Ministry 911

Episode 19 includes special guest Adam Leaman.  Together, we offer a review of topics covered in episodes 1 through 18, an introduction of the rapture, and Scripture which explains how we can be assured eternity with Jesus Christ.

Considering four Greek terms as they relate to verse 13 "The stablishing of their hearts in holiness, which would come largely as a result of Jesus causing this super-increase of love."

1 Thessalonians 3:11-13, we'll be digging in a little further – specifically into verses 11 and 12.  We'll begin investigating a few Greek word and see how their true origins impact us, consider why the opposite of love could best be defined as fear, and find an interesting comparison on how we could use the spiritual gifts God has given us.

In 1 Thessalonians 3:11-13 we will be challenged to consider a translational difference when comparing the Greek and English languages – it might surprise you! We will also see one of the main reasons Paul had in seeking to understand how the Thessalonians were doing… and see how his reasons compare to our own.

I'll be providing some practical insight into the decisions these missionary men made in order to reflect on what motivated them, fulfilled them and drove them to act. In part, this may challenge our own motivating factors and exhort us to consider the true value of things we believe are important. Ministry 911 serves – on-site – as a first-responder to fellowships and non-profit organizations Interim pastorates, sacred worship leaders, interactive conference speakers for marriage, family and youth, life skills training and 501 (c) 3 upstart development are just a few needs filled by Ministry 911 – all provided free from charge, thanks to our crucial financial partners, like you.  

In 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20, we will uncover a long-term motivation which drove Paul and fed his ambition for the Thessalonians.  By doing so, we – in turn – will be faced with the importance of remaining committed to God's plans and the work He wishes to accomplish through the Holy Spirit. 

We will examine what it meant for Paul to long for the Thessalonians and consider ways in which we can relate to that kind of longing.  We will also learn more about God's continued supremacy and goodness even when our plans for fellowship are abruptly interrupted and thwarted.

We will see Paul allude to two methods the Gospel is at work in our lives: for justification and for sanctification.  We will also be challenged to consider the validity of the author – being God, Himself – in light of a current-day social economy which questions God's supremacy. 

We'll call out the phrase “walk worthy of God” and see how this kind of walk comes not from striving but is more of a natural outpouring of the Holy Spirt working through us We'll see how this work of the Holy Spirit changes our character over time and what impact that has on our Christian living.  Let's get started.

Looking today at verses 8-11, we'll reflect on some additional truths we didn't explore together last time related to A specific literary progression Paul used to show increased emphasis, The efforts Paul took in order to ensure that these new believers would not be distracted by the missionaries' material needs, We will also see Paul ask the Thessalonians to connect the dots between not only God being their witness, but the Thessalonians, themselves, being witness of their work.

We'll see Paul transition away from the method of offering truth in response to lying rumors to more of a streamlined focus of offering truth without any more regard for the rumors. It was as if Paul was saying: You've heard the rumors We've acknowledged them We've responded to them Now, lay them aside, put them to rest, and focus only on what is true (a great theme that comes up again in chapter 4:8) After doing so, Paul will continue by pealing back the layers of his heart a little more, expressing more intimately, how affectionately and fatherly he, Silvanus, and Timothy felt toward the Thessalonian church.

Looking today at 1 Thessalonians chapter 2, we'll delve into the first five verses where we see Paul defending the reasons and motives behind his, Silas' and Timothy's earlier visit.  We'll see more about Paul's boldness and even be challenged to reflect on the level of boldness we might show when faced with similar trials.

Message provided to area fellowships related to stretching faith.  Tackling curious concepts and emotions seemingly perceived by the disciples, to which we can relate to today.  Why did Jesus seemingly delay His help?  Why walk, instead of run, when help was needed?

Looking today at 1 Thessalonians 1:6-10 we'll be reminded of those old mimeograph machines that turned your hands blue with each new copy.  You'll also hear a fun story related to my dad's gate and learn a little something about steel weights being piled upon your chest… how can you feel joy amidst that?

In 1 Thessalonians 1:4-5 we'll explore a few different Bible study approaches, including “word studies” and a rather unusual approach I take.  We'll specifically look at Paul's word choices of “Beloved” and “Brethren” and why those terms greatly challenged societal norms. We'll also peak into the concept of election and answer the question: “What must I do to be loved?”

In verses 2 and 3, we'll explore some extreme words like "always" and "without ceasing" in light of Paul's burdens for the Thessalonians, as well as certain God-given character trains these men and women in Thessalonica were already beginning to show.  We'll also examine what it meant for Paul to be a father to the Thessalonians, the responsibilities of these new believers and the implication for us, today.

Looking at Paul's greeting, we'll unpack some observations on Christian unity, identify some “best wishes” and exactly who those “best wishes” were from and finally explore a key phrase actually omitted from most current-day prints. 

We'll look at some of the reactions these men received upon their arrival, and why some of what happened necessitated they leave after just a few weeks, the herculean effort the Lord performed through these men, the role that Timothy played after their visit, and some of what prompted the passion behind Paul's first letter to what had become the first church in Thessalonica.

Paul's letter to the body of believers in Thessalonica came shortly after a rather unanticipated visit to them in the early 50's a.d.  We'll learn of the people's diverse culture and power, as well as the original name given to this area of land which had something to do with... mosquitos.

MINISTRY 911 exists as a first-responder providing interim support to ministries free of charge.  This podcast series consists of Biblical teaching, business spotlights and guest interviews focusing on day-to-day living and community outreach.