Family Group Night | September 17, 2023

South Main Baptist Church
Sep 18, 2023
2 min read

AUTHENTIC INTERACTIONS

Read it

1 Thessalonians 2:3-4

“For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives, nor are we trying to trick you. On the contrary, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts.”

Discover It

1 Thessalonians is a letter from the Apostle Paul to the church in the city of Thessalonica, a leading city in the Roman Empire at that time. In his letter, Paul expresses his love for these Christians, as he shared the good news of Jesus with them. But sometimes expressions of love are not authentic, so Paul makes sure to emphasize that his preaching to them was true and sincere.

Ask It

1. Why do you think it was important for Paul to tell the Thessalonians that his preaching was true and pure? How important is it to know the heart and not just the words of someone who is trying to influence you?

2. Paul wrote in verse four that he was not trying to please people with his ministry and preaching, but only wanted to please the Lord. Why was Paul’s first priority to please God?

3. Paul also wrote in verse four that he spoke as one who was “approved by God.” What does it mean to be approved of God. (Hint: Read Luke 18:9-14)

Live It

1. Be Authentic in Your Interactions – Authentic means, “real, not a copy, not a counterfeit.” Your relationships with others should be sincere.

2. Be Authentic in Your Interactions – Make sure you tell the truth, avoid flattery, and impure motives as you love and care for people.

3. Be Authentic in Your Interactions – Remember your goal is not to please men, but to please and honor the Lord first and only.

Pray It

Heavenly Father, please bless my heart and soul with your divine authenticity. Please help everything that I say and do serve your Holy Purpose. In my interactions and relationships with others, help me to never be fake or insincere. Let me so live that nothing in my character would ever reflect badly upon you. Guide me by the light of your holy will so that light will reflect from me to all others I encounter. In Jesus’ name I pray. AMEN.