“Jan 31, 2024 - The Power of Sincerity”

Tuesday, January 30, 2024

The Power of Sincerity

Reading:  1 Thessalonians 2:1-8
    
    Hoping to rekindle his connection with the Thessalonians, Paul reminds them of their initial meeting.  “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 Thess 2:2).  Paul’s rough experience in Philippi (see Acts 16) did not make him gun-shy, even when he found “much conflict” in Thessalonica.  He opens his heart to describe what he was thinking and feeling as he preached to them.  He does not preach “from error or impurity or any attempt to deceive” but “to please God who tests our hearts”(1 Thess 2:3, 4).  There is no place in preaching for “flattery” or “greed” or “(seeking) glory from people”(1 Thess 2:5, 6).  His words invite scrutiny because these are the very people he preached to.  If anyone could accuse him of these improper motives, wouldn’t it be the Thessalonians?

    What motivated his approach?  “But we were gentle among you, like a nursing mother taking care of her own children.  So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us”(1 Thess 2:7-8).  Paul was tender like a mother, preaching as if these were his own children.  He did not just want to “get them taught”; he was ready to give his entire self for them because he loved them deeply.

    Sincerity—or its lack—is obvious.  We can usually tell when people mean what they say and genuinely care—or when they don’t.  Insincerity makes our message and example easy to dismiss (“he’s just in it for the money”), while sincerity makes others stop and consider.  Paul expects his sincerity to be so memorable that even now, after some time, it will reestablish his bond with the Thessalonians.  Sincerity will help us reach others, show genuine concern, and impress others with the reality of God.

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One Thing to Think About:  How have I seen the impact of sincerity (or insincerity)?  

One Thing to Pray For:  Pure motives in my dealings with God and others

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