READ: 1 Thessalonians 1:8-10
8 For from you sounded out the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith to God-ward is spread abroad; so that we need not to speak any thing.
9 For they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God;
10 And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.
KEY THOUGHT:
Do you realize that the church is supposed to be different from the world? Do you know why that difference is important? It’s important because the difference sets an example of Jesus Christ for the world to see. You have a role in the church’s example. The way you talk, interact and live as part of the church is vital to the ministry of the church. Paul specifically praised the members of the Thessalonian church for their example in the local community and abroad. They were responsible for showing the gospel in Macedonia, Achaia and other locales by demonstrating the glorious transformation that the gospel had in their lives. You have a similar responsibility to show how God changed you – made you different – by way of the gospel. Are you being an example?
CONSIDER:
- How is your role in the church making a difference?
- Why is it important for the church to be more like Christ than like the world?
- How can you be more Christ-like and be a better example of the church?
APPLICATION:
Fulfill your role to help the church be an example to the world!
