For our exhortation did not come from error or uncleanness, nor was it in deceit. But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts. For neither at any time did we use flattering words, as you know, nor a cloak for covetousness-God is witness. (1 Thessalonians 2:3-5)
Joe Friday of Dragnet was one who wanted to get right to the heart of the matter, hence his famous catchphrase when interrogating female suspects: “Just the facts, ma’am.” Things get clouded when we want to embellish the facts or even the truth. The Gospel can stand on its own, so we do not need to add to it, stretch it, or make it more than it is, because it is the Truth.
Paul’s message to the Thessalonians was clear and concise; there was no deceit, uncleanness, or guile in his ministry. Just like today, there were many competing religions, and many ministers of those religions who were motivated by greed and gain. Paul delivered the gospel with only one desire and that was to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ. As believers and followers of Christ we should learn from Paul’s example on how to present the gospel to those around us who need to hear the truth about what Jesus did for all of mankind.
Thessalonica was a melting pot city with cultures from all over the world because of its strategic location on the Egnatian Way. Because of that many missionary minded people sought to spread their faith using itinerant evangelists and preachers, most of which were opportunists who would take everything they could from their listeners, leaving them financially and spiritually bankrupt.
As we study Paul’s writings, we can see that he himself was not a man pleaser; rather, his sole purpose was to present the gospel in a way that would be pleasing and glorifying to God alone. He did try to make the Gospel as attractive as possible, but he never changed its central character or focus. Paul never compromised issues like man’s need, God’s Savior, the cross, the resurrection, and the new life one would find in Christ.
As believers we could be like a Joe Friday and not beat around the bush when it comes to our walk and faith in Christ. We need to practice giving only the facts about our faith that come straight from Jesus Himself as we rely only on the Holy Spirit that He has given to indwell us. This can only be done by thoroughly trusting in Him, daily leaning into Him through prayer and the study of His word (the Truth), and then putting it into practice as we live out our lives for Him here on Earth. Don’t embellish the truth. Just speak the truth on what Jesus did for you and what He can do for others.
Dale LaFrance (please look up Galatians 1:10 & Titus 1:1-3)
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