The Steps Of A Good Man Series

The Steps of a Good Man

1 Thessalonians 2: 1-3

As we consider the social climate of our modern society, we would have to agree that we stand in desperate need of leadership. Things have certainly changed in recent years, and much of that change has not been for the better. There seems to be a lack of godly men and women who are willing to stand for the cause of Christ and reach the world with the gospel.

I am certainly thankful for my heritage. I grew up in a farming community and attended a small, rural Baptist church; but I was surrounded by folks who knew the Lord and made a difference in the lives of others. They may not have been educated or refined by the world’s standard, but they were committed to the Lord. The leadership and influence of those godly saints has helped me more than they will ever know.

Paul was called to minister at a time much like the day in which we live. The gospel was being preached, countless souls were coming to the Lord, and yet there was opposition on every hand. There was a great need for those who would rise above the challenges and serve the Lord. Paul accepted the challenge and was determined to serve the Lord.

As I considered this passage, a verse of Scripture came to mind: Psalm 37:23 – The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. It is evident to see that Paul’s steps were directed by God. I want to consider the unchanging principles that affected Paul as we think on: The Steps of a Good Man.

I. The Coming of Paul (1) – For yourselves, brethren, know our entrance in unto you, that it was not in vain. Paul spent the opening chapter of his letter to the Thessalonians greeting them and encouraging them concerning the importance of the gospel. Now he turns his attention to the personal ministry God had given him. Consider:

A. His Entrance (1a) – Paul simply reminds them of his initial entrance to Thessalonica. That may seem insignificant, but it serves as a reminder of his faithfulness to the call of God, and a challenge for them to continue serving the Lord in whatever capacity He chose to use them.

Remember, Thessalonica was a prominent city. It boasted a large population and great wealth. This was certainly not an easy environment in which to minister, and yet Paul was faithful to the call. He did not look at outward circumstances, but choose to follow the Lord. Those who are unwilling to move cannot lead. We will never accomplish anything of lasting value for Christ if we are not willing to go where He calls.

B. His Efficiency (1b) – As you study the New Testament it becomes apparent that Paul had an effective ministry in Thessalonica. The Lord moved in great power and many were saved. The church began to send out missionaries and the gospel was taken to the world. Thessalonica was being used of the Lord because Paul had been obedient to the call. Paul’s labor had not been in vain. It was not “empty, void of truth, or ineffective.” That ought to stand as a challenge to us. We need the presence and power of God if we are to be effective.

II. The Conflict of Paul (2a) – But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention. Here Paul reveals the difficulties and conflict that often comes with commitment to the Lord. Rest assured that opposition will come to those who are committed to the work and seeing fruit for the glory of God. Notice:

A. His Suffering – Paul had suffered at Philippi. This has the idea of physical abuse. Clearly, we know that Paul was abused for preaching the gospel. The account of the abuse in Philippi is recorded in Acts 16:22-23 – And the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them. [23] And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailer to keep them safely:

I don’t know of any physical abuse that we have suffered for the Lord. It may come to that and we must be settled in our faith if we are to endure. That ought to challenge us to do more than we are doing now. We are not faced with grave adversity; there is no excuse for silence!

B. His Shame – He was also shamefully entreated at Philippi. This has to do with public disgrace. Paul was publicly humiliated for the cause of Christ. Those who should have supported him and embraced the gospel made a mockery of him and his Lord. Acts 16:20-21 – And brought them to the magistrates, saying, These men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble our city, [21] And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans.