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"In the Holy Spirit and in much assurance..."

Text: 1 Thessalonians 1:5

THE MINISTRY OF THE GOSPEL

The Apostle Paul was deeply committed to the ministry that the Lord Jesus had entrusted to him. The preaching of the gospel of Jesus Christ became an all-consuming passion with him. He proclaimed the message of the gospel wherever the door was opened to him.

Not everyone appreciated his ministry of preaching the gospel. There were enemies of the gospel who resisted him and who sought to hinder his work in every way possible. But nothing could stop this indefatigable servant of the Lord Jesus Christ.

ENCOURAGEMENT IN MINISTRY

What were some of the things that encouraged Paul to minister as he did? The following text gives us some important insights as to why Paul was so driven to proclaim the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.

“For our gospel did not come to you in word only,
but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit
and in much assurance…”
1 Thessalonians 1:5

1. “For our gospel did not come to you in word only”

a) The gospel of course had to be proclaimed with words.

b) This statement was not an attempt to demean the use of words.

2. Three encouraging aspects were highlighted:

a) “Power”

i) Divine power was involved.

ii) The gospel is always backed up by the power of God.

b) “The Holy Spirit”

i) He is certainly involved in the ministry of the gospel.

ii) He convicts hearts.

iii) He touches lives.

iv) He enlightens.

v) He regenerates.

vi) He transforms.

vii) He empowers.

viii) He brings forth fruit.

c) “Much assurance”

i) There is much assurance felt.

ii) Thus preachers of the gospel do not lose heart in their ministry.