Bible Study
September 12, 2025
1 Thessalonians 2:11 – 14 (CSB)
“Living Step By Step”
11 “As you know, like a father with his own children, 12 we encouraged, comforted, and implored each one of you to walk worthy of God, who calls you into his own kingdom and glory. 13 This is why we constantly thank God, because when you received the word of God that you heard from us, you welcomed it not as a human message, but as it truly is, the word of God, which also works effectively in you who believe. 14 For you, brothers and sisters, became imitators of God’s churches in Christ Jesus that are in Judea, since you have also suffered the same things from people of your own country, just as they did from the Jews.”
Many people have not had an earthly father that exemplifies God, the Father of all. For that reason they cannot see a loving God as their father because of the hurt they have suffered. But, das, if that was your situation you know to do better with your children.
Paul spoke the words “encouraged, comforted, and implored” to describe his relationship with the church in Thessalonica emphasizing the personal touch of a father. But he also adds “the one who called you into His kingdom” that can only be our Fater God.
Paul references “the word of God” as the message he preached and the one Peter preached to the Gentiles. The only message of truth and faith. The Word of God is a powerful word when spoken can change people’s lives, can radically change the course of a nation. Ezra said this in 2 Chronicles 7:14 “and my people, who bear my name, humble themselves, pray and seek my face, and turn from their evil ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land.” The course of life and be changed by prayer and faith.
Paul encourages the church to become an “imitator” of God’s churches that are Judea. These churches had been persecuted as Jesus was and he is telling to walk in the way of the Old Testament just as the Jews did.
God Bless.
Asbury Chapel 