Last night, Nicole, our kids John and Anne, and I had the incredible opportunity to see the transformative power of storytelling and music at the opening night of Godspell at Music Theater Heritage in Kansas City. Godspell is a beloved musical that brings the gospel to life through a series of parables and lessons from Jesus’ life, told with a modern twist and accompanied by a vibrant score. Thanks to our friend John Paul Johnson, our family was treated to an incredible experience that brought laughter, tears, insight, and encouragement. As we watched the talented cast, with our very own Ty Tuttle as the Musical Director, we were reminded of the timeless message of love, hope, and community at the center of our faith. Just as the characters in Godspell shared the stories and teachings of Jesus, the early believers in our scriptures for today shared the good news of Christ with passion and perseverance, even in the face of opposition.
The scripture passage we will be discussing today is part of a larger biblical narrative that points to Jesus. These texts may be ancient, but they are still alive and active today. The Holy Spirit communicates with us through them, and I hope you can sense God’s presence while exploring them today. Please take a moment to jot down any thoughts or reflections. Before we dive into today’s passage, let’s revisit the scriptures we covered in the past few weeks.
In our journey through the book of Acts, we have witnessed the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in the lives of the early believers. Two weeks ago, in Acts 1, we saw the disciples praying, awaiting the promised Holy Spirit. Last week, we experienced our faith in song as the choir presented our spring cantata, “Footprints in the Sand.”
Today, as we turn to Acts 17:1-9 and 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10, we see the gospel message spreading to new regions and transforming lives. In Acts 17, Paul and Silas bring the good news to Thessalonica, where some Jews and Greeks believe. However, they also face opposition and persecution from those who reject the message.
Despite these challenges, the Thessalonian believers remain steadfast in their faith. In 1 Thessalonians, Paul commends them for their work of faith, labor of love, and steadfastness of hope in Christ. Their example of turning from idols to serving the living God and eagerly awaiting Jesus’ return inspires believers everywhere.
As we reflect on these passages, we see a common thread: the power of the gospel to transform lives and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. Just as the Holy Spirit empowered the early believers to spread the message of Christ, so too are we called to share the good news with others, even in the face of challenges.
So, let’s journey back to the first century A.D. when the Roman Empire ruled much of the known world. In this ancient context, Paul and his companions traveled to Thessalonica, a bustling city located along the Via Egnatia, a major trade route. The Thessalonians worshipped various gods and goddesses, and the town was also home to a Jewish synagogue.
Against this backdrop, Acts 17:1-9 depicts Paul’s visit to Thessalonica, where he preaches in the synagogue for three Sabbaths, reasoning from the Scriptures about the Messiah’s suffering and resurrection. Some Jews and Greeks believe, but others, driven by jealousy, form a mob and accuse Paul and Silas of defying Caesar’s decrees.
This passage is strategically placed in Acts, demonstrating the gospel’s spread to new regions and the challenges faced by early Christians. It follows Paul’s journeys in Philippi and precedes his visit to Berea, highlighting the ongoing mission to share Christ’s message despite opposition.
Now, let’s fast-forward to Paul’s letter in 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10. Here, Paul commends the Thessalonian believers for their faith, love, and hope in Christ, which have become an example to others in Macedonia and Achaia. He reminds them of his genuine and nurturing ministry among them and their turning from idols to serving the living God.
This passage’s placement at the beginning of the letter sets the tone for Paul’s encouragement and instruction to the Thessalonian church. It connects to the themes of perseverance, holy living, and Christ’s return that Paul develops throughout the letter.
Together, these passages illuminate the transformative power of the gospel and the importance of living out our faith in the face of challenges. They remind us that, like the Thessalonians, we are called to turn from the idols of our day and serve the living God, eagerly awaiting Christ’s return. As part of the greater biblical narrative, these scriptures demonstrate God’s ongoing work in spreading the good news and establishing communities of faith that impact the world around them.
In our fast-paced world, daily challenges make it easy to feel overwhelmed. We may encounter opposition, pressure to conform to societal norms or struggle to maintain our faith amid uncertainty. In these moments, the example of the Thessalonian believers can provide us with guidance and encouragement.
Like the Thessalonians, we may face resistance or apathy from others for our beliefs. Whether it’s standing up for our values in our families or our communities, we may find ourselves in situations where our faith is tested. We can draw strength from the Thessalonians’ commitment to the gospel in these times, even in the face of opposition.
Moreover, the Thessalonians’ transformation from worshipping idols to serving the living God reminds us of our faith’s daily impact. In a world filled with distractions and competing priorities, we must regularly assess what we’re giving our time, energy, and devotion to. Are we pursuing the things of God, or are we allowing the “idols” of our day—such as success, material possessions, or personal comfort—to take precedence?
As we navigate the challenges and decisions of daily life, we can also find inspiration in the Thessalonians’ example of faith, love, and hope. By putting our faith into action, loving others unconditionally, and maintaining hope in Christ’s return, we can live in a way that positively impacts those around us.
Ultimately, the Thessalonians example encourages us to remain steadfast in our faith, live according to God’s priorities, and trust in God’s guidance and strength, no matter our challenges. By applying these principles to our daily lives, we can experience the gospel’s transformative power and become a light to the world around us.
The good news is that the gospel’s transformative power, which we see in the lives of the Thessalonian believers, is just as available today. We, too, can experience the joy and freedom that comes from turning away from the idols of our time and serving the living God. This week, I encourage you to take three practical steps in response to the insights we’ve gained from the Thessalonians example.
First, take a moment each day to reflect on what you’re giving your time, energy, and devotion to. Ask yourself if these things align with God’s priorities and if they’re drawing you closer to Jesus. If you identify any “idols” in your life, prayerfully consider how to redirect your focus to serving God more fully.
Second, look for opportunities to put your faith into action. Whether through acts of kindness, sharing your testimony with others, or standing up for what you believe in, let your faith be visible in how you live your life. Remember that your actions can have a powerful impact on those around you.
Finally, commit to praying each day and studying God’s word. Just as the Thessalonians found strength and encouragement in their faith, you can also draw upon the wisdom and guidance in scripture. When you face challenges or opposition, remember that God is with you and that you can find hope in the promise of Christ’s return.
As we continue our worship today and in the week ahead, carry the joy, love, and sense of community from sharing meaningful experiences. By following the Thessalonians’ example and living out our faith with boldness, kindness, and perseverance, we become a living testament to the hope and love found in Christ. Their story reminds us we can trust God’s transformative power despite our challenges. Just as Jesus’ stories and lessons uplift our spirits, offer support and encouragement to one another, trusting that God will work through us to draw others to the truth of the gospel message. Will you pray with me?
Gracious God, thank you for the Thessalonians’ example and our youth’s dedication. As we go forth, help us live out our faith with boldness, kindness, and perseverance. Guide and bless us. Amen.
In crafting today’s sermon, I employed AI assistants like Claude and Grammarly, yet the ultimate responsibility for its content rests with me. These tools offered valuable perspectives, but the most influential sermon preparation hinges on biblical study, theological insight, personal reflection, and divine guidance. I see AI as a supportive aid to enrich the sermon process while ensuring my own voice in proclaiming the Word of God.
Rev. Andrew Conard 