1 Thessalonians 2
Not to Please People, But to Please God
One of the first verses that stood out to us was verse 4:
"We are not trying to please men, but God, who tests our hearts."
That line hit home. How many times do we find ourselves making decisions based on the approval or opinions of others instead of God's truth? For me (Bobbie), I can look back and recognize moments where anxiety or fear of rejection led me to act out of people-pleasing instead of obedience. It’s something I’ve had to repent of—and continue to be aware of.
Clark brought up two questions from these verses that continue to shape our reflection:
When have I feared man more than God?
What does it mean to be entrusted with the gospel?
In seasons of cultural division—whether it’s politics, race, public health, or education—we've felt the pressure of everyone’s opinions. And yet, we’re reminded that God alone is the one we’re called to please. Not our extended family, not our church members, not social media. Just Him.
Entrusted with the Gospel: What Will We Do With It?
This phrase “entrusted with the gospel” carries weight. Imagine someone giving you something deeply precious—like their children, or their car, or even their family secrets. You’d handle it with care, with reverence.
So how much more should we approach the message of Jesus? He gave His very life for it—and then handed that message to us, broken humans, to carry it forward. That’s wild.
We talked about how easy it can be to treat the gospel casually or keep it to ourselves out of fear or awkwardness. But God didn’t entrust us with this truth so we could hide it. He qualified us to carry it and He equips us as we go.
One version (The Message) says God tested us thoroughly to ensure we were trustworthy. That gives us a sense of both gravity and encouragement: God doesn't send us out alone. He surrounds us, empowers us, and goes before and behind us.
So the question becomes: Where is my heart as I carry this message? Am I motivated by love and truth, or by fear and flattery?
Do We Still Believe This Is God’s Word?
In verse 13, Paul thanks the Thessalonians for receiving the word not as mere human words, but as it truly is—the Word of God.
We live in a time where even within the church, the authority of Scripture is often questioned or diluted. But if we genuinely believe this is God's Word, then it should shape everything—how we parent, how we vote, how we respond to cultural issues, how we handle conflict, and how we extend grace.
As Klarc shared, we have to place the authority of the Bible above our emotions. Feelings matter, but they aren't our ultimate guide. God’s Word is.
You Are Our Joy and Our Crown
The chapter ends with such a personal, beautiful reflection from Paul:
“What is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you?” (v. 19)
That verse stopped us in our tracks. The people God has placed in our lives—our kids, our friends, our church, our neighbors—they are our joy. They are part of the legacy we get to bring before God someday. That’s incredibly motivating.
We’re entrusted not only with the gospel, but with people. So the challenge is: Who are we walking with, encouraging, discipling, and pointing to Jesus?
Final Thoughts (and Some Kids, Too)
As we wrapped up, our kids chimed in—interrupting? Maybe. But also reminding us that this kind of spiritual conversation is something our family is watching, soaking up, and hopefully modeling in their own lives someday.
This chapter isn’t just a theological study. It’s an invitation: to live for God’s approval, to steward the gospel well, to trust Scripture as truth, and to love others deeply.
So we encourage you—make space this week to read 1 Thessalonians 2. Reflect on it. Talk about it at your table. Ask the hard questions. Let the Holy Spirit bring conviction and courage.
And maybe even turn it into a breath prayer:
Inhale: Lord, help me not work to please men.
Exhale: God, help me live to please You.
You’ve been entrusted. Now go and be faithful with what He’s given.
