The Four Eleven Foundation: 1 Thessalonians

1.3. THE LOVE EXPERIENCE (Romans 1:7)

Romans 1:7 "To all who are in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ."

THE LORD'S PEOPLE, WHATEVER THEIR LIVING CONDITIONS, ARE THE CENTRE OF GOD'S LOVE

Paul addressed believers whose geographic location was pagan, sinful Rome - but their spiritual centre was right in the love of God.

ANY WHO COULD BE A 'SAINT' IN ROME, COULD BE A SAINT ANYWHERE

Those who had become saints by the cleansing of the blood of the Lamb (1 John 1:7 ) are as the word means, "holy" and set apart to God, and by His power live in dominion over sin. They are filled with the Spirit of holiness.

1.4. THE LONGING EXPRESSED (Romans 1:8-15)

THOSE FOR WHOM WE ARE THANKFUL TO GOD HAVE AN IRRESISTIBLE ATTRACTION FOR US

Romans 1:8 "First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world."

To be truly thankful for your fellow saints means you will not be able to stay away when they meet together, and will bind you to them. Great gratitude should fill our hearts when believers are so steadfast in the faith that it is the cause of world-wide celebration.

EVEN THE BEST OF DESIRES IN SERVICE CAN BE HINDERED, BUT WE CAN BE PERSISTENT IN PRAYER

God is the personal witness of our service and intentions, and knows our spirit and prayers. Such longing will ultimately be granted by the Lord (Romans 1:9-10 ). But, as Paul found, not in the way we plan and think - when Paul finally arrived at Rome, it was as a prisoner.

APOSTOLIC MINISTRY

is equipped to impart spiritual gift (Romans 1:11 )

must have fruit (Romans 1:13 )

is encouraged by mutual faith (Romans 1:12 ).

does not seek self-advancement or personal glory.

The motivation is that of one who must pay a debt of love (Romans 1:14-15 ).

Romans 1:15 "So, as much as is in me, I am ready to preach the gospel to you who are in Rome also."

True satisfaction is found in winning people to the Saviour and in helping others.

QUESTIONS FOR GROUP INTERACTION

Why is the humanity of our Lord stressed, and who was He declared to be, by the Holy Spirit (Romans 1:3-4 )?
Who gives gift ministries to the Church, and ministry being a gift, what function has a Bible College (Romans 1:5; Ephesians 4:7-16 )?
You are centred in God's love. Is there any geographical place in which it would be too difficult for you to grow and witness (Romans 1:7 )?