NOVEMBER 25 – Reading 329

by Marcia Rainey | November 25

“FAITH THAT RINGS OUT”
(Acts 17:1–18:17; 1 Thessalonians 1:1–5:28)

For not only has the word of the Lord sounded forth from you in Macedonia and Achaia, but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere, so that we need not say anything. – 1 Thessalonians 1:8

When Paul, Silas, and Timothy arrived in Thessalonica, they proclaimed Christ in the synagogue for three Sabbaths. Some Jews believed, but many Gentiles joined them, forming this new faith community. Persecution arose shortly thereafter, causing the church to send Paul and his team off to Berea and then to Corinth. 

Likely, Paul wrote his first letter to the Thessalonians from Corinth. It is a letter of thanksgiving, encouragement, and instruction to this young congregation, whom he misses and loves. He rejoices not only that their faith stood firm in the face of opposition and persecution, but that their faith community is growing spiritually and having gospel impact in the community and region. 

The Thessalonian church reminds us that a Spirit-empowered faith community will “sound forth” the gospel beyond their immediate surroundings, inspiring others to trust and follow Christ. Our own faith community strives to “sound forth” the gospel. For example, during the past year or so, the gospel has “sounded forth” through TLC’s revitalization of Valley Chapel, the community Health Fair in Clifton, a mission trip to Mexico, Vacation Bible School, hundreds of Operation Christmas Child boxes, and nursing home visits. Why do these things? To “sound forth” the love of Jesus! May God help us individually and collectively through our TLC faith community to amplify the reach of God’s Word.

Simple Truth:
A church that stands firm in faith, even under trial, creates a powerful echo of the gospel that spreads far beyond itself.

Reflections:

1. In what ways can your faith and actions amplify the gospel in your family, community, or workplace?

    

2. How are you investing your time, talent, and treasure in our TLC faith community for the work of God’s kingdom?

    

3. What trials are you facing that you need to persevere in? God will help you! Can your testimony through the trial be helpful to others as they endure their own trials?

Application Points:

• Support our TLC faith community through your involvement in its ministries and gifts to the Kingdom Fund. As we do, God uses us to “sound forth” the gospel in our own community and around the world.

   

• Live visibly faithful in your own trials so that your trust in Christ becomes an echo that draws others to Him.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we worship you this day! Thank you for your salvation. Thank you for the gift of your Holy Spirit, empowering us daily to live for you. Thank you for our faith community TLC. Help us individually and collectively to “sound forth” the good news of the gospel boldly with your compassion and love. Help us to be strong in You so that we can endure trials and opposition that come our way. In Jesus’ name, Amen.