For not only has the word of the Lord sounded forth from you in Macedonia and Achaia, but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere, so that we need not say anything. 9 For they themselves report concerning us the kind of reception we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, 10 and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.
“Preach the gospel at all times and, if necessary, use words.” This has been attributed to Francis of Assisi but it is only half the battle. Paul’s very early letter to the church in Thessalonica puts the proclamation of the gospel in its complete perspective. Michael D. Martin says,“the Thessalonians became both models and messengers of the gospel.” relying on our actions will be nice but the source of our actions will be missed unless someone proclaims the name of that source, the Lord Jesus Christ.
We see here that Paul commended them that the word “sounded forth” audibly. We also see that they were met with a favorable response by their actions. This will do two things. It will verify the truth of the gospel in that it changes lives from selfish to sacrificial. It will also preach the gospel by itself, presenting a way of life that is attractive to those who need it. Then they will ask that more of the Bible would sound forth from the followers of Jesus.
May we be presented with the opportunity today to preach the gospel at all times, being a model AND a messenger of the good news of Jesus Christ. May your faith…
Go forth everywhere.
Pastor Brad Boyer
Cape Community Church