October 19, 2003

KNOW YOUR FAITH

1 Thessalonians 3

   "For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when you received the word of God which you heard of us, you received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually works also in you that believe" (1 Thessalonians 2:13).

   Paul was thankful for the receptive hearts of the believers at Thessalonica where these Gentiles had received the word of God, as it truly is! They had also experienced much persecution from other Gentiles not so disposed toward the truth. Persecution seems to test the reality of professed faith, and Paul could say that this truth was made energetic, that is, it really worked in these new converts!

   Their situation paralleled that in Judea where Jews who earlier had received God's word as the truth had also experienced opposition--even unto death! Not only had the favored nation's leaders "killed the Lord Jesus, and their own prophets," they had also persecuted Paul and his companions. Thus a similar persecution seemed to attend this reception of the truth. There was nothing in all this that pleased God. Their hostilities were contrary toward all men, They did not want the truth nor did they want it spread to others.

   Times have not changed very much. God's truth is still greatly opposed. Most opposition stems from religious leaders who do not want the truth for themselves nor do they want it shared with others. Rather than have a good open discussion of the word of God, leaders often suppress it every way possible. For this there can be no thanksgiving. But no matter how hard the opposers try, God's truth still has its way of shining through. We give thanks unto God for His truth, and for those who receive it now!

Ivan L. Burgener