1 Thessalonians 2:17-20
Three points from this passage
1. A Life-on-Life Passion for People
Paul had spent a few months with the Thessalonians. He’d taught them many things before he had to leave Thessalonica, but had a deep desire to re-connect with them. He had a love for them that desired being present with them face-to-face.
2. The attack/opposition of the Enemy
He's pointing out that the reason he's not been able to come back to them is that Satan hindered him over and over. Satan will always attack the church.
"For still our ancient foe doth seek to work us woe. His craft and power are great and armed with cruel hate, on earth is not his equal."
(Martin Luther, A Mighty Fortress)
Even though Satan is against us, God is still sovereign. Satan is still under His authority.
3. The Joy of Heaven
Paul lived with a continual focus on the return of Jesus. He was a true pastor - with a deep desire to see men and women become passionate followers of Jesus Christ.
Your crown is going to be the presence of the people that you were responsible to lead to the knowledge of Christ
Ultimately, this passage tells us that there is a deep, abiding joy that comes from being involved in "Life-on-Life" discipleship with others.
The Foundation: Matthew 28:19-20 – Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Discipleship is simply Helping each other follow Jesus better
3 Rewards of Discipleship:
1. Increased longing for spiritual fellowship
Why there are fringe people in the church?
they don’t disciple
they don’t let anyone disciple them
When you offer God your gifts, passions, and abilities, it brings joy and your love for others increases.
You’ll want to lean more so you can share more
2. Increased Opposition
When you’re actually moving forward-
there will be opposition
Satan will try to block your efforts
it will be all out war.
But that’s exciting - it says you’re threatening to the Kingdom of Darkness
3. Increased Glory
Paul is so excited to say: I want to see you make it all the way to the end and I want to be standing there when you meet Christ. I got to help you in your pursuit of Christ in life and it will be so glorious to see you in Christ’s presence face-to-face in glory.
Our glory is increased as we grow in Hope
My hope is encouraged in the midst of discipling someone toward their hope!
Our Joy increases as well
3 John 4 – I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.
Seeing someone grow in Christ brings great joy.
There is also a Crown - of exultation and boasting.
I will have the great joy of boasting about what Christ is doing now, and then in heaven, what Christ has done in your life.
Every person you help grow spiritually here on earth - you’ll get to be there to see them receive their reward.
That should motivate us today
All of this is because of The Gospel.
In the gospel, we are drawn to love those with whom we have nothing in common.
In the gospel we can persevere through trials and tribulations rather than throw in the towel.
In the gospel we have the hope of heaven. We have strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow.
Whose life will you begin pouring into?
Soli Deo Gloria!
Rob Signs
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