Apostolic Goals I ~ Stand Fast: 1 Thessalonians 2:20-3:8, especially vs. 8: "For now we live, if you stand fast in the Lord." How ironic! We regularly seek the intercession of the Apostles yet rarely consider what are their goals for us. Five of the Epistle readings this week illumine the goals which the Apostle Paul yearned to accomplish among his people at Thessalonika, and these also serve as windows for us to understand clearly what goals the Apostles hold for us. Let us read carefully that we may commit ourselves to their goals, and, like the Thessalonians, may we become "the glory and joy" of the Apostles whose intercession we seek (vs. 2:20).
In reading today's lesson, let us review the immediate situation of the Apostle Paul as he wrote to the fledgling church at Thessalonika. Over many days, weeks, and months, he had invested much time and energy to form that congregation, train their pastoral leadership, and prepare the community to stand firmly and faithful on their own without his physical presence. Now, separated from them by travel, and having none of the instant communication that is available in this century, he earnestly wanted to know how they were faring.
Being personally unable to travel to them (1 Thess. 2:18), he had already sent his assistant and fellow Apostle, Timothy, to learn whether his ministry truly had borne fruit in Thessalonika. He was looking for evidence that his goals had been achieved (vs. 3:2). And Timothy had returned with the good news that the Thessalonian Christians were "standing fast in the Lord" (vs. 8). St. Paul was much comforted (vs. 7). Take note: first among the goals of the Holy Apostles is that each Christian and congregation stand fast in the grace and ways of the Lord.
This passage, together with experience, teaches us that it is possible for Christians to be shaken and possibly dislodged from their walk with the Lord (vs. 3). Let us have no illusions: there are a multitude of forces constantly assaulting us which too often separate us from the Lord Jesus' path. The question becomes, "How then may we stand fast in the grace of God?"
First and foremost is faith (vss. 6,7). Beloved of the Lord, let us believe in what the Apostles teach, trust their Gospel, beseech their prayers, and hold fast to their words of life. Let us remember always the disciple Peter's words to the Lord after many of the early followers deserted Him: "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. Also we have come to believe and know that You are the Christ, the Son of the living God" (Jn. 6:68,69).
Second, it is necessary to "reframe" our understanding of the tribulations that come upon Christians. The Thessalonians heard about St. Paul's tribulation, and they themselves were stressed because of severe poverty. Earthly pressures will and do come upon us. The Apostle Paul does not wish any of us to be dislodged, which is why he reminded the Thessalonians [and us] "that we are appointed to this" sort of trial (vs. 3). Appointed by Whom? By our Lord Jesus Himself, of course. Therefore, let us give thanks that God's hand is upon us, even in afflictions.
Third, let us determine to recognize and reject the many temptations that can shake us from the truth of the Gospel (vs. 5). Let us confess that the issue in all temptation lies in us. Then we shall be able to resist when we are drawn toward actions and offers that oppose our Lord and His teachings. And, let us confess to weaknesses and seek Christ's grace to resist and overcome the allurements of the world. Let us ask the Apostles to pray that we may stand fast.
Finally, true love for the Lord and the Apostles is a sure bulwark against leaving Christ's way (vs. 6). Remember, the Lord examined the future Apostle Peter in order to anchor him in his love for Him (Jn. 21:15-17). May Christ also awaken love in our hearts for Himself!
O Holy Apostles, intercede with the merciful God to grant salvation for our souls.