It's All in How You Look at It

We looked at 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:5 tonight.  In this passage, Paul is explains how he felt about leaving, and why he sent Timothy back to see the church.  It isn't hard to imagine that Paul and his message were the subject of a devious smear campaign in Thessalonica.  Fearing the worst and unable to go himself, Paul sends an approved worker to check on his people.  This passage demonstrates Paul's tenderness toward his people, and the depth of his concern.

Paul explains that his absence was not his choice.  He states he was "torn away" from the church in "person, but not in heart."  They may have chased Paul out of town, but they had not caused him to forget his beloved church.  He was not absent because he lacked desire, on the contrary, he had a "great desire" to see them again.  He was not absent because he lacked effort, on the contrary, he had "endeavored the more eagerly" to see them again. He was not absent because he lacked love for the church, on the contrary, they were his glory and his joy.

Although his plans to return to them were halted by Satan, Paul was not content to let the matter rest.  He had to know how they were doing, so he sent Timothy.  His knowledge and spiritual maturity made him right for the job; his youth made it possible for him to fly in under the radar.  Timothy's mission was two-fold: he was to strengthen and encourage the believers in their hardship, and he was sent to ease Paul's fear.  Paul knew that he could trust Timothy to accomplish both tasks.

Here are a few implication that arise from the text:

1. The relationship between a minister and the congregation should be one of mutual love, respect, and delight.
2. Our desire for the spiritual well-being of other should motivate us to continue in faithful service to the Lord.
3. Satan strives to undo the work of God.  He is real, and he seeks to hinder us in our service.  We must strive against him.
4. Suffering is part of the Christian experience.  If we want to follow Jesus, we must expect suffering.
5. We must rest in God's Sovereignty.