“Why the Church is So Important”
1 Thessalonians 2:8-20
Big Idea: Church is the place where God strengthens our faith in the context of family.

I. The Church: Where the Gospel Message Grows (vv. 8-12)
A) Paul, in recounting his, Silas’s, and Timothy’s manner with the Thessalonian church, goes beyond a Gospel declaration and into a Gospel example. Church isn’t just where the Good News is proclaimed, it’s a place where the Good News is lived out for God’s glory and for the building up of His church.
B) We see that church is where the Gospel grows:
1. Through love (v. 8)
2. Through service (v. 9)
3. Through holiness (v. 10)
4. Through sacrifice (v. 11)
C) As disciples of Messiah Jesus, we don’t grow to full maturity in isolation—we need one another (cf. Prov. 27:17). The Body of Christ, best functions and grows together (cf. Rom. 12:3-5).

II. The Church: Where the Gospel Message is Lived Out (vv. 13-20)
A) It has been said that the church is the hope of the world. While this may seem to be hyperbole, there is truth in it as it is the place where the Good News of Jesus is lived out to be seen by the world (cf. Eph. 5:8)
B) The church is essential because:
1. It is where the world see discipleship lived out (cf. Jn. 13:35)
2. It is where we learn to empathize and care for one another (vv. 14-16; cf. 1 Cor. 12:24-26)
3. It helps us to stay focused on what’s most important (vv. 17-20)
4. It helps us to develop perseverance (vv. 17-20)
C) God has a place for us in His family and like any family, it will try us and challenge us, but that’s how we grow. Our part is to use the talents and gifts He has given us to glorify Him and encourage and bless others, especially those of the household of faith.