Christian behaviour: (chap.3)
Paul’s review: (3:1-5): In the previous chapter Paul explained how much he wanted to be with the Thessalonians during their time of trial (2:17-18). However, since Paul could not be with the Thessalonians himself he did the next best thing. He sent his trusted companion and fellow worker Timothy to them. For the sake of the Thessalonians, Paul was willing to be left in Athens alone. It cost him something to send Timothy to the Thessalonians, and he thought it was good to pay that cost.
Paul wanted Timothy to do two things – to Strengthen and encourage the Thessalonians. Both are necessary, but Strengthening comes first. Encouragement can really only come after we are established in the right direction; otherwise, we are only encouraged in the wrong course. As the Thessalonians were established and encouraged, they would not be unsettled by these afflictions. Timothy’s ministry would help them to endure their present hardship. Without a good understanding of the truth concerning the place of suffering in the life of the believer, we are in great danger of being unsettled in our faith.
- Some believe that Christians shouldn’t suffer and God must teach usonly by His word, and not through trial or tribulation. We must know that suffering was good enough to teach Jesus (2:10; 5:8), therefore it is good enough to teach us. God does teach the believer perseverance, obedience, how to comfort others, and deeper fellowship with Jesus.
- Some believe that suffering means God is angry at the believer. The truth is that that God loves us enough to give us thebest in our afflictions or sufferings. The symbol of Christianity is the cross, not a feather bed. Affliction is just part of following Jesus; therefore Paul recognized that Christians are appointed to affliction and persecution.
Paul’s report: (3:6-9):
When Timothy returned from his visit to the Thessalonians, he brought good news. The Thessalonians were doing well in faith and love. Paul wrote this letter from Corinth because he was finding difficult to come for the second time so that they can do ever better. Yet Timothy came back with good news, Paul had a renewed strength and freshness of life (for now we really live (3:8a). It made Paul feel much better that the Thessalonians were doing well.
It is true that the servant of God would be full of delight when he sees that the Holy Spirit is visiting his hearers, making them to know the Lord, and confirming them in that heavenly knowledge. On the other hand, if God does not bless the words of his servants then it is like death to them. To be preaching and to have no blessing makes them heavy of heart.
During any persecution, believers must encourage both ministers and members and even the new converts that they remain steadfast and accept and remain more faithful to God. Paul thanked God for those who had come to know Christ and for their strong faith. He also prayed for their continued growth. If there are new believers who have brought you joy, thank God for them and support them as they continue to grow in the faith.