Peter Barnes: 1 Thessalonians 3:1-5
SERMON NOTES: DANGERS AFTER CONVERSION (1 Thessalonians 3:1-5)
– the most difficult times for Christians can be just before conversion and just after.
- Concern for other Christians.
– 3:1-2; note 2 Cor.11:28. Paul had just gone through the trauma of what happened in Galatia – Gal.1:6-7.
– Athens was not an easy place to evangelise – Acts 17:14-18. Twice Paul says that he could bear it no longer not to know about the Thessalonians (1 Thess. 3:1, 5). Paul could have companionship or he could send Timothy to strengthen the Thessalonians. But not both.
- Some dangers that new Christians face.
– 3:3-4. Paul has referred to persecution a number of times already – 1:6; 2:2, 14.
– the devil will be behind this – 3:5; see Matt. 4:3. The tempter is at work to render the apostolic labours in vain (Gal.2:2; 4:11). He tempts: ‘Why be a Christian and go through all this? Live your own life, and people will leave you alone. It is not worth all this trouble.’
- Know some remedies.
– fellowship with Timothy’s presence
– he will strengthen and encourage them – 3:2. See Heb.2:1; 3:12-13.
– know that persecution is a part of the Christian life (3:3-4)
. Paul told them from the beginning that they were not signing up for a free entry into a fun park.
– John 16:33. If you know you are going to be hit – say a footballer on the football field – you brace yourself, and it is usually less dangerous and less painful.