Sermon 218

📖 SERMON 218 — A LIVING CHURCH (PART 2)

Text: 1 Thessalonians 1:1–10
Date: October 12, 1947
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

Paul describes the Thessalonian congregation as a model church — spiritually vibrant and influential. Their faith was spoken of everywhere, and the Gospel sounded forth from them. This sermon continues the marks of a living church.

I. A LIVING CHURCH IS REMEMBERED WITH GRATITUDE

(This point was treated previously.) Paul and his companions gave thanks for their faith, love, and hope expressed in their conduct.

II. A LIVING CHURCH IS KNOWN TO BE AN ELECT CHURCH

A. Paul affirms their election

1. They were God’s chosen people, not a merely human religious group.
2. Every true church is composed of those chosen in Christ.
3. A dead church does not show this mark; a living church does.

B. How this election was known

1. Not through special revelation or mystical signs.
2. The Gospel came in word, in power, in the Holy Spirit, and in much assurance.
3. Paul sensed the Spirit applying the Word as he preached.
4. They received the message deeply; it brought transformation.

C. The evidence appeared in their response

1. They embraced the Gospel wholeheartedly.
2. The Spirit gave them assurance.
3. Their changed hearts proved their election.

III. A LIVING CHURCH IS A WITNESSING CHURCH

A. The Gospel changed their conduct

1. They became imitators of Paul and of the Lord.
2. They experienced joy even in affliction.
3. Their walk became known throughout Macedonia and Achaia.

B. They proclaimed the Gospel

1. The word of the Lord sounded forth from them.
2. They spoke openly of Christ.
3. Their testimony was so strong that Paul needed not to speak.

C. Their witness showed a profound change

1. They turned from idols.
2. They turned to serve the living and true God.
3. They became active servants, not hearers only.

IV. A LIVING CHURCH AWAITS JESUS’ RETURN

A. This expectation marks spiritual vitality

1. Their eyes were lifted to heaven.
2. They looked for the coming of Christ.
3. Their hope rested in the risen and returning Lord.

B. This hope was the secret of their strength

1. It strengthened perseverance.
2. It encouraged self-denial.
3. It fueled missionary zeal.
4. It shaped a godly and separated life.

CONCLUSION

To be known as a living church is an honor — but only living members make a living congregation. A church is alive only if its members are alive in Christ. Let us pray that we may be a living, Christ-expecting church.