Sermon Tone Analysis

Introduction

1 Thess.

2:1-

This morning is Memorial Day when we remember those who have died in service to our country.

We must always be thankful for the freedom that we have as Americans and remember that the freedom we enjoy has been bought by the selfless sacrifice of many men and women who have willingly laid their lives down for a cause greater than themselves.

We do enjoy great freedom as Americans, something we must never take for granted.

However, as Christians we enjoy an even greater reality of freedom because of our relationship with Christ.

Christ and His Church have endured much persecution and yet it continues to thrive.

The ministry organization Open Doors USA that brings attention to Christian persecution around the world tells us that on average over 200,000 Christians are persecuted for their faith each year.

Every month hundreds of churches are attacked or destroyed in hostile areas.

Jesus assures us that “I will build my Church and the gates of Hell will not prevail against it.”

It is in places where persecution is great that the Church seems to be growing the most.

Why is this?

I want to suggest to us that part of the reason is the sincere life-altering salvation relationship that these Christians have found in Jesus Christ.

Today we want to see what the Apostle Paul has to say to the church at Thessalonica as they endure difficulty and press on being the hands and feet of Jesus so they might hear from the Lord, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Look with me at .

Jesus assures us that “I will build my Church and the gates of Hell will not prevail against it.”

Today we want to see what the Apostle Paul has to say to the church at Thessalonica as they endure difficulty and press on being the hands and feet of Jesus.

Look with me at .

1 Thess 2:1-12

The Gospel is not SELF-SERVING

Point 2

We are called to SELF GIVING

We are called to SELF-GIVING

Our testimony must be JESUS HONORING