1 Thessalonians 2:17-18

But brothers and sisters, when we were orphaned by being separated from you for a short time (in person not in thought) out of our intense longing we made every effort to see you. For we wanted to come to you again--certainly I, Paul, did, again and again--but Satan blocked our way.

 

when we were orphaned by being separated from you for a short time (in person not in thought)

1 Corinthians 5:3  For my part, even though I am not physically present, I am with you in spirit. As one who is present with you in this way, I have already passed judgment in the name our Lord Jesus on the one who has been doing this. [see verses 1-2]

Colossians 2:5  For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how disciplined you are and how firm your faith in Christ is. 

out of our intense longing we made every effort to see you. 

1 Thessalonians 3:10  Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you again and supply what is lacking in your faith.

but Satan 

Matthew 4:10  Jesus said to him, "Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.' " [Deuteronomy 6:13]

Deuteronomy 6:13  Fear the LORD your God, serve him only and take your oaths in his name.

blocked our way 

Romans 1:13  I do not want you to be unaware, brothers and sisters, that I planned many times to come to you (but have been prevented from doing so until now) in order that I might have a harvest among you, just as I have had among the other Gentiles.

Romans 15:22  This is why I have often been hindered from coming to you.

[brackets are mine]

 

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®,  Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Limited to 15 verses per post.

1 Thessalonians 2:15b-16

They displease God and are hostile to everyone in their effort to keep us from speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved. In this way they always heap up their sins to the limit. The wrath of God has come upon them at last.

 

They displease God and are hostile to everyone in their effort to keep us from speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved

Acts 13:44-45  On the next Sabbath almost the whole town (Pisidian Antioch) gathered to hear the word of the Lord. When the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy. They began to contradict what Paul was saying and heaped abuse on him.  

Acts 13:50  But the Jewish leaders incited the God-fearing women of high standing and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from the region.

Acts 17:5  But other Jews were jealous; so they rounded up some bad characters from the marketplace, formed a mob and started a riot in the city. They rushed to Jason's house in search of Paul and Silas in order to bring them out to the crowd.

Acts 20:3  ... Because some Jews had plotted against him just as he was about to sail for Syria, he decided to go back through Macedonia.

Acts 21:27-28  When the seven days were nearly over, some Jews from the province of Asia saw Paul at the temple. They stirred up the whole crowd and seized him, shouting, "Fellow Israelites, help us! This is the man who teaches everyone everywhere against our people and our law and this place. And besides, he has brought Greeks into the temple and defiled this holy place."

Acts 24:9  The other Jews joined in the accusation, asserting that these things were true.

 

In this way they always heap up their sins to the limit 

Matthew 23:31-32  "So you testify against yourselves that you are the descendants of those who murdered the prophets. Go ahead, then, and complete what your ancestors started!" 

The wrath of God has come upon them at last 

1 Thessalonians 1:9b-10  They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead--Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath.

Revelation 6:16  They called to the mountains and the rocks, "Fall on us and hide us from the face of him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb!"

(parentheses are mine)

 

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®,  Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Limited to 15 verses per post.

1 Thessalonians 2:14-15a

For you, brothers and sisters, became imitators of God's churches in Judea, which are in Christ Jesus: You suffered from your own people the same things those churches suffered from the Jews who killed the Lord Jesus and the prophets and also drove us out.

 

For you, brothers and sisters, became imitators

1 Thessalonians 1:6  You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. 

 

of God's churches in Judea, which are in Christ Jesus 

Galatians 1:22  I was personally unknown to the churches of Judea that are in Christ. 

 

You suffered from your own people the same things those churches suffered from the Jews 

Acts 17:5-7  But other Jews were jealous; so they rounded up some bad characters from the marketplace, formed a mob and started a riot in the city. They rushed to Jason's house in search of Paul and Silas in order to bring them out to the crowd. But when they did not find them, they dragged Jason and some other believers before the city officials, shouting: "These men who have caused trouble all over the world have now come here, and Jason has welcomed them into his house. They are all defying Caesar's decrees, saying that there is another king, one called Jesus."   

2 Thessalonians 1:4  Therefore, among God's churches we boast about your perseverance and faith in all the persecutions and trials you are enduring.

who killed the Lord Jesus 

Luke 24:20  "The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; ..."

Acts 2:23  "This man was handed over to you by God's deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross."

and the prophets 

Matthew 5:11-12  "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you."

2 Chronicles 36:16  But they mocked God's messengers, despised his words and scoffed at his prophets until the wrath of the LORD was aroused against his people and there was no remedy.

and also drove us out 

Acts 17:10  As soon as it was night, the believers sent Paul and Silas away to Berea. On arriving there, they went to the Jewish synagogue.

Acts 14:19  Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd over. They stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, thinking he was dead.

 

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®,  Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Limited to 15 verses per post.

1 Thessalonians 2:13

And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe.

 

And we also thank God continually

1 Thessalonians 1:2  We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers.

Romans 1:8  First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being reported all over the world.  

1 Corinthians 1:4  I always thank my God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus.

Ephesians 1:16-19a  I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe.  

2 Thessalonians 1:3  We ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters, and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love all of you have for one another is increasing.

2 Timothy 1:3  I thank God, whom I serve, as my ancestors did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers.

because when you received the word of God 

Hebrews 4:12  For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

Luke 5:1  One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret, the people were crowding around him and listening to the word of God.

Luke 11:28  He replied, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it."

Acts 12:24  But the word of God continued to spread and flourish. 

1 Peter 1:23  For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God.

 

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®,  Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Limited to 15 verses per post.

1 Thessalonians 2:10-12 Part 2 of 2

You are witnesses and so is God, of how holy, righteous and blameless we were among you who believed. For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.

 

encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God

Ephesians 4:1  As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.

Philippians 1:27-30  Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved--and that by God. For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have. 

Colossians 1:9-12  For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light. 

 

who calls you into his kingdom and glory 

Romans 8:28  And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

1 Corinthians 1:9  God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

2 Timothy 1:9a  He has saved us and called us to a holy life--not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace.  

 

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®,  Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Limited to 15 verses per post.

1 Thessalonians 2:10-12 Part 1 of 2

You are witnesses and so is God, of how holy, righteous and blameless we were among you who believed. For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.

 

You are witnesses

1 Thessalonians 1:4-5  For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen  you, because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake.

and so is God 

1 Thessalonians 2:5  You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed--God is our witness.

Romans 1:9-10a  God, whom I serve in my spirit in preaching the gospel of his Son, is my witness how constantly I remember you in my prayers at all times.

of how holy, righteous and blameless we were among you who believed 

2 Corinthians 1:12  Now this is our boast: Our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially in our relations with you, with integrity and godly sincerity. We have done so, relying not on worldly wisdom but on God's grace.

For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children 

1 Thessalonians 2:7  Instead, we were like young children among you.

1 Corinthians 4:14-15  I am writing this not to shame you but to warn you as my dear children. Even if you had ten thousand guardians in Christ, you do not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel.

Galatians 4:19-20  My dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you, how I wish I could be with you now and change my tone, because I am perplexed about you.

1 John 2:1  My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father--Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.

 

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®,  Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Limited to 15 verses per post.

1 Thessalonians 2:7b-9 Part 2 of 2

Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, so we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well. Surely you remember, brothers and sisters, our toil and hardship; we worked night and day in order not to be a burden to anyone while we preached the gospel of God to you.

 

we worked night and day

Acts 18:3  ... and because he (Paul) was a tent-maker as they (Aquila and Priscilla) were, he stayed and worked with them.

Acts 20:34  You yourselves know that these hands of mine have supplied my own needs and the needs of my companions. 

1 Corinthians 4:2a  We work hard with our own hands.

 

in order not to be a burden to anyone 

2 Corinthians 11:9  And when I was with you and needed something, I was not a burden to anyone, for the brothers who came from Macedonia supplied what I needed. I have kept myself from being a burden to you in any way, and will continue to do so. 

2 Thessalonians 3:8  ... nor did we eat anyone's food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you.

2 Corinthians 12:13-16  How were you inferior to the other churches, except that I was never a burden to you? Forgive me this wrong! Now I am ready to visit you for the third time, and I will not be a burden to you, because what I want is not your possessions but you. After all, children should not have to save up for their parents, but parents for their children. So I will very gladly spend for you everything I have and expend myself as well. If I love you more, will you love me less? Be that as it may, I have not been a burden to you. Yet, crafty fellow that I am I caught you by trickery! (sarcasm--one of the slanders against Paul by false apostles was that he exploited them by trickery)

 

(parentheses are mine)   

 

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®,  Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Limited to 15 verses per post.

1 Thessalonians 2:7b-9 Part 1 of 2

Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, so we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well. Surely you remember, brothers and sisters, our toil and hardship; we worked night and day in order not to be a burden to anyone while we preached the gospel of God to you.

 

Just as a nursing mother cares for her children

1 Thessalonians 2:11-12  For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.

we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God 

Romans 1:1  Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God--...

Romans 15:15-16  Yet I have written to you quite boldly on some points to remind you of them again, because of the grace God gave me to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles. He gave me the priestly duty of proclaiming the gospel of God, so that the Gentiles might become an offering acceptable to God, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.

1 Peter 4:7  For it is time for judgment to begin with God's household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?

but our lives as well 

2 Corinthians 12:15  So I will very gladly spend for you everything I have and expend myself as well. If I love you more, will you love me less?

1 John 3:16  This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.

 

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®,  Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Limited to 15 verses per post.

1 Thessalonians 2:5-7a Part 2 of 2

You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed--God is our witness. We were not looking for praise from people, not from you or anyone else, even though as apostles of Christ we could have asserted our authority. Instead we were like young children among you.

 

We were not looking for praise from people, not from you or anyone else

John 5:41-44  "I do not accept glory from human beings, but I know you. I know that you do not have the love of God in your hearts. I have come in my Father's name, and you do not accept me; but if someone else comes in his own name, you will accept him. How can you believe since you accept glory from one another but do not seek the glory that comes from the only God?"

 

even though as apostles of Christ 

1 Corinthians 9:1-2  Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Are you not the result of my work in the Lord? even though I may not be an apostle to others, surely I am to you! For you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord. 

 

we could have asserted our authority 

2 Corinthians 11:7-8  Was it a sin for me to lower myself in order to elevate you by preaching the gospel of God to you free of charge? I robbed other churches by receiving support from them so as to serve you. 

1 Corinthians 9:18  What then is my reward? Just this: that in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not make full use of my rights as a preacher of the gospel.

1 Thessalonians 2:9  Surely you remember, brothers and sisters, our toil and hardship; we worked night and day in order not to be a burden to anyone while we preached the gospel of God to you.

 

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®,  Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Limited to 15 verses per post.

1 Thessalonians 2:5-7a Part 1 of 2

You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed--God is our witness. We were not looking for praise from people, not from you or anyone else, even though as apostles of Christ we could have asserted our authority. Instead we were like young children among you.

 

You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed

Acts 20:33  "I have not coveted anyone's silver or gold or clothing."

1 Samuel 12:3  "Here I (Samuel) stand. Testify against me in the presence of the LORD and his anointed. Whose ox have I taken? Whose donkey have I taken? Who have I cheated? Whom have I oppressed? From whose hand have I accepted a bribe to make me shut my eyes? If I have done any of these things, I will make it right."

1 Corinthians 9:12  If others have this right of support from you, shouldn't we have it all the more? But we did not use this right. On the contrary, we put up with anything rather than hinder the gospel of Christ.

2 Corinthians 2:17  Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as those sent from God. 

2 Corinthians 7:2  Make room for us in your hearts. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have exploited no one.

2 Corinthians 11:9  And when I was with you and needed something, I was not a burden to anyone, for the brothers who came from Macedonia supplied what I needed. I have kept myself from being a burden to you in any way, and will continue to do so.

God is our witness 

1 Thessalonians 2:10  You are witnesses, and so is God, of how holy, righteous and blameless we were among you who believed.

Romans 1:9-10a  God, whom I serve in my spirit in preaching the gospel of his Son, is my witness how constantly I remember you in my prayers at all times; ...

2 Corinthians 1:23  I call God as my witness--and I stake my life on it--that it was in order to spare you that I did not return to Corinth.

Galatians 1:20  I assure you before God that what I am writing to you is no lie.

Philippians 1:8  God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.

(parentheses are mine)

 

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®,  Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Limited to 15 verses per post.

1 Thessalonians 2:3-4

For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives, nor are we trying to trick you. On the contrary, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts.

 

For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives

2 Corinthians 2:17  Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as those sent from God.

1 Thessalonians 2:5  You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed--God is our witness.

 

nor are we trying to trick you 

2 Corinthians 4:2  Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone's conscience in the sight of God.

1 Corinthians 14:24-25  But if an unbeliever or an inquirer comes in while everyone is prophesying, they are convicted of sin and are brought under judgment by all, as the secrets of their hearts are laid bare. So they will fall down and worship God, exclaiming, "God is really among you!" 

Hebrews 4:12-13  For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.

we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel 

Galatians 2:7  On the contrary, they recognized that I had been entrusted with the task of preaching the gospel to the uncircumcised, just as Peter had been to the circumcised.

Titus 1:3  ... and which now at his appointed season he has brought to light through the preaching entrusted to me by the command of God our Savior.

we are not trying to please people but God 

Romans 2:29  No, a person is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a person's praise is not from other people, but from God.

John 5:44  "How can you believe since you accept glory from one another but do not seek the glory that comes from the only God?"

who tests our hearts 

Revelation 2:23  "I will strike her children dead. Then all the churches will know that I am he who searches hearts and minds, and I will repay each of you according to your deeds."

Luke 16:15  He said to them, "You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of others, but God knows your hearts. What people value highly is detestable in God's sight."

 

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®,  Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Limited to 15 verses per post.

1 Thessalonians 2:1-2

You know, brothers and sisters, that our visit to you was not without results. We had previously suffered and been treated outrageously in Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in the face of strong opposition.

 

You know, brothers and sisters, that our visit to you

1 Thessalonians 1:5  ... because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake.

1 Thessalonians 1:9  ... for they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, ... 

was not without results 

2 Thessalonians 1:9-10  They will be punished with everlasting destruction and shut out from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might on the day he comes to be glorified in his holy people and to be marveled at among all those who have believed. This includes you, because you believed our testimony to you.

We had previously suffered 

Acts 14:19  Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd over. They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, thinking he was dead.

Acts 16:22  The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten with rods.

Philippians 1:29-30  For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.

and been treated outrageously in Philippi, as you know 

Acts 16:12  From there we traveled to Philippi, a Roman colony and the leading city of that district of Macedonia. And we stayed there several days.

but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in the face of strong opposition 

Acts 17:2-5  As was his custom, Paul went into the synagogue (at Thessalonica), and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and proving that the Messiah had to suffer and rise from the dead. "This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Messiah," he said. Some of the Jews were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, as did a large number of God-fearing Greeks and quite a few prominent women. But other Jews were jealous; so they rounded up some bad characters from the marketplace and started a riot in the city. They rushed to Jason's house in search of Paul and Silas in order to bring them out to the crowd.

(parentheses are mine)

 

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®,  Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Limited to 15 verses per post.

1 Thessalonians 1:8-10 Part 3 of 3

The Lord's message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia--your faith in God has become known everywhere. Therefore we do not need to say anything about it, for they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead--Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath.

 

whom he raised from the dead

Acts 2:24  "But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him." 

Acts 2:32  "God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it."

Acts 13:30-31  "But God raised him from the dead, and for many days he was seen by those who had traveled with him from Galilee to Jerusalem. They are now his witnesses to our people." 

Romans 8:11  And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.

Romans 10:9  If you declare with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath 

Romans 1:18-19  The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people, who suppress the truth by their wickedness, since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them.

John 3:36  Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God's wrath remains on them.

Romans 5:9  Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him!

Ephesians 5:6  Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient.

Revelation 19:15  Coming out of his mouth is a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. "He will rule them with an iron scepter." (Psalm 2:9) He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty.

 

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®,  Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Limited to 15 verses per post.

1 Thessalonians 1:8-10 Part 2 of 3

The Lord's message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia--your faith in God has become known everywhere. Therefore we do not need to say anything about it, for they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead--Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath.

 

to serve the living and true God

Matthew 16:16  Simon Peter answered, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God."

Psalm 42:2  My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?

Jeremiah 10:10  But the LORD is the true God; he is the living God, the eternal King. When he is angry, the earth trembles; the nations cannot endure his wrath.

2 Corinthians 6:16  What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: "I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people." (Leviticus 26:12; Jeremiah 32:38; Ezekiel 37:27) 

1 Timothy 3:15  If I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God's household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. 

Hebrews 10:31  It is a dreadful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

and to wait for his Son from heaven 

1 Corinthians 1:7  Therefore, you do not lack any spiritual gift as you wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed.

Titus 2:13  ... while we wait for the blessed hope--the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, ...

James 5:7-8  Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord's coming is near.

1 Peter 1:13  Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming.

Revelation 1:7  "Look, he is coming with the clouds," (Daniel 7:13) and "every eye will see him, even those who pierced him"; and all peoples on earth "will mourn because of him." (Zechariah 12:10) So shall it be! Amen.

 

(parentheses are mine) 

 

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®,  Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Limited to 15 verses per post.

1 Thessalonians 1:8-10 Part 1 of 3

The Lord's message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia--your faith in God has become known everywhere. Therefore we do not need to say anything about it, for they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead--Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath.

 

The Lord's message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia

2 Thessalonians 3:1  As for other matters, brothers and sisters, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you.  

 

your faith in God has become known everywhere 

Romans 1:8  First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being reported all over the world. 

Romans 10:18  But I ask: Did they not hear? Of course they did: "Their voice has gone out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world." (Psalm 19:4)

They tell us how you turned to God 

Acts 14:15  "Friends, why are you doing this? We too are only human, like you. We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the loving God, who made the heavens and the earth and the sea and everything in them."

 

from idols 

1 Corinthians 12:2  You know that when you were pagans, somehow or other you were influenced and led astray to mute idols.

Psalm 115:4-7  But their idols are silver and gold, made by human hands. They have mouths, but cannot speak, eyes, but cannot see. They have ears, but cannot hear, noses, but cannot smell. They have hands, but cannot feel, feet, but cannot walk, nor can they utter a sound with their throats. 

Jeremiah 10:5  "Like a scarecrow in a cucumber field, their idols cannot speak; they must be carried because they cannot walk. Do not fear them; they can do no harm nor can they do any good."

Habakkuk 2:18-19  "Of what value is an idol carved by a craftsman? Or an image that teaches lies? For the one who makes it trusts in his own creation; he makes idols that cannot speak. Woe to him who says to wood 'Come to life!' Or to lifeless stone, 'Wake up!' Can it give guidance? It is covered with gold and silver; there is no breath in it."

(parentheses are mine)

 

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®,  Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Limited to 15 verses per post.

1 Thessalonians 1:6-7 Part 2 of 2

You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia.

 

with the joy

2 Corinthians 6:10  ... sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, yet possessing everything. (see verses 3-13)   

Matthew 5:12  "Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you." 

2 Corinthians 7:4  I have spoken to you with great frankness; I take great pride in you. I am greatly encouraged; in all our troubles my joy knows no bounds.

Philippians 2:17  But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.

Philippians 4:4  Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!

given by the Holy Spirit 

Acts 13:52  And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.

And so you became a model 

1 Timothy 4:12  Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.

Philippians 3:17  Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.

2 Thessalonians 3:9  We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate.

to all the believers in Macedonia 

Acts 16:9  During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, "Come over to Macedonia and help us."

and Achaia 

Acts 18:12  While Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews of Corinth made a united attack on Paul and brought him to the place of judgment.

Acts 18:27  When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers and sisters encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. When he arrived, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed.

2 Corinthians 9:2  For I know your eagerness to help, and I have been boasting about it to the Macedonians, telling them that since last year you in Achaia were ready to give; and your enthusiasm has stirred most of them to action.

 

(parentheses are mine)

 

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®,  Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Limited to 15 verses per post.

1 Thessalonians 1:6-7 Part 1 of 2

You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia.

 

You became imitators of us and of the Lord

1 Corinthians 4:15-16  Even if you had ten thousand guardians in Christ, you do not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel. Therefore I urge you to imitate me. 

1 Corinthians 11:1  Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.

Philippians 4:8-9  Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me--put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

2 Thessalonians 3:7-9  For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone's food with paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate. 

for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering 

Acts 17:5-8  But other Jews were jealous; so they rounded up some bad characters from the marketplace, formed a mob and started a riot in the city. They rushed to Jason's house in search of Paul and Silas in order to bring them out to the crowd. But when they did not find them, they dragged Jason and some other believers before the city officials, shouting: "These men who have caused trouble all over the world have now come here, and Jason has welcomed them into his house. They are all defying Caesar's decrees, saying that there is another king, one called Jesus."

 

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®,  Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Limited to 15 verses per post.

1 Thessalonians 1:4-5 Part 2 of 2

For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake.

 

not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction

Romans 1:16  For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. 

Romans 15:13  May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. 

1 Corinthians 2:4-5  My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God's power.

1 Corinthians 4:20  For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power.

You know how we lived among you for your sake 

1 Thessalonians 2:10-12  You are witnesses, and so is God, of how holy, righteous and blameless we were among you who believed. For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.

 

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®,  Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Limited to 15 verses per post.