Paul’s Desire Continued

Northwest Bible Church – May 21, 2023 – 1 Thess. – Alan Conner
1 Thess. 3:1-5
Paul’s Defense Continued

Intro

A. THE CHARACTER OF TIMOTHY (vv. 1-2a).

1. It was best for Paul to stay in Athens and send Timothy (vv. 1-2a).

2. The qualification of Timothy to be sent to Thessalonica (v. 2).

a. brother.

b. God’s fellow worker in the gospel of Christ.

B. THE MISSION OF TIMOTHY (vv. 2b-4).

1. To grow their faith (v. 2b).

2. To calm their faith regarding their afflictions (v. 3).

a. So they would not be disturbed/deceived by the afflictions.

b. Afflictions have been destined. Acts 9:15-16.

3. Paul reminds them of his previous words (v. 4). Acts 14:22

C. THE PURPOSE OF TIMOTHY’S VISIT (v. 5).

1. To find out about their faith and report to Paul.

2. Fear of Satan’s temptation and their labor being in vain.

APPLICATION:

1. One of the signs of true faith is perseverance.

2. Your trials and afflictions and sufferings are also destined by God.

Discussion questions: Paul was willing to sacrifice his own comfort by sending Timothy. Service for the Lord often involves sacrifice. Are you willing to sacrifice in order to serve? What was Timothy’s mission to the Thessalonians? How did Paul describe the origin of their afflictions? What comfort can you draw from looking at your trials from God’s perspective?
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