Scripture:
1 Thessalonians 1:4-5; 2:7, 10-12, 17-18; 3:1-2
Thu, 3 February 2022

Committed Exemplary Shepherds

Observation:

What was Paul’s ministry to the Thessalonians like?

Deeper Reflection
PAUL WAS ABLE TO SAY WITH HUMBLE CONFIDENCE TO the Thessalonians: “You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake” (v.5). This statement, along with other variant “You know” refrains in the letter (1 Thess 2:1, 5, 11), reflects the kind of relationship and ministry that Paul had with the Thessalonians. It was a relationship and ministry marked by depth. Paul shepherded them “like a nursing mother taking care of her own children” (1 Thess 2:7) and “like a father with his children” (1 Thess 2:11-12); and these new converts were “witnesses” – even as God was – to how Paul lived a “holy and righteous and blameless” life before them (1 Thess 2:10). Significantly, such depth of relationship and ministry was built in only a short time, and yet it made a vital contribution to the Thessalonians’ “standing fast in the Lord” amidst suffering “much affliction” (1 Thess 1:6; 3:8), and making a great impact on both believers and unbelievers “in Macedonia and in Achaia” (1 Thess 1:7-8). During his separation from the Thessalonians, Paul made attempts – “again and again” – to return to Thessalonica to continue building up the faith of his spiritual children (1 Thess 2:18). When he could not do so and “could bear it no longer”, he sent Timothy to go on his behalf (1 Thess 3:1-2). Behind Paul’s relentless attempts was the “great desire to see you face to face” (1 Thess 2:17). Such is a biblical model for disciplemaking and pastoral work.
Application:

What changes do I need to make in making disciples (in any setting)?

Prayer:
Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.
Prayer Pointers:
  • Give thanks and praise
  • Pray for Outreach/Missions/New Life leaders: To be exemplary godly leaders at home and in the community
  • Pray for significant people
  • Pray for those in need
  • Pray for self

Download this Building Fund QR Code  and upload it to your banking app via your gallery/album. 

Download this General Fund for East QR Code  and upload it to your banking app via your gallery/album. 

Download this General Fund for WDL QR Code  and upload it to your banking app via your gallery/album. 

Daily Devo
Daily Devotional Journal
Sun, 31 December 2023

Sunday Journal

Past Week’s Review
  • What was my high point and my low point for the week?
  • What gave me life and what drained me?
  • How was the Spirit of God at work?
Reflect

What is one key thing that God said to me this week in light of what has happened?

Respond

What is one thing I need to do in light of what God is saying?
Commit in prayer.

Download this New Life Fund QR Code  and upload it to your banking app via your gallery/album. 

Download this General Fund for BPJ QR Code  and upload it to your banking app via your gallery/album. 

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.