I Thessalonians 1

“We remember ... your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ” (3). Paul rejoiced that the Thessalonians believers had “turned from idols” (9) to serve the Lord, and their lives showed it (6-7). The gospel they received was communicated “not simply with words” but also power, signs of the Spirit, and deep conviction (5). Because of their deeply rooted faith, these new believers bore fruit (labor prompted by love), withstood persecution, and multiplied (6).

“You know how we lived among you ... you became imitators of us and of the Lord” (5-6). Authentic, Spirit-filled faith in Christ causes life transformation, which spills over and multiplies for generations.