Free Bible Commentary
“1 Thessalonians 2:1-8”
Categories: 1 Thessalonians“For you yourselves know, brethren, that our coming to you was not in vain, but after we had already suffered and been mistreated in Philippi, as you know, we had the boldness in our God to speak to you the gospel of God amid much opposition. For our exhortation does not come from error or impurity or by way of deceit; but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who examines our hearts. For we never came with flattering speech, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed—God is witness— nor did we seek glory from men, either from you or from others, even though as apostles of Christ we might have asserted our authority. But we proved to be gentle among you, as a nursing mother tenderly cares for her own children. Having so fond an affection for you, we were well-pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because you had become very dear to us.”
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Paul and his fellow workers had “boldness” to speak in the face of “much opposition” (verse 2). But let’s be certain to notice the source of this great confidence to be vocal in spite of fierce antagonism: they had “boldness in our God”. If we will only remember and fully believe that the power of Almighty God is in the Gospel that we teach, and behind us when we do His will, there will be no excuse for timidity. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
Another reason that they had to speak out boldly to people is that they taught the unadulterated Gospel truth that is vital to people’s salvation. We have every reason to speak confidently as well as long as we are saying things that are “approved by God” and true to His word (verse 4). We really do not need to concern ourselves if the truth that we speak is not pleasing to the ears of the hearers because we know that it is pleasing to God. As long as we are “speaking the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15) we are telling people the things that they desperately need to hear whether or not they like it or realize it.
Yet another reason that Paul and his companions had confidence in their mission is that they had no secret, sinful motivation to preach salvation (verses 5-6). The only reason they stuck out their necks and put their lives on the line daily is because they loved people (verses 7-8). All they wanted to do was help people get to heaven. A phrase that I often repeat is we need to love people enough to allow them hate us. Lost people need the truth more than they need our friendship. Everyone deserves an opportunity to hear the Gospel even if they exercise their right to reject the truth and the messenger who delivers it.
We should always speak with love and grace, and our words should be chosen carefully and seasoned for palatability (Colossians 4:6), but the truth still hurts and causes division. “I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16)!
Please read 1 Thessalonians 2:9-12 for tomorrow.
Have a great day!
- Louie Taylor
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