The Scripture makes it very clear that as we focus on purity we experience power from above. Paul stressed this in his final letter to his understudy Timothy. “Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter [i.e., “iniquity”], he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work” (2Ti 2:21). How? The process is simple: God the Father works through the Son. The Son works through the Holy Spirit. The Spirit works through the Word. The Word works through the believer. The believer works through living faith.
Gene Cunningham - February 20, 2003
The Word Working In You #1
Key verses are 1Th 1:3 -- faith, love and hope; 1Th 5:8 is a book end. What could God accomplish is you were completely surrendered to Him (1Th 2:13). Sanctification encompasses the will of God (1Th 4:3) and is also a key verse. The story of Ruth illustrates concepts in 1Thessalonians -- faith put into service through love and resulted in hope. Each chapter ends with a reference to the Lord's return. The Word implanted is able - empowered - to save our souls day by day (Jam 1:22). "Knowing your election" (1Th 1:4) Paul refers to the "act or method of choosing -- the means". Many are called - few are chosen (Mat 20:16, Mat 11:28). Isa 42:1 - Jesus is The Elect -- the choice of the Father. As Jesus is Elect, we are and were elected in Him in eternity past. The Thessalonians received the word in much affliction (1Th 1:6), but still exhibited God's transforming power (1Th 1:5). George Tankerville was burned at the stake, but had peace beyond comprehension, as he preached the gospel until flames engulfed him. He learned (having tried to practice with fire the night before) God only gives Grace exactly when we need it.
Conference notes for this series can be found [HERE]
Scripture References: Isaiah 42:1, Matthew 11:28, Matthew 20:16, James 1:22
From Series: "1st Thessalonians - The Word Working in You - Uniontown PA 2007"
The Word Working in You' is a study in 1st Thessalonians recorded at Uniontown PA on 19-20 October 2007. The primary focus of the Paul's epistles to the Thessalonians written A.D. 50-51 is Christian living in light of eternity which results in balance. The 'bookends' of 1Th 1:3 and 1Th 5:8 reveal the book's theme: the well-balanced Christian life. The book also teaches that God's Word works through faith. Interestingly this epistle is closely related in content to the Old Testament book of Ruth which provides a perfect biblical illustration of the practical truths of this book.