1 Thessalonians 1:8

Text (1 Thessalonians 1:8)

8 For from you hath sounded forth the word of the Lord, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but in every place your faith to God-ward is gone forth; so that we need not to speak anything.

Translation and Paraphrase

8.

(You have become an example,) for from you has sounded forth the message of the Lord, not just in Macedonia and Achaia, but into every place (where we have come, the report of) your faith has (already) gone out, so that we have no need to tell (people) anything (about it. They tell us what they have heard from you).

Notes (1 Thessalonians 1:8)

1.

Here was a preacher's dream come true! His converts had picked up the work where he had to leave it, and had spread abroad the word of the Lord so effectively that he had no need to say anything more in that area.

However, we must note in all frankness that these zealous converts were not perfect in their understanding or manner of life. 1 Thessalonians 3:10. But they had done an outstanding job. They are an ensample to us.

2.

The Thessalonians were like the Romans, of whom Paul said, Your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. Romans 1:8. The reputation of any church, however big or small, good or bad, soon becomes known far and wide. People will know us for what we are and do. How wonderful it is for a church to be known for its faith, evangelistic zeal, and missionary efforts!

3.

Paul says that the faith of the Thessalonians had been spread abroad in every place. Probably we need to understand this as referring to the provinces and countries near to Macedonia.

4.

The Thessalonian churchA Church to Be Thankful For.

(1)

Thankful for their conversion experience; 1 Thessalonians 1:4; 1 Thessalonians 1:6.

(2)

Thankful for their steadfastness; 1 Thessalonians 1:3.

(3)

Thankful for their work; 1 Thessalonians 1:3.

(4)

Thankful for their testimony; 1 Thessalonians 1:8-9.

(5)

Thankful for their hope; 1 Thessalonians 1:10.