January 21
Read: 1 Thessalonians 1
Big Idea: When Jesus saves sinners, a transformation takes place. The message comes in word and also in power. That power makes a person brand new. He/she has new affections, new priorities, new outlooks, new loves, and new convictions. With all these new things, the Holy Spirit also provides “much assurance.” That is, new believers have a settled, inward “knowing” that they belong to the Lord and have become citizens of heaven. Consider how your changed life impacts others. They see the new you and remember the old you. Do they know what happened? Do they know who is responsible? Have you told them?
Key Verse(s):
1 Thessalonians 1:5 For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance, as you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake.
1 Thessalonians 1:6 And you became followers of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit,
1 Thessalonians 1:7 so that you became examples to all in Macedonia and Achaia who believe.