Bible Study - 2 Thessalonians 3:1-5
- Read 2 Thessalonians 3:1-5
- For Paul's visit to Thessalonica see Acts 17:1-10. Having begun
to gain converts Paul faced great opposition and had to hurriedly leave
the city and the fledgling church, much earlier than had been the case
in other places. Although facing persecution the Church in Thessalonica
grew strong, and Paul was delighted when he heard the news. This
prompted him to write his letters.
- Having written to this new church regarding various issues, we find
in today's passage Paul asking them to pray for him and his
continuing work, namely the preaching of the gospel. (The Thessalonian
church was a prime example of Paul's ministry.)
- How willing and able are we to ask others to pray for us and for
our work? How willing are we to pray for others? Take a moment to think
if there is anything that we can do to make either of those things
easier in the future.
- As we read of Paul the Apostle and founder of many churches asking
a new church for prayer support let us remember that God hears all our
prayers whether we have been a Christian for many years or are new to
the faith. God wants to hear our prayers however inadequate we may
feel.
- Part of this passage picks up a theme from the Lord's prayer -
wickedness and evil were as apparent to Paul as they are for us. We are
urged, along with the Thessalonians, to pray for deliverance; and this
we pray with the assurance of v.3 that the Lord is faithful and will
strengthen and protect us.
- To think about
- 1. Think about people you know who need prayer and pray for them
now.
- 2. Think about people you know who are involved with the preaching
of the gospel and pray for them and their work now.
- Prayer
- Father God, I pray for strength and protection against wickedness
and evil. I pray that the gospel message will continue to be preached
by your faithful people throughout the world. And finally I ask that
you will direct my heart into your love. Amen.