Other’s first is a novel idea in our society. The cry from the world is to put yourself first. We are encouraged to push forward and rise to the top of our profession no matter who we step over to do it. We tell children not to let anyone push them around but to push back if someone gets in their way. There are even classes on self-love and self-esteem. The phycology and philosophy of our world is to promote ourselves. It is a “me first” society, not an “other’s first” world. This idea is the opposite of what the Bible teaches, yet, it is as common among Christians as it is in the secular world.
Paul teaches us in I Thessalonians 3:1 that he could no longer bear the thought of the new church at Thessalonica needing teaching and preaching that was biblical. He knew some would come to them with flowery words or false teaching to pull them away from the truth. He was willing to stay at Athens alone to send Timothy to them. This was a great inconvenience for Paul but he was more concerned for the spiritual well-being of the Thessalonians than for his own safety and comfort. He sends them Timothy who he refers to in verse 2 as “our brother.” In times past he had referred to Timothy as his son in the faith, but now he calls him their brother. He wants them to understand Timothy is a minister of the gospel, and they can trust him.
I Thessalonians 3:1-2 Wherefore when we could no longer forbear, we thought it good to be left at Athens alone; And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellow laborer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith:”
In verses 3 through 5, he is concerned for their stability as followers of Jesus. He sends Timothy to strengthen them in their faith. He knows they will face persecution and it is important they understand the truths and stand firm on them. He had told them before that they would suffer tribulation. Paul knew what it was like to be beaten and threatened because of his faith. He knew how difficult it had been for him and he had an advantage over them. Paul had an encounter with Christ on the road to Damascus. He had the apostles to help him. He is concerned for these new Christians and willing to go forward with the gospel alone rather than take a chance on them falling away from the truth.
I Thessalonians 3:3-5 “That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto. For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know. For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labor is in vain.”
Putting others first is a biblical principle we must live by if we are going to please God. In Philippians 2:3 we are taught to “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” In I Corinthians 10:24 “Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor.” These verses make clear that we are to have an others-first mentality, and it should show in our actions. This is what we need to be teaching our children and practicing ourselves. After all, children learn best from our examples. Our sinful nature is to be selfish, not selfless. God gives us many verses to help us understand that a follower of Jesus Christ must put away these sinful desires and seek to love and serve others above ourselves. From this will come true joy and blessings. Jesus gave us this example in Mark 10:45 as he came to serve and give his life for us. Examine yourself and see if this is your heart. If not, repent and get busy seeking to serve others.
Mark 10:45 “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
