Today I would like to continue our study of 1st Thessalonians chapter 2. As we previously pointed out the reality check presented in this chapter deals with the question, “Are you getting the right input?”
I’m not a nutritionist, but I must admit I’m skeptical about the claims made by the company that makes the cereal touted as the “Breakfast of Champions”. Does it claim to be that because they pay champions to promote their product? Would they pass the test of truth? Would they want their claim, “Breakfast of Champions,” to be put under the searchlight of God?
When considering eternal issues you want to be sure the input you get will enable you to find truth and apply it to your life. Paul shares how he and his team related to these people and provided for them the encouragement and insight they needed to experience new life in Christ. Since their experience was so life changing and exemplary it would be wise to consider the kind of input they received and how we can get the same kind of input for our spiritual growth.
If I were to do a chapter study of 1st Thessalonians 2 I think the title, “Personal Encouragement,” or in a more direct form, “Getting the Right Help,” would be appropriate. For the key verse I would chose part of verse 4, “We speak as men approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel.”
As we continue this study we will summarize the thrust of the message, list questions we have and note some cross references, build an outline and develop some applications.
