Paul’s Ministry

Northwest Bible Church – April 23, 2034 – 1 Thess. – Alan Conner
1 Thessalonians 2:1-8
Paul’s Ministry

Intro
WE CAME NOT IN VAIN (1 Thessalonians 2:1).

A. THE MISTREATMENT OF MINISTRY (1 Thessalonians 2:2).

1. At Philippi –

2. At Thessalonica –

3. “boldness in our God” –

B. THE MESSAGE OF MINISTRY (1 Thessalonians 2:3-4a).

1. Not from error, impurity, or by way of deceit (1 Thessalonians 2:3).

2. Approved by God (1 Thessalonians 2:4).

C. MOTIVE OF MINISTRY (1 Thessalonians 2:4b-6).

1. not pleasing men but God (1 Thessalonians 2:4b).

2. no flattery (1 Thessalonians 2:5).

3. no pretext for greed (1 Thessalonians 2:5).

4. no glory from men (1 Thessalonians 2:6).

D. METHOD OF MINISTRY (1 Thessalonians 2:7-8).

1. Gentle (1 Thessalonians 2:7).

2. Nursing mother (1 Thessalonians 2:7).

3. Affection (1 Thessalonians 2:8).

Conclusion

Discussion questions: How do we respond to opposition to the gospel? What application can we make in how Paul defended his message? Paul’s motives in his ministry are a godly example for us in our ministries. In what ways can our motives be compromised? Paul’s method of ministry in Thessalonica was characterized by gentleness and affection. When is this appropriate for us to imitate? When is this not appropriate for us to imitate?