Being Jesus in Difficult Times

2 We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers. 3 We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. 4 For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you, 5 because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake. 6 You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. 7 And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. 8 The Lord’s message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia—your faith in God has become known everywhere. Therefore we do not need to say anything about it, 9 for they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God,
1 Thessalonians 1:2-9

Questions for discussion for families and Small groups

1 – What do you think these mean?

Work produced by faith

Labor prompted by love

Endurance inspired by hope

2 – Compare “labor prompted by love” with 1 Cor 13:1-3. What is Paul saying?

3 – In verses 4 and 5 the Gospel came in words and actions. Why is it so important to balance these things?

4 - You know how we lived among you for your sake. What do you think that means for us on this earth?

5 – Pressure creates an image, it changes us. How have you seen that happen in your life?

6 – How can a person, or a family look for opportunities?

7 – Discuss possible ideas for impacting your family, neighbors, church in this difficult time.