There are a lot of things that bring me great joy. The first thing that comes to mind is spending time with Jesus. I can get lost in His word and His ministry to me through the work of the Holy Spirit. The next best thing is seeing others grow in their faith in Christ. That is what Paul is saying to the church in Thessalonica. Bringing joy to others is a theme throughout the New Testament, especially in Paul’s writings.
In I Thessalonians 2:13 Paul writes to the church that he thanks God for them without ceasing. Why? Because when they received the word of God they obeyed. Even though it was delivered to them by men, they knew God gave it.
I Thessalonians 2:13 “For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.”
Paul continues encouraging them and sharing his love and joy for them because they have persevered through trials. In verses 17-19, he lets us know he desires to be with them. However, the last time he was there his life was in danger and he had to leave. Yet his heart still longed to see them face to face. Their steadfastness is also evidence that he was a faithful servant. One of the hardest things in the Christian life is to see some come to Christ and not persevere and remain faithful. I am sure Paul saw many of those, so when one is not just faithful, but abounding in the face of adversity, it brings great joy to his heart. In verse 20 he says they are his glory and joy. When Christ returns or when he stands before Him, the church in Thessalonica will be one of his highest means of joy because he had been a part of their salvation. Paul knew that even though Satan had hindered his return to them he would see them again in Heaven. Paul knew he would be able to talk, visit, and worship together for all eternity.
I Thessalonians 2:17-20 “But since we were torn away from you, brothers, for a short time, in person not in heart, we endeavored the more eagerly and with great desire to see you face to face, because we wanted to come to you—I, Paul, again and again—but Satan hindered us. For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you? For you are our glory and joy.”
We should approach our Christian life with the attitude of wanting to bring joy to those who watch over our souls. Paul had taught them well but they still had a choice to obey or to do their own thing. The same is true for us. We should be involved in a local church and come under the authority of the church. We will all have times when we need to be reminded of things we need to do to please the Lord, but if there is accountability it will help us to stay on track. In Hebrews 13:17, the writer is talking about religious leaders and civil authorities. We have pastors, teachers, and of course the laws of our government that we are to obey. Our pastors will give an account to God for what they have taught us but we will give an account to God concerning our obedience to what they have taught. If we are obedient to the word, it will bring our pastors great joy. If not, we will grieve them. I do not believe most Christians believe God will hold them accountable for what they have heard or what they would have heard if they had been present and listened. Why do I think that? Because week after week I hear what the pastor teaches. It is good solid bible teaching, yet people come and leave and never change. They are like those Jesus was teaching about in Matthew 13:13. They hear but they hear not. The words were heard but it did not affect their behavior.
Hebrews 13:17 “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.”
Matthew 13:13 “Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand.”
What about you? When you go today will you listen and hear God’s words and let it change your heart? What will you do with the message God has given to you through the pastor, who opens the word and preaches?
I want to bring joy to those who watch over my soul!
