1 Thessalonians 1:5 – For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit, and in much assurance; as you know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.
It is never the intention of God for us to simply preach the Gospel, but for that Gospel to be proclaimed and received with power. Power is the accompanying attendant of the word of God. Many times, we get our eyes on the preacher, and we want him or her to preach powerfully. We expect our ministers to be anointed and to flow with God, thus creating an energetic and dynamic meeting. However, as we read this verse, we see that the preaching of the gospel is a transaction between parties; it is not a one-sided event; it is more of a dialogue than it is a monologue; more of an interaction than just an action. There is a proclamation of the gospel but there must also be a reception of that same gospel. If it is not purposely and eagerly received, it diminishes the effectiveness and the overall result.
The people of Thessalonica were obviously very hungry for the word of God and their hunger determined the meal they were served. They received the word of God through the vessels of Paul and his team. The message was received through the messengers. They did not have their eyes entirely on Paul; indeed, they saw deeper than the man who stood before them; they also saw the Man who stood behind him.
Paul and his fellow servants did their part in this transaction as well, they were very cognizant of how they approached the people of Thessalonica. They were carrying the greatest and most liberating message ever sent from God to man, but that message would do no one any good if it was not welcomed and received. So many leaders and preachers are not self-aware and, because they do not have the humility and common sense to take the time to consider how they are coming across, that great message of the Gospel is hindered and may not be received well.
All of us have blind spots; things about ourselves that we do not know. Everyone else can readily see them but many times, we do not. We simply do not know what we do not know. That is why it is extremely important for us to consider the opinions of those who are around us. We would be wise to inquire of those who are closest to us. ‘How is my communication? How do I make you feel? In what ways could I improve?’ I may think that I am a wonderful mate but don’t ask me, ask my spouse. I may think that I am a great employer or manager but don’t ask me, ask the ones who work for me. I may think that I am an excellent Pastor but, well, you get the point.
A word of caution, though; there is a big difference between self-awareness and self-consciousness. One is a blessing, that enables us to mature and to interact better with all those around us. The other is a curse, that limits our growth and binds us to an imbalanced focus on ourselves. Friends, let us follow the example of Paul and his team, who knew that actions speak louder than words. Our mannerisms, gestures and tone are always what is felt first, and we know that first impressions are lasting impressions.
Thank you. There really is a difference when in the presence of someone who is self-aware, and also in us when we are able to be the same. Great post.
Following this vein, would it then be as much the responsibility of the listeners as the preacher when the gospel is not being followed with displays of God’s power, mercy and grace? Such as signs and wonders- healing, speaking in tongues and other forms of physical ‘Spirit filled’ evidence?
Hi Paige, thanks for commenting. There are many factors when it comes to the how the Spirit of God moves but, yes, I believe we all play a role in creating the atmosphere in which it is conducive for God to work.
Yes, all of us need to be aware of the road signs and conditions on this journey. Thanks for reading and commenting, Jami.
I love this concept
and their hunger determined the meal they were served.
Pastor Arnold prayed that over Rick and I at the early stages of Westgate.
Wow! How cool is that?
Very cool! I loved that man.
I’ve bookmarked 1 Thessalonians. What a great passage to reflect on in relation to the gospel. I like the way you’ve explained self-awareness and self-consciousness. I’ve never thought of that previously.
Hi Clayton,
Thanks for the comments. Our tendency is to go to the extreme on one side or another. My Dad used to tell us when we were leaving my parents house to drive back home, ‘Keep ‘er between the ditches’
Good advice, thanks, Dad!