The Partners Of Paul

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