Proof Of Their Election

PROOF OF THEIR ELECTION

1 Thes. 1:4-7

I.          THEY BECAME FOLLOWERS OF US AND THE LORD.  VS.6

The outstanding fruit of faith in the gospel was the Thessalonians’ change of behavior. They became imitators of their spiritual parents, the missionaries. This is normal Christian experience. But they also went on to imitate the Lord. This too is natural, and the order is true to life as well. A new Christian first looks to other believers as his pattern, but then as he matures he realizes that Jesus Christ is his best “model” (cf. 1 Peter 2:21).[1]

            A. They received the Word in much affliction.

I think there to be no greater witness of divine election in salvation, than people who embrace the faith of Christ while in much tribulation.

                        Talk is so cheap among the disciples of Christ when faith is served up on a platter.

But, show me the believer who trusts in the midst of affliction, or better yet, the one who dares to believe in-spite of the affliction, and there you have the genuine article!

            B. And, with joy of the Holy Ghost.

Romans 5:3 “And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also:

knowing that tribulation worketh patience.”

II.         THEY WERE EXAMPLES.  VS.7

            A. To all that believed in Macedonia.

            B. To all that believed in Achaia.

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cf. confer, compare

[1]John F. Walvoord, Roy B. Zuck and Dallas Theological Seminary, The Bible Knowledge Commentary : An Exposition of the Scriptures (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1983-c1985). 2:692.