Shaped by the Gospel

A few verses stand out in 1 Thessalonians 2:

1 Thessalonians 2:4 (NIV):

‘On the contrary, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts.’

Here, Paul emphasizes that the message he preaches is not motivated by a desire to please people but by a sincere commitment to God. He sees himself and his fellow missionaries as entrusted with the Gospel, and their responsibility is to faithfully convey the message of salvation.

1 Thessalonians 2:8 (NIV):

‘We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.’

This verse highlights the depth of Paul's love for the Thessalonian believers. He not only shared the Gospel with them but also his life. Sharing the Gospel, for Paul, was intertwined with genuine care for the people.

The essence of the Gospel, as conveyed by Paul, involves a deep connection with God, sincerity in sharing the message, and a love that goes beyond mere words to encompass the sharing of one's life with others.

Let that same Gospel shape us today,

In Christ, Jamie.