1 Thessalonians 2:13

And we continually thank God because, when you received the word of God that you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as the true word of God--the word which is now at work in you who believe.

Study Bible

And we continually thank God because
Paul begins this section by expressing gratitude to God, a common practice in his letters, reflecting a deep sense of dependence on divine providence. Thanksgiving is a central theme in Pauline theology, emphasizing the importance of recognizing God's hand in all aspects of life. This gratitude is not a one-time event but a continuous action, highlighting the ongoing relationship between Paul, his companions, and God.

when you received the word of God that you heard from us
The Thessalonians received the message of the gospel, which Paul and his companions preached. This phrase underscores the oral tradition of the early church, where the apostles and missionaries verbally communicated the teachings of Jesus Christ. The "word of God" here refers to the gospel message, which is consistent with the teachings found in other parts of the New Testament, such as Romans 10:17, where faith comes from hearing the message of Christ.

you accepted it not as the word of men
The Thessalonians distinguished the gospel from mere human philosophy or teaching. In the Greco-Roman world, many itinerant teachers and philosophers traveled, sharing various doctrines. The Thessalonians' discernment in recognizing the divine origin of Paul's message is significant, as it sets the gospel apart from other contemporary teachings. This acceptance reflects a spiritual insight granted by the Holy Spirit, as seen in 1 Corinthians 2:14, where spiritual truths are discerned spiritually.

but as it truly is, the word of God
This affirmation highlights the divine authority and inspiration of the gospel message. The phrase "word of God" is used throughout Scripture to denote messages that come directly from God, carrying His authority and power. This aligns with 2 Timothy 3:16, which states that all Scripture is God-breathed. The Thessalonians' recognition of this truth is a testament to their faith and the work of the Holy Spirit in their hearts.

which is also now at work in you who believe
The word of God is not static; it is active and transformative in the lives of believers. This dynamic nature of God's word is echoed in Hebrews 4:12, where it is described as living and active. The phrase "at work in you" suggests an ongoing process of sanctification, where believers are continually being shaped and molded by the teachings of Christ. This transformation is evidence of genuine faith and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, as seen in Philippians 1:6, where God is faithful to complete the good work He began in believers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who wrote the letter to the Thessalonians, expressing gratitude for their reception of the Gospel.

2. Thessalonians
The recipients of the letter, a group of believers in Thessalonica who accepted the Gospel message.

3. God
The divine source of the message that Paul and his companions preached.

4. Word of God
The message of the Gospel that Paul preached, which the Thessalonians accepted as divine truth.

5. Believers
Those in Thessalonica who accepted the Gospel and in whom the word of God is actively working.

Teaching Points

The Divine Origin of the Gospel
The Gospel is not merely human wisdom but the true word of God. Believers should approach it with reverence and faith.

The Transformative Power of the Word
The word of God is active and transformative in the lives of those who believe. It is essential to allow it to work in us by being open and obedient.

Gratitude for Spiritual Receptivity
Like Paul, we should continually thank God for the work He is doing in the lives of believers, including our own spiritual growth.

Faithful Reception of the Word
The Thessalonians serve as a model for how we should receive the word—not as human opinion but as divine truth that demands a response.

Active Faith
The word of God should lead to active faith, evidenced by a life that reflects its teachings and power.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does recognizing the divine origin of the Gospel impact the way you read and apply Scripture in your life?

2. In what ways have you experienced the word of God being "at work" in your life? Can you identify specific changes or growth?

3. How can you cultivate a heart of gratitude for the spiritual growth in your life and the lives of others?

4. What steps can you take to ensure that you are receiving the word of God as divine truth rather than merely human wisdom?

5. How does the example of the Thessalonians challenge you to live out your faith more actively and visibly?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 4:12
This verse speaks about the living and active nature of the word of God, similar to how Paul describes it as "at work in you who believe."

2 Timothy 3:16-17
These verses affirm the divine inspiration of Scripture, paralleling the Thessalonians' acceptance of the Gospel as the word of God.

James 1:21-22
James encourages believers to receive the word and be doers of it, which aligns with the Thessalonians' active faith.

John 17:17
Jesus prays for His followers to be sanctified by the truth, which is God's word, echoing the transformative power of the word in believers.

Acts 17:11
The Bereans are commended for examining the Scriptures, similar to the Thessalonians' acceptance of the Gospel as truth.