The Benefit of Teamwork

I Thessalonians 3

There was never any question that Paul cared about and was concerned for the well-being of the Christians in Thessalonica (I Thessalonians 2:19-20). He said so in letters and demonstrated in actions – both his own and those taken on his behalf.

This chapter provides a good example of the value of teamwork in service to the Lord. The goal of Paul was to see these Christians who were young in faith established in that faith.

• He sent a helper (I Thessalonians 3:1-5)
  • It meant self-sacrifice
    • He was left alone
    • He had the potential of further harassment
  • It reveals a concern
    • He wanted the people of Thessalonica to have the benefit of Timothy’s ministry
  • It showed Timothy’s character
    • He could be entrusted with this task by Paul
  • It demonstrated their need (I Thessalonians 3:3-5)
    • They could have become discouraged
    • They could have been disillusioned by the accusations against Paul
• He communicated with them (I Thessalonians 3:6-8)
  • Timothy came to Corinth to give a report to Paul
    • They were standing firm
      • They didn’t believe the lies being told about Paul
  • Paul wrote two letters
    • This shows the value of using a Bible in establishing a person in the faith (II Timothy 3:16)
• He prayed for them (I Thessalonians 3:9-13)
  • The Word of God and prayer should go together
    • The importance of it is shared by the prophet (I Samual 12:23)
    • Jesus prayed for His followers (John 17)
    • Paul was faithful in prayer for believers (I Thessalonians 3:11-13)
      • That he could come to them
      • That they would mature in their faith
      • That they could stand blameless at Christ’s return

God, in His plan, uses many people to help us in the process of growing. We are privileged to enter the stream of help to others as a team member.