4/27/25
Charles Goodman Sr. – Gideons International Message
Gideons Message Direct Link
Rev. Clint Smith
Sermon Direct Link
We all need encouragement. The Apostle Paul gave thanks for and encouraged the believers in Thessalonica as they endured persecution. With wisdom and inspiration from the Holy Spirit, he not only warned them of serious events to come but also strengthened them with hope and truth.
Paul reminded the Church that the Lord Jesus Christ would return for His people, and that all who belong to Him would be gathered together with Him. He also cautioned them about the coming revelation of the “mystery of lawlessness”—a time when evil and satanic influence would increase. 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12
Despite these sobering warnings, Paul gave thanks for their faith in Jesus Christ—a faith that was a gift of grace through the work of the Holy Spirit. Through the preaching of the eternal good news—Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection—and their believing hearts, they were saved and set apart by God. John 10:28; Ephesians 2:8–10; Romans 5:10; 10:9–13
Paul exhorted the Church to stand firm and hold tightly to the godly traditions they had been taught. This bold perseverance is rooted in a deep belief in the truth of Scripture and in faithful, Spirit-filled preaching.
The Holy Spirit assures us that Jesus Christ and God our Father loves the Church and has given Us eternal encouragement and a solid hope of salvation through His grace. This truth brings comfort, strength, and perseverance to every believer. It is how the Church remains steadfast—grounded in every good word and work.
Then and now, the Church is called to give daily effort in praying for gospel preachers and teachers, that the Word of the Lord would spread quickly and be honored by those who hear it. We are also to pray for protection from wicked and faithless people.
Finally, believers must remember: the Lord is faithful. He will protect His own. Our part is to know His will, do His will, and remain patient—even in the midst of persecution. Ephesians 6:10-18; 1 Peter 5:6-11