Having Done All, Stand Series

Having Done All, Stand

1 Thessalonians 2: 14-16

It has been a few weeks since we began to study this powerful letter to the Thessalonian church. Our last encounter revealed Paul encouraging the church to be an imitator of Christ rather than a pretender of the faith. He exhorted them to a life of godliness before men. Clearly, we need those who are genuine and sincere in our day as well.

Actually, these verses are a continuation of that same line of thought. The church at Thessalonica faced intense persecution and opposition. They were oppressed on every hand. But, even in the face of such mounting opposition, they would not be deterred. They were confident in their faith and committed to serving the Lord.

The verses we have read deal with two types of people: the oppressed and the oppressors. We will look at both in detail. As I studied these verses, I was reminded of what Paul instructed the Ephesian believers. Eph.6:13 – Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. As we consider the details of these two groups, I want to preach on the thought: Having Done All, Stand.

I. The Consideration of the Oppressed (14) – For ye, brethren, became followers of the churches of God which in Judaea are in Christ Jesus: for ye also have suffered like things of your own countrymen, even as they have of the Jews. This is basically a reminder of those fundamental principles that Paul had already spoken of, but often repetition is the best teacher. Notice:

A. Their Association – This is the fourth time Paul has referred to them as brethren. He is reminding them, yet again, of their association to him, the church, and the Lord. They were not in this in and of themselves. They were part of the church; they belonged to the Lord.

The children of God are born again, redeemed and set free from sin. We have an Advocate with the Father, who stands and pleads our case. We have the comfort and guidance of the Spirit. Life often is hard to bear, but when we consider to whom we belong, it is much easier. Being part of the church brings comfort, and it also ought to challenge us. We are obligated to maintain our fellowship, walking with the Lord.

B. Their Imitation – This is the second time Paul speaks of the church being followers. Clearly, he is emphasizing the importance of following the Lord and the teachings of His Word. Remember this literally means to be an “imitator.”

Surely you would agree that we need to be followers, in fact imitators, of the Lord and His righteousness. We ought to be more like Jesus every day. We ought to continually be in a state of transformation into His likeness! 1 Pet.2:21 – For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Rom.12:2 – And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

It is interesting that Paul mentioned that they were followers of the churches of God which in Judaea are in Christ Jesus. They followed the godly example of the Judean churches. This speaks volumes to me. I am convinced the cultures were much different. Judea had a different lifestyle than Thessalonica. They weren’t prejudice or judgmental, following their example of godliness.

C. Their Affliction – The church in Thessalonica had suffered much by their own countrymen. Those who knew them best had persecuted them the worst. Much of their opposition wasn’t from those without, but from within. That is a sad reality, but it is true nonetheless. We often face hurtful and even damaging opposition from those whom we would never expect. Often those who know us best can hurt us the worst.

D. Their Confirmation – Paul revealed an interesting statement: even as they have of the Jews. He is speaking of the adversity the Judean churches had faced by their own countrymen, the Jews. The church in Jerusalem was not immune to suffering and difficulty and they were not either. This was a reality they needed to accept. The enemy will not stand idly by while the church prospers.

This maybe didn’t appear to be an encouragement, but it confirmed some things in Paul’s heart. They were doing enough to be noticed. They were fruitful for the Lord and the enemy had attacked. I certainly don’t welcome or look forward to adversity, but I would hope we are accomplishing enough for the Lord to be noticed of the enemy. 2 Tim.3:12 – Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.