“And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers” (1 Thessalonians 2:13 ESV).
Paul wrote this letter to the young church in Thessalonica to encourage their faith amid persecution. Having recently planted the church, he expressed continual gratitude that they had received the gospel as God’s Word, not merely human opinion. Paul’s ministry faced opposition from both Jews and Gentiles, yet the Thessalonians recognized that his message carried divine authority. Their response revealed genuine faith: they didn’t just hear the Word—they accepted it as truth and allowed it to take root in their lives. The phrase “at work in you” (Greek: energeitai) shows that God’s Word is living and active, continuing to transform believers by the power of the Spirit. Paul contrasted this with those who heard the message but rejected it, showing that one’s response to the Word determines whether it bears fruit or not.
How have we received God’s Word? Do we approach Scripture as divine truth? The Thessalonians remind us that the power of God’s Word is experienced not in hearing alone but in faithful obedience. When we receive Scripture with faith, it energizes spiritual growth—it renews our minds, convicts our hearts, and equips us for every good work. Yet if we treat it casually, not repenting and applying it, we rob ourselves of its transforming power. Let’s cultivate a posture of humble submission each time we open the Bible, trusting that the same Word that worked in the Thessalonian believers still works in us today.
PRAYER: Dear Father, thank You for giving us Your Word. Help us to receive it not as the word of men, but as Your truth that transforms. May it continue to work powerfully in us—renewing our hearts, shaping our thoughts, and producing fruit that pleases You. Let our lives bear witness to the power of Your Word. In Jesus’ name, amen.