1. 1 Thessalonians 2:12 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

How does Paul inspire, strengthen, and motivate in this verse?

1 Thessalonians 2:12 (ESV)

12 we exhorted each one of you and encouraged you and charged you to walk in a manner worthy of God, who calls you into his own kingdom and glory.

By exhorting the Thessalonian converts to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory, Paul does three things:

  • He inspires them with a picture of everyday life which is of such a quality that it is worthy of God and his eternal kingdom.

  • He strengthens them by reminding them that the power to live such a life comes from God who calls—a call which is a daily and ongoing reality.

  • He motivates them by pointing out that the aim and goal of God’s call—and of the life that is worthy of his call—is God’s eternal kingdom and glory. Living such a life results in the sharing of God’s kingdom and glory.