Christian Faith 101

This is a passage to warm the soul. We have in it a basic introduction to Christianity. It starts with God the Father, who bestows grace and peace. He is the living and true God, the initiator in relationship, who sent his Son to save us. He has chosen us and loves us. In him we trust. He hears our prayers. So we serve him willingly. Then there is the Son. He too grants blessing and inspires hope. He is our example. He is the Word that radiates forth and saves. He is resurrected, ruling in heaven. He delivers us. The Spirit is the one who empowers the Gospel and bestows joy. Our triune God is declared in this passage.
Then there is Paul and his team, who embody unity. Pastor Paul leads by example, starting with his usual prayer-wish for grace and peace, moving to gratitude and constantly remembering all of the Thessalonians before God. He endorses his converts, commending them richly and assuring them of God’s love and call. He reminds them what it means to share Christ—in word, power and the Spirit—with conviction and integrity. This is Christian leadership 101. (Using 101 means an introductory course on something.)
Then there are the Thessalonians. What a great church! They live out Paul’s summary: faith, love and hope—these inspire their work, labor and perseverance. They imitate Paul and Christ. Joyfully, they received the word of God, despite opposition. Through their missionary efforts, the word has radiated forth, even reaching Paul in Achaia. They are an example to others. They have turned away from false gods and the emperor to worship the Son. They inspire us similarly to renounce the gods of our age—me, wealth accumulation, secular humanism, etc. We, too, must place our hope in Jesus, who is raised and who delivers us.

Raise praises and prayer to our triune God. Reflect on the examples of Christ, Paul and the Thessalonians. Repent where necessary. Rise and serve out of faith, hope and love.