Q
LIFE APPLICATION. Writing from Corinth, a 300-mile walk (483 km) south of Thessalonica (400 miles/645 km by sea), Paul says everyone in what is now Greece seems to have heard about the people of Thessalonica getting religion: “You have managed to shout out God’s message all over the place” (1 Thessalonians 1:8). Have you ever known of a church like that, which had a reputation for believing in Jesus and living like it? If so, what was it about that church that got people talking?
A
For some churches, the worship services might become the subject of complimentary conversation because of engaging and relevant sermons or vibrant and emotive music that helps carry the congregation to God. Or it might be because of practical ministry the people perform in the community and abroad. The church helps the poor, the elderly, and other needy folks with everyday concerns: painting a house, making household repairs, setting up a daycare or preschool for kids, providing backpacks loaded with school supplies for students. In other words, the church looks for a need and then works on taking care of it.
Reprinted from Leader’s Guide & Atlas for 1, 2 Thessalonians.
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It’s sad the only church I know of in my area doing all that in the Mission. A few churches do a few things but nor all of them you mentioned.