A Mighty Church – 1 Thessalonians 1:3

The Thessalonian church was a mighty church. It was the ideal church to Apostle Paul, who constantly prayed for the church and thought of their faith, love, and hope in Jesus. In our current age where many are confused about what the church is, it is essential that we look to this type of biblical example of a mighty church that is built on faith in Jesus Christ. 

What is biblical faith?

Biblical faith comes from Jesus Christ alone, who is the object of that faith. Faith involves the conviction of forgiveness, the fact Jesus Christ, as well as His lordship. In faith, we steadfastly look to Jesus Christ and live before God, knowing that everything happens in His presence and under His sovereignty. Faith is not an instinct or a feeling, but it is an act of will based on God’s unfailing word. Faith turns to Christ and trusts in Him through any circumstance. 

What would extinguish biblical faith? Formalism

Formalists have no substance. They understand Bible teaching, but their hearts are not transformed by truth. Formalists are still worldly in their affections and ways with no power of godliness in their hearts.

Not being centered on Jesus’ resurrection. 

How you regard Jesus’ resurrection will determine your sanctification. To be living in faith, the risen Christ must be living in your heart. Without Him, your faith is pretentious.

What are the results of faith?

• Faith bears fruit. Good works do not save, but when we are saved, we are transformed and bear fruit. 

• Faith takes risks. The faithful are willing to take risks because they have the heart of Christ. This includes relationships- without faith, you can not love your enemies.

• Faith brings about spiritual experiences. Without faith there is no obedience, and without obedience there are no spiritual experiences of God’s love. Faith leads you to experience God’s love.

• Faith glorifies God. Glorifying God in your faith can affect others to glorify God in theirs. One of the simplest ways to glorify God is to have faith in His promises, expressed by saying “Amen” as a confession of your trust in Jesus.