THE CHURCH'S PRIORITY - I Thessalonians 2:17-20

Paul saw the Thessalonian Church as being on the cutting edge of service! The imminent return of Christ built a fire in their hearts as they served with passion and vision. They had their priorities in order. They became lights in a dark world. They were filled with passion and compassion.
I wonder what Paul would think of our churches today? What does God really desire for the church of the 21st century? Our text might help us to rediscover our priorities in the light of this new year and new decade.

I. Motivation For Kingdom Ministry - (vs.17-18)
Things were not perfect at Thessalonica. There were some who were gossiping, complaining and even some who refused to work because of Christ's imminent return. Like a nursing mother and a protective father he had helped them in their spiritual growth. His motivation was 2-fold:
1. Commitment - "out of our intense longing, we made every effort to see you"
We often tend to lose interest in serving Christ because of a lack of passion. Service from
selfish motives leads to lukewarmness. Paul not only had an "intense longing" but he
put forth "every effort." His priorities were right because his commitment was real. He
was committed to the will of God, the Word of God and the people of God. That must be
our motivation if we are to serve faithfully this new year!
2. Conflict - "but Satan stopped us"
With whole hearted commitment comes conflict! Paul kept up the fight even in the face
of opposition. The Enemy of our soul doesn't want us to serve Christ, so he will put every
possible obstacle in the way. What should be our response? First, we need to put on the
whole armour of God (Eph. 6:11-18) "with this in mind, be alert and always keep on
praying." Secondly, be aware of Satan's subtle trap (I Peter 5:8-9) and "resist him, standing
firm in the faith." Thirdly, remember it is "not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit
says the Lord Almighty" (Zach.4:6). He is our Victor and through Him we gain the victory!

II. Participation In Kingdom Ministry - (vs.19-20)
Too often we stop at motivation. God wants us to become participants; to get involved! Note
what happens as the process unfolds:
1. The Bridge Of Hope - Hope is built by following the will of God, living in the light of eternity,
and daily being filled with His Spirit (Eph.5:18). Hope is the certainty that God will fulfill
His promises. Involvement guarantees fulfillment of hope in His time.
2. Experiencing Real Joy - Joy is not only the "fruit of the Spirit" (Gal.5:22), but as we serve
together, Jesus promises "the one that sows and the one that reaps rejoice together"(John 4:36). Joy spelled out, reads: Jesus, Others, You!
3. Receiving The Crown Of Glory - Paul's real joy came from seeing people come to new life
in Christ. They were his crown of joy! But Scripture makes it clear that all those who
serve faithfully and love His appearing will receive the victor's crown.

Conclusion: The time is short! God has given us another year in which to serve. In the light of His soon return, I want to be found walking with Him; living for Him; serving Him. Together we can make a difference! That's my goal! Is it yours?

THE MYSTERY OF JOY

How vain man searches for a way
Through earthly toys that soon decay
And thinks these things bring happiness
Yet find, its only emptiness.

In every life a God-shaped void
Is built within the heart of man
So he can know down deep inside
Redeeming grace that will abide.

But joy is not made up of things
That bid one soar on eagle wings
The power is found in knowing Him
And helping others bound by sin.

The fruit of joy one can express
Is helping widows in distress
Or helping orphans find a home
So they no longer need to roam.

So as you seek help from above
Let Jesus fill you with His love
Then through the service you impart
Real joy will overflow your heart.
--B. Pent

WHEN LOVE REIGNS

We are so prone to walk away
When duty calls for us to share
The oil of grace, the wine of joy
So others know we really care.

We look for ways to show our thanks
For what the Lord has done for us
Yet fail to see that outstretched hands
Are needing loving hearts to trust.

If just a cup of water shows
How much we claim to own His Name
Then shouldn't we do what He commands
And bind the wounds still held by shame?

The world can only understand
How God can fill the troubled heart
When by our love we show to them
His peace that never will depart.
--B. Pent