24/03/2015 - FROM IDOL WORSHIPPERS TO SERVANTS OF GOD

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For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, 1 Thessalonians 1:9

The Thessalonians understood that the Truth would set them free from idolatry, which is disgusting in God’s eyes. So they converted wholeheartedly to the Lord. They did make many mistakes, because the practice of worshiping idols leads to other sins. However, due to their change of behavior they served as an example to those who hear the Gospel (I Thessalonians 1:7-8).

The faith of the Thessalonians became a living instrument in the hands of the Most High, causing Paul and his team to be impressed and to give thanks to the Almighty (I Thessalonians 1:1-3). Not only did they put their faith in the Lord Jesus decisively and firmly, but they also had zeal for the divine commandments. The minute such thing happens the devil loses his power to seduce people with his temptations. That’s what should happen everywhere the Gospel is preached.

The attitude that the brethren of Thessalonica had shows why they were chosen by the Lord to serve Him. The truth is that anyone who is born again is soon compelled to strive to please God. Therefore, when one doesn’t show emotion and transformation or doesn’t start doing good works, it means there was no real conversion. The Holy Spirit gives everyone who comes to the Kingdom of God a desire for complete change.

The message that came to them prompted their transformation to the point of being praised by the apostles. It was a genuine message, without any addition or forgery. But if those who evangelize don’t live in holiness, there will be no results. Those who are sent by the Lord of the harvest should be committed to speak the truth and live it (I Thessalonians 2:3-8).

When the work is done in the power of God, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, with full resolve on the part of those who do it, and within the limits of holiness, a successful result is guaranteed. The preacher must strive to turn the lost into holy people to the Most High, without putting his personal plans into action. He must remember that he is a servant and therefore he has to do what the Lord commands.

If there is any kind of persecution, the minister of the Gospel cannot let resentment, grief or other bad feeling take over his heart or pass it on to others. We can only serve God with joy, and in so doing people will also receive the Word gladly, and the result will be very satisfying. Nothing is more beautiful than seeing the converted becoming imitators of Christ (I Thessalonians 1:6).

The preacher’s aim should be to form Christians to serve as models for those who convert, so that their faith reflects in the evangelization of others. Always fulfill the mission given to you, respecting the One who called you for such an important work.

In Christ with Love,

R. R. Soares