Slices
Prepare
Pray that as you read today’s passage you will see how the Lord provides encouragement for those who need it.
Bible passage
Paul’s longing to see the Thessalonians
17 But, brothers and sisters, when we were orphaned by being separated from you for a short time (in person, not in thought), out of our intense longing we made every effort to see you. 18 For we wanted to come to you – certainly I, Paul, did, again and again – but Satan blocked our way. 19 For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? 20 Indeed, you are our glory and joy.
3 So when we could stand it no longer, we thought it best to be left by ourselves in Athens. 2 We sent Timothy, who is our brother and co-worker in God’s service in spreading the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you in your faith, 3 so that no one would be unsettled by these trials. For you know quite well that we are destined for them. 4 In fact, when we were with you, we kept telling you that we would be persecuted. And it turned out that way, as you well know. 5 For this reason, when I could stand it no longer, I sent to find out about your faith. I was afraid that in some way the tempter had tempted you and that our labours might have been in vain.
Explore
There is an intimacy about Paul’s longing to see the Thessalonians. The proverb ‘out of sight, out of mind’ did not apply to Paul and the Thessalonians.
Verses 17 and 18 describe Paul’s longing to see them. He felt their separation keenly – like children being torn from parents and being orphaned. He made every effort to see them, but Satan blocked his way (v 18). It is not clear what Paul meant by this. He may have been referring to an illness or to persecution and opposition.
We see in verses 19 and 20 Paul’s pride in the Thessalonians as a proud parent boasts of the achievements of their children. Notice how extravagantly he describes the Thessalonians. Look back to 1:3 for the reasons for Paul’s pride. Paul saw those who came to faith in Christ through him as the fruit of his life and ministry in Christ (see 2 Corinthians 1:14).
In 3:1–5 point to the depth of Paul’s love for the Thessalonians as he prioritises their needs above his own. What caused Paul’s fear for them (v 5)? His concern was so great that he sent Timothy to them, despite his own desire for Timothy’s company (vs 1,2). Reading verses 2 and 3, what was Paul’s purpose in sending Timothy?
Respond
Think of the people who encourage you. Thank the Lord for them. Pray that you might be an encouragement to others.
Bible in a year
Read the Bible in a year: Ezekiel 26,27; 1 Peter 4
Pray for Scripture Union
Please pray for the Welsh Faith Guides and Mission Enablers participating in the Rural Pioneer Project as they prepare to trial new seasonal Go Wild material at Christmas. Pray that this trial will enable the production of material that will help the 95 explore the message of Christmas in new ways.
