How did Paul present the gospel to the people of Thessalonica? "... our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction. You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake." (1Th 1:5 ESV)
What do you think Paul's referring to? I usually guess it's a mixture of the following ideas:
1) I'm sure Paul was a very convincing speaker
2) It's probable that miracles helped demonstrate the power of God with the word
Beyond this, however, the Thessalonian brethren themselves demonstrate that there was power involved, when Paul says, "And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit, so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia." (1Th 1:6-7 ESV)
Now there's power! They were a strong bunch of people to have the nerve to listen to a "man on the run" and begin to suffer in the same way. Their conviction was 'loud' enough to be heard by cities all around them. Their behavior seems to have been a direct result of the power of God.
I don't think we need to wait for miraculous or emotionally exciting moments to see the power of God working in others. God's word does it simply enough on its own. These Christians heard the message and believed it. They believed it with enough 'gumption' to withstand troubles of their own!
I need to take more time to appreciate the effectiveness God's word on its' own level, before I try to present it to others.
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