As the gospel is preached and believed, it bears fruit, resulting in a thriving church. The Thessalonian church is an example of a thriving church. They are bold to speak out the truth as they labor relentlessly for the gospel. They are sanctified and holy, and divinely confident from knowing God is with them in all circumstances. We conclude this series on what makes a thriving church as we look at how the Thessalonians are God-fearing and loving.
The thriving church is God-fearing.
The thriving church knows that God examines the heart, and is therefore sincere in truth before Him. Paul reveals in his letter to the Thessalonians that he is always aware of living before the eyes of God- the thriving church lives this way as well. As the living and true God, He is our witness, and nothing escapes His sight. All things happen according to His Will, so we can take comfort in knowing that no suffering is in vain.
The Bible requires two or three witnesses for a testimony to be accepted. God sees and hears all things as three persons- Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He will testify in the end as the Judge over all men. Men ought to fear God as they remember God witnesses all thoughts and every day of their lives will be taken into account at the judgment.
As God is our witness, how can we be a witness to the world?
We must live by faith in Jesus Christ. To be a better witness in every aspect- in our marriages, relationships, and workplaces- we must seek God first.
The thriving church is loving and caring.
Paul cared for the Thessalonian church with tenderness like a nurturing mother, and the church did the same for one another. We must care for our brothers and sisters as well as for unbelievers. The essence of the gospel is the love of God. With humility and compassion, we care for one another through the gospel. Jesus commanded us to love one another- in His love for us, we must practice the love and care of God as the only hope in this passing world.
The thriving church is the fruit of the gospel. Remember the gospel- always thinking of Jesus, who died and is still alive.
BIBLE COMMUNITY CHURCH 
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