And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. -1 Thessalonians 1:7 (NIV)
What does it mean for to be a model to all believers? In the suggested reading this morning, Paul notes that the gospel came to the church of Thessalonica not just with words but with power, with the Holy Spirit, and with deep conviction. Paul notes that the Thessalonians imitated him and the Lord, welcomed the gospel message in the midst of suffering and became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia.
That leads me back to the question: what does it mean to be a model in our community and world? Is it personal piety? Is it a passion for social justice and transformation? Is it a willingness to suffer for the sake of Christ?
The Thessalonians became models when the gospel became for them not just words, but power. They listened and read not just for information, but transformation. They imitated Paul and Jesus because they were both worthy examples of how God desires for people to live. Then they themselves became models/examples for others and their faith became known everywhere.
May God grant you the grace to experience the gospel today not just as words, but as power. May you see the gospel modeled beautifully by someone else and may such an example inspire you to beautifully model the gospel to others.
If you're interested in reading through the Bible, tomorrow's readings are 2 Samuel 24, 1 Chronicles 21,Psalm 30, and 1 Thessalonians 2.
No comments:
Post a Comment