(1 Thessalonians 2:13-20)

I. The effective Word of God (2:13)

A. The proper reception: “not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the Word of God”
B. God’s Word produces faith (Romans 10:17), possesses the power to save (Romans 1:16; James 1:21), leads to the new birth (1 Peter 1:22-23), sanctifies the believer (John 17:17)
C. Do we treasure the Word like Paul, like the church in Thessalonica, and like the inspired poet of Israel did? (Psalm 19:7-11)

II. The example of endurance in persecution (2:14-16)

A. We should be encouraged by the perseverance of our brethren (2:14)
B. The sins of the Jews summarized (2:15-16)
C. We must continue to boldly proclaim the gospel, regardless of what the government or the culture wants

III. The eager desire for fellowship (2:17-20)

A. Paul’s care and prayer for the church (2:17; 2 Corinthians 11:28; Colossians 2:5)
B. The opposition of Satan (2:18; 1 Peter 5:8-9; James 4:7)
C. What was Paul’s hope, joy, and crown of rejoicing? What is ours? (2:19-20; Matthew 6:19-21, 33; Col. 3:1-4)