The State of Thessalonian Church

Summary: Unable to endure the uncertainty any longer, Paul and his companions decided to remain behind in Athens and sent Timothy to the Thessalonians. Timothy, described as God’s fellow worker in the gospel of Christ, was sent to strengthen and encourage them in their faith so that no one would be shaken by the afflictions they were experiencing. Paul reminds them that such suffering was not unexpected. While he was still with them, he had told them beforehand that they would face affliction, and this had indeed come to pass. Because of his concern for them, Paul sent Timothy to learn about their faith, fearing that the tempter might have tempted them and that his labor among them might have been in vain. When Timothy returned from Thessalonica, he brought good news of their faith and love. He reported that they continued to remember Paul and his companions kindly and longed to see them, just as Paul longed to see them. This report brought comfort and encouragement to Paul in the midst of his own distress and affliction because of their faith. Paul declares that he now truly lives, since they are standing firm in the Lord. Filled with gratitude, he gives thanks to God for all the joy he experiences because of them before God. Day and night he prays earnestly that he might see them again and supply what is lacking in their faith. Teaching: The work of a church leader is to strengthen people's faith and help them remain steadfast and unshaken. Pastors are encouraged when they see the faith of the holy people of God growing. There is great comfort and joy in witnessing believers mature in their faith. My hope is that you would become holy people of God whose faith continues to grow and flourish. A pastor is always seeking to build up and strengthen the faith of the congregation. A faithful shepherd continually desires to supply what is lacking in the faith of the holy people of God and is always ready to encourage them toward greater maturity in Christ. Excerpt from the sermon by Pastor Lee, Jul 9, 2026 Thessalonians 3:1-10