Background
1 Thess 2:1 – 16 identifies Paul’s and his companions’ behavior in Thessalonica, prior to their eviction. In chapter 1, Paul primarily encourages the believers in Thessalonica as he placed emphasis on the power of the gospel in their lives. Despite his gratitude for their faith, Paul indicates the hardships they endured, while preaching the gospel. Paul describes their behavior in a manner of defending themselves against criticism outside the congregation. Paul defends their actions as missionaries, but more importantly, he argues that they are worthy missionaries.
Context
In most cases, people will gather witnesses to confirm their worthiness. For instance, in my career, I had numerous bosses who thought that I could not do the job or develop in my skill-set. Instead of building me up, they deliberately removed me from meetings or projects, where I could excel. Therefore, I decided to establish great relationships with co-workers and other project managers. I wanted them to determine my worth and then report it back to my boss. I wanted to be built up and known for the great worker that I am.
To establish worthiness, I needed witnesses. This is the case for Paul. To establish their worthiness as missionaries and ambassadors of the gospel, they required witnesses. In 1 Thess 2: 5, Paul contends that God is their witness for their behavior. In his declaration, he reveals that their actions have been approved by God. He further asserts that they please God and not men. Paul does not relent with establishing his witnesses. In verse 10, he contends that the Thessalonians bear witness to their actions as missionaries. Paul’s discourse about God being their witness differs than his approach with the Thessalonians. For God, Paul declares approval and trustworthiness similar to Jesus confirmation on the mountain with Peter, James, and John (Matthew 17:1 – 8). For the Thessalonians, he constantly reminds them that they witnessed their behavior. He uses the term, “as you know” to place emphasis on them as witnesses.
Purpose
Paul had a goal when defending their missionary actions. These actions ultimately “strive to please, accommodate (serve) God” versus man. The outcome of pleasing God, allows them to “give (a part of), impart, share” the gospel and their lives on the Thessalonians. As Paul imparts the gospel, he continually encourages the Thessalonians to remain faithful to the gospel. In turn, the gospel “works, be at work, operates, be effective ” upon in Thessalonians. Therefore, as Paul proves their missionary actions in proclaiming the gospel, the gospel continues to do the work to which Paul labors.
Application
Defending the gospel does not mean beating people over the head with the Bible and telling them to obey. Defending the gospel means being the gospel. Paul demonstrated their actions in being the gospel. While being the gospel, he established witnesses along the way. Not only did they become the gospel, but they imparted the gospel on the Thessalonians. This is my call as a Christian, be the gospel, impart the gospel, and allow the gospel to work in others’ lives.
