1 Thessalonians 2:2 KJV
But even after that we had suffered before, and
were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi ,
we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much
contention.
Paul reminded the believers in Thessalonica how he had been bold in
preaching even though there was great contention there. In doing so he wanted
to encourage boldness in them. These Christians had suffered and, as difficult
as it was for Paul to tell them, would suffer more.
A preacher does his congregation wrong to lead them in ways that avoid
contention for the sake of the gospel. Granted, we do not like to see people we
love endure difficulty and hardship. It is in us to desire the very best for
them. We love to hear of their prosperity and of their victories in the work of
Christ. But we must be careful not to allow what pleases us to direct others
away from what glorifies the Lord.
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