Power

“For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance”—1 Thessalonians 1:5

The Gospel spread to Thessalonica through preaching and teaching. During his visit, Paul had “reasoned with them from the Scriptures” (Acts 17:1–9). Responding, these believers realized that the message was the actual “word of God” (1 Thessalonians 2:13).

But Paul knew there was more. He described the total impact the Gospel could have. He reminded believers how the Gospel included demonstrations of God’s power, how he worked among them, performing miracles, and showing how supernatural things happened through the work of the Holy Spirit.

The spread of the Gospel included the work of the Holy Spirit. This was a reminder of the spiritual dimension of the Christian faith. The Gospel was not just about words. The Spirit could give them supernatural discernment and act through them in displays of power. These were ways Paul and his colleagues demonstrated “what kind of men [they] were” (v. 5).

The Gospel still is proclaimed through preaching, teaching, and sharing testimonies. But just as Paul reminded the first-century church, demonstrations of power still are central parts of our faith. This includes believing in prayer and having faith for miracles.

The Gospel impacts every part of our lives—our thoughts, attitudes, finances, relationships, the physical and mental, protection, guidance, and our eternal destiny.

Don’t limit what God can do!

Reflection Question: In what area of your life do you most need to see God’s power displayed?