In this passage, Paul refutes accusations against him that he was trying to deceive the church or manipulate them out of greed. As a busy seaport on the Egnatian Way, Thessalonica had seen its share of scam artists. Moreover, the Jews gloated that Paul failed in Thessalonica, because they chased him out so quickly and kept him away.

Paul testified how God had worked in them through the gospel. Firstly, Paul had to overcome himself to go to them. In Philippi, he had been insulted and was deeply hurt. Yet Paul overcame his emotions to go to Thessalonica to continue the Gentile mission. There, the word of God worked in their hearts with power and conviction. Paul was clear not to use flattery, nor manipulate them out of greed, nor even enjoy their praise. His pure gospel lifestyle was the best testimony to his sincerity. Do we rely on the gospel or emotion to convert others?

Finally, he describes in beautiful terms of how they were like a family. Paul lived among them purely like a child, nurtured them like a mother, and encouraged them like a father. Paul loved them as himself and did not burden anyone, but worked hard day and night for their salvation. A selfless love relationship in Christ glues people together for the gospel work and enables the church to grow.


Application: Father, thank you for your gospel work in others. Help us to imitate Paul's gospel ministry.
One Word: Be a godly, loving gospel worker