Afflicted for Jesus

by Hugh DeLong

Text: I Thessalonians 3

Here in Thessalonians, Paul writes because these new disciples were facing difficult times. Everywhere Paul established disciples, there was pushback from the community! Remember the story in Acts 17,

"But the Jews, becoming jealous and taking along some wicked men from the marketplace, formed a mob and set the city in an uproar; and attacking the house of Jason, they were seeking to bring them out to the people" (Acts 17:5).

Then, these new brethren sent Paul and Silas away (for Paul’s safety!). That left these young converts facing their community without Paul's leadership! They had only their memory of what he had been able to instruct them on. This trouble didn’t end for them when Paul left! Hence, Paul wrote this letter to them so that no one would be disturbed by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we have been destined for this. (I Thessalonians 3:3). He reminded them that “when we were with you, we kept telling you in advance that we were going to suffer affliction; and so it came to pass, as you know” (I Thessalonians 3:4).

Such affliction throughout the history of the church has caused some disciples to quit, to abandon their discipleship. Others, enduring the trials, were strengthened and then, in turn, strengthened others.

As you read this letter, try to put yourself in their place. They had social pressures – idolatry, immorality, pressure to conform to their community, family, and even their ‘old ways’. Some caved in, but these brethren were holding firm. But how would you have done? How are you doing today with the pressures you must face in following the teaching of Jesus? Are you being transformed? Or are you being conformed to your past lifestyle? The admonition to each generation of disciples is the same: Be faithful to Jesus.