So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia.
So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia declares that the Thessalonian believers became examples to all believers throughout those regions. Their example grew from receiving the gospel word in much affliction with joy given by the Holy Spirit. They received it not in word only but with the Holy Spirit's power and much assurance. They became followers of Paul and the apostles and of the Lord, holding fast to the word.
Their turning from idols to serve the living and true God was part of that example and gave reason for thanksgiving. Their faith in God became widely known because the word of the Lord sounded out from them beyond their own region. That sounding forth was through both transformed lives and spoken message, making them true missionaries whose witness helped win people to Christ.
The verse establishes the principle that believers who receive the gospel in this way become models whose faith and conduct encourage and guide believers beyond their own community. Their experience is a model for believers today, so that the message of Christ's return should be given with earnestness and the Holy Spirit's power to turn people from idols to serve the living God. The verse thus supplies a standard for Christian workers, calling them to an active and publicly witnessed faith whose life and witness spread the truth and encourage others who believe.
So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia declares that the Thessalonian believers became examples to all believers throughout those regions. Their example grew from receiving the gospel word in much affliction with joy given by the Holy Spirit. They received it not in word only but with the Holy Spirit's power and much assurance. They became followers of Paul and the apostles and of the Lord, holding fast to the word.
Their turning from idols to serve the living and true God was part of that example and gave reason for thanksgiving. Their faith in God became widely known because the word of the Lord sounded out from them beyond their own region. That sounding forth was through both transformed lives and spoken message, making them true missionaries whose witness helped win people to Christ.
The verse establishes the principle that believers who receive the gospel in this way become models whose faith and conduct encourage and guide believers beyond their own community. Their experience is a model for believers today, so that the message of Christ's return should be given with earnestness and the Holy Spirit's power to turn people from idols to serve the living God. The verse thus supplies a standard for Christian workers, calling them to an active and publicly witnessed faith whose life and witness spread the truth and encourage others who believe.