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 - January 24, 2007
1 Thessalonians #9
Introduction to chapter 2: Part 1--Paul's defense of his ministry (1TH 2:1-12); Part 2--the response of the Thessalonian believers (1TH 2:13-20); ministry defined in terms of the family: mother; father; children; the three Greek words for knowledge(gnosis; epignosis; oida); spiritual gifts (1Co 12:1-11): your spiritual gift defines the Plan of God for your life; 'nursing mother' picture (1TH 2:7)
Scripture References: 1 Thessalonians 2:13-20, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12, 1 Thessalonians 2:7, 1 Corinthians 12:1-11
From Series: "1st Thessalonians - 2006"
The Thessalonians were persecuted for their faith. Paul's first letter to them provides comfort, reminding them of the details of Christ's return for His Church ("The Blessed Hope") and providing practical spiritual lessons for living.