The Church: Its Organization, Order and Discipline

A Worthy Example

The kind of ensample which Paul commends is quite fully set forth in his epistle to the church in Thessalonica: “And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost: so that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia. For from you sounded out the word of the Lord not only Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith to Godward is spread abroad; so that we need not to speak anything.” 1 Thessalonians 1:6-8. The manner in which they received the word from the lips of the apostle is also stated: “For,” said he, “when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of man, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.” 1 Thessalonians 2:13. COOD 27.3

Referring to the character of his example which he set for them, he says: “For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloak of covetousness; God is witness: nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet others, whom we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ. But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children! So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.” 1 Thessalonians 2:5-8. COOD 28.1