Q1. Strong Opposition in Thessalonica

[Giles P]

 Why do you think there was so much strong opposition to Paul's ministry in Thessalonica? Why do you think Paul keeps preaching the gospel, even though there is often a violent reaction against him? Does a violent reaction to our ministry necessarily mean we should stop?

 

Was it a violent reaction to his Ministry? Probably not initially but rather a reaction by the Jewish church to people joining Paul's ministry(church) and following Jesus. Some of these people had influence in a political area. The Jewish church would have lost significant monetary support as`well as political connections from those that left the Jewish church  The other disturbing factor to the Jewish church was that the Christian church was also converting pagan Gentiles, something that the Jewish Church did not actively do. The Jewish church reacted by causing disruption, by using people not directly connected with the jewish church.  This turned into violence. If our Ministry is successful and we know it is God's calling we must expect opposition,  and should continue with love. Non Christians do not like seeing Christians being successful.

[RachelAshburton]

Question 1

 

The opposition appears to have been in relation to the loss of control resulting from the conversion of so many.  One of the largest impacts this had was on financial resources.

 

Question 2

 

Paul continued in his ministry because he believed he had a specific calling to this area and was obedient unless and until God told him otherwise!

 

Question 3

 

We should never let opposition stop our ministry.  We can consider constructive comments regarding its direction and should continually "check-in" with God to ensure that we are on His track - opposition can often be a sign that we most certainly are!

[davidjjj]

Q1. (Acts 17:1-10) Why do you think there was so much strong opposition to Paul’s ministry in Thessalonica?

Verse 5 speaks of the reason being- jealousy. Jealousy of the success of the Paul's ministry efforts (see verse 4) in the power of the Holy Spirit (see 1 Thes 1:5)

Why do you think Paul keeps preaching the gospel, even though there is often a violent reaction against him?

I think a snippet of Paul's own words in Acts 20 sum it up well

Acts 20:24 NIV

[24] However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me---the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.

Does a violent reaction to our ministry necessarily mean we should stop?

Not if Jesus, Paul, Peter et al are our examples!!! each of these faced horrific reactions, Jesus warned that we would, yet all faithfully were doing God's work, and God was pleased with them for persevering through these trials. If these had given up because of the persecution and agitation there would be no salvation, and there would be no message of salvation...thank God they did not stop!!!!!!

[Onerivertrail]

Q1. (Acts 17:1:10)

Why was there so much opposition to Paul's ministry in Thessalonica?

 

They brought truth and it was not heard by the Thessalonian Jews. They were in the ways of their tradition and missed the coming of Jesus the first as many will miss the signs of the times in the second coming. They were jealous of anything that threatened their beliefs and teachings. The people were turning to listen to Paul and Silas and some converting to the truth of the death and resurrection of the Messiah.

 

Why does Paul keep preaching the gospel, even though there is often a vilonet reation against him?

 

Once having met Jesus and especially the way it happened on the road to Damascus we can understand Paul's devotion and determination to let nothing stop him from spreading the truth about Jesus to all who would listen and accept Him. The love and will of God is that no one perish. Paul moved as one who was going to totally fulfill his commission at any cost.

 

Does a violent reaction to our ministry mean we should stop?

 

NO! By no means should we stop. We should keep moving to each and every place and person our Lord takes us. Salvation is for everyone and we are the vehicles to provide the truth of this!!

[Onerivertrail]

Q1 (Acts 17:1-10)

 

Why was there so much strong oppostion to Pauls ministry in Thessalonica?

 

The Thessalonians Jews were threatened by Paul and Silas with the teaching they brought about Jesus. They were Jews who stood by old traditions and teachings and had missed the foretold coming of Christ as many will miss the signs of His second coming. They saw that some people were listening to their teachings and turning from them so they looked for a way to destroy this threat.

 

Why does Paul keep preaching even with the violent reaction from the jews?

 

Paul was saved himself in a very dramatic way by our Lord. His encounter empowered his heart with great conviction to carry the gospel to everywhere he could go regardless of the risk to himself.

 

Should we stop if we experience a violent encounter?

 

By NO means!!! We are commissioned to spread the gospel and do the same as our Saviour. We are to take the truth to whom ever will receive it!

[Guest Ladner CoG]

I believe there are a few facets to the strong opposition to Paul’s ministry; to the point of violence:

First, there is always a spiritual battle wherever we see people in conflict with Christianity.  The strong opposition would appear to be part of Satan’s ongoing fight against Christ; Christ the Messiah and cause of the ultimate defeat of death and Satan.  Satan often appears to influence the behaviour of many non-believers to use violence against Christians.  To add to the strong opposition; Paul was also “stirring the hornet’s nest” by his ‘opposition’ not only to synagogues but also to pagan temples (the very seat of demonic activity).

 

Second, as in many struggles, money (greed) is often a major factor; it’s not always the principle, sometimes it is the money.  In Acts 17:1-4 “some Jews”, “many God-fearing Greeks” and “not a few prominent women” are described as joining the growing Christian church.  Presumably, these people would divert financial support away from synagogues and pagan temples toward the growing church.  This obviously wouldn’t sit well with those who lost the financial support; again something Satan could use to stir the animosity toward Paul.

 

Third there would be a blow to the pride of those who are now seeing their influence and perceived value in their community eroded.  This would presumably foster anger, hatred, jealousy and a sense of loss of their importance (power) and worthiness.  The use of violence as a way to destroy their opposition was frequently a prescribed solution to problems like this in Paul’s time.  If you take a look around our ‘modern day’ world, you can see our world hasn’t changed much in the interim.

 

Paul kept preaching in spite of his suffering and threat to his life because he loved Christ, was a believer in and dedicated follower of Christ, had faith that what Christ said was true and was "one a mission".  As one who chose belief in God/Christ and in turn was himself chosen, Paul would have been empowered by the Holy Spirit to endure throughout his personal trials and tribulations.   

As a follower of Christ he knew he would be persecuted and reviled here on earth and yet rewarded and blessed in heaven (Matt 5:10-12)

He knew that he was to follow Christ’s instruction when he was told he must love his enemies and pray for them (Matt 5:44); as Christ forgave his enemies while he died on the cross (Luke 23:34)

Having his roots in Judaism, Paul would also have been exposed to Psalm 23 (and other scriptures derived from Judaism) and the promises there.  Combined with Christ’s teachings, this would further have comforted his earthly tribulations.

 

In spite of any fear and discomfort created by violent opposition to us, we should have faith that we will never be given more than we can bear and that the Holy Spirit will support us during our periods of strife; even violent ones.  Although I must admit following the teachings of Christ would be most difficult at times.  We are tempted to respond in kind and it wouldn’t be easy to not to respond with an eye for an eye mentality; in spite of Christ’s teachings.  

It is always easy to say that the threat of violence wouldn’t deter us from our appointed task; and we should respond by weathering the storm.  However, when faced with violence, personal danger or certain death, one is never sure one would have the personal fortitude to continue the struggle.  This would be where the Holy Spirit and faith in God’s word would really have to be at work in one’s life.

[sunshine1962]

The Jews were afraid that if Paul gained to much momentum that the Word of God would spread to fast. That would bring about too many new converts causing them to loose their positions of power.

Paul was committed to God and knew what it cost him if he continued. He also knew what it would cost him if he allowed the violent reactions to stop him.

We should never let violent reactions to our ministry for Christ to stop us. That is far to high a price to pay.

[darrylstoner]

Why do you think there was so much strong opposition to Paul's ministry in Thessalonica? Why do you think Paul keeps preaching the gospel, even though there is often a violent reaction against him? Does a violent reaction to our ministry necessarily mean we should stop?
 

From my understanding of the Jewish thinking of the time, I believe that the Jewish leaders felt that they had the only truth and everyone didn't including Paul that used the scriptures to support his view.  However, the Jewish leaders were not following Biblical Judeism at that time. They were following the Rabbinic teachings that would interpret the scriptures from the Talmid.  This was being used many years before Jesus came on the scene.  Probebly coming out of the Maccadonian Jewish conflict where you start to see the formation of the Pharisees and Sadduccees.  The Pharasee Rabbis opposed Jesus many times by looking at their interpretation of the scriptures and not at the scriptures itself. Things like healing on the Sabboth, eating with sinners etc.  Paul was in the same type of situation.  

 

Paul continued to preach the gospel because of his great burden to his Jewish breathern.  he wanted to get the truth out no matter if it cost him his own life. This is a great conviction of his heart.  I wish I had this type of strong conviction of heart.  Pray that I would. 

 

The strong violent reaction to our ministry should encourge us if we ae truly sharing God's word and not man's wisdom.      

[amy legg]

There is strong opposition to Paul in Thessalonica because of the power of Paul's message. The Jewish leaders had been afraid of the power of Christ's message which led to his crucifixion. If Paul leads the people to convert to Christianity, the Jewish leaders will lose some of their power and the financial backing.

 

Paul continues to preach despite the risks involved because that is what Christians are expected to do. Paul understands that the risks of persecution do not outweigh the heavenly prize awaiting him. We should not fear death if we are right with God.

 

Violent reaction to Christian ministry should not stop Christians from preaching the Word. If Christians are afraid to spread the message, or back down from the principles of Christ's teaching, the faith will wither away. Therefore, all Christians should stand up, unafraid and tell it like it is.

[akhona]

1. The Jews were jealous that Paul was attracting a large number of followers.

2. Paul kept preaching because of the vision he had of a man of macedonia asking him to come and help them which he interpreted this vision as Gods call. He felt like he was given a mandate.

3.Violent reactions will always be there if you preach the word of God. We shouldn't stop because even Jesus Himself suffered strong violent reactions so what makes us think it would be different to us?

[akhona]

1. The Jews were jealous that Paul was attracting a large number of followers.

2. Paul kept preaching because of the vision he had of a man of macedonia asking him to come and help them which he interpreted this vision as Gods call. He felt like he was given a mandate.

3.Violent reactions will always be there if you preach the word of God. We shouldn't stop because even Jesus Himself suffered strong violent reactions so what makes us think it would be different to us?

[Dianawmarsh]

I think there was strong opposition to Paul's ministry because he was threatening the Jews finances. His ministry was gathering large numbers of followers who would remove their financial support from the synagogues and pagan temples.

They were jealous not only because Paul and his followers were attracting a large number of converts but also because they were honorable, loving, faithful and obedient. They were working and living right. Satan hates to see this . I know in the world people feel especially threatened by honorable people because they make them feel convicted.

 

Paul continued to preach because he knew he was called to and he was obedient.

 

Violent reaction to church ministry should not stop the ministry we must do what God called us to do it was not easy for Paul or even Jesus. I believe that we as Paul did should expect opposition and suffering. If we say we want to be like Christ we should be willing to die to promote what we believe.

[Dianawmarsh]

I think there was strong opposition to Paul's ministry because he was threatening the Jews finances. His ministry was gathering large numbers of followers who would remove their financial support from the synagogues and pagan temples.

They were jealous not only because Paul and his followers were attracting a large number of converts but also because they were honorable, loving, faithful and obedient. They were working and living right. Satan hates to see this . I know in the world people feel especially threatened by honorable people because they make them feel convicted.

 

Paul continued to preach because he knew he was called to and he was obedient.

 

Violent reaction to church ministry should not stop the ministry we must do what God called us to do it was not easy for Paul or even Jesus. I believe that we as Paul did should expect opposition and suffering. If we say we want to be like Christ we should be willing to die to promote what we believe.

[lindogwala]

Firstly, in the book of Acts 17:1-10 it appears that the Jews were deeply rooted in the teachings of the Law of Moses.  Anything that did not agree with the Law of Moses, in their eyes, was to be opposed vigorously.  Paul and Silas were preaching that Jesus Christ is the Mesiah; and the Jews did not believe that He was.  Further, the Jews were jealous of Paul and Silas because a large number non-Jews that were joining Paul and Silas (Acts 17:5).

The violent could not stop Paul from praching the gospel because of his conviction that Jesus Christ is the Mesiah, who died for sinners.  He had a testimony to the whole world that he (Paul) met the Lord on his way to kill believers who believed that Jesus Christ is Lord.

with the same conviction as Paul's, violent must not stop us from preaching the Good News to the whole world. 

[msdanielle]

There was so much opposition not only because of jealousy but because Paul was preaching/teaching from the Old Testament about Jesus death, burial and resurrection and that this was necessary for the prophecy of the Messiah to come to pass. Paul had to preach the Gospel of Truth. The Jews were no pleased because they did not believe in the gospel but there was some Jews and those who feared God believed in what Paul was preaching and turned their lives over to Christ.

 

Paul continued to preach the gospel because their was a calling on his life. He was being led by the Holy Spirit as to where and when to go to minister the gospel. Despite all of the opposition and violence Paul kept facing his enemies because he feared the Lord more than he feared man. Because of his obedience he knew his ministry was to evangelized the word of God. The scriptures let us know that we, those in Christ Jesus, will be persecuted for the sake of righteousness but we are to continue to love our enemies.

 

A violent reaction should not stop our ministry to preach the Gospel of Truth. Unfortunately, we live in a world that these things happen and should not happen but because the Bible speaks of these actions we know they will come to pass. We are to continue to stand firm on the Scriptures.

[mikedobb]

Q1. (Acts 17:1-10) Why do you think there was so much strong opposition to Paul's ministry in Thessalonica? Why do you think Paul keeps preaching the gospel, even though there is often a violent reaction against him? Does a violent reaction to our ministry necessarily mean we should stop?

The Jews and their traditions were being challenged. Sometimes I wonder if it was really all about a deep commitment to God or the challenge to the structure they had in place. They liked the authority they had which also gave them control of all the resources. Money is truly the root of all evil.

Paul keeps going because nothing in this world can take away his encounter with The Lord. His faith is unshakeable. He also truly believes in the message and the salvation offered through the cross.

Satan isn't threatened win our efforts are in vain. It is when we're making a impact for the kingdom of heaven that trouble begins.

[KatHudgins]

For every convert to Jesus, that was a person turning away from Judaism. To love Jesus is to love each other. For a Jew to associate with someone other than a Jew was not the thing to do. wives of high officials were converting and it is likely they urged their husbands to convert also. If the officials converted they would have looked differently at the Jews and realized they were the ones causing the trouble. Paul keeps preaching because he know Jesus is the only way to heaven. We should never stop teaching people about Jesus. From the cross, Jesus was giving loving instructions.

[WinstonY]

 

Q1. (Acts 17:1-10) Why do you think there was so much strong opposition to Paul's ministry in Thessalonica? Why do you think Paul keeps preaching the gospel, even though there is often a violent reaction against him? Does a violent reaction to our ministry necessarily mean we should stop?

 

There was so much strong opposition to Paul's ministry in Thessalonica because Paul and his ministry team had lured some of the Jews in the synagogue to join forces with the Christians and as well a large number of God-fearing Gentiles. This would effect the attendance at the synagogue as well as the finances. Their also was the matter of jealousy.  Paul had been responsible for these loses to the synagogue and he would pay. After all he had been welcomed to the community and look what he had done. No wonder they were angry. This type of situation often developed  when Paul became successful in his proselyting.  

 

The Lord had called Paul on the Damascus road and hell or high water was not to stop him throughout his years as an apostle.

 

No! As Paul we are also called to spread the Gospel and we should, as good disciples, persevere despite all difficulties. The Gospel story is not to be hid under a bushel but it is to be a light on a candle stick so all can see.[Luke 11.33]

[JoanG]

I feel that the Jews were still trying to keep a monopoly on God. They were afraid of losing their money from offerings and the people to look up to them. They liked the status quo. And the teachings of the gospel really threatened their lifestyle. It showed that the laws that they held on to so strongly were really obsolete.

 

Paul believes in everything he is saying, he knows that he has the grace of God and the Holy Spirit and the love of Christ in his whole being. He refuses to cave into the bullies on any level. He realizes that he is striking nerves for the right reasons. He is scaring the old for the new. He is making a big difference and he will not stop.

 

I feel that we need to be true to ourselves but also truer to God. We need to express what is right no matter what the opposition is. We need to stand up for what is right no matter what the consequences might be. If we make the opposition that uncomfortable, we can be honored a that we have make our point and that they are running scared.

[mividaloca1960]

Q1. (Acts 17:1-10) Why do you think there was so much strong opposition to Paul's ministry in Thessalonica? Why do you think Paul keeps preaching the gospel, even though there is often a violent reaction against him? Does a violent reaction to our ministry necessarily mean we should stop?

 

According the Acts, the leaders were jealous of the attention that Paul's ministry was getting. If the people believed what Paul was saying, then the leaders felt that the people felt what the religious leaders of Thessalonica were teaching had been wrong. Many religious leaders of the times had become rich off of the people. As Thessalonica had become such a major city, being at the crossroads of the Egnation Way and the road from the Aegean to the Danube,these leaders had prospered. To lose the support of the people would have been devastating to them financially. To just refute what Paul was saying would be temporary--they had to discredit him by portraying him as a rabblerouser and troublemaker. So they staged a riot and blamed it on Paul. They tried to get Jason involved to show how association with Paul could be harmful, and they attempted to get Rome to show their might by  showing him to be in violation of Cesarean decrree. Interestingly enough,  religious leaders did the same to Jesus.

    Paul keeps preaching because he recognized this. He knew there would be opposition because the leaders felt threatened, as they should have been.  I believe he was surprised by the extent to which efforts were made, but he knew the importance of making sure the people of all lands were told about Jesus.

 A violent reaction to our ministry does not mean we should stop. I think, though that most people would be afraid to continue--such is the mode of self-preservation. Many people have ended up martyred in the name of Jesus Christ. I can only hope, if ever pressed with the situation,I would be strong enough to stand behind my faith. I think though, that I would be concerned about other people being hurt in riots that were blamed on myself--even if others had caused them.

 

Sorry, I can't seem to get it off a bold font.

.

[Mincartroc0]

1 Paul’s preaching of the gospel gives those who would believe a religious freedom that was missing from the Mosaic law taught by the Jewish leadership and hope for the Gentiles of a Messiah that would give relief from the sufferings of the Roman Empire’s control over all. There was a working relationship between the Jewish leadership (Pharisees & Sadducees) with the Roman leadership. Jewish leaders were given a certain amount of authority to keep the Jewish sector in check. However, when this seem to become a problem they would take the issues to the higher secular authorities (Roman leadership).

All in all, Paul’s ministry was taught and preached through the Highest power (God the Father through Christ Jesus) caused a disruption between the two and weaken their authority over mankind.

Paul’s strength, power and perseverance all came from God and gave him what he needed to endure. Paul explains this in 2Corinthians 12:9 where it states: “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”

Not at all. However, we, such as Paul, should gain our strength and perseverance through the promise of Christ when He gave us the great commission and told us as disciple for Him that “lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world” (Matt. 28:20). “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” (2Tim. 1:7).

[lighthouse2014]

Q1. (Acts 17:1-10) Why do you think there was so much strong opposition to Paul’s ministry in Thessalonica? Why do you think Paul keeps preaching the gospel, even though there is often a violent reaction against him? Does a violent reaction to our ministry necessarily mean we should stop?

There were several reasons for the Jews in the Synagogue to be angry angry Paul. He was making converts to the faith in Christ, because of this the Synagogue was losing it's congregation and this in turn caused them to lose their tithes. Some of the Jew's in the Synagogue did not believe in Jesus and this was causing an uproar, plus they were afraid of the persecution from Rome.

Paul keeps preaching the gospel regardless of the persecution against him. He knows the Lord, he knows the truth and wants as many people as possible to know this truth and eternal life.

A violent reaction to the preaching of the gospel should not deter us from proclaiming it. It is a Satanic attack that corrupts people, blinds their eye's and hardens their hearts. Satan hates the truth and will not stop his influence of hatred thus we must not stop proclaiming the gospel.  

[Dave Crouse]

Q1. (Acts 17:1-10) Why do you think there was so much strong opposition to Paul's ministry in Thessalonica? Why do you think Paul keeps preaching the gospel, even though there is often a violent reaction against him? Does a violent reaction to our ministry necessarily mean we should stop?

Satan always opposes God and does not want people who are lost to hear the gospel and be saved. The unbelieving Jews were angry because (a) They were jealous that Paul was gaining converts. ( They were losing affluential members who contributed to the prosperity of the Synagogue which they prospered by.

Paul was chosen by the risen Lord to testify to the grace of God and preach the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul was obedient to the Lords calling and would not be disuaded from his mission.

If we are called by God we should be obedient to God regardless of opposition. Jesus calls us as Christians to follow Him and take up our cross. If we are serving Christ He will be with us and will give us victory over all opposition and bless the work and reward faithfulness.

[Dave Crouse]

Q1. (Acts 17:1-10) Why do you think there was so much strong opposition to Paul's ministry in Thessalonica? Why do you think Paul keeps preaching the gospel, even though there is often a violent reaction against him? Does a violent reaction to our ministry necessarily mean we should stop?

Satan always opposes God and does not want people who are lost to hear the gospel and be saved. The unbelieving Jews were angry because (a) They were jealous that Paul was gaining converts. ( They were losing affluential members who contributed to the prosperity of the Synagogue which they prospered by.

Paul was chosen by the risen Lord to testify to the grace of God and preach the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul was obedient to the Lords calling and would not be disuaded from his mission.

If we are called by God we should be obedient to God regardless of opposition. Jesus calls us as Christians to follow Him and take up our cross. If we are serving Christ He will be with us and will give us victory over all opposition and bless the work and reward faithfulness.

[JunjunRegalado]

I believe the believers of the Law (Jews and other believers) Old Testament, aren't ready to believe that the prophecy of the coming Savior already is fulfilled. 

Secondly, it creates division to their community, contradicting their traditions, and thus lesser financial contributions.

 

Paul witnessed Jesus first hand! and he is filled with the Spirit. No matter what the reactions, the Holy Spirit finds a way to empower Paul!!! 

 

No, the Spirit will find a way to continue spreading the TRUTH, the Good News!!!