1 Thessalonians 2:1 I. In view of what he had already undergone, and in anticipation of renewed suffering, St. Paul was "bold" in declaring in Thessalonica the whole counsel of God, keeping nothing back. He was all this, too, in the midst of "much contention" that is, much external conflict and dan... [ Continue Reading ]
1 Thessalonians 2:5 The Apostle is very careful in describing the relation in which his ministry stood to the Thessalonians, to defend himself against all false charges, all insinuations or suspicions of insincerity or impurity of motive. There was no element of imposture or covetousness or guile i... [ Continue Reading ]
1 Thessalonians 2:10 There are two points to be noted here in this comparison instituted by Paul between his conduct and that of a father. I. He could say, as a wise father suits his dealings, both in training and teaching, to the case, the requirements of each child, so he acted towards his conver... [ Continue Reading ]
1 Thessalonians 2:13 I. In this passage the Apostle states the evidence of the effectual working of the word in the Thessalonian converts. The change it had wrought in them was genuine, for it withstood trial. This is the test of a right acceptance of the truth. The Thessalonian Church was one of t... [ Continue Reading ]
1 Thessalonians 2:17 I. The Thessalonian Christians were peculiarly the Apostle's hope, being regarded by him, not simply as a conspicuous part of the reward in glory which was in store for him, but also his hope in connection with his present earthly work. Their conversion, their steadfastness in t... [ Continue Reading ]
1 Thessalonians 2:18 I. There is a hinderer. Not only are there hindrances, there is a personal hinderer. He is not visible, he is not persuadable, he must be resisted. II. This hinderer assails the most eminent workers in the Church. He assailed the Saviour Himself. In this case he hindered Paul.... [ Continue Reading ]
1 Thessalonians 2:19 I. The text points to the future. Paul loved the Thessalonians; he made mention of them in his prayers. He remembered without ceasing their work of faith, their labour of love, their patience and hope. Instead of indulging in fond regrets, and lamenting the severance of old tie... [ Continue Reading ]