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Thursday, October 2, 2008

1 and 2 Thessalonians Week 4

We were only able to dip our toes into the topic of pastors in class last week. 1 Thessalonians 2 discusses in detail Paul's relationship to the church in Thessalonica as a pastor.

This week we will go more in depth into the characteristics of a pastor; as well as, how Paul's relationship with the Thessalonian church can encourage us to minister to others.


1) If you spread the Gospel you will almost inevitably encounter criticism. This will happen whether you are a pastor or a factory worker, secretary, manager, etc... Read the verses below from 1 Thessalonians 2:1-4:

You know, brothers, that our visit to you was not a failure. We had previously suffered and been insulted in Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in spite of strong opposition. For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives, nor are we trying to trick you. On the contrary, we speak as men approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please men but God, who tests our hearts.

How does Paul handle criticism of his ministry?

How would you handle someone who criticized your efforts to share the Word of God with others?

Click on the link below and read te article about handling criticism in ministry. It is aimed at youth ministers, but the principles apply to everyone.

http://timschmoyer.com/2008/09/23/dealing-with-criticism-in-youth-ministry/

How does this article change your approach to criticism?

2) Read verse 4 again:

On the contrary, we speak as men approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please men but God, who tests our hearts.

Paul claims a sacred trust with the Gospel. How would you describe this sacred trust? (Read Galatians 1:11-16)

Do Pastors today still have a sacred trust with the Word of God?

3) Read 1 Thessalonians 2:6b-9

As apostles of Christ we could have been a burden to you, but we were gentle among you, like a mother caring for her little children. We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us. Surely you remember, brothers, our toil and hardship; we worked night and day in order not to be a burden to anyone while we preached the gospel of God to you.

Paul had to work very hard for his churches, just as Pastors today have a much to do.

How has a Pastor's work impacted your life?

What is a Pastor's chief responsibility?

Read the article below from lcms.org on pastors:

http://www.lcms.org/graphics/assets/media/LCMS/wa_pastors.pdf

Why do we need Pastors in the church?

Please Post any comments or questions. I am excited to hear what you think!

***If you have a question, but would rather not post you can email me at: vicar@mtolivechurch.net. ***


1 comment:

Anonymous said...

It seems to me that Paul doesn't mind critism or at least he doesn't let it bother him. He knows that he is called to do God's work and nothing will stop him. You can see that all throughout Paul's life in the bible. I believe that is why God allowed to have so many of Paul's letters in the bible or accounts of Paul's life. He is a great example for us Christians today. Paul struggled with a lot, but he still continued his work for God. We need to be like him. Let the critism roll off us and continue with the work God has given us.