Passage: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Thessalonians+1.1-10

Scripture

When we told you the good news, it was with power and assurance that come from the Holy Spirit, and not simply with words.

Observation

Paul writes with warm words to the church n Thessalonica. He tells them how he always thanks God for them in his prayers.

God loves these people, having chosen them. When Paul brought the gospel, it wasn’t just words, but came with conviction and the power of the Holy Spirit. When they accepted the gospel, they followed Paul’s example, and they themselves became an example for all the Lord’s followers,

Application

Whether we are preaching to thousands or sharing with an individual, the true gospel comes with the power and confidence of the Holy Spirit. Without the Spirit our words are just empty.

The power of the Holy Spirit comes in many forms– it may be a miracle or healing, a word of knowledge or a prophecy. When the power of the Holy Spirit is moving, hearts are opened to the reality of God and the salvation He offers in Christ.

Christianity is not a religion or philosophy that promotes a doctrine or way of living. Christianity is a living relationship with a living Saviour. The manifest power of the Holy Spirit shows the power of God to save everyone who puts their faith in Jesus.

The assurance or confidence of the Holy Spirit is a witness to the power of the gospel in our lives. How do we expect people to believe what we ourselves are not confident in? The confidence comes from the deep relationship we have with the Father through the Spirit.

The Spirit helps us in our weakness, giving us not just the words to speak but the confidence to express our love for our Lord.

Prayer

Lord, help me to share your gospel with the people I see today. Let my words be backed up by the power and the assurance of the Holy Spirit. Amen.