Pastor’s Pen

Beloved, our passage this morning presents a tale of two cities – Paul’s missionary outreach to Thessalonica and to Berea. As always, he meets with a variety of responses to the presentation of the gospel message – some positive, but the majority negative. It is instructive to see the contrast in the way Luke records what took place in these two cities.
This tale of two cities is a tale of truth versus tradition. The big idea here is that our response to the gospel reflects our value system. Do we have a passion for the truth of God’s Word or are we jealous for the security of man’s traditions?
Beloved, we live in a world turned upside down by sin and as a Christian it is our responsibility to help turn it right side up. This will take courage so that the content of the Gospel will bring converts, which always brings conflict.
As believers, we don’t run from conflict but hit it head on with God’s grace. 2 Timothy 2:15 says, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.” Beloved, the world is lost and needs desperately your help. Will you help turn it right side up?