| 1 Thessalonians 2:3-4 For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives, nor are we trying to trick you. On the contrary, we speak as men approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please men but God, who tests our hearts. Here Paul mentioned a few motivations for him to preach the gospel: Firstly, He knew for certain that this is the truth. If you do not know that what you believe in is true, you will not have the motivation to share the gospel. When I preach the gospel, I truly know that what I am preaching is not only the truth, but is something that can help people improve their lives and change the society as well as the country. The more I have this conviction, the more I can preach the gospel. When a country can act according to the truth of God, this country will be blessed. When a country is willing to act according to God's Word, this country will also be blessed. In the same way, when a person is willing to act according to God's Word, he will find true wisdom from God. Many people only seek after the wealth of this world, but that will not prosper you. What you really need is the wisdom that truth brings, to help you in your daily life. This will help you discover new resources and how to use them. These new resources can bring you new wealth and a change in your living environment. Secondly, Paul knew his identity, and that he was "approved by God". In other words, he was chosen by God to be an ambassador of the gospel. We need to understand that we are all chosen by God. He chose us to be His children and also to serve Him as His servants. As such, Paul said, when he understood his identity, he was compelled to preach the gospel. He said, "Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! If I preach voluntarily, I have a reward; if not voluntarily, I am simply discharging the trust committed to me." Paul clearly knew his identity, so it gave him much motivation to preach the gospel. Thirdly, Paul knew the gospel is for pleasing God, not men. If it were to please men, he could preach what people like to hear, but that is not God's will, and there will be no salvation of souls. When we preach the gospel and serve God, we need to know clearly that we are not trying to please men, but solely pleasing God. We do not judge by the outward results, but focus on how God sees our ministry. When we stand before God's judgment seat and God says, "Good and faithful servant", that is worth everything that we are seeking! May God help us to be like Paul, to be able to recognize our identity and have the right motivation in serving God. Pray with Pastor Tong Liu 
Lord, I pray you will bless every brother and sister, so that they may know what they are sharing is the truth that brings about change to lives of individuals, to societies and nations. May we seek to please you and not men. I thank you and pray in the victorious name of Jesus, Amen!
|
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.