The Heart Of God's Man (Part 2) Series

The Heart of God’s Man (Part 2)

1 Thessalonians 3: 1-13 (6-13)

In our last study we began to consider the heart that Paul had for the church and the work that God had called him to. Just as a reminder, let’s quickly review Vv.1-5.

I. The Investment of the Pastor (1-2a)

A. His Forbearance (1a) – Paul was burdened by his separation and could no longer hold out without hearing of their condition.

B. His Fervency (1b) – Paul thought it good to be left at Athens alone. This was not an act of cowardice, but a willingness to remain in Athens for the good of the church in Thessalonica.

C. His Fellow-laborer (2a) – He reminds them of the blessing that Timothy is to himself as well as the church.

1. Timothy’s Closeness – brother.

2. Timothy’s Calling – minister of God.

3. Timothy’s Commitment – he was a fellow-laborer in the gospel of Christ.

II. The Interest of the Pastor (2b-3)

A. He Desired Stability – establish you. “make stable, place firmly.”

B. He Desired Security – comfort you. “admonish, console, encourage.”

C. He Desired Steadfastness (3) – endure in the midst of adversity.

III. The Integrity of the Pastor (4-5)

A. A Man of Honesty (4) – Paul had always been open and honest with them.

B. A Man of Loyalty (5a) – He was committed to finishing the work at Thessalonica.

C. A Man of Accountability (5b) – He knew the responsibility he had for the church.

So, let’s continue to consider the qualities our Lord develops in the pastor as we think on: The Heart of God’s Man.

IV. The Inventory of the Pastor (6-10) – As a true man of God, Paul was always taking inventory of current situations. He was continually evaluating the church and her growth. This was not done in arrogance or skepticism, but with a heart of love, for the benefit of the church. What did Paul discover as he evaluated the church in Thessalonica?

A. He was Comforted (6) – Timothy returned to Paul with news from Thessalonica and it brought comfort and assurance to him. Paul was comforted because of:

1. Their Faith – But now when Timotheus came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith. One of the first things Timothy reports to Paul is the continuance of their faith. Paul had revealed that he did not desire his work there to be in vain. He had exhorted them to stand fast in the face of adversity. They had not abandoned the Lord. They continued in Bible study, prayer, and worship of the Lord. The church was continuing to grow!

As the world considers our congregation, what do they see? Could it be said that we are continuing in the faith? There is a rich history and an enduring legacy here. We must ensure that our faith endures for future generations.

2. Their Fondness – Timothy also brought good tidings of their charity, the love they possessed and expressed. I believe this love was shed abroad liberally. They loved the Lord; they loved His church; they loved their pastor, and they loved the world around them. (That is not to say they engaged in worldly activities, but they loved all men.)

In my humble estimation, there is no greater attribute of a body of believers than to be known for charity. A church that is filled with love is a church that overcomes and endures! John 15:12 – This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Prov.10:12 –Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins. 1 John 3:14 – We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.

3. Their Fellowship – and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also to see you. The church genuinely desired to see Paul. Even though he was separated from them, they still longed to fellowship with him. They desired to hear him teach the Word and they appreciated the leadership he provided.

An individual or congregation that does not desire fellowship with other believers cannot be right with the Lord. I love to come together with God’s people. I love to associate with my church, whether here for services or extra-curricular activities. There is nothing that will replace genuine fellowship with those of like faith!

B. He was Confident (7-8) – It would be safe to say that Paul was deeply concerned for the church in Thessalonica. He had faced great opposition, being forced to leave town. He knew they too would face intense opposition. Hearing of their resilience comforted Paul even though he desired to be among them. Paul rejoiced in their growth even in his absence. No doubt he was confident of his Lord and their commitment to Him.