I Thessalonians

“Because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction” (v5).  Paul rejoiced that the Thessalonian believers’ entire lives were changed by their acceptance of the good news of Jesus Christ.  They “turned from idols to serve the living God” (v9), and they imitated the apostles by enduring persecution with Spirit-empowered joy (v6).  Their faith spread quickly through the region (v7-8), as they became known for their “work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope” (v3).

“Believing in Jesus” isn’t just saying the right words.  Faith and trust in Christ involves our hearts and transforms our whole lives.