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St. Paul had just prayed for the Thessalonians, he now asked them to pray for him. But it is worthy of remark that the first point mentioned has no reference to himself, but to his work. His life was in danger, and in ver. 2 he begs them to pray that he may be delivered, etc.; but this was not the thing nearest his heart.

I. THE WORD OF THE LORD. What this was we may gather from the record of another missionary (Acts 10:36-43). It included the heavenly mission, miracles, life, death, resurrection and future coming of Christ, and the certainty of pardon through trust in Him.

1. How inestimable this privilege.

2. How universal.

II. ITS FREE COURSE. Marg. "run," indicating progress overcoming whatever obstructions. The psalmist prayed that God's saving health might be "known among all nations:" how much more should we, the professed servants of Him who said "Go ye into all the world," etc. We should pray that the gospel may have free course —

1. In ourselves.

2. In our families, including servants.

3. In our neighbourhoods.

4. Among our countrymen in overgrown towns and neglected villages.

5. Among our emigrants, so many of whom go forth, no man caring for their souls, to found our colonies.

6. Among the heathen.

III. ITS GLORIFICATION, i.e., its eminent success. What kind of success the Apostle explains, "as it is with you." How was that? The word of the Lord came to them —

1. In power (1 Thessalonians), as a fire burning in the conscience; as a hammer breaking their wills; as a two-edged sword, discerning the thoughts and intents of the heart. This glorious power was given to the Word by the Holy Ghost.

2. Bringing assured peace and joy. They were not merely startled by it at first, but the more they heard the more they were edified.

3. Resulting in continued obedience.

4. Ministering to the increase of holiness.

IV. THE CONNECTION OF PRAYER WITH ALL THIS. The gospel will not run and succeed as a mere matter of course. But prayer lays hold of the power of God which alone can —

1. Overcome difficulties. "Is anything too hard for the Lord."

2. Make the gospel effectual in salvation.

(D. Fenn.)

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KJV: Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you:

WEB: Finally, brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may spread rapidly and be glorified, even as also with you;