancients were commended for.

• Confidence/certain – assurance; real content; reality; firm ground to stand upon

Encouragement #3 Chpt. 4:1-12

Paul encourages the church to do God’s will for their lives.

The truth is, you can’t out love someone. God’s love is endless.

Love makes us able to care for others.

It is love that makes relationships work. God’s love works.

If you want to overcome the evil of this world then love God and love each other.

Encouragement #4 Chpt. 5:12-22

How do we show our love and faithfulness?

• Respect people
• Encourage each other to be productive citizens
• Be kind
• Be happy/be glad in the Lord
• Make prayer important
• Thank the Lord in any and every circumstance of your life
• The Holy Spirit is working so don’t get in the way. Don’t shut him down, instead, be a part of what he is doing
• Be willing to learn (don’t look at prophecy, God teaching us truth, as not being important)
  • Learn from the Holy Spirit. That is the reason Jesus sent him to us.
• Be a good student and test what is taught. Right truth is worth holding onto
• Be a good testimony. Reflect the goodness of God

Paul’s closing thought: vs. 23 (Msg)

Questions for the week:

1. Has your faith been put on the back burner of your life?
2. What is your faith anchored on today?
3. What areas of your life do you need to address so that faith will once again be strong?