1 Thessalonians 2:1-2

For you yourselves know, brethren, that our coming to you was not in vain. But even after we had suffered before and were spitefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we were bold in our God to speak to you the gospel of God in much conflict.

1 Thessalonians 2:1-2

                 Ministry wasn’t always easy for Paul, more times than not it was very difficult. There always seemed to be conflict with those who didn’t like his message, which many times brought even physical attacks against Paul. Prior to coming to Thessalonica, Paul was in Philippi and his time there wasn’t without its share of trouble as Paul and Silas would leave the city with backs that were torn open from being beaten.

                 But he writes here, “Even after we had suffered before in Philippi, we were bold in our God to preach the word of God to you.” So what kept these men pressing forward through the conflict that they experienced as they served the Lord?

                 Well, besides their desire to obey the Lord and His calling, they also saw great fruit from their labors. Back in Philippi, there was now a lady named Lydia whose sins are forgiven. There is a slave girl who was demon possessed but now is set free and delivered, as well as a Roman jailer and his family who are saved and serving the Lord!    

                 Sure, conflict will come as we share the Gospel, but God’s promises are sure, His word will not return void, it will accomplish what He pleases (Isaiah 55:11).

Pastor Doug Hardin