HARD WORK IN THESSALONICA!

THE WORK OF THE SERVANT OF THE GOSPEL

We continually remember before our God and Father

your work produced by faith,

your labor prompted by love,

and your endurance inspired by hope

in our Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Thessalonians 1.3

The apostle to the Gentiles--to you and me--has 24 references to the "work...labor...endurance" of the minister of the Gospel in this little letter. Twenty-one of these references occur in the first three chapters. This is a very concentrated focus on the work of ministry!

This letter from the heart of God shows us that the work of faith is so others can know, believe and become established in faith in Christ.

The work requires labor in suffering and struggling against endless obstacles and oppositions.

The labor is endured because of the hope we know awaits those with whom we work.

Passionate love for Jesus produces passionate work for men.

"Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And He died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for Him who died for them and was raised again."

2 Corinthians 5.14-15

"Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." 1 Corinthians 15.58

"As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work." John 9.4

Our work is first with God for men and then with men for God.