1 Thessalonians 1. “… you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God…” (1 Thes 1:9) The Thessalonian church gives the Apostle Paul much cause for rejoicing. Their lives offer a snapshot into what salvation looks like. The gospel came to the Thessalonians not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit with full conviction (1 Thes 1:5). They were a suffering church community, enduring much affliction, but they received the gospel message with the joy of the Holy Spirit, and they turned away from idol worship to serve the living God.

The Thessalonians became imitators of Paul, Silas, and Timothy and of the Lord and an example to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia (1 Thes 1:6-7). In fact, the gospel came to them, and then went out from them to other cities and regions! The word of God sounded forth from them and their faith in God has gone forth everywhere. This is what happens when the gospel – the good news – really affects someone’s life so much that everything changes, and they want to share the news with everyone else.

I have three questions for us all today:

First, has your encounter with the good news of the gospel caused you to turn away from your idols to serve God? Maybe you don’t have idols made of wood or stone like they did in ancient times, but we all have idols of some sort in our hearts. Idols are not necessarily bad things; they are often good things that have been elevated to a place of prominence and priority above our allegiance to God. What idols of the heart complete with God for your attention? How might God be calling you to turn away from the pursuit of these things?

Secondly, who are you imitating? The Thessalonians imitated Paul and Timothy and that brought great spiritual growth for them. Whose example can you follow?

And finally, have you become an example to anyone else? Could young Christians look at your life and do what you do, and have it lead to spiritual growth? The Apostle Paul boldly told people, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11:1). What would happen if people followed your example?

Salvation and spiritual growth changed the way the Thessalonians lived – and it brought them great joy. It brought Paul, their proud spiritual father, a great deal of joy as well. Let us follow their example, turn from idols, and share the good news.

What stood out to you in 1 Thessalonians 1?