Berean Study Bible
Greetings to the Thessalonians
(2 Thessalonians 1:1-2; Philemon 1:1-3)
1Paul, Silvanus, a and Timothy,
To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ:
Grace and peace to you. b
2We always thank God for all of you, making mention of you in our prayers 3and continually recalling before our God and Father your work of faith, your labor of love, and your enduring hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
4Brothers who are beloved by God, we know that He has chosen you, 5because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power, in the Holy Spirit, and with great conviction—just as you know we lived among you for your sake. 6And you became imitators of us and of the Lord when you welcomed the message with the joy of the Holy Spirit, in spite of your great suffering.
It's interesting how Paul starts his letters. If you look up the references above you will read similar greetings.
Today people email and text verses mailing letters. But how do we greet one another?
Do we relay blessings from our Lord Jesus Christ? Do we wish peace, work of faith, labor of love, thanking God for you (them)?
Or are you worried that you will be labeled a Jesus freak? I would wear that label with honor!
Do you believe what Paul states, God has chosen you? He had to draw you to Himself because He knew your heart. He saw something in you!
Verse 5 bears repeating, let it sink in!
"5because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power, in the Holy Spirit, and with great conviction".
Did you hear the Gospel knocking on your door?
Will you let it into your heart?
It will make you complete!
Receive the joy of the Holy Spirit, in spite of your great suffering!
Yes we all will suffer on this earth, but wouldn't you rather have His joy in your suffering?
Knock, knock!
Blessings, David
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