DAY 27: Introduction to 1 Thessalonians and 1 Thessalonians 1:1-5a

Introduction to 1 Thessalonians

Our prayer for Ann Street Presbyterian Church is that God would use us to bring the gospel of Jesus to thousands of people in Brisbane, for his glory. We pray that our faith would be known throughout all of Brisbane, as an encouragement to believers and a witness to unbelievers.

The Thessalonians were the church we want to be. They might not have had any more people in their church than we do. They might have even had less! But their gospel footprint was huge. This is how Paul describes them

“You became imitators of us and of the Lord; in spite of severe suffering, you welcomed the message with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. The Lord’s message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia—your faith in God has become known everywhere.” (1 Thessalonians 1:6-8)

What characterised this church full of new Christians?

What made them stand out as an example to the believers in Macedonia and Achaia?

And most importantly – how can we imitate them here in Brisbane?

SECTION 1 - THANKSGIVING (1 Thessalonians 1:1-10)

1 Thessalonians 1:1-5a - Thankfulness for Signs of Election

Don Carson comments about prayer: “The unvarnished truth is that what we most frequently give thanks for betrays what we most highly value.” (A Call to Spiritual Reformation, pg. 41)

What does Paul give thanks for? What do you give thanks for in your prayers?

How can Paul say that he knows God has chosen the Thessalonians?

1. Thank God for one thing from the passage

2. Ask God for help with one thing you've challenged by from your reading and reflection today

3. Pray for Griffith Christian Students