This week, I’m going to be walking through 1 Thessalonians chapter 2. After reading this a few weeks ago, I saw the obvious lessons for ministers. So we’re going to take it a few lines at a time this week.

But though we had already suffered and been shamefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we had boldness in our God to declare to you the gospel of God in the midst of much conflict.

(1 Thessalonians 2:2 ESV, bold mine)

 Lesson 1.

You will face much conflict in the church. It usually comes down to one of three reasons. 1 – A leader does something dumb. 2 – A follower does something dumb. 3 – A leader and a follower both do dumb stuff. Lots of conflict.

Never-the-less. We must proclaim the good news of Jesus in the midst of the chaos.

Sometimes, you’re just going through stuff. But your mission, purpose and acceptance are anchored in the one with whom there is no variation (James 1:17).

Be encouraged… the conflict comes… but you can deal with it and continue on course.

Check out The Peace Maker for help in any conflict you may be dealing with.

2:2 – be bold and declare the gospel even in the midst of conflict.