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A PURPOSEFUL EVANGELISM
MONDAY, OCTOBER 13
1 Thessalonians 2:1

1 Corinthians 2:1-5

 

“…our entrance in unto you,

that it was not in vain.”

 

A PURPOSEFUL EVANGELISM
 
When Paul embarked on his missionary journeys, it was never just for a holiday or a social visit. Paul was always very intentional in everything that he did. He was clear about the purpose behind the visits to each city - it was for the specific purpose of preaching “Jesus Christ, and him crucified” (1 Cor 2:2).
 
He reminded the Thessalonians of this fact, of how when they visited them, “it was not vain.” It was not an empty, meaningless endeavour. He was never flippant or aimless about what he was there for. He was always focused on the task, and very conscious of the mission that he was called to do.
 
Specifically for his foray into Thessalonica, we know it was in direct response to the Macedonian call he received while he was in Troas. Initially, his desire was to go further towards the northeastern parts of Asia (present day Türkiye). However, the Lord directed him through a vision of a man from Macedonia (where Thessalonica is) who said, “Come over into Macedonia, and help us” (Acts 16:9). After receiving this plea for help, they immediately headed west into Europe, for they “endeavoured to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them” (Acts 16:10). His purpose was clear – fulfil the Lord’s will by going over to preach the Gospel.
 
When we say that we are serving the Lord and witnessing for Him, do we really mean it? Does it come from a deep-seated conviction that we are doing what God has called us to do? We must be certain that there are no ulterior motives behind our service and evangelism. We must have a clear purpose in what we claim to be doing for the Lord, that it is not done for man’s praise or to satisfy self. Otherwise, it would just be in vain, and not done truly for the Lord and His glory.
 
THOUGHT: What are some examples of serving the Lord in vain?
PRAYER: Father, may Thou help me be sure that my labour is truly for Thee, and not in vain.

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