Greetings To The Church Series

Greetings to the Church

1 Thessalonians 1: 1-4

In the book of Acts we discover Paul receiving the Macedonian call, Acts 16: 8-10. This led Paul initially to Philippi and then on to Thessalonica. In that day, Thessalonica was the prominent seaport and capital city of the Roman province of Macedonia. It was located on the “Via Egnatia”, the main road from Rome to the east. Thessalonica’s location enabled the city to become a prosperous commercial center that boasted an estimated population of 200,000.

There was a prominent Jewish population there, as well as many Greeks who had grown weary of the Greek paganism that promoted immorality and indulgence. Thessalonica was ripe for the gospel, but that didn’t prevent opposition from the Jewish legalists, Acts 17: 1-6. Paul’s presence was limited there because of opposition, but that didn’t deter his love and devotion for the church in Thessalonica. He commended them for their faith, love, and hope. This letter was written from Corinth.

It is evident the church there had a profound impact on those around them and for the cause of Christ. The church in Thessalonica stands as a testimony and challenge for the modern church. As we begin our study, I want to examine the aspects of the church as we consider: Greetings to the Church.

I. A Lasting Relationship (1) – Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church of the Thessalonians which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul mentioned various relationships within the church.

A. The Servants – This letter was written by Paul, but he also sent regards from Silas and Timothy as well. The church was familiar with these men. They too had labored alongside Paul, establishing the church. Paul was thankful for their support and fellowship; and he knew the church would be as well.

There is something special about those with whom we labor. Serving the Lord together, particularly in times of adversity, creates a bond between those who work together. We ought to rejoice for those of like faith and thank the Lord for them. It would be a lonely and difficult task without those whom the Lord has placed alongside us!

B. The Saints – Paul was certainly thankful for Silas and Timothy, but he was also thankful for the beloved, the church. Without them, there would be no ministry, no effort for them to labor together for. In this greeting, Paul reminds them of the nature of their relationship with him and with God. Notice, he spoke of:

1. Their Position (1a) – Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church of the Thessalonians which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ. They were reminded of the position they held. This is simple and yet profound. Paul speaks of a physical location as well as a spiritual location. First, he reminded them of where they were. They were the church of the Thessalonians, called to minister in that great city. This was in reference to the opportunities and obligations associated with Thessalonica.

Next, he reminded them who they were. They were set apart, servants of the living God. They were in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ. This reminded them of their obligation to serve the Lord, and the great power and potential that they possessed in Him. (We too need to be reminded of our physical and spiritual location. We are positioned where we are with purpose and obligation!)

2. The Petition (1b) – Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul offered a prayer of blessing for grace and peace unto them. He desired the Lord’s grace in their lives. This speaks of “that which affords joy, pleasure, delight, and charm. It deals with God’s unmerited favor; the extension of His holy influence upon their lives.”

He also desired peace for them. This was essential considering the opposition they faced. Paul wanted them to enjoy “harmony, security, prosperity, and an absolute assurance of their faith.” These elements are essential if we are to lead productive, spiritual lives. We will accomplish little for the Lord if we lack grace and peace. God’s grace sustains us while His peace secures us.

II. A Loving Request (2) – We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers. Paul encouraged them with the fact that he was praying for them. (Isn’t it encouraging when a known prayer warrior lets you know he/she is praying for you?) So, let’s consider the particulars of Paul’s request. Notice:

A. The Premise – He revealed that he gave thanks unto God for them. He was actively praying for the believers at Thessalonica and the work in which they were engaged. They were the focus, the heart of his prayer. He knew they needed the help of God and he sought the Lord on their behalf.