1 Thessalonians 1; 2:1-16
Years ago, I heard stories from someone who visited the current churches of Thessaloniki, Greece. The people of today were described in ways that are similar to what we read here. Paul writes to the Thessalonians shortly after his first visit, seen in Acts 17. He commends their faithful love in action from the hope they found in Jesus. Their relationship with Jesus brought life change and inspired their expectant hope for His return. Thinking about what we read here, I believe that you see characteristics that the Thessalonians, Paul, and his team share in common. They are focused on Jesus Christ. Love is their motivation for faithful hard work. Their hope is found in Jesus. This hope endures. They put into practice a priority on pleasing God more than pleasing other people. This results in joy.