The Partners 1 Thessalonians 1:1b-c
Introduction: Didn’t identify himself as an apostle here.
. In Macedonian churches, it was never in question
. Later he would defend his integrity & sincerity (2:1-6)
. See Paul’s attitude of humility as he links all as equals.
1. The Prominent – Silas
A. A spiritual leader – Acts 15:22; early church @ Jerusalem
. Involved, great testimony in persecution
B. A sincere messenger – Acts 15:27; conference on legalism
. Confirm the genuineness of the letter
. Man of truth and honesty, reliable, upright; trustful
C. A seer of God – Acts 15:32; 1 Samuel 9:9, prophet
. 2 Corinthians 1:19; preacher of all the Word
D. A supporter of Paul – Acts 15:40; 2nd missionary journey
E. A subject of Rome – citizen; Acts 16:37
F. A secretary of Peter – 1 Peter 5:12; humility, willing
. Many areas of service; very faithful
2. The Protégé – Timothy
A. Citizen of Lystra, a city in Asia Minor; Acts 16:1-3
B. Convert of Paul’s – 1 Corinthians 4:17; Philippians 2:22
. 1 Timothy 1:2; 2 Timothy 1:2; 2:1
C. Close bond with Paul – Philippians 1:1; Colossians 1:1
D. Co-worker & colleague of Paul’s – 1 Thessalonians 3:2
. Brother, minister, fellow-laborer, to establish & encourage
. Acts 14:22; 15:32; 18:23; 20:32; Spiritual quality of life!
. 1 Thessalonians 2:13; 1 Timothy 3:15
E. Copy of a servant – Philippians 2:19; model, pattern
F. Called to serve in Ephesus – 1 Timothy 1:3
. Stay on & complete what Paul had started.
. Charge = military command from a superior; 2 Timothy 4:1
. The deduction – presumed to be teachers; 1 Timothy 1:7
. The debarring – excommunication (1:19-20)
. The detail – replacement of unqualified men (3:1-7)
. The discipline – done in public (5:19-22)
G. Captive / Confined in prison – Hebrews 13:23
