Day 1: Read 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10
In the original Greek language, verses 2-10 are one long sentence written by Paul!
- Paul has some important things he wants to talk to the Thessalonians about, but he begins his letter with thanksgiving. Who does Paul thank and how often?
- For which of the believers is he thankful?
“There is no reason to suppose that the Thessalonian church consisted of any less odd a collection of characters than the average congregation to-day.” —William Neil, St. Paul’s Epistles to the Thessalonians
- For what three things is he specifically thankful in verse 3?
- “Faith, love and hope” are mentioned frequently by Paul in his letters.
What did the church’s faith produce?
What does James 2:26 say about faith and work?
“Apart from the evidence of works, faith may be deemed dead. It is not the real thing. True faith continually contributes to spiritual growth and development.” —J. Ronald Blue, The Bible Knowledge Commentary
- How has your faith in Jesus shown itself in your work/deeds?
- What did the church’s love produce?
- Paul specifies “labor” in this verse, not “work.” How would you describe the difference?
“The stress in the word labor (kopos) is on the cost, exertion, fatigue, and exhaustion that it entails. Work (ergon) may be pleasant and stimulating but labor implies toil that is strenuous and sweat-producing. Had there been no love (agape) they would not have persisted in carrying on the hard and difficult activities now being performed.” —Hiebert, 1 & 2 Thessalonians
- Labor is hard! When is a time your deep love for someone prompted you to labor for him/her?
- Finally, what did the Thessalonians’ hope produce?
- What does Romans 8:24-25 say about hope?
- What are the Thessalonians hoping for? (see 1 Thessalonians 1:10)
- All believers in Christ have this hope! How does this encourage you to have patience in light of the conditions of the world today?
“The Thessalonians’ unseen attitudes of faith, love, and hope were like hidden roots that produced the fruit of good works, loving labor, and patient endurance. How lush and fragrant these qualities were in Paul’s memory now that he was so many miles away…In his heart he carried with him a bouquet of encouragement, gathered from his brief encounter with the Thessalonian believers.” —Charles Swindoll, Contagious Christianity