Twin City church of Christ Blog
“Feb 19, 2024 - Spreading Good Gossip”
Categories: 2024 Reading DevotionalsSpreading Good Gossip
Reading: 2 Thessalonians 1:1-5
As Paul writes the Thessalonians a second letter, things seem to be going well. “We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing”(2 Thess 1:3). These are the measures of Christian growth—stronger faith and increasing brotherly love—and Paul is thrilled to see that the group is healthy and thriving. He thanks God for them “as is right,” implying that the appropriate response to vibrant churches is to praise God, not people.
It is because of this growth that “we ourselves boast about you in the churches of God for your steadfastness and faith in all your persecutions and in the afflictions that you are enduring”(2 Thess 1:4). As Paul travels from church to church, he reports on the success of these believers, boasting about how well they are doing. Just as in his first letter (see 1 Thessalonians 1:6-10), the Thessalonians’ story is the source of fascination and encouragement. As time passes, it is the more impressive that they show “steadfastness and faith in all your persecutions and in the afflictions that you are enduring.” The very people who used to join them in worshiping idols now oppose, oppress, and ridicule them, yet these disciples continue to follow Jesus. Paul wants others to be encouraged by such surprising and genuine faith, so he brags.
When we spread gossip, it is usually destructive and critical. Yet here Paul shows us the beauty and power of good gossip. We can spread positive information about others, praising their example and lauding their successes. This kind of talk does not need to be whispered, nor does it hurt anyone’s feelings when they hear we’ve been talking about them behind their back. We may even begin to look for good things to spread around, confident that this confirms to everyone that God is at work among us.
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One Thing to Think About: Whom can I spread “good gossip” about today?
One Thing to Pray For: A steadfast heart through difficult times
