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.
1 Thessalonians 1:6-7 NIV
Are you a role model for other believers? Do they see in you an example of what a Christian life should be? What about the church where you serve? Are they a model for other churches in their unity, love, and ministry to our Lord and others?
The church at Thessalonica was started during Paul’s brief visit there. The opposition Paul faced seemed to have continued against the new church after Paul was forced to leave (Acts 17:1-10). But this young church joyfully embraced the gospel’s message, even through the suffering they endured. They followed the example of Paul and of the Lord Jesus. And their work produced by faith, labor prompted by love, and endurance inspired by hope (1 Thess. 1:3), all amid severe suffering, led to them being a model to other believers in the area.
You are likely not facing the same level of suffering that the Thessalonian church was going through. I know that I am not. Yet the example of this church continues to speak to me. Is my walk with the Lord one that sets a model for other believers? Not just in the words I say but also in the life I lead. A life that would help other believers to grow in faith, love, hope, and service to our Lord. Am I willing to follow the example of Jesus, Paul, the Thessalonian church, and other faithful believers throughout the ages? And, in turn, be a model for others? What about you?
