Bible Study
December 1,2025
1 Thessalonians 2:5 – 8 (NKJV)
“The Cost of Ministry”
5 “For neither at any time did we use flattering words, as you know, nor a cloak for covetousness—God is witness. 6 Nor did we seek glory from men, either from you or from others, when we might have made demands as apostles of Christ. 7 But we were gentle among you, just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children. 8 So, affectionately longing for you, we were well pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us.”
Paul laid it on the line when he spoke of Jesus and the life a believer. He did not teach, preach, or speak of Jesus for any personal gain nor did he mince words when he spoke of Jesus. Paul had a special calling from God from the day of his blindness to the day of his death. In fact there are several things that we can learn from these few verses.
First, he did not speak to make favorable impressions on people or speak what they wanted to hear. His message was one of salvation much different than what we hear from some today. It’s easy to tell people what they want to hear much different telling them what they need to hear. Second, he did not boast about becoming rich for what he was doing. He did not use it to get rich by the world’s standard. And third, he did not seek personal glory something ministers must constantly be open to. To Paul it was about his Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
There can be little doubt that Paul loved all the churches but as he writes to this particular church his affection comes across as a mother who cherishes her children this was a special church to Paul. A mother is willing to give up her life for her child is a like Jesus willing to give up His life for those willing to be born again.
Have you considered giving up your life and becoming a disciple of Jesus if you are not a Christ Follower?
God Bless.
Asbury Chapel 