As we continued through Greece, we prepared to arrive in Thessaloniki with a teaching from Marc Turnage.
In Acts 17, Paul confronts a world filled with cross-cultural challenges (sound familiar?). In this text, he demonstrates how to unite communities under a single group. Paul's message is clear: first, Jesus must suffer, and then he proclaims that Jesus is the Messiah.
Paul's teachings are built on four key assumptions:
1. The land of Israel would be free of foreigners.
2. The evil empire will be defeated.
3. The God of Israel would be universally reigning.
4. At the end of the age, as foretold in Isaiah, people would turn from all other idols and turn to one God.
These assumptions are evidence that God's redemptive work has begun. However, the Corinthians were so focused on themselves that it became a stumbling block in their behavior.
In Romans 12, Paul uses the image of an olive tree to convey a powerful message: we have been grafted in as one branch of the olive tree. This means we need to repent and understand that life isn't about OUR WILL but about HIS WILL. We must move beyond the mindset of "I DESERVE IT" and stop coveting what others have.
Paul's proclamation of the Messiah's coming meant the end of the Roman Empire's reign. He established a church but was eventually run out of town to Berea, where he wrote 1 Thessalonians, the earliest book of the New Testament. Shortly after, he wrote 2 Thessalonians.
The central message of these two letters was to LOVE EACH OTHER. Paul urged his followers to lead lives that attract people to them through their love for Jesus. This love should be so profound that it draws others in rather than repelling them. Paul's message was clear: do whatever it takes for someone to find Jesus through you.
In 1 Thessalonians 4:9-10, Paul speaks of a love that starts from within. The gospel allows us to love others, even those who vote, think, and act differently than we do. Our role is communicating love rather than division, especially in today's divided world.
In 2 Thessalonians 2:16, we are reminded of an eternal hope, not a temporal one.
Conclusion: Leading a Life Inspired by Paul
Reflecting on Paul's journey and teachings, I am inspired to live a life filled with the love he spoke about. A love that represents Jesus. I strive to withstand the pressures of the world as Paul did, maintaining my faith and continuing to spread my message.
"You can kick me out, but I am not going to stop writing my letters." This is my new mantra!
Just as Paul continued to write his letters, I encourage everyone to keep telling their stories and living with a love so powerful that it brings those around them to Jesus. Don't stop writing your "letters," and continue to live a life that attracts others to a wonderful faith-filled life that is so much more rewarding than the alternative.
If you would like a copy of any of the devotionals or books I reference, please request one below, and I would be honored to send you one. Please reference the title of the post/devotional to ensure I send you the correct devotional/author. See my mission in the "About Me" link.
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