Let’s do a focus and amplify study of 1 Thessalonians 2. I determined the focus is, A Passion and Plan for Discipling others.
Whatever you’ve experienced in the past, dare to go forward with passion and a plan. Paul experienced suffering, insults and strong opposition, but he dared to go on.
He amplified this focus in chapter 2 by mentioning his integrity. His motives were right. His methods were honest and straightforward. He never used trickery, flattery or deceit. He wasn’t vying for the praise of men, but rather to please God.
He further amplified this focus by mentioned intimacy. He discipled others with the gentleness of a nursing mother. He genuinely cared and loved them, sharing not just the gospel, but his very life. He did this by working at night to support himself so he wouldn’t be a burden to these new Christians.
Another quality that amplified the focus was intensity. Like a father he lived an exemplary life: holy, righteous and blameless. He comforted and then strongly urged them to live lives worthy of God. He was also a man who was informed about their responsiveness to his message as well as the difficulties they would encounter. He spoke honestly about these things, affirming them as he did so.
Finally, he had the quality of being inspiring. These Christians meant a lot to him. He wanted to be with them. But even though that was not possible, he wanted them to know that they would be his joy and crown at Christ’s return.
Reflect on these qualities to see how they embody the passion and plan Paul exhibited in his ministry.
