“The problems of the era [are] intensifying at the precise moment that the era [is] passing.”

- Mark Sayers

1 Thessalonians 1:5

. . . our message of the gospel came to you not in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction

The gospel is the good news of what God has done through the person and work of Jesus Christ, especially what he accomplished through his death, burial and resurrection.

1 Thessalonians 2:1-2

You know, brothers, that our visit to you was not a failure. We had previously suffered and been insulted in Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in spite of strong opposition.

Acts 16:16-18

. . . we were met by a slave girl who had a spirit by which she predicted the future. She earned a great deal of money for her owners by fortune-telling. She kept this up for many days. Finally, Paul became so troubled that he turned around and said to the spirit, “In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to come out of her!” At that moment the spirit left her. 

Acts 16:22–24

The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten. 23 After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison . . .

1 Thessalonians 2:6–8

. . . As apostles of Christ we could have been a burden to you, but we were gentle among you (also translated kindness), like a mother caring for her little children.

1 Thessalonians 2:11–12

For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory. We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us.

We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us.

The Gospel is fueled by love.

Revelation 3:20

Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.

1 Thessalonians 2:19–20

For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? Indeed, you are our glory and joy.

Jesus, take what is of you in me, that this person needs, and give it to them. And give to me, what is you in them.