Scriptures
Acts 17
1 Thessalonians 1:1-7
Open your mind and heart as you read the passage of Scripture aloud and then again quietly to yourself. Listen for God’s word to you.
Observation
Thessalonica was a wealthy city on the Egnatian Way, which was the main route from Rome to the east.
Paul travelled with a team as he spread the Gospel and he had established the church in Thessalonica on his second missionary journey. However, he was only there for three weeks before an angry mob made it necessary for him to leave. Paul was concerned about how this infant church was faring as he knew the persecution would continue even though he was not there. He sent Timothy to find out how they were doing, and was excited when the young man returned to him with the news that the church was thriving. He wrote his first letter to the Thessalonians, commending them for their perseverance.
Paul was glad to hear that the church was strong and active. It was obvious that God was at work and that their lives had been changed, and he expressed his gratitude in both his letter and his prayers for them. They were not perfect, yet there were things about the Thessalonian Christians that he remembered. He could see the God-given gifts of faith, hope and love in their lives because of the fruit they produced.
Paul reminded his readers that God loved them and had chosen them. Paul had absolute faith in what he preached and the Thessalonians had accepted not only his words but also the power of the Holy Spirit which changed their hearts, minds and lives. They had received the Gospel with much assurance; they desired to be like Jesus; and they experienced joy as they served God.
So, they began to follow Paul and the Lord. Paul had no hesitation about saying ‘follow me’ to them for he knew where he was going. He invited them to follow his example as he lived out his Christian faith. However, this was not easy for some people in the city persecuted them. But they persevered with the joy, given to them by the Holy Spirit, and Paul thanked God for their persistence.
As a result, even though they had only been Christians for a short time, they were now examples for others who came to Christ.
Icebreaker:
When did you feel nearest to God during the Christmas break? How did you feel? What difference did it make for you?
Application
Do you think Paul would commend Gracepoint in a letter to the church? What would he say to encourage Gracepoint and the congregation to become the best person/ community/ church you can be?
What is your greatest struggle as you try to live your Christian life? Why do you think this is so?
Faith: Does your faith bear fruit? What sort of fruit do you see in your life? Is it fruit that is worthy of your calling and your walk of faith? How do you give the fruit you produce to the world?
Love: How do you express your love in action – to your family, to your small group, to the congregation, to the world? What does it cost you? (Time, energy, perseverance, persecution etc?) Is it worth the cost?
Spend a moment thinking about who the Holy Spirit is nudging you to express your love (and Christ’s love for them) in action at this time? How can you show them love? You don’t need to name them, but share a few ideas of how Christian love could be shown to them.
Hope: Where do you need the hope that inspires endurance today? What are you facing that looks ominous in 2025? What concerns do you have about your future?
How can the group help you with the struggles you have mentioned during this session?
Prayer
Pray for one another in regard to the issues that have been raised during your discussion time, especially specific, troublesome issues that are holding you back from living the abundant life Christ came to give each one who follows Him. Pray also in regard to other needs of the group.
Service
How can you be an example to those around you as you live in faith that bears fruit, love expressed in action, and hope that perseveres no matter what? Try to make a difference this week for those you meet. Be ready to report back next week with any testimonies you may have as a result.
Bibliography
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