The people of Thessalonica were overwhelmed by the number of prophets and evangelists that wandered through that city offering the next great faith system that would improve their lives. Others claiming to be apostles arrived with alternate versions of Christian faith.
What set these others apart from Paul was what they wanted. The others wanted money, status and power, all upfront. And like so many political smear campaigns, they made false accusations against the competition, against Paul and his teachings. He did not stoop to that level: while, he cautioned folks to be aware and diligent about these others he did not fall into their traps.
Paul did not puff people up or play on their insecurities. He spoke truth, worked hard and did not allow opportunity for doubt about his sincerity. He and his companions did not use their status, their power to wow folks or pander to the power game. Instead of dropping important names or using their influence to get what they wanted, they earned their way to receive what they needed.Not wanting to impose, they worked. They were well within their right to demand room and board but they did not. They earned their keep; how else could they teach about a faith for all people, the ordinary, everyday hardworking population? Paul, as a stranger, earns the people’s trust and respect by working alongside them, sharing his faith and preaching as they worked. It is thought he was a tent maker by trade. Working all day, sunrise to sundown to make the most of natural light, that is where the conversations happened.
It's nice for the Thessalonians, what for us that do not have the luxury of working alongside Paul? In fact, I don’t think Paul has done us any favours by setting up the "resident expert" model of church groups. We tend to deny our own expertise or sense of call, ministry and understanding of scripture. For someone like me who understands that everyone is called to ministry in their own sense, who is convinced there is at least one sermon burning within each of us, who wants to help others express and unleash these personalized forms of faith, it’s hard to hear the words, “but you’re the minister.”
For example, when it comes to pastoral visits, it is nice to have the minister come by, listen, pray and care. I know this and I try to do my best with my crowded schedule and shared car access. Except I suspect there are those who wonder or observe, “but he’s paid to do this; it’s his job.” While this is true, and my intentions and presence is genuine, the question of I’m there because I have to be takes away from the experience somewhat. And what if people only receive a visit from the minister, do they wonder if anyone else in the congregation cares about them? no one else will come and see them?
I guess the message for those who happen to be in the pews today is to extend the same philosophy that Paul had into your lives. Let God work through all of us in our attitude and our offering. We are not to go out seeking to gain from our faith, but to give.
We are all called to love God, fully, completely, deeply; we are called to love others. We cannot pass this duty on to anyone else. Neither can we expect someone else to live our faith for us. We have been so commanded, we teach of our faith by what we say and do for others. Led by example, let us live the same way.
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