Thanking God for This Church

The Church at Thessalonica

• Thessalonica was a thriving city known for its growing population and diverse worldviews.
• Those who “turned the world upside down” reasoned from the Scriptures, witnessed many conversions, and eventually fled from persecution (Acts 17:1-10).
• Since the opposition limited Paul’s time with this church, he wrote this letter to comfort, correct, and challenge them.
• The theme of 1 Thessalonians is how disciples can live with eternity in mind.

The Message for Thessalonica

• A church connected to Christ is characterized by grace and peace (1:1).
• A good church is a gift of God for which we ought to give thanks (1:2).
• A church needs continual prayers more than occasional engagement (1:2).
• Christians should display active faith, observable love, and enduring hope (1:3).

The Connection for Us

• The healthiest types of churches are those that continue to get healthier. 
• We cannot rest on the accomplishments of the whole church while neglecting individual engagement.
• Our mission: we are making disciples who take personal responsibility for Kingdom activity.
• Our vision: everyone discipling someone.